Introduction
Indiana may not be the first place that comes to mind when people think of publishing, but the state has a surprisingly rich literary culture.
With a mix of university presses, independent publishers, and hybrid publishing services, it offers authors a range of opportunities. From Indianapolis to Bloomington, publishers in Indiana are producing everything from academic research to regional history, children’s books, and commercial fiction.
In this blog, we highlight the 28 best book publishers in Indiana for 2025, giving authors a clear guide to connect with the right publishing partner.
Top 28 Best Book Publishers in Indiana
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
Overview – Emerald Ghostwriting provides tailored ghostwriting and publishing services for authors across genres. From memoirs and business books to fiction, its team of professional writers ensures manuscripts are polished and market-ready. Based in Illinois with services available nationally, it’s a strong option for Indiana authors seeking personalized guidance.
Features:
- Full-service ghostwriting and editing support
- Customized publishing solutions for authors
- Flexible packages across genres
2. Indiana University Press
Overview – Established in 1950, Indiana University Press is a world-class academic publisher specializing in humanities, social sciences, and regional studies. Authors benefit from its rigorous editorial process, global distribution, and prestigious reputation. Its strong catalog makes it an excellent choice for scholars and nonfiction writers.
Features:
- Scholarly and academic publishing expertise
- Strong international distribution networks
- Reputation for quality and peer-reviewed works
3. Purdue University Press
Overview – Purdue University Press focuses on publishing scholarly and professional works in science, technology, and the humanities. Founded in 1960, it supports both academic and regional literature. Authors working with Purdue benefit from a respected name in education and a press committed to advancing research.
Features:
- Specialized in scholarly and scientific works
- Longstanding reputation in academia
- Strong Midwest and global reach
4. Quarry Books
Overview – An imprint of Indiana University Press, Quarry Books publishes practical guides, cookbooks, and regional-interest titles. It offers authors opportunities to share unique knowledge with both local and national audiences. Its approachable catalog makes it a popular choice for writers of lifestyle and hobby-related content.
Features:
- Focus on cookbooks and practical guides
- Regional and cultural interest titles
- Accessible editorial process for new authors
5. Hackett Publishing Company
Overview – Founded in Indianapolis in 1972, Hackett Publishing specializes in philosophy, classics, and literature. Its catalog is highly regarded in academic circles, particularly for affordable translations of classic texts. Authors benefit from a press that values both scholarship and accessibility.
Features:
- Expertise in philosophy and classical literature
- Affordable and accessible publishing approach
- Strong academic reputation nationwide
6. Cardinal Publishers Group
Overview – Based in Indianapolis, Cardinal Publishers Group is a distributor and publishing services company. It offers marketing, distribution, and fulfillment for independent presses and self-published authors. With a wide network, it helps authors expand their reach into bookstores and libraries across the country.
Features:
- Comprehensive distribution and fulfillment services
- Marketing support for independent publishers
- Access to national bookstore networks
7. Hawthorne Publishing
Overview – Hawthorne Publishing focuses on Indiana history, biography, and regional nonfiction. Based in Carmel, it is known for publishing works that celebrate the culture and heritage of Indiana. Authors find a supportive environment dedicated to preserving local stories.
Features:
- Specializes in Indiana history and biography
- Strong focus on regional storytelling
- Personalized editorial attention
8. Bobbs-Merrill (Historic Legacy, Indianapolis)
Overview – Once a major Indianapolis publishing house, Bobbs-Merrill published classics like The Wizard of Oz. While no longer active in its original form, its legacy continues to influence Indiana’s literary culture. Authors today recognize its place in the state’s publishing history.
Features:
- Historical significance in American publishing
- Associated with landmark literary works
- Legacy that shaped Indiana’s literary scene
9. Indiana Historical Society Press
Overview – The Indiana Historical Society Press is dedicated to publishing books and journals on state history and culture. Authors benefit from a respected platform for historical research and storytelling. Its works are widely used in education and by history enthusiasts.
Features:
- Focus on Indiana history and heritage
- Opportunities for scholars and historians
- Recognized statewide authority in historical publishing
10. Indiana Writers Center Press
Overview – An extension of the Indiana Writers Center, this press supports local authors by publishing works that highlight regional voices and emerging talent. It emphasizes community-driven storytelling and offers guidance for first-time writers.
Features:
- Encourages emerging and local authors
- Focus on regional and community-based literature
- Strong connection with Indiana’s writing community
11. Indiana University Press
Overview – Indiana University Press, based in Bloomington, is one of the nation’s most respected academic publishers. It focuses on humanities and social sciences, producing influential works on history, culture, and literature. Known for rigorous standards, it supports authors with strong academic networks and credibility.
Features:
- Publishes scholarly and cultural studies
- High editorial and peer-review standards
- International academic distribution
12. Hawthorne Publishing
Overview – Hawthorne Publishing highlights Indiana’s history, biographies, and cultural narratives. By focusing on notable figures and regional stories, it has built a strong reputation for preserving the state’s heritage. Local authors often find this press a great platform to showcase meaningful works tied to Indiana’s past.
Features:
- Focus on Indiana history and biographies
- Strong local and regional distribution
- Ideal for writers exploring Hoosier culture
13. Cardinal Publishers Group
Overview – Cardinal Publishers Group, located in Indianapolis, is a distribution powerhouse that partners with small presses and authors. While not a traditional publisher, it plays an essential role in bringing books to national retailers, online outlets, and libraries. Its logistics expertise is invaluable for authors seeking reach.
Features:
- Provides national book distribution
- Works with independent presses and authors
- Extensive retail and online connections
14. IronStream Media
Overview – IronStream Media operates with a focus on faith-based and inspirational titles. It provides authors with the opportunity to publish works on spirituality, motivation, and personal growth. By combining traditional publishing values with modern strategies, it helps authors engage readers seeking uplifting content.
Features:
- Publishes inspirational and Christian titles
- Strong audience in faith communities
- Uses both print and digital strategies
15. INwords Publishing
Overview – INwords Publishing serves as a supportive platform for Indiana-based authors. Its mission centers around community storytelling and promoting local talent. With flexible publishing options and personalized support, it empowers emerging writers to bring their unique voices into print while reaching regional and niche readerships.
Features:
- Focuses on Indiana writers
- Offers personalized publishing services
- Supports community storytelling
16. Alpha Book Publisher
Overview – Alpha Book Publisher works nationally but provides accessible services for Indiana authors. It accepts diverse genres, including fiction and nonfiction, offering affordable publishing options. Known for supporting first-time authors, it creates pathways for writers to publish and distribute their works effectively, while ensuring professional editorial services.
Features:
- Works across multiple genres
- Affordable and beginner-friendly packages
- National distribution networks
17. Saint Augustine’s Press
Overview – Saint Augustine’s Press is a respected academic publisher specializing in philosophy, theology, and classical studies. With an emphasis on intellectual works, it offers a prestigious home for authors producing scholarly research. Its publications are used worldwide in classrooms and academic research, strengthening Indiana’s academic publishing presence.
Features:
- Focus on philosophy and theology
- Academic-quality editorial standards
- International scholarly audience
18. Wordclay
Overview – Wordclay, part of Author Solutions in Indiana, is a user-friendly self-publishing platform. It offers writers the tools and flexibility to design, publish, and distribute their books independently. Its affordability and accessibility make it a good fit for authors looking to self-publish without compromising on quality.
Features:
- Affordable self-publishing tools
- Print-on-demand services
- Easy-to-use publishing platform
19. Archway Publishing
Overview – Archway Publishing, operated in Indiana with support from Simon & Schuster, provides a hybrid publishing model. It gives authors access to professional credibility while maintaining creative freedom. Authors benefit from strong branding, editorial guidance, and global distribution, making it a popular option for new voices.
Features:
- Backed by Simon & Schuster
- Hybrid publishing model
- Strong author branding services
20. Indiana Historical Society Press
Overview – Indiana Historical Society Press is dedicated to preserving Indiana’s past through books and journals. It publishes works that celebrate local history, biographies, and archival research. With high editorial standards, the press ensures accuracy and cultural preservation, making it a vital contributor to Indiana’s historical literature.
Features:
- Publishes Indiana history and biographies
- Strong editorial standards
- Supports cultural preservation
21. Author Solutions
Overview – Headquartered in Bloomington, Author Solutions is one of the world’s largest self-publishing service providers. It offers comprehensive support, from editing and design to global distribution. With its wide range of imprints, it has helped thousands of authors bring their projects to life with flexibility and scale.
Features:
- Global self-publishing services
- Multiple imprint options
- Wide distribution reach
22. Dog Ear Publishing
Overview – Dog Ear Publishing, based in Indianapolis, provides customized publishing experiences for independent authors. Known for giving authors creative control, it helps with editing, design, and marketing. With print-on-demand services and national distribution, Dog Ear ensures authors maintain ownership while reaching their target audiences effectively.
Features:
- Author-centered publishing approach
- Print-on-demand technology
- National distribution services
23. Trafford Publishing
Overview – Trafford Publishing, part of the Author Solutions network in Indiana, provides self-publishing services with professional design and editing support. It offers international distribution, making it a strong option for authors looking to share their stories globally. Trafford is particularly valued by writers seeking flexibility.
Features:
- Comprehensive self-publishing services
- Professional editing and design
- Global distribution availability
24. LifeRich Publishing
Overview – LifeRich Publishing, based in Indiana, partners with Reader’s Digest to provide unique self-publishing opportunities. Its affiliation with the magazine allows authors additional marketing channels. With strong support in editing, design, and distribution, LifeRich appeals to writers who want credibility and access to an engaged readership.
Features:
- Reader’s Digest partnership
- Marketing and promotion services
- Flexible publishing packages
25. Xlibris Publishing
Overview – Xlibris Publishing, part of Author Solutions in Indiana, specializes in assisting independent authors. It provides full publishing support, from manuscript editing to marketing and global distribution. Its services are designed to be affordable and flexible, making it a reliable choice for first-time and experienced authors alike.
Features:
- Comprehensive publishing services
- Affordable packages for authors
- International distribution network
26. BookLocker
Overview – BookLocker offers affordable publishing options for authors across genres, with operations connected to Indiana. It is known for prioritizing author ownership and transparency in costs. With print and digital publishing options, it appeals to writers seeking straightforward publishing without hidden fees or complicated contracts.
Features:
- Affordable publishing services
- Strong author ownership policies
- Offers both print and eBooks
27. Balboa Press
Overview – Balboa Press, an imprint of Hay House operating in Indiana, specializes in personal development, self-help, and spirituality books. Authors benefit from its connection to a world-renowned publishing house while maintaining flexibility. Its hybrid model blends self-publishing convenience with the prestige of a respected parent brand.
Features:
- Backed by Hay House
- Focus on self-help and spirituality
- Hybrid publishing services
28. Archimedes Publishing
Overview – Archimedes Publishing is a small independent press in Indiana focusing on academic and niche nonfiction titles. It supports unique voices and specialized topics that might not fit mainstream publishers. Personalized author relationships provide tailored publishing services and maintain a commitment to thoughtful, impactful works.
Features:
- Academic and niche nonfiction focus
- Personalized support for authors
- Limited but dedicated distribution
How New Authors Can Navigate Indiana’s Publishing Scene
Breaking into publishing in Indiana can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time authors. With the state’s diverse mix of traditional presses, hybrid publishers, and self-publishing platforms, it’s important to understand where your work fits best.
Traditional publishers like Indiana University Press or Hawthorne Publishing are ideal for authors focusing on academic or regional works. However, they can be highly selective and often require polished proposals.
Hybrid publishers such as Archway Publishing and Balboa Press offer a balance of credibility and author control. These are excellent for writers who want professional editing and marketing but still desire input in the publishing process. On the other hand, self-publishing providers like Author Solutions, Dog Ear Publishing, and Xlibris allow full creative control and faster time-to-market, though the author carries most of the responsibility for promotion.
To succeed, new authors in Indiana should:
- Research publishers that align with their genre.
- Network with local writing groups like the Indiana Writers Center.
- Set clear goals—whether aiming for prestige, reach, or creative control.
- Be realistic about costs, royalties, and distribution.
By knowing these distinctions, Indiana authors can choose the path that best suits their ambitions and ensure their work reaches the right readers.
Conclusion
Indiana’s publishing scene in 2025 is both diverse and thriving, offering opportunities for every type of author. From academic presses like Indiana University Press to self-publishing giants like Author Solutions, the options allow writers to find the right balance of credibility, control, and visibility.
Regional publishers like Hawthorne and the Indiana Historical Society Press continue to highlight the state’s rich culture, while hybrid models provide flexible solutions for modern writers.
For authors in Indiana, success begins with understanding their publishing goals. Whether seeking scholarly recognition, local impact, or national reach, Indiana’s publishers provide pathways that make those dreams achievable.
