Leanpub

What Leanpub is

Leanpub brings ebook and course writing together with a storefront where readers can buy authors’ work. Authors can write in a browser or on a computer, preview or publish with one click, or upload an existing ebook. They can work in Leanpub Flavoured Markdown or Markua, or use Bring Your Own Book to upload PDF, EPUB, or MOBI files. Authors set minimum and suggested prices; readers choose how much to pay, including more than the suggested price. Royalties are 80% on purchases of $7.99 and up, and 80% minus $0.50 below $7.99. The free plan allows three books, one course, and up to five previews or publishes each month. Paid plans are listed at $8.99 a month for Mini Author, $13.99 a month for Light Author, and $18.99 a month for Pro Author, billed every three months at the stated totals. Features across plans include PDF and EPUB export, reflowable layouts, ebook validation, and accessibility tools. Leanpub is available on the web and through its API.

Who it suits

Leanpub suits authors creating ebooks or courses who want publishing tools alongside a place to sell their work. Its free tier may suit authors with modest publishing needs; higher plans add capacity, exports, and integrations.

Limits

Free Author includes three books and one course and allows up to five previews or publishes per month. Mini Author allows up to 100 books and courses and up to 20 previews or publishes per month; Light Author provides unlimited previews and publishes.

Getting started

1. Visit https://leanpub.com/.
2. Choose the Free Author plan or a paid author plan.
3. Write in a browser or on a computer, or upload an existing ebook.
4. Create with Leanpub Flavoured Markdown or Markua, or use Bring Your Own Book mode for PDF, EPUB, or MOBI files.
5. Preview and publish your work.

Verdict

Leanpub combines book and course production with an integrated storefront and reader-selected pricing. Check the plan’s publishing limits and royalty terms against your needs before choosing it.