For many authors and publishers, Amazon has long been the default marketplace for selling ebooks. Its reach, infrastructure, and ease of use make it attractive—but also incredibly competitive and often limiting. In 2025, with more tools and platforms available than ever, it’s not only possible but strategic to sell digital books independently and build a more sustainable, direct publishing business.
Here’s how to sell digital books without depending on Amazon—and why it might be the smartest move for your editorial future.
Own your platform, own your audience
Selling through your own website or branded platform gives you full control over pricing, design, branding, and—most importantly—customer data. You know who your readers are, how they found you, and what they buy. This allows you to build relationships, launch targeted campaigns, and create a long-term, loyal community.
Keep more of your revenue
Amazon and other marketplaces typically take a commission of 30% or more on each sale. When you sell directly, you keep a larger share of the revenue, allowing you to reinvest in marketing, new projects, or enhanced digital experiences. You also avoid hidden fees or sudden policy changes that could affect your business model.
Create unique digital experiences
Through your own platform, you can offer more than just a PDF or EPUB file. You can provide interactive ebooks, audio integration, bonus content, early access, or subscription-based access to your catalog. This level of personalization enhances reader engagement and helps differentiate your offer in a crowded market.
Diversify your digital distribution
Not being tied to Amazon means you’re free to distribute your ebooks across multiple platforms: your website, digital bookstores, library systems, online courses, newsletters, and even direct social media sales. Multi-channel distribution means more visibility and resilience against dependency on any single player.
Build long-term brand equity
When people buy your books on Amazon, they remember Amazon. When they buy them on your platform, they remember you. Over time, your brand as an author or publisher becomes more visible, more consistent, and more valuable.
Conclusion
Relying on Amazon to sell digital books is convenient—but also risky and restrictive. In today’s digital-first world, creating your own sales ecosystem is not just feasible, it’s empowering. The tools are there. The audience is ready. The next step is yours.
Want to sell ebooks directly to your readers—without middlemen?
With Bookset, you can build your own digital bookstore, manage your catalog, and sell worldwide on your terms.
Start now 👉 bookset.app
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