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Help — Distribution

Publishing Timeline

When your book goes live on each platform.

Publication Process

  1. Submit: Click Publish in your book editor
  2. Validation: System checks files and metadata (immediate)
  3. Distribution: Book sent to selected channels (24-72 hours)
  4. Review: Each retailer reviews content and metadata
  5. Live: Book appears in stores for purchase

Time to Live by Platform

PlatformReview TimeTotal Time to Live
Google Play1-2 days2-4 days
Apple Books2-3 days3-5 days
Kobo2-4 days3-6 days
OverDrive7-14 days10-21 days

These timelines represent typical processing times. Different authors and books may experience different results based on content type, metadata quality, and retailer review queues.

Factors Affecting Timeline

  • Content review: Books with adult content may take longer
  • Metadata quality: Errors require resubmission
  • Peak periods: November-December can have delays
  • First-time authors: May face stricter review

Tracking Publication Status

Monitor your book's status in My Shelf:

  • Processing: Being prepared for distribution
  • In Review: With retailers for approval
  • Live: Available for purchase
  • Rejected: Needs corrections (rare)

Contact support if your book is delayed beyond these timeframes.