Goin’ Wide

In the Indie Publishing world, you're either exclusive to Kindle Unlimited (KU), or you're “wide.” Being in KU means your books are available to anyone who subscribes to KU at no additional cost. KU subscriptions cost about $10 per month, so for people who read a lot, they're a great deal. Some of my first readers and reviewers were KU subscribers.

But there are thousands and thousands of books in KU, and getting noticed is tough. There are also some folks who think “good” books aren't published in KU. Since traditionally published books–especially those from the “big five” publishers in New York–aren't available in KU; since anyone can put up a KU book; and since KU books are “free” to subscribers, there can be a perception that KU books just aren't that good.

I've read a lot really great books in KU, and I know many talented authors who publish through it. So when I started out, that's the direction I went. But I haven't seen a lot of action on the KU front, and there are opportunities that are not available (or less accessible) if one is exclusive to Amazon, such as eBookaRoo and Bookbub. Let's face it: being a successful Indie Author means getting your books discovered. So I've made the decision to “go wide.”

This just means my books won't be available for free through KU anymore. You can still buy them on Amazon! And if you're a KU subscriber, don't worry, I want to take care of any loyal fans! I'll let you know via my newsletter when any of my books are free or discounted, so just sign up if you want the deets.

It also means my books will be available through Barnes and Noble, Kobo, and other online “e-tailers” in addition to Amazon.

This process takes a while since books are in KU for 90 days at a time. Murder is Messy is no longer in KU, but Dirtside Decluttering will be available there through the middle of December. Nanobots and Pudding Pots was never in KU, since you can get it free by signing up for my newsletter and KU doesn't allow authors to give KU books away–except through them.

Also, a new Christmas story will be coming out next month, but it will be “wide” from the get-go.

And the reality is, I may come back to KU. A lot of authors find KU is better for them in the long run. I just need to spread my wings and find out for myself.