Established Educational Author in Bay Area CA Now Focusing on Noir Mystery and Detective Fiction Series

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: info@bootstrappublications.com

Oakland, CA - The People’s Detective, the highly anticipated first installment in the Sonny Trueheart Mystery series by Dr. Nicholas Louis Baham III, will launch at Red Bay Coffee Headquarters & Cafe on Saturday, September 21, 2024, 3136 International Blvd, Oakland, CA 94601 at 2:00 PM PT.

Dr. Baham, a Professor of Ethnic Studies at California State University, East Bay, is bringing his extensive knowledge and passion for social justice to the forefront with this compelling narrative. The People’s Detective sheds light on the often overlooked issue of sex trafficking in the Bay Area, blending a distinctly Oakland aesthetic with the thrill of the noir detective genre.

Advanced praise for The People’s Detective:

“This novel moves like a freight train through a tunnel.” Kwei Quartey, LA Times bestseller list and award winning author

“Superb…a masterful tale of a gritty urban reality that has all too often gone ignored.” Damien Hunter, award winning Author of The Madrinega Missiles

“This book is not just a thrilling read, but a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the fight for justice in the face of overwhelming odds.” – Nolan Higdon, University of California, Santa Cruz

Special guests from the broader San Francisco Bay Area community are expected to attend to celebrate this milestone. The event is free to the public. It will be an afternoon of coffee, music, and a deep dive into the underbelly of Oakland’s criminal world through the eyes of former homicide detective Sonny Trueheart. The event will feature a reading from the book, an engaging Q&A session with Dr. Baham, and a book signing. 

The People’s Detective introduces readers to Sonny Trueheart, a former Oakland Police Department detective turned whistleblower, as he navigates a dangerous conspiracy involving organized crime, corrupt police, and powerful elites. With a story that’s both a gripping thriller and a poignant social commentary, this novel is set to become a cornerstone of contemporary Black detective fiction.

Dr. Baham’s work is an ode to Oakland, blending elements of martial arts, social activism, and a deep love for the city’s history and people. This launch event promises to be a must-attend for fans of detective fiction, social justice, and Oakland culture.

RSVP for the event at https://posh.vip/e/the-peoples-detective-book-launch-event.

Stay connected with Dr. Baham:

Website: https://nicholasbaham.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctordredlocks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicholas.bahamiii/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@doctordredlocks

Podcasts: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thepeoplesdetective

Amazon Author Profile https://www.amazon.com/stores/Nicholas-Louis-Baham-III/author/B01GPFWYZM

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-baham-iii-ph-d-a15b6820b

Purchase The People’s Detective

For Media Inquiries, Contact:info@bootstrappublications.com

Which is Better - Self-Publishing or Traditional Publishing?

In the labyrinth of publishing possibilities, authors often find themselves at a crossroads: Should they take the daring path of self-publishing or seek the embrace of a traditional publisher? It's a conundrum that echoes through the halls of literary history, and today, we embark on a journey to untangle the threads of this compelling debate.

Distinguishing the Two: Traditional vs. Self-Publishing

	Self-Publishing	Traditional Publishing
Short Definition	Author owns the rights and royalties; complete creative control.	Publishing company owns the rights and royalties; limited creative control.
2. Creative Control	Complete control over cover design, formatting, and release schedule.	Limited control; decisions often shared with the publisher.
3. Time to Market	Swift release, potentially reaching readers in a matter of weeks.	Longer timelines with various stages of editing and production.
4. Marketing and Promotion	Authors often handle their marketing, relying on digital platforms and personal networks.	Benefits from the publisher's marketing machine, including book tours and media coverage.
5. Earnings	Direct earnings from book sales, minus platform fees.	Advances against future royalties, with a percentage of book sales.

Self-Publishing Unveiled

Freedom on Your Terms: Self-publishing, the rebel's choice! Imagine the allure of complete control. From cover design to release dates, every decision is yours to make. It's a dance in the moonlight where the author holds the reins and the story unfolds on their terms.

Speedy Strokes: In the fast-paced world of self-publishing, your book can hit the digital shelves at the speed of your fingers typing. No waiting for approval – just instant gratification for both author and reader.

The Allure of Traditional Publishing

The Prestige of Tradition: Traditional publishing, the suitor adorned in literary elegance! There's an undeniable allure in seeing your work on the shelves of renowned bookstores, with the backing of established publishing houses lending their prestige to your creation.

Guiding Hands of the Experts: Picture this: seasoned editors, expert marketers, and cover designers collaborating to refine your masterpiece. The traditional publishing journey involves a team of professionals ensuring your work gleams with literary brilliance.

Factors to Consider

1. Financial Fables: Self-publishing brings direct earnings, while traditional publishing often involves advances against future royalties. The financial tale can sway based on your goals and preferences.

2. Control vs. Tradition: Consider how much creative control you crave versus the allure of traditional publishing's stamp of approval. It's a delicate balance between autonomy and tradition.

3. Creative Autonomy: Delve into your desire for creative control. Self-publishing allows you to steer every aspect of your book, from cover design to narrative choices. Traditional publishing may require compromise, balancing your vision with the publisher's input.

4. Timeframe: Evaluate your timeline expectations. Self-publishing typically offers quicker routes to market, enabling you to connect with readers sooner. Traditional publishing, with its thorough processes, might extend the release timeline.

5. Marketing Responsibility: Assess your comfort with marketing responsibilities. In self-publishing, you are the sole driver of marketing efforts. Traditional publishing involves a collaborative marketing approach with the publisher. Consider your willingness to take an active role in promoting your work.

6. Distribution Channels: Explore distribution options. Self-publishing provides flexibility in choosing distribution channels, while traditional publishing may limit your control over distribution decisions. Consider where and how you want your book to reach readers.

7. Upfront Costs: Examine your financial readiness. Self-publishing often requires upfront costs for editing, cover design, and marketing. Traditional publishing may cover these expenses, but potential advances might be smaller. Clarify your budget and weigh the upfront investment against potential returns.

8. Editorial Support: Consider your approach to editorial support. Self-publishing allows you to choose your editors, but the quality may vary. Traditional publishing offers access to professional editorial teams, ensuring a high standard but with less personal selection.

9. Genre and Audience: Analyze your book's genre and target audience. Some genres thrive in the self-publishing sphere, while others find a more traditional readership. Understanding your genre's landscape can influence your choice.

10. Long-Term Goals: Reflect on your long-term aspirations. Self-publishing provides immediate control and returns, but traditional publishing can open doors to wider audiences and industry recognition. Align your choice with your overarching writing and career goals.

11. Hybrid Publishing Options: Explore hybrid publishing models. Some publishers offer hybrid options, combining elements of traditional and self-publishing. Assess if a hybrid approach aligns with your preferences, providing a middle ground between autonomy and industry support.

Where Your Story Finds Its Home

In the grand debate of self-publishing versus wooing a traditional publisher, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. It's a decision that should align with your literary goals, personality, and the tale you wish to tell.

So, dear author, as you stand at the literary crossroads, know that whichever path you choose, it's a journey uniquely yours. Embrace the adventure, write your story, and let the world read the chapters of your literary destiny.

At Bootstrap Publications, we believe in a hybrid approach that merges the strengths of both traditional and self-publishing. Whether you choose the traditional, self, or hybrid route, each path has its merits.

Bootstrap Publications offers a nuanced approach, recognizing that authors have unique needs. As you embark on your publishing journey, consider the factors that matter most to you—be it creative control, professional support, or a blend of both. The world of publishing is diverse, and the right choice is the one that aligns with your goals and aspirations as an author.

How Much Do Authors Make?

Writing a book is not just a labor of love; it's an investment of time, creativity, and passion. But is it worth it? In this blog we will cover the returns one can expect so you no longer have to wonder about the financial side of the literary world.

How much do authors really make? Let's peel back the layers and uncover the diverse avenues through which authors earn, and gain insights into the factors that influence their earnings.

Understanding Author Book Sales: The Bread and Butter

Royalties for Authors 101 

When we talk about royalties in the context of book publishing, we're referring to the compensation that authors receive for each copy of their book sold. This is a percentage of the book's retail price, and the exact percentage can vary. Typically, authors earn royalties in the range of 8% to 15% of the book's retail price. For example, if a book is priced at $20, an author with a 10% royalty rate would earn $2 for each copy sold.

Traditional Publishing Advances 

In traditional publishing, authors often receive an advance against future royalties. This advance is a lump sum payment provided by the publishing house to the author before the book is even released. The amount of the advance can vary widely and is influenced by several factors. These factors may include the genre of the book, the experience and track record of the author, and current market trends. It's important to note that the advance serves as an upfront payment, and once the book is published and sold, the author will start earning royalties. However, if the royalties earned surpass the amount of the advance, the author will receive additional payments.

Self-Publishing Revenue

Self-published authors take a different route. In this model, authors have more direct control over their earnings. They earn the lion's share of the revenue generated from their book sales, minus any fees imposed by the platform through which they are self-publishing. This direct-to-reader model means that the author doesn't have to share a portion of their earnings with a traditional publishing house. It provides flexibility and independence, allowing authors to set their book prices, choose their distribution channels, and retain a larger percentage of the sales revenue.

Authors have more than one path to financial success. Beyond the royalties from book sales, they can explore various income streams that offer both monetary rewards and a chance to expand their influence in the literary world.

Diverse Income Streams: Beyond Book Sales

Speaking Engagements

Authors armed with a compelling story or expertise can find additional revenue streams through speaking engagements. This could include participating in conferences, leading workshops, or being featured as a speaker at events. In some cases, authors may be paid for their appearances, creating an avenue for supplemental income. The ability to articulate the themes and insights from their books enhances an author's profile and opens doors to diverse speaking opportunities.

Teaching and Workshops

Sharing the wealth of writing wisdom and experience can be a lucrative endeavor for authors. This could involve conducting writing workshops, whether in-person or online, where aspiring writers can benefit from the author's expertise. Additionally, authors might delve into teaching writing courses, providing structured learning experiences for individuals keen on honing their craft. Both avenues not only contribute to the literary community but also present opportunities for authors to diversify their income.

Merchandising and Licensing

The success of a book can extend beyond its pages. Authors often explore merchandising opportunities, creating products related to their book, whether it's branded merchandise, themed items, or accessories. Licensing deals are another avenue where the author grants permission for their intellectual property to be used for specific purposes, often in exchange for royalties. This expansion into merchandise and licensing broadens the revenue horizon, leveraging the popularity and recognition gained from the book.

Authors face a crucial decision, should they aim for bestseller status or carve out a niche in specialized markets? Each choice has its financial implications, and we'll break down the rewards and opportunities associated with both paths in the sections that follow.

The Influence of Genre and Audience

Bestsellers vs. Niche Markets

In the publishing landscape, authors face a crucial choice, striving for the bestseller status or carving a niche in specialized markets. Crafting a bestseller promises financial rewards, higher sales, and widespread recognition, with potential opportunities beyond book sales. However, it's a competitive endeavor. On the other hand, exploring niche markets offers a path to consistent revenue with a dedicated readership, establishing authors as authorities and opening doors to various income streams. The choice between chasing bestseller glory and cultivating a niche following is a strategic decision in the journey of literary success.

Audience Engagement

The value of a loyal and engaged readership extends beyond immediate book sales. Readers who connect with an author's work on a deeper level become advocates for the author, leading to repeat sales and positive word-of-mouth marketing. A committed readership can participate in book clubs, attend author events, and actively promote the author's work within their networks. This engagement not only strengthens the author-reader relationship but also creates a foundation for increased opportunities for additional income through various channels, such as speaking engagements, merchandise sales, and exclusive content offerings.

Before we bid adieu to this discussion, we invite you to explore the template for our standard publishing agreement at Bootstrap Publications. Although we don't publish everyone that submits a manuscript, we hope to offer more services to meet more writers needs as we grow. We are more than a publisher, we are a partner in your writing success.