Where to Publish Your eBook And Get Paid

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Where To Publish Your eBook and Actually Make Money (Not Just Collect Dust Bunnies)

So you’ve finally written your book—first off, congratulations! That’s a big deal. Like, bigger than most people realize. Whether you’re fresh out of edits or still fighting with your interior formatting (been there), you’re probably wondering: Where do I publish my eBook? Where can I publish this thing so people actually read it—and I actually get paid?

Let’s get into the real list. No fluff. No “just blog for fun” advice. You’ve got a story to tell, and you deserve to be compensated for the message you’re carrying. Here’s where to publish your eBook so it doesn’t collect digital cobwebs—and instead starts working for you.

✨ 5 Free Platforms to Publish Your eBook and Earn Money

These platforms cost you zero dollars to publish on, and they offer real revenue potential. Whether it’s royalties, downloads, or direct sales, they let you dip your toes in without draining your wallet.

1. Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)

Let’s be honest—this is the Beyoncé of eBook platforms. It’s free to publish, and you can earn up to 70% royalties on your sales depending on the price point. Bonus: it’s the first place readers go looking for books.

Why It Works: Massive built-in audience, Kindle Unlimited exposure, and author tools.

Pro Tip: Optimize your title and subtitle for SEO. Amazon is a search engine in disguise.

2. Payhip

Think of Payhip like your personal digital storefront. It’s free to set up, and you keep 95% of your sales (they only take 5% commission).

Why It Works: You get control of pricing, coupon codes, and affiliate options. Plus, it integrates with your email list and website like a boss.

3. Gumroad

Gumroad is perfect for selling directly to your audience. It’s free to start and super simple. They take a small percentage per sale, but it’s worth it for the smooth setup.

Why It Works: It’s built for creators and authors who already have—or are building—a personal brand. You can sell more than books here too: think bundles, audiobooks, workbooks, etc.

4. Google Play Books

Not many newbies talk about this one, but it’s underrated. You can upload your ebook and sell it to Android users across the globe.

Why It Works: It’s free to publish, and you can reach a completely different audience than Kindle. Plus, it’s searchable on Google (hello SEO visibility).

5. Kobo Writing Life

If you want to get global, this platform is a dream. Kobo reaches international markets like Canada, Europe, and Asia—aka, new eyes on your work.

Why It Works: You keep 70% of royalties and don’t have to be exclusive. That means you can be on Amazon and Kobo. Win-win.

5 Paid Platforms to Publish and Profit From

If you’ve got a little budget (we’re talking coffee money or skip-the-Target-run budget), these platforms are worth every penny. They give you pro-level polish, higher profit margins, and long-term return.

1. BookFunnel (Paired with Your Website)

It’s not a store, it’s a tool—but it’s a game-changer. You pay for hosting, delivery, and secure downloads, and then sell your ebook directly from your own site.

Why It Works: You own the customer relationship. No middleman. Just you, your story, and your reader. Plans start at $20/year.

2. ConvertKit Commerce

Perfect if you’re already using ConvertKit for your email list (and if not—girl, you should be). You can sell your ebook directly through a beautiful, clean storefront.

Why It Works: Super streamlined and personalized. Plus, it grows with you as your email list grows.

3. Podia

Podia lets you sell ebooks, courses, webinars, and more. It’s an all-in-one hub if you’re planning to build a brand around your book.

Why It Works: You keep almost all the revenue and the site looks super professional. Great for those creating a series, bonus content, or expanding into teaching.

4. Sellfy

If you’re a content creator with multiple digital products, Sellfy gives you a customizable storefront and marketing tools.

Why It Works: Built-in upsells, email features, and no transaction fees with paid plans.

5. Etsy (Yes, Etsy!)

Think Etsy is just for hand-sewn bonnets and “live laugh love” signs? Think again. You can upload your ebook as a digital download and target niche readers, especially for journals, devotionals, and themed books.

Why It Works: Etsy shoppers buy with intention. If you title and tag it right, your ebook can stand out in a sea of handmade goods.

Let’s Get It Out There

The worst thing you can do is sit on your book waiting for it to be “perfect.” Your story can help someone right now, even if you’re still learning the ropes.

Don’t just write for the drawer or the digital graveyard—get your ebook in front of readers who need it. Start free, scale up as you grow, and let God breathe on the rest.

So, You’re Probably Wondering ‘Why Didn’t You Include IngramSpark, Barnes & Noble, or PublishDrive?’

And my dear Writer Friend, that’s a great question! Although these platforms are powerful—they shine brightest in the print book game, not necessarily in the digital-first hustle:

IngramSpark is a top choice for wide print distribution (think indie bookstores, libraries, and schools), but it charges upload fees and isn’t ideal for ebook-only authors unless you’re doing print too.
Barnes & Noble Press is great for print-on-demand (especially if you dream of seeing your book on a B&N shelf), but their ebook platform has limited reach compared to Amazon or Google Play.
PublishDrive has solid distribution and analytics, but it’s more suited for authors with larger catalogs or budgets, since their pricing is subscription-based (not royalty-split). For beginners, it can be more than you need.

In short: they’re excellent tools—but if you’re starting with just an ebook and trying to get visibility and sales quickly, the platforms I listed are your best launchpad. Don’t worry Friend, I got your pages best interest at heart.

However, if you’re looking for the top Print Platforms to publish your book and get that smoney babyyyyy, then click on this click and I’ll take you there.

Check Out This Short Youtube Tutorial on How To Publish Your Ebook

Have You Checked All These Steps Before Publishing Your Book

Stay faithful, stay quirky, and stay writing.
With love and fire,
V.S. Beals
Writer. Watchwoman. Woman of the Word.