“Spotify Empowers Independent Authors with New Audiobook Publishing Program”
In a bold move to expand its audiobook empire, Spotify has unveiled a groundbreaking publishing program that gives independent authors the chance to turn their stories into professionally produced audiobooks.
Spotify will handle the entire production and distribution process, ensuring that selected stories reach major audiobook platforms. Authors will benefit from both an advance payment and ongoing royalties, making this a lucrative opportunity for writers looking to break into the audiobook market.
The streaming giant is particularly interested in submissions from three popular genres: romance, mystery/thriller, and sci-fi/fantasy. Notably, Spotify is seeking unique cross-genre stories—think “romantasy” (romantic fantasy), dark romance thrillers, or psychological sci-fi mysteries. However, erotica and children’s content will not be accepted.
Submissions should be novelettes between 10,000 and 20,000 words and must be in English. Authors must also hold the audio rights to their stories. Selected works will be produced on a rolling basis, giving independent authors multiple chances to participate.
This expansion positions Spotify as a formidable competitor to Audible, which has long dominated the audiobook industry with exclusive titles and Audible Originals. Since acquiring Findaway in 2021, Spotify has been aggressively growing its audiobook catalog, offering Premium users 15 free hours of listening per month and integrating AI-narrated audiobooks through ElevenLabs technology.
By bridging the gap between streaming and publishing, Spotify is redefining how independent authors share their stories with the world.
In a strategic move to dominate the audiobook market, Spotify has launched a groundbreaking publishing program, giving independent authors a platform to turn their stories into professional audiobooks. This initiative not only strengthens Spotify’s audiobook presence but also offers a lucrative opportunity for aspiring and established writers to showcase their work to a global audience.
How the Program Works
Spotify’s new program is designed to make audiobook publishing more accessible, hassle-free, and profitable for independent authors. Here’s how it works:
- Authors submit their short-form stories (between 10,000 and 20,000 words) for consideration.
- Spotify selects compelling submissions and handles the entire production process—from hiring professional narrators to distribution across major audiobook platforms.
- Authors receive an upfront payment (advance) and royalties for every sale or stream of their audiobook.
- The program will operate on a rolling basis, meaning authors can submit their work at any time.
Genres Spotify is Looking For
Spotify is specifically focusing on the following high-demand genres:
✅ Romance
✅ Mystery & Thriller
✅ Sci-Fi & Fantasy
To stand out, the company is actively encouraging hybrid and cross-genre stories, such as:
- “Romantasy” – A mix of romance and fantasy (e.g., “A Court of Thorns & Roses”)
- Dark Romance Thrillers – Combining romance with psychological suspense
- Mystery Sci-Fi – Fusing detective elements with futuristic settings
- Psychological Thrillers – Mind-bending narratives filled with tension and mystery
⚠️ However, Spotify has set clear boundaries—erotica and children’s content will not be accepted.
Spotify vs. Audible: A New Publishing Rivalry?
This move intensifies the competition between Spotify and Audible, Amazon’s audiobook giant. Until now, Audible dominated the market with exclusive titles and a strong self-publishing platform (ACX).
Unlike Audible’s exclusive contracts, Spotify’s approach gives authors more freedom, visibility, and revenue potential. By handling production and eliminating barriers to entry, Spotify is making audiobook publishing more accessible than ever.
Why This Matters for Independent Authors
For years, publishing an audiobook has been a costly and complex process, requiring authors to invest in:
- Professional voice narration
- Audio editing & production
- Marketing & distribution
With Spotify taking care of these hurdles, indie authors now have a seamless pathway to audiobook success.
Expanding Spotify’s Audiobook Empire
Spotify has been aggressively expanding into audiobooks since acquiring Findaway in 2021. In 2023, Spotify introduced 15 free audiobook hours per month for Premium users, giving listeners access to a 200,000+ title catalog.
Recently, Spotify even integrated AI narration with ElevenLabs’ voice technology, allowing books to be narrated at scale.
How to Submit Your Story
Interested authors can submit their work directly through Spotify’s publishing portal (details yet to be officially announced). Since submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis, authors should act fast to take advantage of this opportunity.
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The Future of Audiobook Publishing
Spotify’s move signals a shift in the industry, bringing more opportunities for indie authors and greater competition in the audiobook space.
With its massive user base, seamless production process, and aggressive expansion, Spotify is well on its way to challenging Audible’s dominance—and reshaping the future of audiobooks.
Are You an Author? This is Your Chance!
If you’re an independent writer looking to turn your book into an audiobook without the upfront costs, this program might be your golden ticket to getting published and reaching millions of listeners worldwide. 🚀🎧
