Annual Read an Ebook Week event with heavily discounted or free ebook titles across the catalogue
Example promotion
This is an example of a promotion that could suit this business. It is not a guaranteed active offer or a working discount code. Check the website for current deals.
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Smashwords is a global online retailer specialising in independently published ebooks, offering a catalogue of over one million titles directly to readers. The platform operates as a dedicated ebook store, with publishing and distribution services handled separately through its parent company, Draft2Digital.
Your review = Donation to charity + chance on €250
Two minutes of your time. One donation to a good cause, plus a monthly cash raffle.
Photo reviews
No glossy product shots, but what customers actually receive at home.
Impact via Smashwords
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About Smashwords
Founded
2008
Parent company
Draft2Digital (merged March 2022)
Main category
Independently published ebooks
Catalogue size
Over one million titles
Free titles available
Nearly 100,000
DRM policy
All ebooks are DRM-free
Delivery options
Smashwords Library, Dropbox, or email to device
Registration
Optional
Founded in 2008 by Mark Coker, Smashwords was built on the premise that writers should be able to reach readers without first passing through traditional publishing gatekeepers. The store caters primarily to readers who seek independent, self-published fiction and non-fiction across a wide range of genres, including content not typically found in mainstream retail channels. All ebooks sold through Smashwords are DRM-free, meaning buyers can read their purchases on any device or application without restriction. The platform sits in the accessible price segment, with close to 100,000 titles available for free on any given day.
Active promotions
Ready to use with your order at Smashwords.
Exclusive presale access to new releases for registered Smashwords account holders before general availability
Example promotion
This is an example of a promotion that could suit this business. It is not a guaranteed active offer or a working discount code. Check the website for current deals.
To the shop
Smashwords in the news
Recent updates and background about Smashwords, summarised in our own words.
Draft2Digital announces introduction of service fees
Draft2Digital has announced plans to introduce fees for its services. This marks a change in the platform's existing business model. Further details about the fee structure have not been specified in the available information.
Visit Smashwords →Smashwords updates royalty rates starting 2026
The Smashwords store has announced adjustments to its royalty rates, which will take effect in 2026. These changes affect the percentage of revenue that authors receive through the platform. The adjustment represents a notable shift in the financial terms for self-published authors using the store.
Visit Smashwords →Draft2Digital acquires Smashwords in self-publishing merger
Draft2Digital completed the acquisition of Smashwords, bringing together two established platforms in the self-publishing industry. The merger combines the distribution and publishing tools offered by both companies. The deal represents a significant consolidation within the independent publishing market.
Visit Smashwords →Summaries by Image Review based on publicly available sources and our own editing. External links may contain affiliate links.
What others ask about Smashwords
Answers to the most common questions, based on search behaviour and our own research.
Is Smashwords a reliable place to buy ebooks?
Smashwords has been operating since 2008 and is a legitimate global ebook retailer. Since March 2022 it has been part of Draft2Digital, a well-established company in the self-publishing industry. Purchased books remain permanently accessible in the buyer's Smashwords Library.
How do I receive an ebook after buying it on Smashwords?
After purchase, buyers can access their ebook through their Smashwords Library, have it sent to their Dropbox, or receive it by email directly to their e-reading device. Multiple file formats are available to suit different apps and devices.
Can I read Smashwords ebooks on any device?
Yes. Because all Smashwords ebooks are DRM-free, they can be read on any e-reader, tablet, smartphone, or desktop application, now and in the future.
Does Smashwords have sales or discounts?
Smashwords runs several annual sale events, including Read an Ebook Week, a July Summer/Winter Sale, and an End of Year Sale. The store also offers exclusive presales on anticipated new releases.
Your turn
Do you have experience with Smashwords?
Help other consumers by sharing your experience, with a photo of what you actually received. It takes two minutes and you automatically join the monthly draw.
€250
cash per month
One winner from all review submitters, drawn on the 1st of the month.
Your review = real impact + chance to win €250
Guarantee: every review triggers one of these 5 real donations:
- 1 Upload a photo Of your order or the product
- 2 Give stars 1 to 5 per aspect
- 3 Trigger a donation Plus a chance at € 250 cash per month
Write a review
Share your photo review about Smashwords
A photo says more than a thousand words. Help other consumers with an honest experience and join the monthly draw for € 250 cash.
- Reviewing anonymously is fine, we only need your email
- No mandatory account, no registration
- Reviews appear after a check within 24 hours
- Monthly chance to win € 250 cash
