Want to do more with your book beyond amazon? For many self-published authors, Amazon feels like the obvious and sometimes only choice when it comes to selling books. After all, it dominates the online marketplace and gives you instant access to millions of readers worldwide. But relying solely on Amazon can also limit your reach and leave you vulnerable to its algorithms, changing rules, and competitive environment. To build a sustainable author career, it’s important to think beyond Amazon and explore other opportunities where your book can shine. One of the best places to start is by distributing your book on other platforms. Retailers like Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and Google Play all have their own loyal readerships. While none are as large as Amazon individually, together they give you access to a much wider audience. In addition, you can use distribution services like IngramSpark or Draft2Digital to place your book in thousands of bookstores and libraries worldwide. This not only increases your visibility but also makes it easier for readers who don’t shop on Amazon to find and buy your work.
Selling directly through your own website is another powerful option that many authors overlook. By setting up an online store, you keep a higher percentage of the profits and build a direct relationship with your readers. This also gives you the opportunity to collect email addresses, which is one of the most valuable tools for long-term marketing. With an email list, you can announce new releases, share behind-the-scenes updates, and create loyal fans who will support you for years to come. Direct sales also allow you to experiment with bundles, signed copies, and special editions—things that set you apart from the competition.
“Relying solely on Amazon can also limit your reach and leave you vulnerable to its algorithms, changing rules, and competitive environment!”
Beyond online sales, your local community can play a huge role in your success as an author. Independent bookstores often welcome local authors, especially if you approach them with professionalism and a clear pitch. Community events, book fairs, and festivals are also great places to showcase your book, meet readers face-to-face, and build your network. Schools, libraries, and community centers may also be open to hosting talks, readings, or workshops connected to your book’s theme. These opportunities not only increase visibility but also help establish you as an authority or storyteller in your niche.
Another way to do more with your book is to expand it into new formats and experiences. Your story doesn’t have to live only in print or digital form. Consider creating an audiobook, which is one of the fastest-growing segments of the publishing industry. If your book is nonfiction, you can adapt it into a course, workshop, or speaking presentation. Fiction authors might explore podcast adaptations, serial releases, or even merchandise tied to their stories. Every book has the potential to be more than just a product—it can become a platform for creative growth.
Partnerships are also worth exploring when thinking to do more with your book beyond Amazon. Look for organizations, businesses, or influencers whose audiences overlap with yours. A cookbook, for example, could be promoted through food blogs, cooking classes, or kitchenware companies. A business book could be tied to leadership conferences, coaching programs, or podcasts in your industry. By thinking strategically about collaborations, you expand your reach while positioning your book as part of a bigger conversation.
In the end, Amazon is an excellent starting point, but it should never be the end of your book’s journey. By exploring multiple sales channels, connecting with your community, diversifying your formats, and building partnerships, you open new doors for your book and for yourself as an author. A successful writing career isn’t about putting all your energy into one platform—it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem where your book continues to thrive long after launch.
