The short version
How OtherShelf works
An independent-only online bookshop is taking shape. Here’s what you can do now, and what still has to be built before anyone buys a book.
What is OtherShelf?
OtherShelf is a UK online bookshop being built exclusively for independently published books. We want readers to discover independent authors in a place where those books are the whole point, not a side category.
Can I buy books here now?
Not yet. OtherShelf is in pre-launch. The reader list is for launch news and first access, not for placing an order. We will show real books and clear purchase terms before opening sales.
Can an independent author join now?
Authors can register their interest and tell us about their books. That helps us shape the founding catalogue, but it is not a listing or publishing agreement and does not guarantee a place on the shelf.
Are there upfront fees for authors?
No. We do not plan setup, listing or subscription fees. OtherShelf would earn only when a book sells. The final sale terms will be agreed before any book is offered for purchase.
Will authors have to leave Amazon or their own shops?
No. OtherShelf is intended as an additional place to sell, not an exclusive arrangement. Authors can keep their books on Amazon, their own website and with other retailers.
How will printing and delivery work?
Our intended model is print-on-demand: a book is printed after a reader buys it, so authors do not need to buy or send us stock. Printing cost and shipping are separate. Shipping will be calculated from the reader’s order and delivery address at a future checkout, not from an author’s pricing estimate.
What will authors earn?
The planned split is 70% to the author and 30% to OtherShelf of the book price left after print cost and payment-processing fees. The reader would pay shipping separately. Actual figures depend on the book’s format and price; we will confirm the full terms before taking orders.
Can authors use IngramSpark?
We are investigating it, but an IngramSpark title will not be offered for sale here until an OtherShelf checkout and fulfilment process works for it. We will not present a link to someone else’s checkout as an OtherShelf sale.
Want to hear when we open? Join the reader list. Have an independently published book? Tell us about it.
Last checked 4 October 2026. Plans may change as we finish fulfilment, author terms and the trading work; this page will be updated when they do.