Michigan’s literary landscape is a thriving hub for authors, offering a diverse array of book publishing companies to bring stories to life. From Detroit’s cultural vibrancy to Ann Arbor’s academic excellence and Grand Rapids’ faith-based publishing core, the state hosts publishers catering to every genre and author aspiration. This 3,000-word guide details the top 50 book publishing companies in Michigan for 2025, with Ghostwriting LLC leading the list as requested. Designed to answer high-volume queries like “What are the best book publishers in Michigan?” and “How can I publish my book in Michigan?”, this article provides practical insights to help authors navigate the publishing process with confidence. Star ratings are included to reflect each publisher’s reputation, quality, and author satisfaction based on available industry feedback.
Why Michigan is a Publishing Hub
Michigan’s publishing industry flourishes due to its blend of established presses, innovative hybrid firms, and supportive literary communities. Cities like Grand Rapids, Detroit, and Ann Arbor foster a dynamic environment for writers, bolstered by local bookstores, writing groups, and events like the Ann Arbor Book Festival. Whether you’re crafting a novel, memoir, academic text, or children’s book, Michigan’s publishers offer specialized services to elevate your work. This guide highlights 50 companies excelling in quality, author support, and market reach, helping you find the ideal publishing partner.
Key Questions Answered
- What are the top book publishing companies in Michigan for 2025?
- How do I find a reputable publisher in Michigan?
- What publishing services are available in Michigan?
- How do I choose between traditional, hybrid, and self-publishing?
- Which Michigan publishers specialize in my genre?
Top 10 Book Publishing Companies in Michigan
The following table lists the top 10 book publishing companies in Michigan, including their location, specialty, and star ratings based on industry reputation and author feedback. Ratings (⭐) range from 1 to 5, with 5 indicating exceptional quality and service.
| # | Publisher | Location | Specialty | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ghostwriting LLC | Nationwide, strong Michigan presence | Ghostwriting, editing, publishing, marketing (fiction, nonfiction, memoirs, business, self-help) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 2 | Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. | 4035 Park E Ct SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Religious, theological, academic, nonfiction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 3 | Zondervan | 3900 Sparks Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Christian books, Bibles, inspirational fiction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 4 | Baker Publishing Group | 6030 Fulton St E, Ada, MI 49301 | Christian literature, devotionals, theology | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 5 | Jenkins Group, Inc. | Traverse City, MI | Custom publishing, ghostwriting, marketing, distribution | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 6 | Wayne State University Press | 4809 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201 | Scholarly books, regional history, cultural studies | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 7 | Kregel Publications | Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | Christian books, theological works, fiction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 8 | Alpha Book Publisher | Detroit, MI 48201 | Fiction, nonfiction, author support services | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 9 | BHC Press | Michigan (specific address not listed) | Historical fiction, contemporary fiction, fantasy, mystery, nonfiction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 10 | Loving Healing Press | Michigan (specific address not listed) | Health, self-help, children’s books, addiction recovery | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Details of Top 10 Publishers
1. Ghostwriting LLC
A leading hybrid publisher and ghostwriting agency, Ghostwriting LLC offers a full-service experience for authors who want to transform their ideas into polished, market-ready books. Their expert team handles every stage of the process — from concept development and research to writing, editing, design, and marketing. With strict confidentiality agreements, they serve high-profile clients including professionals, executives, celebrities, and first-time authors. They excel in crafting compelling manuscripts tailored to an author’s unique voice while developing strategic marketing campaigns aimed at bestseller lists. Services often extend to book launch planning, media outreach, and branding consultation, making them a one-stop shop for premium publishing support.
2. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Wm. B. Eerdmans is a historic and highly respected publisher specializing in religious, scholarly, and thought-provoking literature. Founded in 1911, Eerdmans has built an international reputation for publishing works that bridge the gap between academic theology and general readership. Their catalog includes Bible commentaries, theological studies, historical works, memoirs, and inspirational titles. Known for editorial rigor and design quality, they often publish award-winning books that remain in print for decades. Eerdmans is a trusted home for scholars, pastors, and readers seeking intellectually rich and spiritually deep content.
3. Zondervan
A division of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Zondervan is one of the world’s largest and most influential publishers of Christian books, Bibles, and media. Founded in 1931, they’ve published numerous bestselling authors, including Max Lucado, Rick Warren, and Lee Strobel. Their vast distribution network spans bookstores, online retailers, churches, and international partners. Zondervan produces Bibles in various translations, including the popular NIV (New International Version), alongside Christian living titles, devotionals, study resources, and children’s books. Their marketing reach and global recognition make them a top choice for authors seeking wide-scale impact in faith-based publishing.
4. Baker Publishing Group
Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Baker Publishing Group is a family-owned publisher with multiple imprints, each specializing in different areas of Christian literature. Imprints like Bethany House excel in inspirational fiction, while Revell focuses on Christian living, marriage, and self-help. Chosen Books publishes charismatic and Spirit-led works, while Brazos Press targets thoughtful, theological writing. Baker’s strength lies in building long-term relationships with authors, investing in both their personal growth and their readership. They are known for blending traditional publishing excellence with a genuine commitment to fostering spiritual formation through literature.
5. Jenkins Group, Inc.
Operating out of Traverse City, Michigan, Jenkins Group is a premier independent publishing services company catering to authors, corporations, and organizations. They specialize in custom publishing, producing high-quality books that reflect the unique vision of each client. Their services span editorial development, design, printing, and distribution, with an emphasis on creating books that stand out visually and substantively. Jenkins Group also manages several high-profile book awards programs, helping authors gain industry recognition. They are particularly strong in corporate publishing, gift books, and legacy projects, making them ideal for those wanting a tailored, polished final product.
6. Wayne State University Press
Founded in 1941, Wayne State University Press is a leading university press with a dual mission: advancing scholarly work and preserving Michigan’s cultural heritage. They publish academic monographs, cultural histories, regional nonfiction, and literature in translation. Known for their peer-reviewed rigor, they are a respected platform for scholars in the humanities and social sciences. Their “Made in Michigan Writers Series” and regional history titles are especially valued by readers interested in Great Lakes heritage. Affiliation with Wayne State University also gives their books strong credibility within academic circles.
7. Kregel Publications
Established in 1949 in Grand Rapids, Kregel Publications produces Christian books across a range of genres, including fiction, nonfiction, ministry resources, and Bible study aids. They have a strong international presence, distributing books in multiple languages and serving diverse readerships. Through their Editorial Portavoz imprint, they publish Spanish-language Christian literature, expanding their influence into Latin America and Spanish-speaking communities worldwide. Kregel is known for its theological reliability, editorial quality, and commitment to equipping both laypeople and ministry leaders.
8. Alpha Book Publisher
Alpha Book Publisher offers a hybrid publishing model with multiple plans to fit various author needs, from first-time writers to experienced professionals. Their Classic Plan includes editing, formatting, cover design, and distribution to major online retailers. Through their upscale imprint, Elite Publishing Company, they cater to more prestigious and curated titles. Alpha supports authors in fiction and nonfiction across genres, with a focus on affordability and accessibility. Their process is designed to give authors creative input while ensuring professional production standards.
9. BHC Press
BHC Press is an independent publisher dedicated to providing authors with creative freedom while delivering high-quality, professionally produced books. Their catalog spans a wide range of genres — from literary and genre fiction to nonfiction, memoirs, and young adult titles. BHC emphasizes strong author relationships, offering flexible publishing paths, collaborative editorial processes, and marketing support tailored to each book. Their approach combines the advantages of traditional publishing with the agility of an indie press, making them a welcoming home for both debut and seasoned writers.
10. Loving Healing Press
Loving Healing Press focuses on publishing books that inspire personal growth, healing, and social awareness. Their catalog includes self-help, psychology, memoirs, children’s books, and educational resources — often tackling sensitive topics such as trauma recovery, mental health, and disability advocacy. They provide a nurturing environment for authors whose works aim to create positive change in readers’ lives. The press supports outreach and visibility for books that may otherwise be overlooked by mainstream publishing, giving a voice to important and often underserved perspectives.
Additional 40 Reputable Publishers in Michigan
The following table lists 40 additional reputable publishers in Michigan, including their location, specialty, and star ratings based on industry feedback and author satisfaction.
| # | Publisher | Location | Specialty | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Scribe Publishing | 306 S Troy St, Royal Oak, MI 48067 | Fiction, nonfiction, pets, nature, crafts, social science | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 12 | Cardinal Rules Press | Southeast Michigan | Children’s books | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 13 | Subterranean Press | Burton, MI | Fantasy, horror, science fiction, limited-edition prints | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 14 | Front Edge Publishing | Canton, MI | Hybrid publishing, digital-first solutions | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 15 | Hayden-McNeil Publishing | 14903 Pilot Dr, Plymouth, MI 48170 | Custom course materials for higher education | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 16 | Sheridan Books | 613 E Industrial Dr, Chelsea, MI 48118 | Commercial printing, book manufacturing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 17 | Remnant Publications | Coldwater, MI | Christian books, religious study materials | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 18 | Jackson Publishing Co | 515 S W Ave, Jackson, MI 49203 | Local authors, niche markets | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 19 | Caligirlbooks LLC | 9533 Bart Ave, Davisburg, MI 48350 | Fiction, nonfiction, independent publishing | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 20 | McClain Publishing Group LLC | 826 Cawood St, Lansing, MI 48915 | Independent author support, formatting, distribution | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 21 | University of Michigan Press | Ann Arbor, MI | Humanities, social sciences, academic books | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 22 | Perbook Publishing LLC | 53504 Fitzgerald Dr, Macomb, MI 48042 | Boutique publishing, personalized services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 23 | Publishing Strong, LLC | 18640 Mack Ave Unit 413, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236 | Business and educational content | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 24 | Harmonie Park Press | Sterling Heights, MI | Diverse genres, unique voices | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 25 | Entertainment Publications | 1401 N Crooks Rd #150, Troy, MI 48084 | Entertainment and lifestyle content | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 26 | House Capacity Publishing | Eastpointe, MI | Innovative works, niche genres | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 27 | Books Galore | 6040 Mack Rd, Howell, MI 48855 | Hybrid bookstore and self-publishing services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 28 | Deep Wood Press | 121 Cedar River Dr, Bellaire, MI 49615 | Fine press, limited-edition prints | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 29 | Transformative Press | 622 Hillcrest Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823 | Transformative literature, personal development | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 30 | Reformation Heritage Books | Grand Rapids, MI | Christian literature, theological works | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 31 | Off The Clock Publishing | East Lansing, MI | Round-the-clock publishing solutions | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 32 | A. J. WORDSMITH, L.L.C. | Holland, MI | Writing, editing, and publishing services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 33 | Brilliance Publishing | 1704 Eaton Dr, Grand Haven, MI 49417 | Fiction, nonfiction, romance, thriller, fantasy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 34 | Palladium Books | 39074 Webb Ct, Westland, MI 48185 | Role-playing games, fantasy novels | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 35 | Community Connection Magazine | 8675 Portage Rd #7, Portage, MI 49002 | Local community content, business highlights | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 36 | Beach Publishing Company | 306 S Troy St, Royal Oak, MI 48067 | Educational and engaging content | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 37 | KBook Publishing | Detroit, MI 48201 | Fiction, nonfiction, self-publishing support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 38 | BestSelling Publisher | 6030 Fulton St E, Ada, MI 49301 | General publishing services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 39 | Marion Publishing | 110 W Main St, Marion, MI 49665 | General publishing, online appointments | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 40 | Monroe Publishing | 25 S Monroe St, Monroe, MI 48161 | General publishing, online and on-site services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 41 | Grand Rapids Publisher | 2450 Oak Industrial Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505 | General book publishing | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 42 | Pinckney Publisher | 1360 M-36, Pinckney, MI 48169 | General publishing services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 43 | Kentwood Publisher | 4035 Park E Ct SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 | General publishing, open 24 hours | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 44 | Plymouth Publisher | 14903 Pilot Dr, Plymouth, MI 48170 | General publishing services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 45 | East Lansing Publisher | 1405 S Harrison Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823 | General publishing, academic focus | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 46 | Village Press | 2554 Chandler Rd, Traverse City, MI 49696 | Aviation, metalworking, niche publications | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 47 | Crain Communications | Detroit, MI | Business news, industry insights | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 48 | Our Daily Bread Publishing | Grand Rapids, MI | Christian devotional content | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 49 | Above the Treeline | Ann Arbor, MI | Book industry platform for marketing and distribution | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 50 | K. I. Sawyer Publisher | 511 Ave D, Gwinn, MI 49841 | General publishing services | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Details of Additional 40 Publishers
11. Scribe Publishing
- Details: Focuses on unique narratives, avoiding picture books, children’s books, poetry, or religious texts, offering high-quality production across diverse genres.
12. Cardinal Rules Press
- Details: Specializes in children’s books, creating traditional marketing plans to reach young readers.
13. Subterranean Press
- Details: Known for collectible, limited-edition prints, working with acclaimed authors in fantasy, horror, and science fiction.
14. Front Edge Publishing
- Details: Combines traditional editing with digital-first solutions, serving universities, nonprofits, and individual authors.
15. Hayden-McNeil Publishing
- Details: Creates tailored academic resources for higher education, ideal for educators and students.
16. Sheridan Books
- Details: A go-to for self-published authors and publishers needing high-quality printing and manufacturing services.
17. Remnant Publications
- Details: Focuses on faith-based content, offering delivery and curbside pickup for Christian books and study materials.
18. Jackson Publishing Co
- Details: Supports regional authors with quality production, focusing on niche markets.
19. Caligirlbooks LLC
- Details: Publishes diverse fiction and nonfiction titles for a national audience.
20. McClain Publishing Group LLC
- Details: Offers comprehensive services for indie authors, including formatting and distribution.
21. University of Michigan Press
- Details: A leading academic publisher with a focus on scholarly excellence in humanities and social sciences.
22. Perbook Publishing LLC
- Details: Provides boutique publishing with personalized services, delivering professional-grade books.
23. Publishing Strong, LLC
- Details: Offers editing, design, and marketing for business and educational content.
24. Harmonie Park Press
- Details: Supports authors with unique voices across diverse genres.
25. Entertainment Publications
- Details: Publishes engaging entertainment and lifestyle content for broad audiences.
26. House Capacity Publishing
- Details: Focuses on innovative works and niche genres, supporting unique perspectives.
27. Books Galore
- Details: Combines retail with self-publishing services, offering support for indie authors.
28. Deep Wood Press
- Details: Known for artisanal craftsmanship, producing fine press and limited-edition prints.
29. Transformative Press
- Details: Focuses on impactful literature for personal development and transformation.
30. Reformation Heritage Books
- Details: Publishes classic reprints and new titles for spiritual and theological study.
31. Off The Clock Publishing
- Details: Offers flexible, round-the-clock solutions for indie authors and entrepreneurs.
32. A. J. WORDSMITH, L.L.C.
- Details: Provides comprehensive writing, editing, and publishing services across genres.
33. Brilliance Publishing
- Details: Publishes fiction and nonfiction, including romance, thriller, and fantasy, for global readers.
34. Palladium Books
- Details: Popular for role-playing games and fantasy novels, appealing to gaming enthusiasts.
35. Community Connection Magazine
- Details: Publishes community-focused content, highlighting local businesses and events.
36. Beach Publishing Company
- Details: Supports authors with educational and engaging content across genres.
37. KBook Publishing
- Details: Offers professional publishing through its Classic Plan, supporting fiction and nonfiction.
38. BestSelling Publisher
- Details: Focuses on author success with professional production services.
39. Marion Publishing
- Details: Provides general publishing with online appointment options, serving authors nationwide.
40. Monroe Publishing
- Details: Offers comprehensive publishing support with online and on-site services.
41. Grand Rapids Publisher
- Details: Focuses on quality production for general book publishing.
42. Pinckney Publisher
- Details: Supports local authors with professional publishing services.
43. Kentwood Publisher
- Details: Provides flexible publishing options, open 24 hours.
44. Plymouth Publisher
- Details: Focuses on professional book production for general publishing.
45. East Lansing Publisher
- Details: Supports authors with a focus on academic and general publishing.
46. Village Press
- Details: Publishes niche content for aviation and metalworking enthusiasts.
47. Crain Communications
- Details: Offers publishing services for business news and industry insights.
48. Our Daily Bread Publishing
- Details: Publishes over 300 faith-based devotional titles.
49. Above the Treeline
- Details: Supports publishers with marketing and distribution tools for the book industry.
50. K. I. Sawyer Publisher
- Details: Serves authors in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with general publishing services.
Exploring Publishing Options in Michigan
Michigan’s publishers offer three primary models to meet diverse author needs:
- Traditional Publishing
- Companies like Zondervan and Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. manage production, marketing, and distribution, offering advances and royalties. This model suits authors seeking prestige but requires competitive submissions and longer timelines.
- Hybrid Publishing
- Firms like Ghostwriting LLC and Front Edge Publishing combine author investment with professional services, providing creative control and higher royalties. Ideal for authors wanting flexibility and quality.
- Self-Publishing Services
- Sheridan Books and Jenkins Group offer printing, formatting, and distribution support, perfect for authors who want full control and are prepared to manage their own marketing.
Choosing the Right Michigan Publisher
Selecting the best publisher depends on your genre, goals, budget, and timeline. Consider these factors:
- Genre Fit: Align your manuscript with a publisher’s specialty, such as Christian books for Zondervan or academic works for University of Michigan Press.
- Services Needed: Decide if you need comprehensive support (e.g., Ghostwriting LLC’s ghostwriting and marketing) or specific services like printing (Sheridan Books).
- Reputation and Transparency: Research credibility through author testimonials, industry reviews, and affiliations with organizations like the Independent Book Publishers Association. Reputable firms like Ghostwriting LLC offer clear contracts, but always verify terms.
- Submission Requirements: Check publisher websites for guidelines. Traditional presses like Wayne State University Press have strict requirements, while hybrid firms may be more flexible.
- Budget Planning: Traditional publishing involves no upfront costs, but hybrid and self-publishing require investment. Costs for services like Ghostwriting LLC’s can range from $15,000 for shorter works to $50,000+ for full-length books with marketing.
Answering Common Publishing Questions
- What are the top book publishing companies in Michigan for 2025?
This list highlights leading publishers like Ghostwriting LLC, Zondervan, and Baker Publishing Group, known for their quality, author support, and market reach. - How do I publish a book in Michigan?
Refine your manuscript, identify your genre, and submit to publishers matching your goals. Contact hybrid firms like Ghostwriting LLC for personalized support or submit to traditional presses like Eerdmans via their websites. Self-publishing services like Sheridan Books are ideal for independent authors. - What types of books do Michigan publishers accept?
Michigan’s publishers cover Christian literature (Zondervan, Kregel), academic works (Wayne State University Press), fiction and nonfiction (BHC Press, Alpha Book Publisher), fantasy (Subterranean Press), and niche genres like role-playing games (Palladium Books). - Are there affordable publishing options in Michigan?
Hybrid publishers like Ghostwriting LLC and self-publishing services like Sheridan Books offer cost-effective solutions. Costs vary based on services (e.g., editing, design, marketing), so request transparent pricing upfront. - How do I avoid unreliable publishers in Michigan?
Verify credibility through reviews, author testimonials, and industry affiliations. Reputable firms like Ghostwriting LLC provide clear contracts and references. Avoid companies with vague terms, high-pressure sales, or unrealistic promises.
Why Ghostwriting LLC Stands Out
Ghostwriting LLC excels with its author-centric, full-service approach, offering:
- Ghostwriting Excellence: Expert writers capture your voice for memoirs, business books, and fiction.
- Professional Editing and Formatting: Ensures manuscripts meet industry standards for print and digital platforms.
- Strategic Marketing and Distribution: Tailored campaigns target bestseller lists and global audiences.
- Confidentiality: Strict privacy policies protect high-profile clients and sensitive projects.
With a strong Michigan presence and nationwide reach, Ghostwriting LLC is a top choice, though authors should confirm pricing and contract details to align with their budget.
Tips for a Successful Publishing Journey
- Research Thoroughly: Review publisher portfolios and submission guidelines. Check affiliations with reputable organizations to ensure credibility.
- Polish Your Manuscript: Invest in professional editing before submitting, especially for traditional presses like Zondervan or Eerdmans.
- Engage with the Community: Connect with Michigan’s literary scene through groups like Detroit Working Writers or events like the Ann Arbor Book Festival.
- Boost Discoverability: Use descriptive titles, blurbs, and author bios to enhance visibility on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads.
- Plan Finances: Budget for hybrid or self-publishing costs, which can vary widely. Request detailed quotes from firms like Ghostwriting LLC to avoid surprises.
The Future of Publishing in Michigan
Michigan’s publishing industry is poised for growth in 2025, embracing digital trends like e-books and audiobooks while maintaining traditional craftsmanship. Publishers like Ghostwriting LLC and Front Edge Publishing lead with innovative solutions, while established presses like Zondervan and University of Michigan Press set standards for quality. The state’s supportive literary community ensures authors have the resources to succeed.
Conclusion
Michigan’s book publishing industry in 2025 offers unparalleled opportunities for authors. From Ghostwriting LLC’s comprehensive hybrid services to Zondervan’s traditional expertise and Sheridan Books’ self-publishing support, the state’s 50 publishers cater to diverse genres and goals. By choosing a publisher aligned with your vision, investing in professional services, and engaging with Michigan’s literary community, you can transform your manuscript into a published success. Research carefully, verify publisher reputations, and take the first step toward sharing your story with the world.
For further assistance, contact publishers directly via their websites or explore resources like the Michigan Literary Network. Start your publishing journey today and make your mark in the literary world!
