Over a decade ago, I described my vision for publishing my fiction like tv show episodes to my mentor. He politely informed me that it was called a serial, and it already existed and wasn't hugely popular at the time.
Fast forward to July 2021, Amazon launched a tool that perfectly fulfilled my 2010 vision: Kindle Vella.
When I first saw the tool in action, I was giddy because it was exactly what I envisioned.
I've been publishing my young adult novel in this serial format on Kindle Vella since August and will be launching a new series soon (stay tuned!).
As with all things, there are pros and cons. I've broken down my experience into pros and cons below.
Pros to Kindle Vella
Everything is in my control. I can publish my story exactly how I want. I determine the cadence by publishing and scheduling stories to go live at specific times.
They make publishing simple with an easy upload tool that takes seconds to take your .docx file and turn it into a perfectly formatted episode. Best of all, it's automatically formatted for reading on a tablet and, better yet, a smartphone.
It's easy to set up, easy to get paid, and Amazon offers bonus payments.
Readers get three free episodes before they pay for the story. It not only puts authors in control of their work but empowers readers to pick stories that connect with them.
And, there's space to engage with readers at the end of each episode.
Cons to Kindle Vella
It's new, so there aren't as many readers using the tool as I would like.
Additionally, it favors folks who already have a large following, so getting your story noticed takes time.
It's Amazon. People have very mixed feelings about Amazon. Personally, like any big corporation, I believe we should hold them accountable for their actions and empower their employees to unionize and fight for employee rights. But, I also benefit from Amazon and its tools. Amazon gives little people (like me) a platform that would be otherwise inaccessible.
What do you think? Will you give Kindle Vella a try?
xoxoLibby
You can check out my YA Serial, Trium – A Secret Society
Note: While we are an Amazon affiliate, this post isn't sponsored by Amazon, and we get nothing for talking about our experience.