Best Amazon Book Publishing Companies: A Guide to Self-Publishing Success

Amazon has revolutionized the world of book publishing, making it easier than ever for authors to self-publish and reach a global audience. Through its Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform, writers now have the power to publish and sell their books directly on Amazon without the need for a traditional publisher. But with so many self-publishing options available, how can you identify the best Amazon book publishing companies or services to help make your self-publishing journey a success?

In this blog, we’ll dive into some of the best ways to self-publish on Amazon, explore publishing companies that can assist in this process, and guide you through the steps to ensure that your book is polished and ready for Amazon’s vast marketplace.

What Makes a Great Amazon Book Publisher?

While Amazon KDP allows authors to directly upload their manuscripts, some authors choose to work with Amazon publishing companies or self-publishing services to streamline the process. Here's what to look for in a reputable Amazon publishing partner:

Experience and Expertise: Look for companies with a proven track record in Amazon book publishing, especially ones that specialize in Amazon’s platform. These companies understand Amazon’s algorithms and how to optimize listings for visibility.
Editing and Proofreading Services: A great publishing company should offer professional editing, proofreading, and formatting services to ensure your book meets industry standards. Well-edited books have a higher chance of success in the competitive Amazon marketplace.
Book Design and Formatting: In addition to editing, a professional cover design and proper formatting can make a huge difference in attracting readers. A good publishing service should offer these as part of their package.
Marketing and Promotion: Even the best book won’t succeed without proper marketing. The best Amazon publishing companies offer promotional services such as Amazon ad campaigns, social media support, and email marketing strategies to help boost your book’s visibility.
Royalties and Fees: A reliable company should offer transparent pricing with competitive royalties, ensuring that you get the most out of every book sale. Be sure to research their commission structure and any fees involved.

Top Amazon Book Publishing Companies and Services

1. Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)

Overview: Amazon's own Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is one of the best platforms for self-publishing authors. KDP allows authors to upload their eBooks and paperback books, set their own pricing, and earn royalties of up to 70% on digital books.

Why It’s Great:

Complete Control: Authors retain full control over their book’s content, pricing, and rights. You decide how much to charge and where to sell your book.
Global Distribution: KDP allows you to distribute your book worldwide through Amazon’s extensive platform, reaching millions of potential readers.
User-Friendly: KDP is intuitive, making it easy for first-time authors to navigate the publishing process, from manuscript upload to book formatting and distribution.
Royalties: Authors can earn royalties of 35% to 70% on eBooks, depending on the price range.

Ideal For: Authors who want full creative control and are comfortable handling all aspects of the self-publishing process.

2. Reedsy

Overview: While not a publishing company in the traditional sense, Reedsy is an online marketplace that connects authors with professional book editors, designers, and marketers. Many authors choose to work with Reedsy to improve the quality of their work before publishing on Amazon.

Why It’s Great:

Professional Network: Reedsy gives authors access to top-tier freelance professionals with experience in Amazon book publishing. You can hire editors, designers, marketers, and more.
Quality Focused: Reedsy specializes in high-quality services, ensuring that your book is polished before hitting Amazon’s marketplace.
Book Formatting and Conversion: Reedsy offers a comprehensive book formatting service that ensures your book is ready for Kindle and paperback publication.

Ideal For: Authors who want professional help with editing, cover design, and marketing before publishing on Amazon.

3. BookBaby

Overview: BookBaby is an independent self-publishing company that helps authors create professional-quality books for digital and print distribution. They provide a full range of services, from editing and design to distribution on Amazon and other platforms.

Why It’s Great:

Comprehensive Services: BookBaby offers end-to-end publishing services, including editing, formatting, cover design, and marketing.
No Upfront Fees: Unlike traditional publishing companies, BookBaby does not take any rights to your work or charge upfront publishing fees, though they do charge for certain services.
Amazon Distribution: BookBaby helps authors distribute their books on Amazon, ensuring your title appears on Amazon’s store and is available for Kindle and paperback readers.

Ideal For: Authors who prefer a more hands-off publishing approach and want to outsource editing, design, and distribution.

4. Outskirts Press

Overview: Outskirts Press is a well-known self-publishing company that has helped thousands of authors publish books for the Amazon marketplace. Outskirts Press provides a range of packages that include editing, cover design, and distribution services.

Why It’s Great:

Customizable Packages: Authors can choose a publishing package that suits their needs and budget, from basic packages to full-service options.
Amazon Distribution: Outskirts Press ensures your book is available for sale on Amazon, as well as other platforms like Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and more.
Marketing Support: Outskirts Press offers marketing packages to help increase visibility on Amazon, such as press releases, book signings, and social media campaigns.

Ideal For: Authors looking for a more hands-on publishing experience with additional marketing support.

5. Lulu

Overview: Lulu is a popular self-publishing platform that offers print-on-demand services, allowing authors to publish both eBooks and physical books. They also provide distribution options to Amazon and other major online retailers.

Why It’s Great:

Print-on-Demand: Lulu allows authors to print physical copies of their books on demand, which reduces costs associated with large print runs.
Global Distribution: Lulu’s distribution network includes Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers.
Formatting and Design Services: Lulu offers additional services such as cover design, book formatting, and editing to help make your book look professional.

Ideal For: Authors who want to publish physical copies of their book alongside their eBook and need access to print-on-demand services.

Tips for Success in Amazon Book Publishing

Regardless of which Amazon publishing company or service you choose, there are a few tips to keep in mind to help make your book stand out in the crowded Amazon marketplace:

Optimize Your Amazon Listing: Make sure your book’s title, description, and keywords are optimized for Amazon’s search algorithm. This will increase visibility when potential readers search for books similar to yours.
Create an Attractive Book Cover: A professionally designed cover can make a huge difference in attracting readers. Make sure it’s visually appealing and reflects the content of your book.
Engage in Marketing: Don’t rely solely on Amazon’s organic reach. Engage in marketing efforts like social media promotion, email newsletters, and Amazon advertising to drive traffic to your book.
Leverage Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited (KU): Consider enrolling your book in Kindle Unlimited, which allows Amazon Prime members to borrow your book. This can lead to more exposure and additional royalties.

Conclusion

Amazon has made it easier than ever for authors to self-publish their books and reach a global audience. Whether you choose to publish directly through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), work with a service like Reedsy for editing and design, or enlist the help of a full-service company like BookBaby or Outskirts Press, there are plenty of options to ensure your book is published professionally and reaches readers.

The key to success on Amazon is finding a publishing company or service that fits your needs, understanding the platform’s tools, and employing effective marketing strategies. With the right approach, you can take advantage of Amazon’s massive audience and turn your self-publishing dreams into reality.