Becoming an indie author is exciting — but let’s be real, it’s also a little overwhelming. From formatting to pricing to creating a professional-looking cover, there's a lot to learn. When I first dipped my toes into the world of self-publishing, I chose Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) — and like many indie authors, I had no idea what I was doing at first.
But with patience, persistence, and a few Earl Grey-fueled nights, I figured it out. And now I want to help you do the same — without all the hair-pulling. Here’s how to get started, plus a game-changing tool I use to make my covers KDP-ready without the stress.
Step 1: Set Up Your KDP Account
Go to kdp.amazon.com and sign in using your Amazon credentials. You’ll be directed to your “Bookshelf” — your publishing hub. Before you start uploading books, complete your author profile, tax info, and banking details so you can receive those sweet royalties.
💡 Tip: If you're outside the U.S. (like me), use your country’s tax treaty with the U.S. to reduce the standard withholding tax.
Step 2: Create a New Title
Click the “+ Create” button and choose your format: eBook, paperback, hardcover — or all three. Then, fill out:
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Book title & subtitle
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Series name (if applicable)
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Author/pen name
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Book description (this is your pitch, make it pop!)
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Keywords & categories
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Rights ownership
Don’t overthink keywords — just imagine what your readers would type into Amazon’s search bar to find your book.
Step 3: Prepare Your Book Files
Here’s where a lot of first-time authors pause — but don’t worry! You’ll need:
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A properly formatted manuscript (Word, Google Docs, or Kindle Create works great)
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A high-resolution cover that fits KDP’s sizing
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Optional: ISBN (Amazon provides one for free)
If you’re not a tech wizard, there are affordable freelancers ( but be cautious going this route, there are great legitimate people out there and then there are those money grabbers) and formatting tools to help. Don’t let this part stop you.
Step 4: Set Your Pricing and Distribution
Time to talk money. You’ll choose:
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Territories (go global!)
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Pricing (Amazon offers a royalty estimator)
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Whether to enroll in KDP Select (exclusive to Amazon, includes Kindle Unlimited)
I started with KDP Select to boost visibility, and it really helped. You can always opt out later.
Step 5: Preview & Publish
Before you hit publish, preview your book using KDP’s tool. Double-check formatting, line breaks, and cover alignment. Once everything looks good — click Publish. Your book will be reviewed and usually goes live within 72 hours.
Step 6: Promotion Time
Your book is live — now the real work begins! Promote your launch on social media, start a newsletter, run Amazon ads, and most importantly... keep writing.
Tackling Cover Formatting: My Go-To Tool for Getting It Right
Let’s talk about the part that nearly broke me: cover formatting.
I designed my covers using Canva — I’m very particular about them reflecting my personal vision and style. But when I uploaded my gorgeous design to KDP… it didn’t fit. At all.
That’s when I found Coverjig.
It’s an online tool designed specifically for KDP’s trim and bleed specifications. I uploaded my Canva design, deleted their overlays, and let my art shine. But guess what? The fit was still off.
Frustrated but determined, I contacted their support. Within hours, they responded and even tested my concern — and found the issue: I had selected the wrong paper type. My book prints on cream paper, and that tiny setting changed the spine width. Once I corrected it, the file fit perfectly.
✅ Problem solved. Book live. Stress gone.
Why I Keep Using Coverjig
I paid about CA$35 for the Print & Digital Bundle, and it’s now a staple in my indie publishing toolkit. It’s fast, reliable, and if you’re not a graphic designer — it’ll save you hours.
Here are the package options they offer:
If you’re a detail-oriented author (or a frustrated perfectionist like me), Coverjig is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re publishing your first eBook or your third installment (like I am with my Crimson Legacy series), a properly sized, beautiful cover is a must.
Final Thoughts
Publishing your book is a journey. You’ll make mistakes. You’ll learn. You’ll grow.
I’m currently working on book three of The Crimson Legacy series and my first nonfiction title — and every step feels more empowering than the last.
If I can pass on one piece of advice: don’t be afraid to ask for help, invest in tools, or take your time. You don’t have to do it all alone — and your story deserves to be told beautifully.
Until Next Time Lovelie!
Always Ambrose Fider