It has been a packed summer at GlobeScribe. We have already delivered more than 1000 translations into dozens of international for markets for authors and publishers, and new projects are arriving every day. One question we hear constantly is: “Which language should I translate my book into first?”
The truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. But based on the projects we have recently completed, here are the markets where English-language authors are finding the biggest opportunities right now.
German: Europe’s Powerhouse
Germany is the most mature ebook market in Europe, and one of the most reliable choices for English-language authors. Crime fiction, thrillers, and romance continue to dominate. Several of the German translations we have delivered this year are already picking up strong early sales, which shows just how established the digital market is here.
Spanish: A Global Gateway
Spain itself is still heavily print-dominated, but Spanish opens the door to Latin America and the vast US Hispanic readership. That makes it one of the most strategic languages for translation. We have recently completed multiple Spanish projects, particularly in romance and fantasy, and authors are already reporting sales not just in Spain but also across Mexico, Argentina, and the US.
French: More Than Just France
French offers reach far beyond France itself. A single translation can connect authors with readers in Canada, Belgium, Switzerland, and large parts of Africa. We have delivered French translations this year across genres from crime to historical fiction, and in every case authors are seeing audiences open up across multiple territories.
Italian: A Market on the Rise
Italy’s ebook sector may be smaller than others in Europe, but it is one of the fastest-growing. Romance and women’s fiction in particular are thriving. Several Italian projects we have already delivered are gaining traction quickly, and we expect this market to keep expanding as digital adoption rises.
Portuguese: Brazil and Beyond
Portuguese gives access to two distinct markets: Brazil, which is one of the largest and most dynamic digital-first markets in the world, and Portugal itself. Authors we have worked with this year have launched fantasy, romance, and self-help titles into Brazilian Portuguese and are already seeing results.
What We’re Seeing at GlobeScribe
Because we are delivering projects across all these languages every month, we get a real-time view of international trends. German remains the safest bet for immediate ebook traction, while Spanish and French multiply reach across continents. Italian and Portuguese are rising quickly and delivering results for authors who move early.
The key message is simple: translation is not just about language, it is about understanding the dynamics of each market and using them to your advantage.
Ready to Reach International Readers?
Start translating today or get in touch to find out more.