Introduction
South Carolina’s charm extends far beyond its historic landmarks, Lowcountry cuisine, and scenic coastlines—it also has a thriving literary culture that continues to inspire writers across the nation. From Charleston’s historic presses to Spartanburg’s innovative literary hubs, South Carolina offers authors an array of choices.
Whether you’re a historian documenting the state’s past, a poet exploring personal truths, or a novelist weaving contemporary tales, there’s a publisher here ready to elevate your work.
In this list of the top 29 best book publishers in South Carolina 2025, we highlight the presses that define this vibrant state’s literary identity.
Top 29 Best Book Publishers in South Carolina
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
About the Publisher:
Emerald Ghostwriting works with authors nationwide and has a strong footprint in South Carolina. Known for its professional ghostwriting and publishing services, it helps writers transform their ideas into polished, market-ready books. Authors benefit from a dedicated team that supports them through every stage of the process, from concept to distribution.
Specialties:
- Ghostwriting for fiction, memoirs, and business books
- Full publishing assistance, including editing and design
- Marketing support to help authors reach target audiences
2. University of South Carolina Press
About the Publisher:
Founded in 1944, the University of South Carolina Press is one of the most respected academic publishers in the South. With over seven decades of publishing history, it focuses on scholarly works, regional studies, and books that highlight Southern history and culture. Its catalog appeals to both academics and general readers.
Specialties:
- Scholarly titles in history, culture, and literature
- Regional studies with Southern and South Carolina focus
- Books that preserve and celebrate local heritage
3. Hub City Press
About the Publisher:
Based in Spartanburg, Hub City Press has become one of the most celebrated independent literary publishers in the South. Known for discovering and supporting emerging voices, it publishes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry with a focus on Southern identity. Hub City’s community-driven approach makes it a hub for literary innovation in the region.
Specialties:
- Literary fiction and creative nonfiction
- Poetry collections by regional and national writers
- Championing emerging Southern voices
4. Sandlapper Publishing
About the Publisher:
Sandlapper Publishing has been a cornerstone of South Carolina’s literary landscape since 1983. Specializing in books that celebrate the state’s culture, history, and natural beauty, the press is dedicated to sharing stories that reflect South Carolina’s unique heritage. Its catalog appeals to historians, educators, and general readers alike.
Specialties:
- Regional history and cultural titles
- Nonfiction about South Carolina traditions and heritage
- Educational resources for schools and libraries
5. Joggling Board Press
About the Publisher:
Headquartered in Charleston, Joggling Board Press focuses on books that celebrate Southern culture and lifestyle. The press publishes children’s books, cookbooks, and inspirational nonfiction that reflect the warmth and spirit of the South. With its approachable style, Joggling Board creates books that are both meaningful and widely accessible.
Specialties:
- Children’s literature with Southern themes
- Cookbooks highlighting local cuisine
- Inspirational and lifestyle nonfiction
6. Evening Post Books
About the Publisher:
Evening Post Books, also based in Charleston, is an independent publisher tied to the Evening Post Publishing Company. It emphasizes books that reflect Lowcountry life, from history and photography to memoirs and culinary arts. Their publications offer a strong sense of place and are beloved by both locals and visitors.
Specialties:
- Books highlighting Charleston and Lowcountry culture
- Photography and art-focused publications
- Memoirs and regional nonfiction
7. Arcadia Publishing (South Carolina Base)
About the Publisher:
Arcadia Publishing, one of the largest publishers of local and regional history, has deep roots in South Carolina. Known for its popular “Images of America” series, Arcadia captures community histories through photographs and storytelling. For local authors, it provides an opportunity to preserve and share their towns’ unique stories.
Specialties:
- Local and regional history series
- Photo-driven historical storytelling
- Community-based publishing opportunities
8. History Press (Charleston Operations)
About the Publisher:
The History Press, headquartered in Charleston, has a national presence but maintains a strong commitment to preserving Southern and local history. It publishes books that highlight regional stories, biographies, and cultural traditions. Their catalog helps communities document their past while connecting with broader audiences.
Specialties:
- Southern and regional history
- Biographies tied to local figures
- Books preserving cultural memory
9. Black Ink Charleston Press
About the Publisher:
Black Ink Charleston Press is closely tied to the Black Ink Book Festival, a celebration of African American writers in South Carolina. This press focuses on elevating Black voices, publishing works that range from poetry and fiction to nonfiction. Their mission is to create representation and visibility for underrepresented authors.
Specialties:
- Works by African American authors
- Poetry, fiction, and memoirs
- Community-driven publishing with cultural focus
10. Palmetto Publishing
About the Publisher:
Palmetto Publishing, based in Charleston, offers a hybrid model that helps authors bring their books to life with professional services. Known for its flexibility, it provides editing, design, and marketing support. Palmetto Publishing is ideal for authors who want control over their vision but still need expert guidance to ensure a high-quality book.
Specialties:
- Hybrid publishing model with professional services
- Editing, cover design, and formatting support
- Marketing and distribution assistance
11. Blue Ink Press
About the Publisher:
Blue Ink Press is a boutique independent publisher that thrives on discovering unique voices and stories. Although based in North Carolina, it has a strong presence in South Carolina’s literary scene through regional authors and events. Blue Ink prides itself on cultivating close author relationships and producing books with both commercial and artistic appeal. Writers looking for individualized attention often find this press an excellent match.
Specialties:
- Independent publishing with a focus on author partnership
- Fiction, nonfiction, and poetry projects
- Support for regional Southern authors
12. Finishing Line Press
About the Publisher:
Finishing Line Press specializes in poetry and chapbooks, giving poets a platform to showcase their voices. With a commitment to both emerging and established poets, it has helped numerous South Carolina writers share their art with broader audiences. The press is nationally recognized for quality publications and creative focus, providing opportunities for writers whose work may not fit into mainstream presses.
Specialties:
- Poetry collections and chapbooks
- Works by emerging and established poets
- Opportunities for literary experimentation
13. Revival House Press
About the Publisher:
Revival House Press is a literary press dedicated to avant-garde and experimental writing. Known for its bold approach, it gives a platform to unconventional voices that challenge norms in fiction, poetry, and cross-genre works. For South Carolina writers looking to push creative boundaries, Revival House offers a welcoming home. Their catalog is filled with thought-provoking, innovative works that stand out in the literary marketplace.
Specialties:
- Experimental fiction and poetry
- Cross-genre and innovative works
- Nurturing writers with unconventional voices
14. Bella & Boone Publishing
About the Publisher:
Bella & Boone Publishing focuses on uplifting Southern stories, especially those that highlight family, tradition, and regional pride. Based in South Carolina, the press works with local authors to create books that connect with community audiences. They produce children’s books, inspirational stories, and lighthearted fiction that resonate with readers of all ages. Their approachable publishing model ensures authors feel supported throughout the process.
Specialties:
- Children’s literature with Southern themes
- Inspirational and family-centered books
- Fiction highlighting regional culture
15. River City Publishing
About the Publisher:
River City Publishing is known for its dedication to Southern literature, focusing on novels, memoirs, and nonfiction that celebrate the region’s storytelling tradition. Although it serves the broader Southern market, it frequently collaborates with South Carolina authors. The press values authenticity and works with writers who want to share stories deeply tied to place, heritage, and identity.
Specialties:
- Southern fiction and memoirs
- Nonfiction tied to history and culture
- Authors with strong ties to the South
16. Clemson University Press
About the Publisher:
Clemson University Press has steadily grown into a respected scholarly press with international reach. Known for publishing academic works across the humanities, sciences, and cultural studies, it also highlights regional studies of South Carolina and the South. Clemson’s partnership with Liverpool University Press gives its titles global distribution. It’s an excellent choice for scholars and writers aiming for an international audience.
Specialties:
- Scholarly works in the humanities and sciences
- Regional and cultural studies of the South
- International distribution through academic networks
17. Village Lighthouse Publishing
About the Publisher:
Village Lighthouse Publishing is an independent press committed to producing high-quality fiction and nonfiction. The press takes a collaborative approach, ensuring authors have input at every stage. With a growing catalog of contemporary stories, inspirational works, and local titles, it has become a valuable partner for writers in South Carolina seeking supportive publishing options.
Specialties:
- Contemporary and inspirational fiction
- Nonfiction with personal or regional themes
- Collaborative author-publisher relationships
18. Main Street Rag Publishing Company
About the Publisher:
Main Street Rag, while headquartered in North Carolina, has strong ties to South Carolina’s writers’ community through festivals, partnerships, and featured authors. The press is known for publishing fiction, poetry, and nonfiction that often explore Southern voices. They also run a literary magazine, giving writers an additional platform to showcase their work before moving into book-length projects.
Specialties:
- Poetry, fiction, and short story collections
- Literary magazine opportunities for authors
- Focus on emerging and regional Southern writers
19. Coastal Carolina Press
About the Publisher:
Coastal Carolina Press specializes in books that highlight the natural beauty, history, and culture of the Carolinas. Based near the coast, it publishes nonfiction, photography, and history titles that celebrate the Lowcountry lifestyle. The press is especially appealing to writers with regional stories, historical research, or environmental themes tied to South Carolina’s coastal heritage.
Specialties:
- Regional history and heritage books
- Photography and art-focused publications
- Environmental and cultural nonfiction
20. Broad River Books
About the Publisher:
Broad River Books is a small but impactful press that works with independent authors to bring personal and regional stories to life. With a focus on memoirs, inspirational writing, and fiction, Broad River has become known for supporting voices that might otherwise be overlooked. Their personalized approach helps authors feel valued and empowered throughout the publishing journey.
Specialties:
- Memoirs and autobiographical works
- Inspirational and personal growth titles
- Fiction with Southern or regional themes
21. Black Rose Writing
About the Publisher:
Black Rose Writing is an independent press with a growing reputation for supporting diverse authors across the U.S., including South Carolina. Known for being approachable and author-friendly, the press accepts a wide range of genres, from fiction and poetry to nonfiction and memoirs. They emphasize accessibility and strong distribution, making them a popular choice for first-time authors seeking a broader reach without the hurdles of traditional publishing.
Specialties:
- Fiction and poetry across genres
- Nonfiction and memoirs
- Strong author support and distribution
22. Palmetto Publishing
About the Publisher:
Palmetto Publishing, based in Charleston, SC, has become one of the state’s most visible publishing houses. They offer a full-service model, providing editing, design, and marketing support for self-publishing authors. Palmetto is ideal for writers who want professional results with creative freedom, making it a strong bridge between independent publishing and traditional services.
Specialties:
- Comprehensive self-publishing support
- Editing, design, and marketing services
- Wide genre coverage for all types of writers
23. Evening Post Books
About the Publisher:
Evening Post Books is connected with the Post and Courier newspaper, one of South Carolina’s most established media outlets. The press focuses on books tied to Southern history, culture, and lifestyle, giving authors a strong regional platform. Known for quality design and regional distribution, Evening Post Books helps preserve the voices and traditions of the Lowcountry and beyond.
Specialties:
- Southern history and culture
- Lifestyle and regional nonfiction
- Partnership with a major newspaper
24. Arcadia Publishing & The History Press
About the Publisher:
Arcadia Publishing and its imprint, The History Press, are nationally known for local history titles. With many books highlighting South Carolina towns, landmarks, and heritage, they give authors a chance to contribute to preserving community history. Their recognizable photographic covers and accessible writing style make their books popular with general readers and local historians alike.
Specialties:
- Local and regional history books
- Photographic collections and heritage titles
- Broad distribution across the U.S.
25. Muddy Ford Press
About the Publisher:
Muddy Ford Press, based in Columbia, South Carolina, is a literary press dedicated to nurturing local and regional talent. They publish fiction, poetry, and nonfiction that showcase authentic Southern voices. The press often collaborates with arts organizations and literary festivals, helping authors gain exposure in the state’s cultural scene. Muddy Ford is especially appealing to writers with ties to South Carolina’s traditions and literary identity.
Specialties:
- Fiction, poetry, and nonfiction
- Emphasis on Southern and regional voices
- Strong community and festival connections
26. Indigo Press
About the Publisher:
Indigo Press is a small but vibrant independent publisher that highlights contemporary fiction and poetry. Known for supporting writers who explore identity, culture, and social themes, Indigo has become a hub for fresh literary voices in South Carolina. They are committed to fostering diversity and amplifying perspectives that might not always be represented in mainstream publishing.
Specialties:
- Contemporary fiction and poetry
- Works exploring identity and culture
- Focus on diverse literary voices
27. University of South Carolina Press
About the Publisher:
The University of South Carolina Press is one of the state’s most respected publishers, producing scholarly works, regional histories, and cultural studies. With decades of publishing experience, the press supports both academic research and books aimed at general readers. USC Press is ideal for authors who want rigorous editorial standards and the prestige of a university-backed publishing house.
Specialties:
- Scholarly publications in multiple fields
- Regional history and cultural studies
- Academic and general readership
28. Hub City Press
About the Publisher:
Hub City Press, based in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is nationally recognized as one of the South’s leading independent literary publishers. They focus on literary fiction, memoir, and poetry, and their books often reflect the Southern experience. With a commitment to quality and diversity, Hub City has gained acclaim for championing emerging voices while also nurturing established authors. Their close ties to Hub City Writers Project make them deeply rooted in the local literary community.
Specialties:
- Literary fiction, memoir, and poetry
- Southern and regional voices
- Support for emerging and established authors
29. CreateSpace (Amazon KDP – Charleston Roots)
About the Publisher:
Originally founded in Charleston, South Carolina, CreateSpace has now merged into Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform. Despite the change, its roots in the state still influence South Carolina’s self-publishing scene. KDP gives authors worldwide access, full control over their work, and flexible publishing options. While it’s a global platform, its Charleston connection makes it an important part of South Carolina’s modern publishing history.
Specialties:
- Self-publishing with global reach
- E-books and print-on-demand options
- Full author control over publishing process
Essential Tips for Publishing in South Carolina
South Carolina’s publishing scene combines traditional university presses, innovative independents, and self-publishing opportunities. For authors considering their options, here are some key tips:
1. Define Your Goals Early
Decide whether you want academic prestige, literary recognition, or mass-market appeal. Your goals determine which publisher is the right fit.
2. Consider Regional Publishers
Many South Carolina presses focus on Southern culture, history, and voices. If your book reflects these themes, a local press may provide the best platform.
3. Explore Hybrid Models
Presses like Palmetto Publishing offer services that combine creative control with professional polish. This is a great option for authors seeking flexibility.
4. Leverage Literary Communities
Festivals, workshops, and organizations such as Hub City Writers Project provide valuable networking opportunities. Building connections can increase visibility for your work.
5. Don’t Overlook University Presses
Clemson University Press and University of South Carolina Press offer academic and regional publishing options with strong distribution.
6. Self-Publishing as a Path
Platforms like Amazon KDP (formerly Charleston-based CreateSpace) remain excellent for full creative control and worldwide reach.
By weighing these considerations, authors can find a publishing route that matches their ambitions while benefiting from South Carolina’s vibrant literary culture.
Conclusion
South Carolina’s publishing ecosystem is as diverse as its cultural heritage. From prestigious university presses to innovative independents like Hub City Press, writers have a wide spectrum of choices.
Regional publishers ensure Southern voices remain celebrated, while national platforms like Amazon KDP extend reach globally. Whether you’re a poet, historian, or novelist, South Carolina offers opportunities to share your story with readers near and far.
By aligning your goals with the right publisher, you can turn your manuscript into a published work that resonates widely.
