A while back, I was excited to learn
that Amazon KDP (their e-book publishing program for independent
authors) was streamlining the process so you could publish paperbacks
through the same platform you publish e-books. Previously, you had
to use CreateSpace, their paperback publishing program. Two
processes. Two websites you have to check up on. Two separate
payment systems. Two of everything. So combining it would be
awesome.
Then I did some investigating and found
several reasons not to be so excited. One of the main ones was that
through KDP you couldn't order author copies at cost, like you can
through CreateSpace. Author copies are pretty important for selling
at appearances and local bookstores, for giving away as prizes, for
putting your writing in the hands of people who don't like e-books or
online shopping, for getting more honest reviews, etc. Yet KDP
didn't do it.
Well, they've changed their mind. As
of now, it's just available for "selected publishers," but
they promise that within weeks, both proof copies and author copies
will be available for everyone at cost (plus tax and shipping).
Hoorah! It remains to be seen if they will be priced similar to
their CreateSpace counterparts and if this new feature will make
publishing everything through KDP the way to go, but it's something
to consider.
For more information, go here:
https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/G202132360
(author copies)
https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/G202131440
(proof copies)
Her newest book, Cruising Alaska on a Budget; a Cruise and Port Guide helps budget travelers plan a trip to majestic Alaska. Visit her online at http://www.melindabrasher.com
Melinda Brasher's fiction appears in Nous, Electric Spec, Intergalactic Medicine Show, and other magazines For an e-book collection of some of her favorite published pieces, check out Leaving Home.
Her newest book, Cruising Alaska on a Budget; a Cruise and Port Guide helps budget travelers plan a trip to majestic Alaska. Visit her online at http://www.melindabrasher.com
