Author Website Builder: The Best Website Platform for Authors
The right author website builder can simplify the process of creating a stunning and functional site, even for those with little to no technical expertise. Whether you’re a tech-savvy writer or a complete beginner, finding the best website platform for authors depends on your goals, budget, and technical expertise. This article explores the best website builders for authors, what features to prioritize, and how to make your website stand out. It’s part of a 12-step Guide to Building an Author Website, written by a former literary agent who’s helped 400+ authors get literary agents and/or traditional publishers.
Why Use an Author Website Builder?
An author website builder is a tool or platform designed to help you create a professional website without requiring advanced coding skills. Here’s why they are ideal for authors:
- Cost-Effective
- Hiring a web developer can cost between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on complexity.
- Website builders typically charge $10–$50 per month, offering a more budget-friendly alternative.
- User-Friendly
- Drag-and-drop interfaces make it easy to customize layouts and add content.
- Pre-designed templates tailored to authors save time and effort.
- SEO and Mobile Optimization
- Many website builders include built-in SEO tools to improve your site’s visibility on search engines.
- Mobile responsiveness is often a standard feature, ensuring your site looks great on all devices.
- Integrated Features
- Author-focused templates often include essential tools such as blogs, book showcases, contact forms, and newsletter sign-ups.
Best Website Builder for Authors
Here are some of the top website builders or best website platforms for authors, along with their features, pros, cons, and pricing.
1. WordPress.com
Best For: Authors who want a highly customizable platform with blogging capabilities.
Key Features:
- Extensive library of themes, including author-specific designs.
- Integrated blog platform with powerful SEO tools.
- Ability to add eCommerce features for direct book sales.
Pros:
- Scalability for authors with multiple books or advanced needs.
- Extensive plugin library for added functionality.
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for beginners.
- Limited features on free plans.
Pricing: Free to $45/month for advanced plans.
Fact: WordPress powers over 40% of all websites globally, making it the most popular website builder (W3Techs, 2023).
2. Squarespace
Best For: Authors seeking sleek, visually stunning designs.
Key Features:
- Professionally designed templates tailored for creatives.
- Built-in SEO tools and analytics for performance tracking.
- ECommerce integration for selling books and merchandise.
Pros:
- Intuitive drag-and-drop editor.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Limited third-party integrations.
- Slightly more expensive than competitors.
Pricing: $16–$54/month.
Fact: Squarespace websites see a 20% higher engagement rate due to their modern, user-friendly designs (WebFX, 2023).
3. Wix
Best For: Beginners looking for an easy-to-use platform.
Key Features:
- Hundreds of customizable templates, including options for authors.
- AI-based site builder for quick and effortless setup.
- Integration with social media and email marketing tools.
Pros:
- Extremely beginner-friendly.
- Affordable pricing plans.
Cons:
- Limited scalability for advanced users.
- SEO capabilities are less robust than WordPress.
Pricing: Free to $45/month for premium plans.
Fact: Wix boasts over 200 million users worldwide (Wix, 2023).
4. Weebly
Best For: Authors on a tight budget who need a simple site.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop interface with customizable themes.
- Basic blogging and eCommerce tools.
- Free hosting with Weebly branding on lower-tier plans.
Pros:
- Affordable and beginner-friendly.
- Includes SEO and analytics tools.
Cons:
- Limited design flexibility compared to other platforms.
- Fewer advanced features for complex needs.
Pricing: Free to $29/month.
Fact: Weebly sites load faster than 80% of competing platforms, improving user experience (WebFX, 2023).
5. Shopify
Best For: Authors focused on selling books and merchandise directly.
Key Features:
- Robust eCommerce tools, including payment processing and inventory management.
- Customizable storefronts with book-specific templates.
- Integration with print-on-demand services.
Pros:
- Ideal for authors with a focus on direct sales.
- Advanced analytics for tracking sales and customer behavior.
Cons:
- Monthly fees can be higher than other platforms.
- Not ideal for non-commerce-focused sites.
Pricing: $29–$299/month.
Fact: Shopify-powered stores saw $79.5 billion in sales in 2022, highlighting its dominance in eCommerce (Statista, 2023).
Key Features to Look for in an Author Website Builder
When choosing an author website builder, prioritize these features:
- Author-Focused Templates
- Templates designed for writers, featuring sections for books, bios, and events.
- Blogging Capabilities
- Blogs help authors connect with readers, share updates, and improve SEO.
- ECommerce Integration
- Allows you to sell books directly or link to retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
- SEO Tools
- Built-in tools for optimizing your site’s search engine ranking.
- Mobile Responsiveness
- Ensures your site looks great and functions smoothly on smartphones and tablets.
- Newsletter Sign-Up
- Enables you to build an email list for promotions, book launches, and updates.
How to Choose the Best Website Platform for Authors
When evaluating the best website platforms for authors, consider the following factors:
- Your Goals
- Are you selling books? Choose Shopify or Squarespace.
- Want maximum flexibility? WordPress is your best bet.
- Need simplicity? Wix or Weebly are great options.
- Budget
- Platforms like WordPress and Weebly are cost-effective for beginners.
- Squarespace and Shopify require higher monthly fees but offer additional features.
- Technical Expertise
- WordPress is ideal for tech-savvy authors.
- Wix and Squarespace are perfect for those with little to no technical experience.
- Features
- Ensure the platform supports your needs, such as blogging, eCommerce, or mailing list integration.
Tips for Maximizing Your Website’s Impact
- Optimize for SEO: Use keywords like “best website platforms for authors” in your content and metadata.
- Choose a Mobile-Responsive Theme: With over 60% of web traffic coming from mobile devices (Statista, 2022), responsiveness is critical.
- Invest in Visuals: Use high-quality images for book covers and author photos.
- Integrate Social Media: Add links to your social media accounts for better engagement.
- Keep It Updated: Regularly update your blog, events, and book details.
Conclusion – Author Website Builder
The right author website builder can transform your online presence, helping you connect with readers and promote your work effectively. Whether you choose the flexibility of WordPress, the sleek design of Squarespace, or the beginner-friendly interface of Wix, the key is to select a platform that aligns with your goals and technical expertise. By prioritizing essential features like SEO, mobile responsiveness, and eCommerce integration, you can create a professional and engaging website that serves as the cornerstone of your author brand. Now that you’ve read “Author Website Builder,” click here for the next part of this guide to making an author website called, “Author Website Template.”
The Bestselling Author, LLC
Founded by Mark Malatesta in 2011, The Bestselling Author has helped 400+ writers get literary agents and/or traditional publishers. Notable authors Mark has worked with include Nelson Johnson, author of Boardwalk Empire, which Martin Scorsese produced for HBO; Leslie Lehr, author of A Boob’s Life, which is being adapted for an HBO Max TV series by Salma Hayek; and Scott LeRette, author of The Unbreakable Boy, published by Thomas Nelson and now a major motion picture by Lionsgate starring Patricia Heaton, Zachary Levi, and Amy Acker.
Authors who’ve worked with Literary Agent Undercover, a division of The Bestselling Author, have gotten six-figure book deals; been on the New York Times bestseller list; had their books adapted for TV, stage, and feature film; had their work licensed in 40+ countries; and sold many millions of books. Mark’s work as an author coach and consultant is informed by his previous experience as a literary agent, literary agency owner, AAR member, and Marketing & Licensing Manager for the gift and book publisher Blue Mountain Arts.
Click here to see Mark Malatesta reviews.
