Here are the top indie publishing websites as identified in the 26th Annual 101 Best Websites from the May/June 2024 issue of Writer's Digest.
A * means this is the website’s first appearance on the WD list. All listings within each category are alphabetically arranged.
1. Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi)
The ALLi Advice Centre should be on every indie author’s “favorites” toolbar. Whether you want to find out if a competition or potential publishing service is a scam or if you’re looking for guidance on a particular piece of self-publishing, the blogs, guidebooks, podcast, and courses will help you out. Become a paid member to take full advantage of everything they have to offer.
2. Author Level Up
Author Level Up is indie author Michael La Ronn’s site dedicated to helping other indie authors navigate the indie publishing experience. With courses, writing guides, and more videos than we can count, there’s nothing that Michael doesn’t cover. Plus, he includes a list of recommended resources with writing and editing tools and apps, podcasting equipment, and more.
3. David Gaughran
Historical fiction author David Gaughran has dedicated his time and talent to helping fellow indie authors. He’s authored several books on the subject, including Following, which can be accessed for free by joining his site. He also releases a weekly marketing newsletter, offers a free course on book promotion, and hosts a blog dedicated to topics like Amazon category hacks and the five steps of book editing.
4. Independent Book Publishers Association
From its humble Southern California beginnings in 1983 to being the largest publishing trade association in the U.S., IBPA is a nonprofit dedicated to self-publishers, indie publishers, and small presses. Boasting more than 4,000 members, IBPA offers both free resources—such as industry news, book formatting templates, and more—as well as paid-member resources, like discussion forums and access to the IBPA Slack channel.
5. Indie Author Project
The Indie Author Project helps to connect library patrons with indie-published books. “Authors are able to submit e-books directly to their local public library to then be vetted by industry editorial partners (such as Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, and others) and librarian editorial boards. Being selected by these curators can lead to expanded discovery, marketing, and networking opportunities.” The site also features an archive of webinars with industry experts.
6. The Indy Author (Matty Dalrymple)
Author Matty Dalrymple shares her expertise on her blog, which focuses on a wide variety of craft and business topics, like how (and why) to go straight to Barnes & Noble. The podcast hosts special guests from editors to freelancers to authors to discuss indie-specific topics. The site also offers suggested resources for authors, as well as access to her paid-for coaching services for a more individual approach.
About Amy Jones
Amy Jones is the Editor-in-Chief of Writer’s Digest and was the managing content director for WD Books. She is the editor of the Novel and Short Story Writer's Market and Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Market. Prior to joining the WD team, Amy was the managing editor for North Light Books and IMPACT Books. Like most WD staffers, Amy is a voracious reader and has a particular interest in literary fiction, historical fiction, steamy romance, and page-turning mysteries. When she’s not reading, Amy can be found daydreaming about Italy or volunteering at her local no-kill cat shelter. Find Amy on Twitter @AmyMJones_5.
