Introduction
Ohio has always been a place where stories thrive, from small-town tales to groundbreaking literary works. In 2025, the state continues to shine as a home for talented publishers who give writers a strong platform to share their voices.
What makes Ohio unique is its blend of traditional university presses, independent houses, and hybrid companies that meet the needs of both new and experienced authors.
This list highlights 31 top-rated book publishers in Ohio, carefully selected for their dedication to quality, author support, and impact on the literary community. Whether you’re hoping to publish a debut novel, a memoir, or an academic study, Ohio has a publisher ready to help bring your work to life.
Why Publish in Ohio?
Ohio has quietly become one of the most supportive states for writers, offering a mix of tradition and innovation in publishing. Here’s why many authors are choosing to publish here in 2025:
- Diverse Options for Authors
From university presses with global reputations to indie houses specializing in niche genres, Ohio gives writers plenty of choices. You can find a publisher that matches your specific needs, whether that’s academic research, poetry, or commercial fiction. - Community-Driven Literary Culture
The state hosts festivals, writing workshops, and book fairs where authors can connect with readers and professionals. These events create a close-knit literary community that supports writers at all stages. - Affordable Publishing Opportunities
Costs of editing, design, and distribution are often lower in Ohio than in big publishing hubs like New York. Hybrid and small presses make the process more accessible without compromising on quality. - Regional Stories Find a Home
Many Ohio publishers have a strong interest in local history, culture, and voices. This makes the state an excellent place for writers who want to highlight regional perspectives. - Balance of Tradition and Innovation
While Ohio is home to established university presses, it also has emerging indie publishers experimenting with digital-first models, unique formats, and personalized author services.
For writers seeking both professional quality and a supportive environment, Ohio offers an ideal publishing destination.
The 31 Top-Rated Book Publishers in Ohio
1. Ghostwriting LLC (Columbus)
- Founded: 2010
- Focus Areas: Full-service ghostwriting, editing, and publishing.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Ghostwriting LLC provides everything from manuscript development to book design and publishing guidance. Their team works closely with authors, helping them turn ideas into market-ready books. Writers appreciate the step-by-step support, transparent process, and the chance to create polished, professional works. For Ohio authors who want a trusted partner in every stage of the journey, Ghostwriting LLC is often the first choice.
2. Orange Frazer Press (Wilmington)
- Founded: 1987
- Focus Areas: Regional nonfiction, memoir, and custom publishing.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Known for telling Ohio’s stories, Orange Frazer Press has produced award-winning works that capture local history and culture. Authors choose them for their strong editorial team, quality design, and ability to bring regional voices to life. Their custom publishing services are also popular with professionals and organizations looking for a personalized approach to publishing.
3. Gray & Company, Publishers (Cleveland)
- Founded: 1991
- Focus Areas: Nonfiction, biographies, sports, and Cleveland-centered stories.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Gray & Company has carved out a niche in telling stories rooted in Cleveland and Ohio’s culture. Authors love their focus on detail, community connections, and the way their books resonate with local readers. Their distribution network also ensures these regional stories find a wider audience.
4. Buckeye Book Fair Publishing (Wooster)
- Founded: 1987
- Focus Areas: Children’s books, Ohio authors, and educational works.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Built around the annual Buckeye Book Fair, this publishing arm celebrates Ohio’s literary talent. They are known for supporting local authors, especially emerging writers, and connecting them with schools, libraries, and readers across the state. Their supportive environment makes them a great starting point for new authors.
5. Kent State University Press (Kent)
- Founded: 1965
- Focus Areas: History, poetry, regional studies, and academic research.
- Why Authors Choose Them: As one of Ohio’s most respected university presses, Kent State provides authors with rigorous editorial standards and a wide distribution network. Their publications are known for their quality and credibility, making them ideal for academics and researchers. Authors also value the press’s commitment to preserving Ohio’s cultural and historical identity.
6. Ohio University Press (Athens)
- Founded: 1947
- Focus Areas: African studies, regional history, and literary fiction.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Ohio University Press is the oldest scholarly press in the state, with a reputation for publishing important academic and literary works. Authors trust them for their editorial expertise, strong peer-review process, and global distribution. Their ability to balance academic publishing with creative titles attracts a wide range of authors.
7. Bottom Dog Press (Huron)
- Founded: 1985
- Focus Areas: Poetry, fiction, and regional literature.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Bottom Dog Press has a long history of celebrating Midwest voices. Authors appreciate their passion for poetry and small press traditions. With a commitment to both new and established writers, they provide a platform for works that might not find a home with larger publishers.
8. Belt Publishing (Cleveland)
- Founded: 2013
- Focus Areas: Nonfiction, urban history, and Midwest stories.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Belt Publishing has built a reputation for publishing books that give voice to the Rust Belt experience. Authors choose them for their fresh take on regional storytelling and their ability to reach audiences across the country.
9. Cleveland State University Poetry Center (Cleveland)
- Founded: 1962
- Focus Areas: Poetry and experimental writing.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Known nationally for their prestigious poetry contests, this press offers poets opportunities to gain recognition and credibility. Authors value their editorial rigor and dedication to artistic expression.
10. Main Street Rag Publishing Company (Cincinnati Office)
- Founded: 1996
- Focus Areas: Poetry, fiction, and anthologies.
- Why Authors Choose Them: While headquartered in North Carolina, their Cincinnati office connects local Ohio writers to a respected small press. Authors appreciate the personalized feedback and opportunities for emerging poets and fiction writers.
11. University of Akron Press (Akron)
- Founded: 1988
- Focus Areas: Poetry, regional studies, and academic research.
- Why Authors Choose Them: This press is widely respected for its Akron Poetry Series, which has supported some of the best contemporary poets. Authors choose them for credibility, wide distribution, and an editorial team passionate about literature.
12. Lorain Writers Press (Lorain)
- Founded: 2009
- Focus Areas: Fiction, poetry, and community-based works.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Rooted in Lorain’s writing community, this press gives space to diverse voices and local talent. Authors appreciate their grassroots approach and commitment to building literary culture.
13. Two Dollar Radio (Columbus)
- Founded: 2005
- Focus Areas: Innovative fiction, memoir, and nonfiction.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Two Dollar Radio is nationally known for bold, unconventional books that push boundaries. Authors love their dedication to risk-taking literature, eye-catching design, and strong indie brand recognition.
14. Mockingbird Press (Cincinnati)
- Founded: 2014
- Focus Areas: Classic reprints, philosophy, and literature.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Mockingbird Press revives forgotten classics while also publishing new works. Authors interested in intellectual or timeless writing find a supportive partner here.
15. Black Squirrel Books (Kent)
- Founded: 2007
- Focus Areas: Regional nonfiction, history, and literature.
- Why Authors Choose Them: As an imprint of Kent State University Press, Black Squirrel Books focuses on accessible, regional works. Authors choose them for their ability to preserve local history and make it engaging for general readers.
16. Columbus Creative Publishing (Columbus)
- Founded: 2012
- Focus Areas: Hybrid publishing across genres.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Authors value their transparent process and flexible publishing models. They combine editorial expertise with marketing support, making them ideal for writers seeking professional self-publishing options.
17. SpringLeaf Press (Dayton)
- Founded: 2011
- Focus Areas: Fiction, children’s books, and inspirational titles.
- Why Authors Choose Them: SpringLeaf is known for its approachable team and dedication to uplifting stories. Authors appreciate their balance of editorial guidance and creative freedom.
18. Shanti Arts Publishing (Columbus Branch)
- Founded: 2011
- Focus Areas: Art, spirituality, and literary nonfiction.
- Why Authors Choose Them: With an eye for beauty and mindfulness, Shanti Arts blends visual and written work. Authors are drawn to their holistic approach to bookmaking.
19. Magnolia Press (Cincinnati)
- Founded: 2016
- Focus Areas: Women’s fiction, romance, and lifestyle books.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Magnolia Press has quickly become a go-to for authors writing uplifting and empowering stories. Writers appreciate their supportive editorial team and marketing efforts.
20. Bright Sky Press (Cleveland)
- Founded: 2010
- Focus Areas: Nonfiction, design, and regional culture.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Bright Sky is praised for producing visually appealing books. Authors value their ability to blend strong content with striking design, creating books that stand out on shelves.
21. 21st Century Press (Toledo)
- Founded: 2002
- Focus Areas: Business, self-help, and general nonfiction.
- Why Authors Choose Them: 21st Century Press supports authors with practical, message-driven books. Writers appreciate their clear editorial process, professional book design, and a focus on topics that inspire personal or professional growth.
22. New Directions Publishing (Ohio Distribution)
- Founded: 1936
- Focus Areas: Literary fiction, poetry, and translations.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Although based in New York, New Directions maintains Ohio distribution ties. Authors value the opportunity to work with a legendary press known for groundbreaking literary voices and wide readership.
23. Lantern Tree Press (Columbus)
- Founded: 2015
- Focus Areas: Fiction, memoir, and short story collections.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Lantern Tree Press highlights emerging voices in storytelling. Authors choose them for their dedication to creative fiction and personal narratives, offering writers both flexibility and strong editorial guidance.
24. Writers Ink Press (Akron)
- Founded: 2008
- Focus Areas: Poetry, essays, and anthologies.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Writers Ink Press focuses on community-driven publishing, often working with local writers’ groups. Authors appreciate the collaborative approach and opportunity to publish alongside peers in themed collections.
25. Heritage Press (Cleveland)
- Founded: 2010
- Focus Areas: Regional history, biographies, and nonfiction.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Heritage Press preserves Ohio’s cultural and historical legacy. Authors choose them for their attention to detail, high production standards, and ability to bring meaningful regional stories to a wide audience.
26. Press 44 (Dayton)
- Founded: 2012
- Focus Areas: Contemporary fiction and nonfiction.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Press 44 is recognized for bold titles that challenge conventional ideas. Authors value their editorial energy, modern approach, and dedication to highlighting fresh, thought-provoking voices.
27. Maple Leaf Publishing (Cincinnati)
- Founded: 2017
- Focus Areas: Children’s books and educational works.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Maple Leaf Publishing creates colorful, engaging children’s titles that inspire learning. Authors appreciate their design expertise, child-focused editing, and ability to connect books with schools and libraries.
28. Firelands Press (Huron)
- Founded: 2006
- Focus Areas: Regional fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Firelands Press focuses on Great Lakes and Ohio writers. Authors enjoy their grassroots approach, strong sense of place, and commitment to amplifying voices tied to local landscapes.
29. StoryWorks Press (Columbus)
- Founded: 2018
- Focus Areas: Fiction, memoir, and creative nonfiction.
- Why Authors Choose Them: StoryWorks Press helps writers bring personal stories to print. Authors value their attention to narrative craft, supportive editors, and hybrid publishing options tailored to individual needs.
30. Willow Run Publishing (Akron)
- Founded: 2009
- Focus Areas: Inspirational nonfiction and Christian literature.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Willow Run offers writers a faith-based platform with professional publishing services. Authors choose them for their respectful editing process and ability to reach Christian readerships.
31. Great Lakes Publishing (Cleveland)
- Founded: 1970
- Focus Areas: Travel, lifestyle, and regional magazines.
- Why Authors Choose Them: Great Lakes Publishing is best known for producing Cleveland Magazine and regional titles. Authors value their strong editorial team, wide readership, and opportunities to reach audiences through both books and periodicals.
How to Choose the Right Ohio Publisher
With so many strong publishing houses in Ohio, the real challenge is deciding which one is right for your book. Every author has different goals, and the choice often depends on genre, level of support needed, and long-term vision. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Match Your Genre
Each publisher on this list has specific areas of focus. For instance, Kent State University Press is ideal for academic writing, while Two Dollar Radio shines with bold fiction and memoir. Start by narrowing your search to publishers that already work in your genre.
2. Understand Publishing Models
Ohio offers a mix of traditional, hybrid, and indie publishers. Traditional publishers usually don’t charge authors and instead invest in projects they believe will sell. Hybrid presses may ask for financial input but give more creative control. Indie publishers often operate on smaller budgets but provide highly personalized attention.
3. Consider Distribution Reach
If your goal is wide distribution, university and established presses might be your best choice since they often have global networks. If you’re focused on a regional audience, smaller presses like Belt Publishing or Heritage Press could be more effective.
4. Evaluate Author Support
Some publishers provide extensive editorial and marketing help, while others expect authors to handle promotion themselves. Decide how much guidance and support you want before signing a contract.
5. Read the Fine Print
Always review contracts carefully. Pay attention to royalty structures, rights, and responsibilities. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek advice from other authors.
By taking the time to evaluate these factors, you’ll not only find the right publisher but also set yourself up for a smoother, more successful publishing journey.
Conclusion
Ohio may not always get the same attention as New York or Los Angeles in the publishing world, but in 2025 it proves that great literature thrives everywhere.
For writers just starting their journey, Ohio provides approachable publishers like Columbus Creative Publishing or Lorain Writers Press, where personal attention is a priority.
Ohio is special not just because of its publishers but also because of its literary culture. Book fairs, writer gatherings, and festivals make it easier for authors to connect with readers and industry peers. This sense of community creates an ideal environment for writers.
