Going Wide in 2026: How to Break Your KDP Select Dependency and Expand eBook Sales
Here's our blueprint for wide eBook distribution, from professional formatting to launching a direct-to-consumer store.
Going Wide in 2026: How to Break Your KDP Select Dependency and Expand eBook Sales
For years, KDP Select has been treated as a “no-brainer” for indie authors distributing eBooks. However, as we navigate 2026, the landscape has shifted. Depending on your goals, relying on a single retailer may be more of a hindrance than a help.
“Going wide” means distributing your eBook through as many avenues as possible (your own website, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, libraries, etc.), not just Amazon/Kindle. Wide eBook distribution can help you reach more readers, grow your brand, and allow you to operate independent of the Amazon algorithm.
Here’s our blueprint for widening your eBook’s reach.
Pro Tip: While it’s most efficient to take these steps before publishing your eBook, you can do so after publication, as well, as long as you own your own ISBNs (more on that below).
KDP Select vs. Wide Distribution: Is Amazon Exclusivity Still Worth It?
Authors who enroll in KDP Select can enjoy the benefits of Kindle Unlimited, Kindle Countdown Deals, etc. To learn more about KDP Select, this help article outlines its benefits.
However, KDP Select requires the eBook to be exclusively offered through KDP, limiting the eBook to the Amazon ecosystem. While Amazon is still a giant among booksellers, it isn’t the only store readers like to shop, and some readers boycott it entirely.
Opting out of KDP Select will limit some of the benefits KDP offers, but it doesn’t mean your eBook can’t appear on Amazon. It just means that you will have a chance to distribute your eBook to a larger audience.
Ultimately, it’s your call whether KDP Select or wide distribution is best for your specific situation, but for those who want to go wide, read on.
How to Prepare Your eBook for Wide Distribution: A Step-by-Step Checklist
Before you leave the Amazon ecosystem, you must ensure your files can stand on other platforms—and that your other platforms are ready to go. Don’t forget to turn off your KDP Select auto-renew.
1. Secure Your Own ISBNs for Maximum Publisher Control
KDP does not require eBooks to have ISBNs, but certain wide platforms do. If you haven’t yet purchased your own ISBNs from your country’s official ISBN agency (that would be Bowker, for the US), you should do so now for the greatest flexibility, metadata consistency, and control (owning your ISBNs ensures you are listed as the publisher). Then, you should ensure your files show the relevant ISBN on the copyright page.
2. Format Professional, Validated ePub Files
If you have not already hired a professional service to create your eBook files, now is the time to correct that mistake. Expert formatting is non-negotiable if you want your audience to have a good reading experience—and your eBook file must be clean enough to pass other platforms’ reviews. At 1106 Design, not only do we hand-code your files, but we provide both a standard ePub and a Kindle-optimized ePub for greatest compatibility and function.
3. Choose the Right Distribution Platforms
IngramSpark is not the only platform that can get your eBook to libraries and non-Amazon retailers. That said, we typically recommend uploading to IngramSpark for more convenient expanded distribution options, and then using KDP (without opting in for KDP Select) for direct Amazon distribution. Don’t hesitate to conduct your own research to see what options are best for your goals, however.
4. Launch a Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) Storefront
Successful wide authors are now selling directly from their own websites, not just retailers. This allows you to capture customer emails and keep more of the list price. If you go this route, make sure your website storefront is optimized to permit seamless online purchases.
Wide eBook Marketing: Shifting Your Strategy Beyond Amazon Ads
When going wide, you shouldn’t focus all of your marketing efforts through Amazon. Diversify your marketing strategy to reach more people.
Diversified Ads: Instead of spending 100% of your budget on Amazon Ads, experiment with Meta (Facebook/Instagram) ads that link to a landing page (like your own website) where readers can choose their preferred retailer or purchase direct from you.
“Store Credit” Users: Remember that Apple, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble users are often loyal to their platforms because of gift cards and device/app preferences. You can include retailer-specific links in your newsletters and on your website to cater to these “non-Amazon” fans.
Conclusion: Building a Resilient, Platform-Agnostic Publishing Business
Going wide is a marathon, not a sprint. It may take longer to build momentum than it does in Kindle Unlimited, but the result is a resilient, professional business that no single algorithm change can destroy.
Ready to move forward with your eBook? We have you covered! Contact us today to learn what we can do for you.
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