This New Program Could Turn Your Short Story Into an Audiobook
Spotify is expanding its reach beyond music and podcasts, and this time it’s independent authors who stand to benefit. With the launch of a new submissions program through Spotify Audiobooks, writers from around the world now have the chance to see their short stories professionally produced and distributed as audiobooks. For many indie authors, this could be the breakthrough they’ve been waiting for.
A new opportunity for indie authors
Spotify has launched a dedicated website for short-form audiobooks, designed to make it easier for independent authors to share their work. Through this new platform, writers can submit stories between 10,000 and 20,000 words, giving them a pathway to professional audiobook production and global distribution.
The site highlights three focus genres—romance, mystery/thriller, and sci-fi/fantasy—with plenty of room for cross-genre works like romantasy or psychological thrillers. Erotica and children’s content aren’t eligible (unfortunately?).
As Leah Kleynhans, Producer at Spotify Audiobooks, explained:
“We know listeners will love exploring these short, powerful stories, and expanding our catalog this way gives fans even more choice in the content they love.”
How it works
Authors can submit their work through the Spotify Short-Form Audiobooks site. Submissions are reviewed on a rolling basis, allowing writers to apply at any time.
If Spotify accepts a story, they will:
Pay an advance and royalties
Manage the full production and editing process
Distribute the audiobook across major retailers, including Spotify itself
Indie authors who already have short-form audiobooks can also distribute their existing work via Findaway Voices, giving them an additional route to reach Spotify’s audience.
What are the hidden costs for authors?
This is where it’s astounding. There are no hidden costs for authors.
Authors don’t pay a penny upfront. Instead, they receive advance plus royalties, just like with a traditional publishing deal. This means indie writers can reach a wide audience without taking on financial risk.
Why this is revolutionary
For indie authors, breaking into audiobooks has always been a challenge. Production costs, technical skills, and distribution hurdles often keep powerful stories from reaching listeners. By taking on those barriers—covering production, handling distribution, and paying advances—Spotify is levelling the playing field.
It also comes at a crucial time. Many independent authors have started turning to AI narration tools to create audiobooks, but that option isn’t for everyone. Some writers feel uncomfortable with synthetic voices, while many readers still prefer the warmth and nuance of a human narrator. Spotify’s program provides a real alternative.
This initiative is more than just a new website. It represents a shift in publishing: independent authors are being given the same stage as traditional publishers, and audiences worldwide will benefit from a richer, more diverse catalogue of stories.
For writers, it’s a chance to be heard. For readers, it’s reassurance that authentic storytelling is still valued in an era of automation.
