10 Platforms Authors Should Sell Their Books On
As an author, expanding your book’s reach and making it accessible to a wider audience is crucial. There are several platforms where you can upload and sell your books, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are 10 apps and platforms that authors should consider using to sell their books:
1. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Why it’s beneficial: Amazon is the largest online retailer of books, making Kindle Direct Publishing a must for any author. KDP allows you to upload eBooks and paperbacks, set your own prices, and choose your royalty rate. It also offers access to Kindle Unlimited and Amazon’s global marketplace.
Best for: Authors who want a wide reach and easy-to-use tools for both eBooks and print.
2. Apple Books
Why it’s beneficial: Apple Books is a major player in the digital book market, especially for readers who use iPhones, iPads, and Mac devices. The platform offers authors a straightforward way to sell eBooks without the need for an intermediary.
Best for: Authors targeting Apple users and looking for higher royalty rates (70%).
3. Barnes & Noble Press
Why it’s beneficial: Barnes & Noble Press allows authors to publish and sell both eBooks and print books directly on Barnes & Noble’s website. The platform offers competitive royalty rates and access to a large audience of readers.
Best for: Authors looking for an alternative to Amazon with access to the Barnes & Noble marketplace.
4. Smashwords
Why it’s beneficial: Smashwords is a self-publishing platform that distributes eBooks to multiple retailers, including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and more. It’s known for offering authors a global reach and flexibility in pricing.
Best for: Authors who want to distribute their eBooks across multiple platforms without having to upload to each one individually.
5. Kobo Writing Life
Why it’s beneficial: Kobo Writing Life allows authors to publish and sell their eBooks on the Kobo platform, which is popular in many international markets. It’s a great platform for authors looking to reach readers outside of the U.S. and U.K.
Best for: Authors wanting to tap into international markets and sell through Kobo’s global reach.
6. IngramSpark
Why it’s beneficial: IngramSpark is a self-publishing platform that offers both eBook and print book distribution. It allows authors to reach a wide range of retailers, libraries, and online stores. The platform is well-regarded for its high-quality print options.
Best for: Authors who want wide distribution and high-quality print books, particularly for those who want to sell through bookstores and libraries.
7. Google Play Books
Why it’s beneficial: Google Play Books is a powerful platform for selling eBooks and audiobooks, and it’s integrated with Google’s vast ecosystem. Google Play allows authors to set their own prices, and it’s easy to upload books directly through the Google Play Console.
Best for: Authors looking to take advantage of Google’s global reach and integrate with Android devices.
8. Draft2Digital
Why it’s beneficial: Draft2Digital simplifies eBook distribution by helping authors get their books onto multiple platforms, including Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, and more. The platform also offers an intuitive interface and a wide variety of tools for formatting and converting files.
Best for: Authors looking for an easy-to-use platform for wide distribution without the hassle of multiple accounts.
9. Lulu
Why it’s beneficial: Lulu offers both eBook and print-on-demand services with an emphasis on customization. Authors can sell their books directly through Lulu’s marketplace or distribute them to retailers. Lulu also offers hardcover and other premium printing options.
Best for: Authors seeking high-quality print books and options for unique formats (e.g., calendars, photo books).
10. Payhip
Why it’s beneficial: Payhip is an e-commerce platform that allows authors to sell digital products (eBooks, audiobooks, PDFs) directly to customers. It gives authors the flexibility to set their own prices and retain 100% of the profit minus transaction fees.
Best for: Authors who want to sell directly to their readers and maintain full control over pricing and marketing.
Final Thoughts
Each of these platforms offers unique benefits, and the best choice for you depends on your goals, whether you want global distribution, higher royalties, or direct sales to readers. Consider using a combination of these platforms to expand your reach, boost sales, and build a loyal following for your books.
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