Authors searching for the cheapest self-publishing companies often skip the line that matters: does the company take a percentage of book sales after you have already paid for production?
The only royalty test that counts
Ask for the formula in one sentence, in writing, before checkout. AuthorShelf’s is: net to you = reported channel earnings − print manufacturing cost for units sold. We do not take a publisher split on book sales. Details: how royalties work.
Cheap packages that still cost you
- A low sticker plus a permanent revenue share
- A low sticker plus mandatory “marketing” add-ons to finish the book
- A low sticker plus a portal subscription to see your own files
AuthorShelf lists six self publishing packages from $399 to $2,989 before checkout. Lifetime portal is included. No portal subscription. Spark is the lean entry; most debut authors should start at Launch ($597) or Pro ($997), not the cheapest SKU by default.
How to shop without getting played
- Add every required add-on to the package total.
- Confirm rights language (you should keep copyright).
- Confirm the royalty sentence.
- Confirm written cover and proof approvals.
Use the partner checklist and compare publishers before you pay anyone — us included.