Which Publishers Release Books In Kindle Format First?

I’ve noticed that certain publishers prioritize Kindle releases, often to cater to the growing demand for digital reading. Amazon Publishing is the most obvious example, given its direct ties to Kindle. They frequently release titles in Kindle format first, sometimes even before print editions. This makes sense since Amazon has a vested interest in promoting its e-reading platform. Their imprints, like Montlake Romance for romantic fiction or Thomas & Mercer for thrillers, often debut books digitally, leveraging Kindle Unlimited to attract subscribers.

Another major player is HarperCollins, which has embraced digital-first strategies for some of its imprints. Avon Impulse, their romance-focused line, often releases e-books ahead of print. This approach allows them to test reader interest before committing to physical copies. Similarly, Penguin Random House’s digital-only or digital-first imprints, like Berkley’s InterMix, frequently debut titles on Kindle. These publishers recognize the convenience and immediacy of e-books, especially for genre fiction readers who devour content quickly.

Smaller indie presses also lean heavily into Kindle-first releases. Many rely on platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing to bypass traditional distribution hurdles. Publishers like Entangled Publishing or Carina Press (Harlequin’s digital-first imprint) often release romance, sci-fi, or fantasy titles digitally before considering print runs. This strategy minimizes risk while maximizing reach, as niche audiences are more likely to discover these books online. The trend isn’t limited to fiction; tech and business publishers like O’Reilly Media also prioritize Kindle formats for timely topics, updating digital editions frequently to stay relevant.