Introduction
In 2025, Maine continues to stand out as a welcoming place for authors looking for both regional support and national visibility. With a growing mix of traditional publishers, independent presses, and hybrid models, writers have more options than ever to find their perfect publishing partner.
Whether you’re a first-time author or an experienced voice, Maine’s publishers offer tailored opportunities to bring your book to life. Many of them balance creativity with professionalism, providing editing, design, and marketing services that allow authors to shine.
To help you explore the best options available, we’ve compiled a list of the 27 top book publishers in Maine who are making a real difference in 2025.
Top 27 Best Book Publishers in Maine 2025
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
About the Publisher: Emerald Ghostwriting is a trusted partner for authors in Maine and beyond. Their team specializes in ghostwriting, editing, and publishing services across genres, helping writers transform ideas into fully developed books.
What They Offer Authors: Authors gain access to professional ghostwriters, experienced editors, and wide-reaching publishing solutions. Emerald Ghostwriting is ideal for those who want polished manuscripts, marketing strategies, and an experienced partner to guide them through every step.
2. Down East Books
About the Publisher: Known for its strong Maine identity, Down East Books focuses on regional titles, photography collections, memoirs, and nonfiction that highlight the state’s character. Their catalog is filled with works celebrating Maine’s natural beauty and traditions.
What They Offer Authors: Authors benefit from national distribution, professional editing, and striking book design. Down East Books helps writers bring authentic Maine-centered stories to readers while also reaching broader markets.
3. Islandport Press
About the Publisher: Islandport Press is an independent publisher that supports both emerging and established voices. Their catalog spans children’s books, adult fiction, and nonfiction rooted in New England culture.
What They Offer Authors: Writers enjoy personalized editorial support, creative marketing campaigns, and opportunities to share stories that resonate with local and national audiences. Islandport Press is especially supportive of authors exploring regional themes with universal appeal.
4. Polar Bear & Company
About the Publisher: Based in Solon, Polar Bear & Company is known for publishing literature, poetry, and works that challenge conventional boundaries. They value bold storytelling and fresh perspectives.
What They Offer Authors: Authors can expect close collaboration, professional editing, and opportunities to reach audiences who appreciate innovative and meaningful writing. Polar Bear & Company is a great fit for writers seeking to publish literary works with a distinct voice.
5. North Country Press
About the Publisher: North Country Press focuses on publishing works inspired by rural life, nature, and the unique character of New England. Their titles often blend local culture with universal themes.
What They Offer Authors: Writers benefit from professional editing, careful production, and distribution options that make their books available both regionally and online. The press is ideal for authors passionate about exploring Maine’s landscapes and traditions.
6. Maine Authors Publishing
About the Publisher: Maine Authors Publishing is a cooperative-style press that supports independent authors. They provide a platform for writers to maintain creative control while receiving professional publishing assistance.
What They Offer Authors: Authors gain access to editing, design, and marketing services, along with opportunities to connect at book fairs and local events. This press is particularly supportive of self-publishing authors who want professional results.
7. Tilbury House Publishers
About the Publisher: Tilbury House Publishers is well-respected for its children’s books, educational titles, and works that emphasize social and environmental themes. Their catalog appeals to families and educators alike.
What They Offer Authors: Authors receive expert editing, striking illustration support, and wide distribution, especially in the educational market. Tilbury House helps writers publish meaningful books that inspire young readers and spark important conversations.
8. Camden House Books
About the Publisher: Camden House Books specializes in nonfiction and history titles, particularly those rooted in Maine’s cultural heritage. Their work captures the spirit of the state through carefully curated projects.
What They Offer Authors: Writers benefit from editorial collaboration, high-quality design, and marketing that targets both regional readers and history enthusiasts. Camden House is a strong choice for authors interested in Maine’s legacy and storytelling traditions.
9. Coastal Maine Publishing
About the Publisher: Coastal Maine Publishing embraces stories inspired by the sea, coastal living, and New England’s traditions. Their catalog includes fiction, memoirs, and regional nonfiction.
What They Offer Authors: Authors enjoy access to a team that values strong storytelling, attractive design, and community-driven promotion. This press is especially supportive of projects that capture the essence of Maine’s coast.
10. Lighthouse Literary Press
About the Publisher: Lighthouse Literary Press is a boutique publisher focused on literary fiction, poetry, and memoirs. They pride themselves on nurturing voices that might otherwise go unheard.
What They Offer Authors: Authors receive personalized editorial attention, professional design, and thoughtful marketing support. Lighthouse Literary Press helps writers bring intimate, meaningful projects to light with both care and professionalism.
11. Penobscot Bay Press
About the Publisher: Penobscot Bay Press has deep roots in Maine’s coastal communities, publishing regional nonfiction, cultural histories, and local voices. Their catalog often reflects the maritime heritage and community stories that make Maine unique.
What They Offer Authors: Writers benefit from professional editing, accessible design, and community-focused promotion. Penobscot Bay Press connects authors to engaged readers who appreciate authentic Maine narratives, making them an excellent choice for authors invested in preserving local stories.
12. Blue Hill Books Publishing
About the Publisher: Blue Hill Books Publishing is a small but respected press with a focus on fiction, memoirs, and poetry. They value creativity and meaningful storytelling, often spotlighting Maine’s diverse voices.
What They Offer Authors: Authors gain access to thoughtful editorial guidance, attractive book design, and targeted promotion. Blue Hill Books Publishing helps writers connect with both regional and literary communities, offering a welcoming platform for projects with strong personal or cultural themes.
13. Acadia Publishing House
About the Publisher: Inspired by Maine’s natural beauty, Acadia Publishing House highlights works tied to nature, adventure, and personal journeys. They also embrace children’s literature and nonfiction exploring Maine’s outdoors.
What They Offer Authors: Writers receive tailored editing, visually appealing design, and promotion in both regional and national markets. Acadia Publishing House is an ideal partner for authors whose work captures the spirit of Maine’s landscapes and adventurous lifestyle.
14. Old Port Press
About the Publisher: Located in Portland, Old Port Press is a vibrant publisher that welcomes contemporary fiction, creative nonfiction, and local histories. Their catalog reflects the city’s cultural energy and artistic growth.
What They Offer Authors: Authors benefit from editorial collaboration, polished design, and marketing support that reaches both local readers and online platforms. Old Port Press is well-suited for writers seeking a modern publishing partner rooted in Maine’s urban creativity.
15. Katahdin Books
About the Publisher: Named after Maine’s iconic Mount Katahdin, this publisher focuses on books that celebrate adventure, resilience, and storytelling with heart. Their catalog includes outdoor narratives, memoirs, and fiction.
What They Offer Authors: Authors receive strong editorial support, professional design, and distribution channels that ensure books reach engaged audiences. Katahdin Books is a great fit for writers inspired by nature, exploration, and Maine’s rugged spirit.
16. Seaside Stories Press
About the Publisher: Seaside Stories Press publishes works that reflect coastal life, personal experiences, and cultural traditions of Maine. Their catalog spans fiction, memoirs, and lifestyle titles.
What They Offer Authors: Writers benefit from a dedicated editorial team, an appealing cover design, and regional promotion. Seaside Stories Press supports authors who want to share heartfelt, place-inspired projects that connect deeply with Maine’s coastal readership.
17. Moosehead Publishing Group
About the Publisher: Moosehead Publishing Group captures the wild beauty of Maine through outdoor-themed books, regional fiction, and cultural nonfiction. Their focus on authentic storytelling resonates with local readers.
What They Offer Authors: Authors gain access to experienced editors, quality design, and promotion in outdoor and literary markets. Moosehead Publishing Group is an excellent choice for writers who want to showcase Maine’s wilderness and heritage.
18. Harbor Light Press
About the Publisher: Harbor Light Press is a boutique publisher dedicated to uplifting literary voices, especially in poetry, memoirs, and short fiction. Their catalog emphasizes creativity and emotional depth.
What They Offer Authors: Authors benefit from close editorial partnerships, high-quality design, and community engagement through readings and events. Harbor Light Press helps writers share meaningful, personal projects with supportive audiences.
19. Northern Writes Publishing
About the Publisher: Northern Writes Publishing takes pride in supporting Maine writers with a focus on contemporary fiction, essays, and cultural works. They are known for fostering a collaborative spirit.
What They Offer Authors: Authors enjoy personalized editing, flexible publishing packages, and access to marketing opportunities. Northern Writes Publishing is a welcoming choice for writers who want creative control paired with professional support.
20. Sunrise Press
About the Publisher: Sunrise Press is committed to publishing uplifting and inspiring works, from personal memoirs to fiction that emphasizes resilience and hope. Their books often resonate with wide audiences.
What They Offer Authors: Writers benefit from careful editing, professional production, and promotion strategies that extend beyond Maine. Sunrise Press is perfect for authors who want to share heartfelt, inspirational stories with readers everywhere.
21. Bar Harbor Book Works
About the Publisher: Bar Harbor Book Works reflects Maine’s coastal charm through regional titles, travel writing, and history books. They highlight stories tied to local culture and community.
What They Offer Authors: Authors can expect strong editorial input, design tailored to audience appeal, and local marketing connections. Bar Harbor Book Works is an excellent match for writers focusing on Maine’s history, tourism, and lifestyle.
22. Portland Pages Publishing
About the Publisher: Portland Pages Publishing specializes in urban storytelling, contemporary fiction, and nonfiction reflecting city life in Maine. They balance literary projects with commercial appeal.
What They Offer Authors: Authors benefit from versatile editorial guidance, polished design, and marketing that engages both regional and broader readers. Portland Pages Publishing supports writers eager to connect with modern, diverse audiences.
23. Pine Tree State Books
About the Publisher: Pine Tree State Books is dedicated to celebrating Maine’s culture, nature, and creativity. Their catalog spans children’s stories, poetry, and general nonfiction.
What They Offer Authors: Writers enjoy access to professional editing, attractive layouts, and promotion strategies that highlight local connections. Pine Tree State Books is perfect for authors whose work emphasizes Maine’s natural and cultural identity.
24. Atlantic View Press
About the Publisher: Atlantic View Press emphasizes works inspired by the ocean, travel, and personal reflection. They publish memoirs, essays, and fiction that explore life along the Atlantic coast.
What They Offer Authors: Authors receive supportive editing, elegant design, and targeted marketing. Atlantic View Press is ideal for writers whose work highlights coastal experiences and ocean-inspired narratives.
25. Silver Harbor Publishing
About the Publisher: Silver Harbor Publishing is known for producing fiction and nonfiction projects that balance creativity with professionalism. They value storytelling with strong emotional resonance.
What They Offer Authors: Writers benefit from experienced editorial support, custom design, and broad distribution. Silver Harbor Publishing is a great choice for authors aiming to publish polished works with both regional and universal themes.
26. Windward House Press
About the Publisher: Windward House Press publishes literary fiction, memoirs, and poetry with an emphasis on artistry and depth. They nurture projects that challenge and inspire readers.
What They Offer Authors: Authors enjoy close editorial collaboration, distinctive design, and promotional strategies. Windward House Press is an excellent fit for writers seeking a boutique publisher that values creativity and meaningful storytelling.
27. Maine Literary Press
About the Publisher: Maine Literary Press rounds out the list as a publisher committed to supporting the state’s literary culture. They publish a mix of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry with a regional focus.
What They Offer Authors: Authors benefit from thoughtful editing, attractive design, and participation in local literary events. Maine Literary Press is a strong partner for writers passionate about connecting with Maine’s vibrant literary community.
Tips for First-Time Authors in Maine
For new authors, Maine offers a supportive but competitive publishing landscape. Success often depends on how prepared you are before approaching publishers. Here are some helpful tips to guide your journey:
- Engage with local literary circles – Join writing groups, attend book festivals, or connect at libraries in places like Portland or Bangor to build valuable networks.
- Choose your publishing path carefully – Traditional publishers provide professional credibility, while hybrid or independent presses allow more creative control and flexibility.
- Invest in editing – A professionally edited manuscript shows you’re serious and increases your chances of standing out in a competitive market.
- Be proactive in marketing – Partner with Maine bookstores, host community readings, and create an online presence to promote your work effectively.
- Stay patient and persistent – Publishing takes time, and building your reputation as an author often grows with each project you complete.
By combining preparation with persistence, first-time authors in Maine can transform their ideas into books that resonate both locally and beyond.
Conclusion
Maine’s publishing scene in 2025 is both rich and diverse, offering opportunities for writers across genres and experience levels. From established presses like Down East Books and Islandport Press to supportive partners such as Emerald Ghostwriting, authors have access to resources that can transform manuscripts into successful books.
What makes Maine special is its balance of regional pride and national reach. Writers can find publishers who celebrate the state’s traditions while still connecting to broader audiences. For any author ready to share their voice, Maine provides a welcoming home in today’s publishing world.
