The act of independently releasing a shorter work of fiction, typically between 17,500 and 40,000 words, bypassing traditional publishing houses, can be defined as independent novella publication. This process involves the author undertaking all stages of the publication process themselves, from editing and formatting to cover design and distribution. As an example, an author might choose to utilize platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing or IngramSpark to make their short novel available to readers.
This alternative publishing route offers authors complete creative control and potentially higher royalty rates compared to traditional arrangements. It allows writers to reach niche audiences and experiment with genres that might not be commercially viable for larger publishers. Historically, self-publishing was often viewed as a last resort, but advancements in technology and distribution have transformed it into a legitimate and increasingly popular path for authors to share their work and build a readership.
