I promised you Publishing Watch every fortnight, and this edition is a few days late. I’m sorry for the delay.
This catch-up brings you one development since the last email, plus two earlier changes worth checking before your next launch. Whether you’re still working on a manuscript or already selling books, the aim is to help you make informed decisions on the journey from draft to book and on to readers.
New: Smashwords now accepts ebook pre-orders
On 29 September, Draft2Digital announced that readers can now pre-order ebooks at the Smashwords Store, up to 12 months before release. Readers receive the book on release day. This differs from a Smashwords presale, which gives buyers early access to the finished book.
What to do: If you distribute through Draft2Digital and have a launch coming up, check whether Smashwords belongs in your pre-order plan. For an assetless pre-order, Draft2Digital says to supply the final manuscript and cover at least 10 business days before release. A presale needs finished files because readers can access them immediately. Check any existing ebook exclusivity commitments before adding another retailer.
Read Draft2Digital’s announcement
Worth catching up on: Kindle’s longer pre-order window
KDP says ebook pre-orders created on or after 2 September can have a release date up to 18 months ahead. Older pre-orders retain the one-year limit.
What to do: Use the extra time only if it helps your plan. Work backwards from release to allow for manuscript review, revisions, proofreading, formatting and a final check. KDP requires the final manuscript to be uploaded and submitted at least 72 hours before release; give yourself more breathing room than that. A longer window is not a reason to promise a date you cannot meet.
Check KDP’s pre-order requirements
Worth catching up on: check your ebook royalty option
Since 7 July, KDP’s 70% royalty price band on Amazon.com has extended from $2.99–$9.99 to $2.99–$12.99. Its current UK table lists £1.77–£12.99. Your existing price and royalty option stay unchanged unless you alter them.
What to do: If a higher-priced ebook or box set is on the 35% option, check whether it now qualifies for 70%. Other eligibility conditions still apply, and delivery costs remain. Compare KDP’s estimated payout before changing anything. There is no need to raise your price simply because the ceiling has risen.
Check KDP’s current price bands and conditions
One useful step this week: Review the plan for one book. Is the manuscript timetable realistic, are the retailer deadlines recorded, and does the pricing still make sense?
If you’re earlier in the journey, keep your attention on the manuscript. These options will still be there when you’re ready. You can reply with a question or join the Casover Author Community to share what you’re working through.
All the best,
Steve
Casover
From draft to book and on to readers.
Publishing Watch · 14 October 2026. Sources checked on this date.
