Bookemon vs. Reedsy

Self-publishing has revolutionized the way authors share their work with the world, offering a range of platforms to fit varying needs. Among the myriad of options, Bookemon and Reedsy stand out for their distinct approaches to empowering authors. Whether you’re a first-time writer looking for user-friendly tools or an experienced author seeking professional expertise, these platforms cater to different publishing goals.

Bookemon simplifies the publishing process with intuitive book creation tools, print-on-demand services, and flexible pricing options, making it an accessible choice for beginners and personal projects. Reedsy, on the other hand, operates as a curated marketplace, connecting authors with vetted industry professionals for bespoke editing, design, and marketing services.

In this article, we’ll dive into a detailed comparison of these two platforms, covering their services, costs, royalties, support, and customer experiences, helping you decide which is the right fit for your publishing journey.

Key Differences Between Bookemon and Reedsy

While both Bookemon and Reedsy are valuable platforms for self-publishing, their approaches to serving authors differ significantly. Here are the three main distinctions:

1. Publishing Model

• Bookemon: A self-contained platform that allows authors to create, design, and publish their books using intuitive tools. It offers print-on-demand services and limited distribution options, making it a straightforward choice for personal projects or niche audiences.
• Reedsy: A service marketplace that connects authors with freelance professionals for tailored publishing services like editing, design, and marketing. It’s designed for authors who want full creative control and professional input but requires managing multiple collaborators.

2. Cost Structure

• Bookemon: Offers a clear and affordable pricing structure, including free account options and a one-time fee for its Creative Author Press (CAP) package.
• Reedsy: Operates on a freelancer-based pricing model, where costs vary depending on the services and professionals hired, often making it more expensive upfront.

3. Target Audience

• Bookemon: Best suited for beginners, educators, or anyone seeking a simple, all-in-one platform for smaller-scale projects or family keepsakes.
• Reedsy: Ideal for experienced authors with larger budgets who want access to vetted industry professionals for a highly customized publishing experience.

FEATURE
⭐ Customer Experience	4.6 stars	4.6 stars
💸 Affordability	Free basic account; CAP package at $99	Costs vary; freelancers set rates, often expensive
💰Royalties	Royalties on Bookemon marketplace; lower rates.	100% royalty retention; no platform cuts.
⏳Production Speed	Quick and streamlined process (CAP: ~48 hours)	Varies based on freelancer timelines.
🏢 Marketing Services	Limited (YouTube/TikTok videos).	Comprehensive options via freelance marketers.
🌎 Distribution	Bookemon store + optional Amazon (via CAP).	Through Blurb (Amazon and global networks).
🧑‍💻 Support	Basic platform support; no professional guidance.	Freelancer-driven; ongoing support varies.
📚Formats	Print-on-demand, hardcover, softcover, eBooks.	Formats depend on Blurb partnership services.
💎 Transparency	Clear pricing with straightforward packages	Pricing depends on freelancer bids; less predictable

Overview of Bookemon

Bookemon is a self-publishing platform designed for ease and accessibility, making it particularly popular among beginners, educators, and those creating personal projects. Known for its user-friendly tools, Bookemon simplifies the publishing process by allowing authors to create, design, and publish books directly on the platform. It offers a variety of formats, including print-on-demand (POD) hardcover and softcover books, as well as eBooks, catering to individuals and small-scale publishers.

One of Bookemon’s standout features is its Creative Author Press (CAP) package, which includes ISBN assignment and Amazon distribution, giving authors the ability to reach a global audience. The platform also supports projects like family memory books and educational materials, making it a versatile option for niche markets.

However, while Bookemon excels at accessibility and simplicity, it lacks some of the advanced features offered by other platforms. Its distribution options are limited compared to competitors, focusing primarily on its own marketplace and Amazon. Additionally, Bookemon does not provide professional editing, marketing, or design services, which means authors need to handle these tasks independently or seek external help.

Overall, Bookemon is an excellent choice for first-time authors or those creating personal, small-scale projects, but it may not meet the needs of authors aiming for professional-grade publishing or wide distribution.

Key Features of Bookemon

• Intuitive Book Creation Tools: Easy-to-use platform with customizable templates and WYSIWYG design tools for page layouts and covers.
• Print-on-Demand (POD): No minimum order requirement; books are printed only when purchased, reducing upfront costs.
• Creative Author Press (CAP) Package: Includes ISBN assignment, Amazon distribution, and one complimentary hard copy per project.
• Flexible Formats: Offers hardcover, softcover, and eBook options, along with premium photo and color trade books.
• Document Import Options: Seamlessly upload and convert Word, PDF, or PowerPoint files into print-ready books.
• Group Collaboration: Allows multiple users to collaborate on a book, ideal for schools or family projects.
• Marketing Support: Limited promotional tools, including video sharing on platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
• Affordable Pricing: Free basic account with optional CAP package at $99, offering an accessible entry point for self-publishing.
• Complimentary Hard Copy: Authors receive one free printed copy with CAP (subject to page count limitations).
• Targeted Audience: Ideal for beginners, educators, and individuals publishing for personal or niche purposes.

Does Not Offer 

• Limited Distribution Options: Primarily focuses on its own marketplace and Amazon (via CAP package).
• No Professional Editing Services: Authors must source editing help externally.
• No Advanced Marketing Tools: Offers basic video sharing but lacks comprehensive marketing strategies or ad campaign options.
• No Ghostwriting or Collaboration with Industry Experts: Does not connect authors with professional ghostwriters or other publishing specialists.
• Higher Printing Costs: Printing fees can be more expensive compared to some competitors, impacting profitability for large-scale projects.
• No Audiobook Services: This does not support audiobook creation or distribution.
• Basic Customer Support: Lacks personalized support or guidance through the publishing process.
• Limited Scalability for Professional Publishing: Not ideal for authors seeking a full suite of professional-grade publishing services.

Overview of Reedsy

Reedsy is a dynamic self-publishing marketplace that connects authors with a curated network of industry professionals, including editors, designers, marketers, and ghostwriters. Known for its high-quality freelance talent, Reedsy excels at offering customized publishing solutions tailored to the unique needs of each author. With services ranging from developmental editing to marketing strategies, Reedsy provides authors with the tools they need to create professional, market-ready books.

A key strength of Reedsy is its vetting process, ensuring that all freelancers on the platform are experienced and highly skilled. This makes it an excellent choice for authors with a clear vision who are willing to invest in high-quality publishing services. In addition to its marketplace, Reedsy offers tools like the Reedsy Book Editor, free educational content, and a plot generator to support authors at various stages of their journey.

However, Reedsy is not a one-stop self-publishing platform. It does not handle book printing, distribution, or royalties directly, instead relying on partnerships like Blurb for print-on-demand and distribution. Additionally, the platform can be cost-prohibitive for some, as freelancers set their own rates, and service fees add up. Reedsy is best suited for experienced authors or those with larger budgets, while first-time authors may find it less accessible or overwhelming.

Key Features of Reedsy

• Curated Freelance Marketplace: Connects authors with vetted professionals for editing, design, ghostwriting, marketing, and more.
• Customizable Publishing Services: Authors can select specific services and freelancers to tailor their publishing journey.
• Reedsy Book Editor: Free, user-friendly online tool for editing, formatting, and typesetting manuscripts.
• Educational Resources: Offers free courses, guides, and webinars on topics like self-publishing, book marketing, and Amazon algorithms.
• Reedsy Discovery: Paid platform to connect self-published authors with reviewers, increasing book visibility and readership.
• Comprehensive Editing Options: Services include developmental editing, copy editing, proofreading, and editorial assessments.
• Professional Cover and Interior Design: Access to expert cover designers, illustrators, and interior layout specialists.
• Marketing Services: Freelancers offer custom strategies, email marketing campaigns, and advertising plans.
• Collaboration Tools: Automated contracts and secure payment systems streamline author-freelancer relationships.
• Global Distribution Partnership: Partners with Blurb for print-on-demand services and access to global retail networks.
• Plot Generator: A creative tool for generating story ideas tailored to different genres.

Does Not Offer 

• No In-House Publishing Services: Does not provide a complete end-to-end publishing solution; authors must manage freelancers independently.
• No Direct Print-on-Demand (POD) Services: Relies on third-party partner Blurb for printing and distribution.
• No Royalties or Sales Management: Authors retain full control of royalties but must handle distribution and sales independently.
• High Costs: Freelancer rates and platform fees can be expensive, making it less accessible for authors on a tight budget.
• No Centralized Support: Lacks a dedicated support system to guide authors through the entire publishing process.
• No Guaranteed Quality or Timelines: While freelancers are vetted, there are no assurances on work quality or timely delivery.
• No Audiobook Services: Does not offer specific support for creating or distributing audiobooks.
• Not Ideal for Beginners: First-time authors may find the freelancer-based model overwhelming and costly.
• Limited Marketing Tools: Marketing services are available only through hired freelancers, with no integrated promotional tools.

Comparing Affordability/Costs

Bookemon offers a more accessible pricing structure, with a free basic account that allows users to create and publish books at no upfront cost. The optional Creative Author Press (CAP) package, priced at $99, includes ISBN assignment and Amazon distribution, providing excellent value for authors seeking wider reach. Printing costs are pay-as-you-order, making it a budget-friendly choice for those with smaller-scale projects or limited budgets.

In contrast, Reedsy operates on a freelancer-based model, where costs depend on the professionals hired and their rates. While accessing the platform itself is free, authors incur fees for each service, often ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the scope of the work. Additionally, Reedsy charges up to a 10% project fee and a 2.9% payment processing fee, which can significantly increase overall expenses.

Which is more affordable?
Bookemon stands out as the more affordable option due to its transparent pricing and free account offerings. Reedsy, while offering access to premium services, is better suited for authors with larger budgets seeking a highly customized publishing experience. For beginners or cost-conscious authors, Bookemon provides a more budget-friendly entry point into self-publishing.

Comparing Publishing Timelines

Bookemon provides a streamlined and efficient publishing timeline, making it one of the faster options for self-publishing. Authors can upload or create their books using the platform’s tools and once finalized, books are typically available for purchase within 24 to 48 hours on Bookemon’s marketplace. For authors using the Creative Author Press (CAP) package, ISBN assignments and Amazon availability are completed shortly after submission, with minimal delays.

Reedsy, on the other hand, has a variable timeline that depends on the freelancers hired and the complexity of the project. For instance, editing, cover design, and formatting might each involve different professionals working on separate schedules. While Reedsy offers excellent flexibility and customization, coordinating multiple collaborators can extend the timeline, especially if revisions are needed. Authors should expect the process to take weeks or even months, depending on their project scope and the availability of freelancers.

Which is faster?
Bookemon offers a much shorter and more predictable publishing timeline, ideal for authors seeking quick results. Reedsy provides a more tailored experience, but its timeline is longer due to the collaborative nature of the platform, making it better suited for authors prioritizing quality over speed.

Comparing Royalties

Bookemon provides authors with the opportunity to earn royalties when selling their books through its marketplace. However, the royalty rate is lower compared to other platforms, as Bookemon takes a portion of the profits from each sale. Specific percentages are not explicitly outlined, but authors typically retain a modest share. Royalty payouts are processed periodically, though the details about payout frequency and minimum thresholds are not prominently highlighted. Receiving royalties is straightforward as they are managed directly through the Bookemon platform.

Reedsy, by contrast, does not manage royalties directly, as it is not a publishing or distribution platform. Authors retain 100% of their royalties since Reedsy’s role ends with connecting authors to freelancers for professional services. For sales, authors need to handle distribution independently or use a partner like Blurb. The ease and timing of royalty payouts depend on the third-party platforms authors choose, such as Amazon or IngramSpark, which typically offer monthly or quarterly payments.

Which is better for royalties?
Reedsy stands out for offering full royalty retention, making it a better option for authors prioritizing long-term earnings. Bookemon is a simpler, all-in-one platform, but its lower royalty rates may limit profitability for authors aiming to sell widely.

Comparing Marketing Services

Bookemon offers basic marketing support, including promotional video sharing on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. While this can help authors gain some visibility, the tools are limited and not tailored to comprehensive book promotion. These marketing features are included in the Creative Author Press (CAP) package ($99), making them accessible for authors on a budget. However, Bookemon’s lack of targeted marketing strategies or advertising tools means authors will need to manage most promotional efforts independently. For authors seeking significant audience reach or professional marketing guidance, the platform may fall short.

Reedsy, in contrast, provides access to a wide range of freelance marketing professionals who can assist with creating customized strategies. These services include book launch planning, email marketing campaigns, advertising management, and even publicity efforts to secure media coverage. Authors can choose services that fit their needs and budgets, but costs are not included in Reedsy’s free platform access and vary depending on the freelancers hired. Marketing professionals on Reedsy often charge hundreds to thousands of dollars, making it a premium option.

Which is better for marketing?
Reedsy offers far more comprehensive marketing solutions through its freelancers, but the high cost may deter budget-conscious authors. Bookemon provides basic tools as part of its affordable publishing package, but authors will need to supplement with their own marketing efforts for substantial results. For authors needing professional-level marketing, Reedsy is the stronger option.

Comparing Print-on-Demand (POD) and Distribution

Bookemon provides integrated print-on-demand (POD) services, allowing authors to print books only when ordered. This eliminates the need for bulk printing or inventory, making it a cost-effective option. Authors can choose from softcover, hardcover, and eBook formats, and the platform also supports premium options like photo books. Distribution is primarily limited to the Bookemon marketplace, but through the Creative Author Press (CAP) package ($99), authors can gain ISBN assignment and Amazon distribution, enabling wider reach. This service is an add-on, not included in the free account, and distribution outside of Amazon is minimal, meaning Bookemon’s primary focus is publishing rather than extensive distribution.

Reedsy does not directly offer POD or distribution services but partners with Blurb for these needs. Through Blurb, authors can produce physical copies of their books using POD technology and access global distribution channels, including sales through Amazon and other major retailers. While these services are not included in Reedsy’s platform itself, the partnership allows authors to extend their reach beyond individual sales. Reedsy excels at enabling authors to create high-quality books with professionals before moving to third-party distribution.

Which is better for POD and distribution?
Bookemon offers straightforward, built-in POD services and affordable Amazon distribution, making it ideal for small-scale projects or niche audiences. Reedsy, with its partnership with Blurb, allows for more extensive distribution options but requires authors to handle additional logistics and costs separately. Authors looking for a simple, integrated POD and distribution solution may prefer Bookemon, while those seeking global reach and flexibility may find Reedsy more appealing.

Comparing Support Services

Bookemon offers basic support to assist authors with navigating its platform, but it is largely a self-service model. The platform provides intuitive tools and resources to help users create and publish their books, but there is no dedicated publishing manager or hands-on guidance throughout the process. Authors are responsible for tasks like editing, formatting, and marketing, as Bookemon does not provide professional services in these areas. For new authors or those unfamiliar with publishing, this lack of direct support may feel limiting.

Reedsy takes a different approach, acting as a marketplace for freelance professionals rather than a hands-on publishing service. While Reedsy ensures authors have access to vetted experts in editing, design, and marketing, there is no centralized support team or publishing manager to oversee the process. Authors must independently manage their hired freelancers, coordinate timelines, and handle any challenges that arise. The platform itself facilitates contracts and payments, but the lack of ongoing, structured support may be challenging for first-time authors.

Which offers better support?
Neither platform provides robust, hands-on author support. Bookemon is better for authors who prefer a do-it-yourself approach with minimal assistance, while Reedsy is ideal for experienced authors who are comfortable managing freelance collaborators. For authors seeking guided support, a traditional or hybrid publisher might be a better fit.

Customer Experience and Reviews

Bookemon has generally positive customer feedback, earning a 4.6-star rating on Trustpilot. Users often praise its user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for first-time authors. Many appreciate the quick turnaround times for print-on-demand services and the quality of the finished books. However, some customers highlight high printing costs as a drawback, particularly for authors planning large-scale distribution. There are also occasional complaints about limited customer support when resolving issues, which can be frustrating for less tech-savvy users. Overall, Bookemon is seen as a reliable and straightforward platform for smaller, personal projects.

Reedsy also holds a strong reputation with a 4.6-star rating on Trustpilot. Customers frequently commend the platform for its access to top-tier professionals in editing, design, and marketing. Authors value the ability to choose freelancers that align with their specific needs and appreciate the vetting process, which ensures quality. On the downside, some users express concerns about the high costs of services and the lack of centralized support when managing multiple freelancers. First-time authors, in particular, may find the process overwhelming. Despite these challenges, Reedsy is widely regarded as a premium option for authors seeking professional-grade publishing assistance.

Overall Comparison
Both platforms are rated highly, but their customer experiences differ. Bookemon is praised for simplicity and ease of use, while Reedsy is lauded for quality and customization, albeit at a higher cost. Your experience will depend on your needs and familiarity with the publishing process.

Bookemon vs. Reedsy: Which is Right for You?

Bookemon and Reedsy serve different types of authors with distinct needs and goals, making it important to choose the platform that aligns best with your publishing journey.

For first-time authors, Bookemon is the better choice. Its user-friendly tools, intuitive design interface, and affordable pricing make it accessible for beginners. The platform’s all-in-one model simplifies the publishing process, making it ideal for those creating personal projects, family keepsakes, or niche books. With no need to coordinate with freelancers or manage complex workflows, Bookemon provides a straightforward path to self-publishing success.

For authors looking to create professional-grade books, Reedsy excels. With access to a curated marketplace of industry professionals, authors can hire experts for editing, design, and marketing. Reedsy’s freelancers are vetted for quality, offering a level of customization and polish that surpasses most DIY platforms. However, this comes with a higher cost and requires authors to manage their own publishing projects, making it better suited for experienced writers or those with larger budgets.

When it comes to marketing services, Reedsy is the clear winner. Its network of marketers offers comprehensive promotional strategies, from email campaigns to media outreach. In comparison, Bookemon’s marketing support is limited to basic tools like video sharing, which may not be sufficient for authors seeking broad visibility.

If your priority is quick and affordable publishing, Bookemon is the better choice. With integrated print-on-demand services, affordable packages, and a predictable timeline, Bookemon provides a hassle-free publishing experience. In contrast, Reedsy’s professional-grade services require more time, coordination, and financial investment.

Both platforms excel in their respective niches. For more information, you can visit Bookemon or Reedsy to explore their offerings and find the one that best fits your publishing goals.