Publish & Profit | Self-Publishing and KDP Guide for Authors

 

Self-Publishing on KDP (2026) — Then Build the Real Business on Shopify

KDP helps you publish on Amazon. Shopify helps you build an owned platform: your email list, direct bundles, and offers you control.

Disclosure: The Shopify button uses my affiliate link (https://shopify.pxf.io/VxbdXE). If you sign up, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Why Shopify Is the Power Move for Authors

KDP is a marketplace channel. Shopify is your owned storefront. That means your audience relationship can keep growing even when algorithms change.

What Shopify lets you do

  • Capture emails with a free download
  • Sell direct bundles (ebook + workbook + templates)
  • Add upsells (coaching, community, premium downloads)
  • Use one “home base” link across every platform

Start here

If you want the simplest setup: one landing page, one free download, one paid upgrade.

Launch on Shopify →

If you publish on KDP but skip Shopify, you can still sell books — but you lose the fastest way to build an owned audience.

KDP Publishing Steps (Simple + Clean)

Step 1: Know what KDP is

KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) is Amazon’s self-publishing platform for ebooks and print formats. Use it for marketplace reach.

Step 2: Prepare your manuscript

  • Edit: clarity, flow, consistency
  • Format: ebook + print readiness
  • Cover: readable at thumbnail size

Resource: AI Writing Guides Collection →

Step 3: Upload + metadata

  • Choose categories + keywords (Amazon search matters)
  • Set pricing and confirm royalty option in KDP
  • Preview formatting before you hit publish

Step 4: Decide on KDP Select (if applicable)

If you enroll your ebook in KDP Select, you’re choosing a specific distribution arrangement for the ebook format for the enrollment period. Make that decision based on your strategy (Amazon-first vs wide distribution).

Step 5: Market it (Shopify makes this easier)

  • Send readers to one home base link (your Shopify page)
  • Offer a free download to capture email
  • Sell a direct bundle that increases value beyond the ebook

Extra Resources (If You Want More Support)