Dependent vs. Independent Publishing: Who Really Controls Your Author Career?

Introduction

Self-publishing has transformed the literary world, allowing authors to bypass traditional gatekeepers and take control of their own work. However, not all self-publishing is created equal. There’s a fundamental difference between dependent publishing—relying solely on platforms like Amazon KDP Select—and independent publishing, where authors build and maintain their own distribution channels.

In this article, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of each approach, the hidden risks of dependent publishing, and how independent publishing can help you secure true creative and financial freedom.

The Rise of Dependent Publishing

Back in 2012, the publishing landscape was shifting dramatically. Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) Select program had just launched, and authors were flocking to it in droves, enticed by the promise of increased visibility and access to a growing pool of monthly royalties. However, not everyone was convinced. Industry leaders like Mark Coker, founder of Smashwords, warned that exclusivity with Amazon could ultimately erode publishing freedom.

And he was right. Over the years, we’ve seen major eBook retailers like Sony bow out of the market, while Amazon tightened its grip on the industry. Today, millions of authors participate in Amazon’s KDP Select program, betting their books in exchange for a share of an ever-growing prize pool. But the question remains—are these authors really winning?

The Catch with KDP Select

KDP Select sounds appealing on the surface. In exchange for exclusivity, Amazon offers perks like Kindle Unlimited inclusion and promotional tools. However, the fine print reveals a different story:

• No Control Over Distribution: Once you enroll, your book is locked into Amazon for at least 90 days. You cannot sell it on any other platform, limiting your reach and revenue potential.
• Unstable Income: The prize pool may be growing, but with millions of authors competing, individual earnings are often shrinking. Many authors report declining sales and inconsistent payouts.
• Platform Dependency: If Amazon decides to close your account, alter its policies, or reduce royalty rates, you have no recourse. Your business disappears overnight.

This model, referred to as Dependent Publishing, keeps authors locked in a cycle of reliance, with little control over their financial future.

The Power of Independent Publishing

On the other side of the spectrum, independent publishing empowers authors to control their distribution, pricing, marketing, and sales. Instead of relying on one platform, indie authors create their own ecosystems, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Why Go Independent?

1. Full Control Over Sales and Distribution
   • You decide where and how your book is sold.
   • You can distribute through multiple platforms (Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, etc.), maximizing reach.
2. Direct Customer Relationships
   • Selling through your own website allows you to build an email list and communicate directly with your readers.
   • Platforms like Amazon keep customer data to themselves, making it difficult for authors to establish long-term relationships with their audience.
3. Stable Revenue Streams
   • With direct sales, authors keep a larger percentage of profits.
   • Instead of fluctuating royalties, you control your pricing and income sources.
4. Brand Ownership
   • Your website, mailing list, and direct sales channels belong to you, ensuring that no third party can take away your audience.
   • You’re not at risk of losing your business due to platform changes or account terminations.

Building Your Independent Publishing Empire

Transitioning from dependent to independent publishing takes strategy and effort, but the rewards are worth it. Here’s how to start:

1. Create Your Own Website
   • Use platforms like WordPress, Shopify, or Squarespace to build an author site.
   • Offer direct sales through eCommerce tools like Payhip or WooCommerce.
2. Diversify Your Distribution
   • List your book on multiple retailers like Apple Books, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble.
   • Use aggregators like Draft2Digital or PublishDrive to streamline the process.
3. Build an Email List
   • Use tools like MailerLite or ConvertKit to capture emails and engage with your readers.
   • Offer incentives like free chapters or bonus content in exchange for sign-ups.
4. Leverage Print-on-Demand Services
   • Companies like IngramSpark and BookVault allow you to print and distribute your books worldwide.
   • This reduces reliance on Amazon’s print services.
5. Master Direct Sales
   • Sell digital and physical copies directly through your website.
   • Offer exclusive deals and signed copies to encourage direct purchases.

The Final Question: Who Controls Your Publishing Business?

At the end of the day, the key question every self-published author must ask is: Who controls my business? If your answer isn’t YOU, it’s time to rethink your strategy.

Dependent publishing may offer convenience and short-term perks, but independent publishing provides long-term stability, financial security, and creative freedom. The choice is yours—will you remain an outside investor in someone else’s platform, or will you take charge and become the CEO of your own author career?

By embracing independent publishing, authors can secure their future and reclaim control over their hard-earned success. The time to act is now—take ownership of your publishing career and build a business that works for you, not against you!