The compact fiction sequence
Most novels need only a title page, copyright page, optional dedication or epigraph, and the story. A half title can support print rhythm but is not mandatory. Fiction ebooks can omit a visible contents page while still carrying navigable chapter entries, which helps readers and satisfies navigation requirements without inserting a utilitarian screen into the opening experience.
Praise pages, also-by lists, maps, and reading-order notes can be useful, but the sample should reach the story quickly. Keep promotional copy current and do not force a print blank-page convention into the ebook when it has no reading purpose.
The fuller nonfiction sequence
Nonfiction may add a detailed contents page, list of figures or tables, foreword by another person, preface by the author, acknowledgments, and an introduction. A foreword establishes outside context or authority; a preface explains the book's origin or scope; an introduction begins the argument or prepares the reader for the content. Label these honestly instead of using the terms interchangeably.
Long reference works can require abbreviations, chronology, contributor notes, or a reader's guide. Order them around the path a new reader needs, then confirm that the EPUB navigation exposes the useful landmarks without becoming an indiscriminate list of every decorative page.
Copyright and title metadata
The title page should match the retailer metadata and cover. The copyright page normally states the rights holder and year, publisher or imprint, edition, ISBN for that format where relevant, and appropriate notices. Legal wording depends on the work and jurisdiction; a formatter can place supplied text but should not invent legal advice.
Different formats can have different ISBNs and production notes. Maintain a metadata sheet so print PDF, EPUB package metadata, cover, retailer listing, and copyright page remain consistent.
Pagination and blank pages
Print front matter traditionally uses lower-case roman numerals, often with folios hidden on display pages. Some opening pages begin on a right-hand page, which can create intentional blanks. A blank page should truly be blank: no running head, page number, accidental text frame, or unneeded label.
EPUB has no fixed left and right pages, so do not reproduce blank versos. Keep the content order and semantics while allowing the reading system to present the book on any screen.
Sources: Amazon KDP: Format Your eBook · W3C: EPUB 3.3. Reviewed ; recheck current platform requirements before production.