Instead of turning to a publisher to get my crime novels published, I have handled everything myself. As a so-called self-publisher, I have simply hired the expertise and resources needed to produce my books to a high standard and make them available. I have covered all the costs and therefore receive all the revenue and own all the rights.
The ability to publish books without involving a traditional publisher has probably existed for as long as writing itself, but in recent years it has become much easier and cheaper. And today there are many options for quickly having your book produced in various formats, even in small print runs. You can either handle the various steps entirely on your own, or you can hire a company to take care of everything that needs to be done. I have self-published my four crime novels, including as audiobooks. The principle is the same. I cover all the costs and keep all the proceeds.
I would be happy to visit you and talk about my experiences. Topics I cover include quality assurance of manuscripts, printing and recording, pricing and royalties, marketing tailored to specific target groups, book signings, sales, and more. The goal is to inspire listeners with new perspectives and insights. I do not touch on—or touch on very little—the writing process itself. The focus is on what happens after a manuscript begins to take shape. I have also published a standalone novel with a traditional publisher and make comparisons with this.
The target audience is writers who are planning to publish, or have published, a book. Another target group is the interested public. The duration is 60 minutes and there is time for questions and discussion. Fee according to agreement. My company has F-tax.
As for the foreign rights, I have hired a literary agent called Storify Literary Agency.