Novel Marketing The Shopify Trap: Why Authors Keep Losing Money
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Nov 5, 2025 Many authors are falling into the Shopify trap, losing money despite its initial allure. The podcast reveals why selling directly often backfires, detailing high costs and complicated customer service. Alternatives like WooCommerce and Kickstarter are presented as smarter choices that ultimately save time and money. It discusses the necessity of a solid business plan before venturing into e-commerce. Authors are reminded to focus on their craft over platform woes, with insights on when Shopify might actually work for some.
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Shopify’s Allure Masks Hidden Costs
- Shopify looks attractive because it promises direct sales, control, and higher unit margins.
- Thomas Umstattd Jr. warns those benefits often come with hidden costs that erode gains.
Fixed Fees Versus Episodic Sales
- Monthly Shopify fees are fixed and quickly outweigh low post-launch sales for most authors.
- Thomas shows $30/month equals $360/year, which many books never recoup after launch.
Direct Sales Trigger Big Tax Burdens
- Selling direct makes you the merchant of record, creating major sales-tax responsibilities.
- Thomas warns authors must collect, remit, and file in many jurisdictions unless a service handles it.
