The Best-Selling Amazon KDP Books in 2025: Indie Hits Taking Over the Charts
In the ever-evolving world of self-publishing, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) continues to be a powerhouse for independent authors. As of September 2025, over 2.6 million self-published titles have flooded the market, outpacing traditional publishing by a wide margin. Genres like romantasy (a sizzling blend of romance and fantasy), thrillers, and self-help dominate, fueled by viral BookTok trends and Kindle Unlimited reads. These indie gems not only rack up millions of downloads but also prove that with the right niche and strategy, anyone can turn words into wealth.
Whether you’re an aspiring author eyeing KDP for passive income or a reader hunting for your next binge-read, this list spotlights the top 10 best-selling KDP books of 2025 so far. Based on sales data, bestseller ranks, and reader buzz, these titles highlight the platform’s magic—high royalties (up to 70%), global reach, and zero upfront costs. Let’s dive in!
1. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (The Empyrean Series, Book 1)
4.8 out of 5 ratings
This dragon-riding romantasy exploded onto the scene and refuses to fade. With an upcoming Amazon TV adaptation, it’s the ultimate escapist read, blending high-stakes academy drama with steamy tension. Over 2 million copies sold in 2025 alone via KDP—proof that BookTok magic sells.
2. Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros (The Empyrean Series, Book 2)
4.7 out of 5 ratings
The gripping sequel keeps the momentum roaring, with readers devouring its plot twists and forbidden romance. KDP’s print-on-demand has made it a staple for collectors, pushing series sales into the stratosphere. If you’re in romantasy, this is the blueprint for success.
3. Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros (The Empyrean Series, Book 3)
4.6 out of 5 ratings
The latest installment dropped like a storm, captivating fans with more world-building and cliffhangers. Its rapid climb on KDP bestseller lists shows how sequels amplify indie empires—expect TV tie-in hype to boost it further.
4. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas (ACOTAR Series, Book 1)
4.6 out of 5 ratings
A timeless romantasy powerhouse, this self-pub origin story (now hybrid) thrives on KDP thanks to endless rereads and fan art. Its enduring sales—millions yearly—underscore why fairy-tale retellings with spice are KDP gold.
5. Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins (The Hunger Games Prequel)
4.7 out of 5 ratings
While traditionally published, its KDP ebook dominance ties into self-pub trends, riding Hunger Games nostalgia. Self-publishers take note: Tie-ins to big franchises via KDP can skyrocket visibility in YA dystopia.
6. The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore (Dream Harbor Series, Book 1)
4.6 out of 5 ratings
This cozy romcom went viral on TikTok, serving up small-town charm with a side of spice. A pure KDP success, it’s flown off virtual shelves with over 500,000 downloads, showing how feel-good escapes crush in autumn trends.
7. Wool by Hugh Howey (Silo Series, Book 1)
4.6 out of 5 ratings
The dystopian sci-fi classic that launched Howey’s career via KDP in 2011 still sells like hotcakes in 2025. With 3 million+ copies moved, it exemplifies how niche world-building (underground silos, anyone?) builds lasting indie legacies.
8. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
4.7 out of 5 ratings
Weir’s self-pub roots shine in this witty space thriller, which has sold millions through KDP. Its film adaptation buzz keeps it ranking high—lesson for indies: STEM-infused plots with humor appeal to broad audiences.
9. The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
4.6 out of 5 ratings
Self-help at its motivational best, this KDP staple has impacted millions with its “S.A.V.E.R.S.” routine. Over 2 million copies since 2012, it’s a reminder that nonfiction niches like productivity yield evergreen sales.
10. Don’t Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen
4.6 out of 5 ratings
A mindfulness manifesto that’s climbed KDP charts with its raw take on suffering and thought patterns. Its expanded edition has sparked a self-pub wave in mental health, proving short, punchy nonfiction can net big royalties.
Why These Books Dominate KDP in 2025
These titles aren’t just selling—they’re reshaping self-publishing. Romance and fantasy claim 40% of KDP sales, thanks to bingeable series and social media virality. Tools like KDP Select and ads help indies like Yarros and Howey outpace trad-pub rivals. Average earnings? Top performers hit $20,000+ monthly, but even mid-listers clear $150 with smart niches.
Tips for Your KDP Journey
Dreaming of your own bestseller? Start with BookTok-friendly genres, optimize keywords (e.g., “romantasy dragon academy”), and enroll in Kindle Unlimited for page-read royalties. Tools like KDP Rocket can scout low-competition niches, while AI aids in drafting. Remember: Persistence pays—many of these authors iterated through rejections before striking gold.
Self-publishing isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon with wings (dragon ones, preferably). Grab one of these reads, and who knows? Your book could top next year’s list. What’s your favorite indie hit? Drop it in the comments!
This post is based on 2025 sales trends as of September. Bestseller status can shift—check Amazon for the latest.
