7 Indie Publishers Worth Considering
Indie publishers play a huge role in the book world. They work outside of the big five publishing houses: Penguin Random House, Harper Collins, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, and Hachette to bring new voices, unique stories, and different genres to readers. Unlike corporate publishers, indie presses are independently owned and often focus on literary quality, creative freedom, and author collaboration rather than mass-market appeal.
Unlike self-publishing platforms, indie publishers help authors with editing, design, and distribution, offering a more hands-on and personal publishing experience while still providing creative freedom.
Below, we’re reviewing seven indie publishers, breaking down what they do well and what to consider before submitting.
Acorn Publishing
Acorn publishing is a hybrid publisher, meaning they provide professional publishing services while letting authors retain full rights to their books. They help with editing, design, and marketing but authors cover the cost upfront rather than getting an advance.
Submission: They accept all genres except erotica and horror and are open to un-agented submissions. Submissions are accepted year-round. Authors can expect a response within 4-6 weeks.
What’s good: Authors keep 100% of their royalties and receive guidance throughout the publishing process. They have distribution through ingram. Books are available in print and digital formats. Audiobook production is optional but can be arranged.
What’s tricky: Like most hybrid publishers, this requires a financial investment from the author. Acorn offers marketing support, but authors still have to handle a lot of the promotion themselves
Best For: Authors who want professional publishing help but don’t want to give up their rights or royalties.
Diversion Books
Located: New York, NY
Diversion Books publishes a mix of genres across both non-fiction and fiction genres like true crime, business, sports, thrillers, and sci-fi.
Submission: Diversion works primarily with literary agents and does not accept un-agented submissions.
What’s Good: They offer strong editorial support and distribution with all Diversion titles sold via Simon & Schuster. Their team helps with marketing, cover design, and production making them a full-service publisher. Books can be available in print, digital, and audiobook formats.
What’s Tricky: There have been some complaints from authors about delayed payments and contract issues so it’s worth doing some extra research before signing.
Best For: Writers with an agent who are looking for a publisher that combines flexibility with mainstream distribution
Heyday Books
Location: Berkeley, California
Heyday Books is a nonprofit publisher focused on books about the state’s history, culture, and natural environment. They publish a mix of non-fiction, literary fiction poetry with an emphasis on indigenous voices, social justice, and conservation. Books are primarily available in print and digital formats.
Submission: They’re currently not accepting submissions but plans to reopen later this year in 2025.
What’s Good: They’re mission driven and deeply invested in their published books. Their editorial team works closely with authors, and they have a strong connection to independent bookstores, libraries, and cultural institutions.
What’s Tricky: If your book doesn’t have a direct tie to California, it’s probably not a good fit.
Best For: Writers working on books about California’s culture, history, or environment.
Europa Editions
Location: New York, NY
Europa editions specializes in bringing international books to English-speaking readers. They work with literary fiction, translated works, and crime fiction. Books are available in print and digital formats. Audiobooks are considered based on the book’s demand.
Submission: They accept un-agented submissions which is rare for a publisher of their size. Response times vary around several months or more due to the volume of submissions.
What’s Good: If your book has an international focus this could be a great home. They have strong distribution, and their books tend to get attention in major media outlets like the New York Times.
What’s Tricky: They’re very selective and you’ll compete with well-known international authors
Best For: Writers with a literary globally focused book, especially those with previous publishing success or a strong following in another language.
Akashic Books
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Akashic books specialize in publishing books with diverse, political or unconventional perspectives. Books are available in print and digital formats with few titles produced as audiobooks.
Submission: Right now, they’re closed to submissions, meaning you’ll need to get on their radar in another way, through networking, literary festivals, or getting an agent who already has a relationship with them.
What’s Good: They’re not afraid to take risks. They also have a strong community focus and are known for supporting their authors beyond just the publishing process.
Best For: Authors with a socially conscious, bold fiction or nonfiction book that challenges mainstream narratives
Forest Avenue Press
Location: Portland, Oregon
Forest Avenue Press focuses on literary fiction and works closely with their authors.
Submission: They’re open to un-agented submissions during specific windows, which they announce on their social media.
What’s Good: They are very hands-on, which means you’ll get a lot of attention and support. If you’re looking for a collaborative experience and a publisher that’s deeply invested in its books, this is a strong option.
What’s Tricky: They publish a limited number of books per year. This means competition is high.
Best For: Authors who want a close, personal relationship with their publisher
Soho Press
Located: Manhattan, NY
Soho Press has built a strong reputation in indie publishing, especially in crime fiction and young adult. They are known for highlighting unique voices and working closely with authors to refine their books. They break up their books between Soho press (literary fiction), Soho Teen (YA) & Soho crime (crime/mystery.)
Submission: They are currently open accepting submissions with literary agents.
What’s Good: They take a hands-on approach especially when a book first launches. They offer strong editorial support and marketing efforts. If you’re writing crime fiction, their soho crime imprint has a loyal reader fan base and a solid presence in bookstores.
What’s Tricky: Their focus is on literary-style fiction and Soho only publishes 80-100 books a year.
Best For: Authors who already have an agent or are willing to get one.
For the latest updates on submission windows, publishing trends, and author experiences, be sure to check each publisher’s website and follow them on social media. The right opportunity could be just around the corner.
Final Thoughts
There are endless possibilities and options on the table when choosing what to do with your book. Working with an indie publisher can be a rewarding experience and some offers greater creative freedom, strong editorial relationships, and access to a dedicated readership. The key is to approach the process with patience, preparation, and a clear understanding of what you want from a publishing partnership.
At PrintingCenterUSA, we work with self-published authors, small presses, and independent creators to produce high-quality printed books that match industry standards. If you’re exploring different publishing options, knowing your printing choices ahead of time can help you plan for success.
