If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a published author, you’ve probably heard about the opportunities Amazon provides for writers. Over the last decade, Amazon book publishers have disrupted the traditional publishing industry, giving independent authors a platform to publish, distribute, and profit from their books on a global scale. Whether you’re a first-time novelist, a business professional looking to share your expertise, or a hobbyist wanting to create a niche guide, working with an Amazon publishing company can open doors to audiences you may have never reached otherwise.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Amazon book publishing companies, from understanding how they work, to choosing the right one for your needs, to launching and marketing your book successfully.
Chapter 1: Understanding Amazon Publishing
Before working with any Amazon publishing company, it’s important to understand what Amazon’s publishing ecosystem actually looks like. Amazon offers multiple publishing routes, which can be broken into two main categories:
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Amazon Self-Publishing Platforms
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Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): This is Amazon’s self-service platform where you can upload, publish, and sell eBooks and paperbacks directly. You control pricing, royalties, and updates.
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KDP Select: A program under KDP that offers additional promotional tools in exchange for granting Amazon exclusivity to your eBook for 90 days.
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Amazon’s Own Publishing Imprints
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Amazon owns several traditional publishing imprints such as Thomas & Mercer (mystery and thrillers), Montlake (romance), and Amazon Crossing (translations). These function much like traditional publishers and typically require you to submit manuscripts for consideration.
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An Amazon book publishing company can help you navigate both of these worlds. Some companies focus solely on self-publishing through KDP, while others specialize in helping authors pitch to Amazon’s traditional imprints.
Chapter 2: What Is an Amazon Publishing Company?
An Amazon publishing company is any business or service provider that helps authors publish their books through Amazon’s platforms. These companies can offer a range of services, including:
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Manuscript editing and proofreading
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Cover design
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Formatting for Kindle and paperback
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Marketing and advertising on Amazon
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Distribution management
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Keyword research and category optimization
In many ways, they act as your publishing partner—taking care of the technical and marketing details so you can focus on writing.
Chapter 3: Why Work with an Amazon Book Publishing Company?
While Amazon’s KDP platform is designed for ease of use, publishing a book involves much more than simply uploading a file. Here’s why many authors choose to work with an Amazon book publishing company:
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Professional Quality
Your book needs to compete with millions of others. A professional editor, designer, and formatter can make your book look and read like a bestseller. -
Marketing Expertise
Amazon is a search-driven marketplace. Publishing companies know how to optimize keywords, categories, and descriptions to increase visibility. -
Time Savings
Publishing a book involves dozens of small but important steps. Outsourcing to a publishing company frees you up to focus on writing and building your author brand. -
Better Sales Potential
Professional optimization and promotion can dramatically increase your chances of making consistent sales.
Chapter 4: Types of Amazon Publishing Companies
Not all publishing companies operate the same way. Here are the main types you might encounter:
1. Full-Service Amazon Book Publishers
These companies handle every aspect of publishing for you—from editing to launch campaigns. They’re ideal for authors who want a hands-off experience.
2. Author Services Companies
These provide specific services like formatting, cover design, or ad management. You can pick and choose what you need.
3. Hybrid Publishers
A mix of traditional and self-publishing, hybrid publishers often require an investment from the author but provide professional services and sometimes even share marketing costs.
4. Amazon Marketing Specialists
These companies focus solely on book promotion and advertising within Amazon’s ecosystem.
Chapter 5: How to Choose the Right Amazon Publishing Company
When selecting a publishing partner, consider the following:
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Experience and Track Record
Look for companies with proven success on Amazon, especially in your genre. -
Transparency
Avoid companies that are vague about pricing or royalties. You should know exactly what you’re paying for and what you’re keeping. -
Service Quality
Ask for samples of their cover designs, formatting, and edited manuscripts. -
Author Rights
Make sure you retain full rights to your work. -
Client Reviews
Research testimonials and ask for references from other authors.
Chapter 6: The Amazon Publishing Process Step-by-Step
Here’s what to expect when working with an Amazon publishing company:
Step 1: Manuscript Preparation
Your manuscript is professionally edited, proofread, and formatted for both eBook and print editions.
Step 2: Cover Design
A professional cover is created to meet Amazon’s specifications and attract your target readers.
Step 3: Metadata Optimization
The company researches keywords, categories, and descriptions to maximize visibility.
Step 4: Uploading to KDP
They handle the technical process of uploading your book to Amazon.
Step 5: Pricing Strategy
They help set a price that balances profitability and competitiveness.
Step 6: Launch Campaign
This can include promotions, email marketing, and Amazon Ads.
Step 7: Ongoing Marketing
Long-term success on Amazon requires regular promotions, reviews management, and ad optimization.
Chapter 7: Understanding Amazon Royalties
One of the benefits of using Amazon KDP is its clear royalty structure:
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eBooks: 35% or 70% royalty options depending on price and distribution choices.
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Paperbacks: 60% royalty minus printing costs.
When working with an Amazon book publishing company, you’ll want to clarify how royalties are split—most reputable companies allow you to keep 100% of your royalties since you’re paying for their services upfront.
Chapter 8: Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Many first-time authors make costly mistakes when working with publishing companies:
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Paying Too Much for Basic Services
Some companies charge thousands for what could be done affordably by freelancers. -
Losing Rights
Always read the fine print to ensure you keep ownership of your book. -
Falling for “Guaranteed Bestseller” Claims
No company can guarantee bestseller status—it depends on sales, competition, and timing. -
Neglecting Marketing
Even the best book won’t sell without a marketing plan.
Chapter 9: Marketing Your Book on Amazon
An Amazon publishing company often includes marketing services, but you should also understand how to promote your book:
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Amazon Ads (PPC Campaigns): Targeted ads within Amazon search results.
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Kindle Countdown Deals: Temporary price reductions with a countdown timer.
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Free Book Promotions: Limited-time free downloads to boost rankings and reviews.
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Optimized Author Page: Using Amazon Author Central to showcase your work.
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Email Lists and Social Media: Drive traffic from outside Amazon.
Chapter 10: Case Studies of Success
Case Study 1: Self-Help Author with No Platform
A first-time self-help author hired a full-service Amazon book publishing company. Through optimized keywords, professional cover design, and strategic Amazon ads, the book reached the top 10 in its category within three weeks.
Case Study 2: Fiction Writer Moving from Traditional to Self-Publishing
An author with two traditionally published novels switched to self-publishing with an Amazon publishing company to gain more creative control. Within six months, her royalties surpassed her traditional advances.
Chapter 11: Cost of Working with Amazon Publishing Companies
Costs vary depending on the level of service:
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Editing: $500–$3,000
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Cover Design: $100–$500
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Formatting: $50–$300
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Marketing Packages: $300–$2,000+
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Full-Service Packages: $1,000–$10,000+
Always weigh the investment against your long-term goals and potential ROI.
Chapter 12: The Future of Amazon Publishing
Amazon’s dominance in the book market continues to grow. With innovations like Kindle Vella (serialized stories) and global distribution, opportunities for authors will expand even further. Working with the right Amazon book publishing company will remain one of the fastest, most efficient ways to turn your manuscript into a professional, market-ready book.
Final Thoughts
The publishing industry has been transformed by Amazon. While it’s possible to publish on your own, the expertise, polish, and marketing knowledge offered by a reputable Amazon publishing company can significantly increase your chances of success. Whether you’re chasing bestseller lists or simply want to share your story with the world, finding the right partner is the first—and perhaps most important—step in your publishing journey.