Choosing Distribution Channels
go wide!
Select where your book will be sold worldwide.
Major eBook Retailers
- Apple Books — Available in 150+ countries, integrated with Apple devices
- Google Play Books — Global reach in 75+ countries, strong Android user base
- Kobo — Major retailer in Canada, Europe, Australia. Kobo Plus subscription available
Library Networks
- OverDrive — World's largest digital library platform with Libby app
Learn more about library distribution
Subscription Services
- Kobo Plus — All-you-can-read subscription (20+ markets)
- Storytel — Audiobook and ebook subscription (25+ markets, strong in Nordic countries)
Direct-to-Reader
Sell directly from your own website: higher royalties (82%), build direct reader relationships, control pricing and promotions, capture email addresses.
Distribution Strategy
Go Wide (Recommended)
Selecting all available channels maximizes your reach. More readers discover your book, different platforms dominate different markets, and you diversify revenue streams.
Selective Distribution
Reasons to exclude certain channels:
- Amazon exclusivity (KDP Select enrolled elsewhere)
- Regional restrictions
- Direct-only strategy (building email list before wide release)
Regional Considerations
- US: Apple Books, Google Play, OverDrive
- Canada: Kobo (Canadian company), Apple Books, Google Play
- UK/EU: Kobo Plus subscription, Google Play, Apple Books
- Nordic: Storytel dominates audiobook/ebook subscriptions
- Australia/NZ: Kobo, Apple Books, Google Play
Distribution Timeline
| Channel | Review Time | Total Time to Live |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Books | 2-3 days | 3-5 days |
| Google Play | 1-2 days | 2-4 days |
| Kobo | 2-4 days | 3-6 days |
| OverDrive | 7-14 days | 10-21 days |
You can update distribution channels after publication — add or remove channels anytime.