Which Authors Release Books Digital Only?

The rise of digital-only publishing has opened doors for many authors who might not fit the traditional mold. Some of my favorite romance and sci-fi authors have embraced this model wholeheartedly. Take Ruby Dixon, for instance—her 'Ice Planet Barbarians' series was initially digital-only and became a massive hit on Kindle Unlimited before getting print editions. Naomi Novik also experimented with digital exclusivity for her 'Temeraire' series in certain markets.
Another fascinating case is authors who collaborate with platforms like Tapas or Webtoon for serialized fiction. These stories often remain digital-only due to their episodic nature. For example, the authors behind 'Lore Olympus' and 'Siren's Lament' release their works exclusively online before any potential print compilations. Even big names like Brandon Sanderson have dipped their toes into digital-only releases for shorter works or special editions, proving the model's versatility across genres and author tiers.
Self-publishing giants like Andy Weir initially released 'The Martian' digitally before its print success, showing how digital-only can be a stepping stone. The accessibility and immediacy of digital platforms allow authors to bypass gatekeepers and reach readers directly, making it a game-changer for many in the industry.

I've noticed a growing trend where some authors prefer releasing their works exclusively in digital formats, especially indie authors and those in niche genres. For example, many web novelists who gained fame on platforms like Wattpad often stick to digital releases even after getting traditional publishing deals. Authors like Rina Kent, who writes dark romance, initially published digitally before expanding to print. Similarly, LitRPG and progression fantasy authors, such as Dakota Krout with his 'Divine Dungeon' series, often start digital-only to cater to their online fanbase. The flexibility and lower overhead costs make digital-first or digital-only releases appealing for both new and established authors who want to test the waters or maintain closer connections with their readers.

I've come across countless authors who thrive in the digital-only space. Erotica and urban fantasy authors, in particular, seem to favor this approach. Tessa Bailey and Elle Kennedy have released exclusive digital novellas alongside their print books, often as bonuses for fans. Then there's the entire world of fanfiction-turned-original fiction—authors like Cassandra Clare started digitally before transitioning to print, but many others stay digital-only to retain creative control.
In the manga and light novel sphere, digital-only releases are becoming more common too. Japanese authors like Kamachi Kazuma (known for 'A Certain Magical Index') often release side stories or spin-offs digitally. The convenience of updating content and the lower production costs make digital-only a smart choice for authors who prioritize speed and accessibility over physical collectibility.