Independent Publishing Platforms: Best Options for Authors

Independent publishing platforms have reshaped how authors get books into readers’ hands. If you want control over royalties, design, and timing—or you just don’t want to wait for traditional deals—this topic matters. In my experience, choosing the right platform comes down to your goals: maximum reach, higher royalties, or full creative control. Below I break down the best options, real-world trade-offs, and practical steps so you can pick what fits your book and career.

What independent publishing platforms do (quick primer)

At their core, independent platforms let you upload a manuscript and make it available as an ebook, print book, or both. They handle distribution, payment processing, and sometimes printing (print-on-demand). For basic background on the rise of self-publishing see self-publishing history on Wikipedia.

Top independent publishing platforms at a glance

Here are the major players authors encounter. What I’ve noticed: each one trades reach for control in slightly different ways.

Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)

Amazon KDP dominates ebook sales in many markets. Pros: huge audience, easy uploads, and quick payouts. Cons: exclusivity rules if you enroll in KDP Select affect wide distribution. Best for authors prioritizing ebook visibility and fast sales.

IngramSpark

IngramSpark excels at print distribution—especially to bookstores and libraries—through Ingram’s global network. There are setup fees and technical specs to manage, but the reach is professional. Best for authors wanting bookstore presence and high-quality print-on-demand.

Draft2Digital, Smashwords, and Aggregators

Aggregators distribute to multiple retailers (Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble) without you handling each store. Draft2Digital is user-friendly; Smashwords still has niche strengths. These services simplify distribution but charge fees or take a percentage.

Lulu and Blurb

Good for photo books, design-heavy projects, and print-on-demand. Lulu also offers bookstore distribution. Expect variable margins and useful customization tools.

How to choose: five practical criteria

Pick platforms by matching them to goals. Ask these five simple questions:

• Do you want global bookstore distribution?
• Is maximizing ebook royalties the priority?
• Do you need print-on-demand with quality color options?
• Will you enroll in exclusivity programs like KDP Select?
• Do you plan to manage ISBNs and metadata yourself?

Side-by-side comparison

Quick table to compare main features—helpful when you’re scanning options.

Costs, royalties, and ISBNs (what to expect)

Prices and royalties can be confusing. Here’s a practical rule: platforms that give the widest retail reach may take a slice or require fees; platforms that keep costs low may limit bookstore options.

Royalties

Ebook royalties typically range from 35% to 70% depending on price and retailer. Print royalties depend on list price minus printing costs and retailer discounts.

ISBNs

Many platforms offer free ISBNs—but they list the platform as the publisher. If you want full ownership and consistent metadata, buy your ISBNs (in the U.S., from Bowker).

Distribution strategies that actually work

From what I’ve seen, authors following these steps get the best outcomes:

• Decide primary goal (ebook growth vs. bookstore presence).
• Use Amazon KDP for ebook market share, but pair with an aggregator (Draft2Digital) or IngramSpark for print and wider retail reach.
• Own your ISBNs if you want bookstore credibility.
• Invest in a professional cover and formatting—readers judge fast.
• Track sales, adjust pricing, and test promotions.

Real-world example: author A vs author B

Author A writes serial romance novellas and needs fast ebook visibility. She uses Amazon KDP, enrolls selectively in KDP Select for promos, and sees steady ebook income.

Author B writes a photography coffee table book and wants bookstore placement. He uses IngramSpark for premium print-on-demand and targets local stores with sample copies, then lists via Ingram for library orders.

Technical tips (formatting, EPUB, and print files)

Formatting is a frequent stumbling block. Keep files clean, use standard EPUB for ebooks, and export high-res PDF with correct bleed for print. If you need a step-by-step guide, platform support pages (like KDP’s help center) are practical resources.

Marketing & building an author platform

Platforms publish; you sell. Build an email list, use social proof (reviews), and cross-promote. For background on the market shift toward indie publishing, see industry commentary such as this overview on market trends from Forbes.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Skipping professional editing—cheap mistake, costly reviews.
• Using platform-owned ISBNs without realizing distribution limits.
• Distributing everywhere without tracking—spread thin, lose sales data.

Checklist before you publish

• Have a final edited manuscript.
• Cover design optimized for thumbnail view.
• Formatted EPUB and print-ready PDF.
• Decide ISBN ownership.
• Plan your launch promotion and pricing tests.

Resources and further reading

Quick resources to learn more: the Wikipedia page on self-publishing for history and terminology, Amazon KDP for platform specifics, and IngramSpark for print distribution options.

Next steps

If you want a short plan: pick one primary platform, prepare professional files, and run a three-month marketing sprint. In my experience, consistent small moves beat one big launch every time.