David R. Stokes
Turning a Historical Mystery into a Gripping Political Thriller
The Challenge
David R. Stokes came to TrustPub with a compelling historical thriller and a clear vision for bringing an unusual story to readers. The Hope Not Plot A Novel of Churchill’s Final Farewell, blends documented historical events with fiction, exploring the unanswered questions surrounding President Lyndon B. Johnson’s decision not to attend Winston Churchill’s funeral in 1965.
The challenge was to preserve the depth and authenticity of the historical material while creating a polished book that would appeal to readers of political thrillers, historical fiction, and stories built around real events.
The Strategy
TrustPub worked with David to position The Hope Not Plot as a historical thriller that invites readers to question where history ends and fiction begins.
The strategy focused on presenting the book as both an entertaining story and an intriguing exploration of a little-known historical mystery. The cover, interior, publishing details, and overall presentation were developed to reflect the suspense and historical significance of the story.
The marketing strategy also focused on building awareness beyond the book itself through interviews, reviews, and opportunities for David to discuss the history, research, and ideas behind the novel.
The Publishing Journey
TrustPub guided David through the publishing process from interior design through production, distribution, and launch preparation.
Because the story draws heavily from real historical events and figures, careful attention was given to presenting the book in a way that reinforced its historical foundation while making the fictional elements clear.
As the book moved toward publication, TrustPub began building opportunities for David to reach readers through interviews, reviews, and media conversations. The goal was not simply to publish the book, but to create a platform around it.
The Result
The Hope Not Plot became a professionally produced historical thriller that gives readers a fresh look at one of the most intriguing periods in modern American history.
The finished book provides David with another vehicle for sharing his storytelling and historical perspective while giving him opportunities to engage audiences through interviews, media appearances, reviews, and conversations about the events that inspired the novel. As a Ghostwriter, this book gives David another award-winning novel to attract high-level clients.
The Author's Perspective
“Rick Lite deserves to be recognized as one of the best professionals in the book industry for the way he guides authors through self-publishing and book promotion. His approach is highly professional and business-minded, but he also brings the warmth and personal attention of someone you have known for years.
Rick gets things done quickly and accurately. He understands the publishing process, knows what needs to happen next, and plans the project timeline accordingly. I never felt like I had to wonder what was coming next or whether something was being overlooked.
Rick also seems to have an incredible network of contacts throughout the podcast, blogging, and media world. He quickly introduced The Hope Not Plot to hundreds of potential opportunities for interviews, reviews, and exposure.
What's Next
David continues to write, speak, broadcast, and develop new ideas for books and other projects. With The Hope Not Plotnow part of his published body of work, the focus continues to be on expanding the reach of his writing and connecting his stories with new audiences. TrustPub remains available to support David’s future publishing and marketing efforts as new projects take shape.
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