In the rapidly evolving world of self-publishing, relying solely on Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) can limit your reach and revenue. Recent changes in Amazon’s print book royalties have left many authors searching for alternatives to diversify their publishing strategy. This comprehensive guide explores 20 powerful platforms for wide publishing across ebooks, print books, and audiobooks — empowering you to expand your audience, optimize royalties, and futureproof your author business.
Why Wide Publishing Matters
What is Wide Publishing?
Wide publishing means distributing your book across multiple platforms outside of Amazon’s exclusive ecosystem. This approach opens new sales channels, reduces dependency on one retailer, and taps into diverse reader bases worldwide.
The Risks of Exclusivity
Programs like Amazon’s KDP Select require exclusivity, preventing you from publishing your ebook elsewhere. When Amazon changes royalty rules or policies, your income and visibility can be adversely affected if you’re locked in. Wide publishing helps authors retain control and flexibility.
Best Platforms for Wide Ebook Publishing
1. Apple Books for Authors
Apple Books, integrated into every Apple device, offers access to millions of premium books. Authors earn a 70% royalty on ebooks priced above $0.99, with payouts 30 days after month-end. Publishing no longer requires a Mac thanks to a dedicated web portal, though setting up payments requires a separate iTunes Connect account. Apple Books provides detailed sales analytics, strong metadata control, and potential promotional opportunities.
2. Barnes & Noble Press
Though Nook readers are fewer, Barnes & Noble offers a clean, beginner-friendly platform with a 70% royalty on ebooks priced between $0.99 and $200. B&N supports indie authors with occasional in-store and online promotions, especially if you engage locally.
3. Kobo Writing Life
Kobo dominates markets in Canada, Europe, and Asia, boasting a 70% royalty on ebooks priced $2.99 or higher. Monthly payouts and a robust analytics dashboard make Kobo a must for wide publishing. Its integration with library services via Overdrive and a unique Coobo Plus subscription model (which pays based on reading time without exclusivity) differentiates it from Amazon.
4. Google Play Books Partner Center
Available in over 60 countries, Google Play Books offers 70% royalties and excellent discoverability, as your metadata influences Google search rankings. Although the dashboard can be confusing initially, Google Play Books is invaluable for authors looking to harness organic search traffic and reach Android users globally.
5. Draft2Digital (D2D)
A favorite aggregator, Draft2Digital, distributes to dozens of stores with one upload, including Apple, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. They take a 10% cut of the list price but provide free formatting tools, metadata management, and a user-friendly dashboard. D2D’s print options and universal book links simplify wide publishing and promotion.
6. PublishDrive
PublishDrive offers access to over 400 stores worldwide, including niche regional retailers in India and China. Operated on a subscription model starting at $14.99/month, it allows authors to keep 100% of net profits. Ideal for authors selling in volume and international markets, PublishDrive requires careful management to avoid duplicate listings.
7. IngramSpark (for ebooks)
While IngramSpark is primarily known for print, it also distributes ebooks to major retailers. However, ebook distribution overlaps with other aggregators, so authors using IngramSpark for print should consider deselecting ebook distribution to avoid duplication.
8. Lulu
Lulu offers ebook distribution with a 90% net revenue share after a one-time $4.99 setup fee. Payouts occur every 90 days. Lulu’s bookstore provides high royalties but limited traffic, making it more suitable for authors already using Lulu’s print services.
9. StreetLib
StreetLib targets global markets, especially parts of Europe, with a 70/30 revenue split. It offers both subscription and free tiers, enabling wide distribution for authors with large catalogs. Best suited for advanced wide publishers aiming to expand reach beyond mainstream stores.
10. LaterPress
LaterPress is a direct-to-reader platform where authors keep 100% of revenue minus payment fees. Ideal for serial fiction and membership models, it offers full control but no built-in discovery. Authors must build their own audience to succeed here.
Top Platforms for Wide-Print Book Publishing
Understanding Print Overlaps
Many print platforms distribute through Ingram Book Group, so authors must avoid listing the same book multiple times across platforms to prevent confusion and royalty conflicts.
1. IngramSpark
The industry leader for print distribution, IngramSpark reaches over 40,000 retailers, bookstores, and libraries worldwide. You control trim sizes, paper types, and distribution territories. Royalties range from 45%-70% after print costs. There is a $25 update fee after 60 days, making initial planning important.
2. Draft2Digital (Print)
Draft2Digital recently added print publishing with Ingram-level reach but simplified processes. Offering six trim sizes and black & white interiors, D2D pays 45% royalties minus print costs. It’s an excellent option for authors seeking ease of use and support.
3. Lulu (Print)
Lulu offers two print paths: global distribution (which overlaps with Ingram) and Lulu Direct for selling directly to readers without listing fees. Global distribution pays 80% net revenue after costs; Lulu Direct lets you keep 100% minus printing and shipping fees, ideal for authors with their own storefronts.
4. Book Vault
A UK-based print platform with competitive royalties and strong direct sales options. Book Vault supports six binding types, including unique formats like coil binding and foil blocking. It also offers custom print runs and innovative features like sprayed edges and mixed color printing.
5. PublishDrive (Print)
Supports print publishing primarily in India and China with a subscription fee. It’s an option for authors targeting less saturated markets but requires careful promotion.
Leading Platforms for Wide Audiobook Publishing
1. Spotify for Authors & Voices by Findaway
After a controversial rights grab in 2023, Spotify split its audiobook services: Spotify for Authors handles exclusives, while Voices by Findaway manages wide distribution. Authors earn 50% royalties on Spotify and 80% net profits elsewhere. Terms require careful review due to past trust issues.
2. Authors Republic
Distributes audiobooks to over 50 platforms, including Audible and Apple Books, without exclusivity. Offering 80% royalties and a native narrator marketplace, it’s a time-saving choice with monthly payouts and a broad reach.
3. Google Play Books (Audiobooks)
Offers 52% royalties with direct publishing and integration into Android’s ecosystem. No exclusivity is required, and pricing control is available. The dashboard is dated, but Google’s search power enhances discoverability.
4. Kobo Writing Life (Audiobooks)
Supports audiobook publishing with 45% royalties and subscription payouts through Kobo Plus. Easy upload via the Kobo dashboard after activation. Best for authors targeting Kobo’s strong international markets.
5. Payhip + BookFunnel (Direct Sales)
A powerful combo for authors selling audiobooks directly to readers. Payhip acts as the storefront; BookFunnel securely delivers audio files. Authors keep 100% of revenue minus payment fees, own customer data, and control pricing. It requires marketing effort but offers maximum profit and audience connection.
Building a Resilient Author Business with Wide Publishing
Wide publishing is more than just selling in more places; it’s about diversifying income streams, gaining control over pricing, royalties, and customer relationships, and futureproofing your career. Whether you prefer direct sales, aggregators, or a hybrid approach, today’s platforms offer unprecedented opportunities.
Tips for Authors Going Wide
- Avoid duplicate listings by carefully deselecting overlapping distribution channels.
- Understand each platform’s royalty structure and payment schedules.
- Leverage built-in promotional tools and metadata controls to boost discoverability.
- Combine wide publishing with a strong marketing plan to maximize reach.
- Consider direct sales platforms to build your mailing list and retain customer data.
Conclusion
Amazon’s dominance in publishing is undeniable, but it’s no longer the only game in town. By exploring and utilizing these 20 top platforms for ebooks, print books, and audiobooks, authors can unlock new markets, increase royalties, and build a more stable, diversified publishing career.
For an in-depth guide covering every platform discussed here, check out Wide Publishing for Authors at daleink.com/widebook. Stay informed, stay flexible, and keep your author business thriving in a changing industry.
FAQs
A: Yes, but be careful to avoid duplicate listings on the same retailer via different distributors to prevent royalty confusion.
A: Apple Books and Kobo offer 70% royalties on ebooks priced above $0.99 or $2.99, respectively. Lulu offers up to 90% net revenue through its bookstore.
A: Absolutely. Audiobooks are a booming market, and wide distribution increases reach and revenue potential, especially if you avoid exclusivity.
A: These charge a monthly fee for distribution access but allow authors to keep 100% of net profits, making them suitable for high-volume or international sales.
A: Platforms like Lulu Direct and the Payhip + BookFunnel combo let you sell directly, retain full royalties, and build your email list for marketing.
By mastering wide publishing across these platforms, authors can break free from reliance on any single retailer and build a thriving, sustainable book business.