At MahoganyBooks' Black Books Matter Festival, moderator Nikesha Elise Williams, author of The Seven Daughters of Dupree, speaks with indie authors T.L. Price and Sundiata Ramin about why they chose self-publishing and how it requires running a business. Price, an attorney and mother of three, began writing urban romantasy and paranormal romance to increase representation of Black men in fantasy and to publish quickly without a traditional gatekeeper; she stresses treating writing like a job with set hours, budgeting, professional covers, multiple editors, and learning the industry. Ramin, author of a Chuck Brown biography and a Go-Go Museum curator, describes using his bookstore, design, and marketing background to produce a high-quality book, meet a tight timeline, and distribute through major channels. Both discuss building audiences, using social media, and connecting with Black readers, while audience Q&A covers tips for young writers, marketing poetry, research and worldbuilding, and finding mentorship through author networks.

Takeaways:

• Self-publishing necessitates a professional approach; authors must treat their craft as a business and set dedicated work hours.
• Indie authors have the opportunity to represent marginalized voices in genres traditionally dominated by other demographics, fostering greater inclusivity.
• Building a loyal fan base is crucial; authors often find that their readership extends beyond initial expectations, reaching global audiences.
• Effective marketing strategies, including professional editing, eye-catching covers, and budget management, are essential for indie authors to achieve success in the competitive literary marketplace.