Ingram Book Publishing Success Stories: Real Authors Who Made It Big
When it comes to book publishing, there are countless paths an aspiring author can take. Some choose traditional routes through big-name publishing houses, while others embrace the freedom and reach that professional book publishers like Ingram Book Publishing offer. Ingram has empowered thousands of writers around the globe to turn their stories into real books, sell them widely, and reach audiences they could only dream of before.
Today, we’re diving into real-life success stories of authors who made it big through Ingram Book Publishing. If you’re an aspiring writer wondering whether self-publishing or hybrid publishing can work for you, these stories will inspire you to take that leap.
Understanding Ingram Book Publishing
Before we get into the stories, it’s important to understand why Ingram Book Publishing stands out in the competitive world of book publishing. Ingram Content Group is one of the world’s largest book distributors, with a vast network that reaches over 40,000 retailers, libraries, schools, and booksellers globally. Their self-publishing arm, IngramSpark, is a powerful platform that lets independent authors and small publishers get their books printed, distributed, and sold worldwide — all while retaining creative control.
For many writers, partnering with Ingram means working with professional book publishers without sacrificing ownership of their work.
1. Rachel Hollis – From Blogger to Bestseller
Rachel Hollis, author of Girl, Wash Your Face, is one of the most talked-about success stories in modern self-publishing. While her early books were traditionally published, she later turned to Ingram Book Publishing to expand her reach and distribute her motivational books to audiences everywhere.
Rachel used IngramSpark’s wide distribution network to get her books into independent bookstores, big retailers, and even libraries — places many self-published authors struggle to reach. The result? She became a household name, empowering women worldwide with her relatable writing and unstoppable marketing energy.
2. Mark Dawson – The Self-Publishing Powerhouse
Mark Dawson is a name every aspiring indie author should know. After traditional publishing didn’t deliver the results he wanted, Mark turned to self-publishing and partnered with Ingram Book Publishing to distribute his crime thrillers globally.
With Ingram’s help, Mark’s books reached thousands of physical bookstores — not just Amazon. He also mastered email marketing, built a loyal fanbase, and turned his self-publishing journey into a six-figure business. Today, he runs courses teaching other authors how to do the same — proving that working with professional book publishers like Ingram can put indie writers on the same shelves as big-name authors.
3. L.J. Ross – The Queen of Indie Crime Fiction
L.J. Ross, the bestselling author of the DCI Ryan series, is another brilliant example of an author who used Ingram Book Publishing to expand her empire. L.J. began self-publishing her books in 2015. She combined Kindle Direct Publishing with IngramSpark for print and global distribution.
By partnering with Ingram, her books didn’t just live online — they found homes in bookshops across the UK and beyond. Today, her series has sold millions of copies, making her one of Britain’s most successful independent crime writers.
4. Ashleigh Renard – Building a Community
Ashleigh Renard, author of Swing, used Ingram Book Publishing to transform her intimate memoir into a bestseller. Ashleigh’s strength lies in her community engagement. She leveraged social media, podcasts, and word of mouth to build buzz. When it was time to distribute her book, IngramSpark made it easy for her to reach indie bookstores, libraries, and readers who prefer paperbacks.
Ashleigh’s story shows that today’s authors aren’t just writers — they’re entrepreneurs. Working with professional book publishers like Ingram can help turn that entrepreneurial spirit into real-world sales.
5. Colleen Hoover – Hybrid Success
While Colleen Hoover is now a mainstream name with traditional deals, her roots are deeply tied to the indie world. Colleen initially self-published her breakout novel, Slammed. She used multiple distribution channels, including Ingram Book Publishing, to get her books into stores far and wide.
Her phenomenal success with readers attracted major traditional publishers, but she continues to use indie publishing methods for some of her projects. Colleen’s journey proves you don’t have to choose one path forever — working with professional book publishers like Ingram gives you the freedom to pivot as you grow.
What Do These Stories Have in Common?
These authors’ journeys are inspiring for different reasons, but they share a few key lessons:
They Treated Writing Like a Business
Every author on this list understood that writing the book is just the beginning. They invested time and energy into marketing, building communities, and treating their books like products. Partnering with professional book publishers like Ingram helped them distribute and sell those products effectively.
They Embraced Wide Distribution
Amazon is huge — but it’s not the only player. Ingram Book Publishing gave these authors access to thousands of other retailers, libraries, and schools worldwide. Wide distribution means more opportunities for sales and discovery.
They Maintained Creative Control
One of the biggest advantages of using IngramSpark is that authors stay in control. Unlike traditional deals where publishers make final decisions on covers, pricing, and marketing, Ingram’s model empowers authors to make those calls themselves.
They Didn’t Give Up
Every success story begins with rejection, mistakes, or slow starts. But these authors pushed through. They adjusted their strategies, invested in their craft, and used tools like Ingram Book Publishing to level the playing field.
How You Can Follow Their Footsteps
So, how can you join the ranks of these successful authors? Here are a few practical tips:
1. Polish Your Manuscript:
No amount of distribution will save a poorly written book. Hire an editor. Work on your cover design. Quality matters.
2. Learn About Publishing Options:
Research how Ingram Book Publishing works. Understand the costs, royalties, and what you need to get started.
3. Think Beyond Amazon:
Use IngramSpark to get your books into independent shops, libraries, and bookstores. Every shelf you appear on is a chance to win a new reader.
4. Market Smart:
Build an email list. Use social media wisely. Pitch to local bookstores for signings or readings. Remember, successful authors don’t just write — they connect.
5. Stay Professional:
Partnering with professional book publishers like Ingram means you must act like a pro. Meet deadlines, respect retailers’ requirements, and keep learning.
Final Thoughts
The publishing world is evolving. Authors today have more power than ever before. Platforms like Ingram Book Publishing make it possible for writers to compete alongside the biggest names in the industry. Whether you’re penning a romance novel, a business guide, or a memoir, you can reach readers everywhere — if you’re willing to put in the work.