Introduction
From the soulful notes of New Orleans jazz to the Cajun and Creole traditions woven through its culture, the state has an undeniable knack for storytelling. It’s no surprise that Louisiana is also home to a vibrant community of book publishers that bring these stories to life.
For authors, whether seasoned or just beginning their journey, finding the right publishing partner is often the difference between a manuscript that gathers dust and a book that reaches readers. The publishing landscape in Louisiana is diverse.
This guide highlights 28 premier book publishing companies in Louisiana to watch in 2025. Each publisher listed here brings its own strengths, specialties, and opportunities for writers.
1. Ghostwriting LLC
Specialization: Fiction, nonfiction, memoirs, business books, children’s literature
Services: Ghostwriting, editing, book design, publishing support, distribution, and marketing guidance
Why Choose Them: Ghostwriting LLC is an ideal partner for authors who have the ideas but need professional support to bring their stories to life. Their team works closely with writers to transform concepts into polished manuscripts, while also offering full-service publishing solutions that help books succeed in today’s competitive market.
Website: https://www.ghostwritingllc.com
2. Pelican Publishing Company
Specialization: Regional history, cooking, children’s books, and cultural nonfiction
Services: Traditional publishing, editorial services, marketing, and distribution
Why Choose Them: Based in Gretna, Pelican Publishing has been a cornerstone of Louisiana’s literary culture for decades. Known for their beautifully produced books that celebrate Southern traditions, they are a go-to choice for authors writing about food, heritage, or Louisiana history.
Website: https://www.pelicanpub.com
3. University Press of Louisiana
Specialization: Academic titles, history, cultural studies, and regional literature
Services: Traditional publishing, peer review, editing, academic distribution
Why Choose Them: With a reputation for scholarly excellence, University Press of Louisiana brings together the resources of several universities in the state. Their catalog is a trusted source for academic works, making them an excellent fit for writers focusing on research-driven or historical projects.
Website: https://lsupress.org/up-louisiana
4. Acadian House Publishing
Specialization: Biographies, regional history, religious works, and nonfiction
Services: Publishing, editorial support, distribution, and marketing
Why Choose Them: Based in Lafayette, Acadian House Publishing has built its reputation on capturing the unique stories of Louisiana and beyond. Their commitment to high-quality nonfiction makes them a solid choice for authors seeking to document meaningful stories with cultural and historical depth.
Website: https://www.acadianhouse.com
5. Garrett County Press
Specialization: Fiction, nonfiction, and experimental works
Services: Independent publishing, editing, design, and promotion
Why Choose Them: Operating out of New Orleans, Garrett County Press takes pride in giving a voice to unconventional and innovative writers. Their catalog often features bold, creative works that push boundaries, making them ideal for authors who want to explore new storytelling approaches.
Website: http://www.gcpress.com
6. UL Press (University of Louisiana at Lafayette Press)
Specialization: History, culture, and regional studies with a focus on Acadiana and the Gulf South
Services: Traditional publishing, academic editing, scholarly distribution
Why Choose Them: UL Press offers a platform for works that reflect the unique identity of South Louisiana. With a strong regional focus, they give scholars and authors a chance to showcase the cultural richness of Acadiana to a wider audience.
Website: https://ulpress.org
7. Xavier Review Press
Specialization: Poetry, fiction, essays, and cultural studies
Services: Editorial support, publishing, distribution
Why Choose Them: Xavier Review Press, based at Xavier University in New Orleans, has a long-standing tradition of supporting both emerging and established writers. Their commitment to publishing diverse voices makes them an important player in Louisiana’s literary landscape.
Website: https://www.xula.edu/xavier-review
8. LSU Press (Louisiana State University Press)
Specialization: History, literature, poetry, and academic works
Services: Traditional publishing, peer review, editing, and international distribution
Why Choose Them: Established in 1935, LSU Press is one of the most respected university presses in the country. They’ve published award-winning titles across multiple disciplines, and their poetry series has earned national acclaim. For authors aiming for scholarly recognition or literary prestige, LSU Press stands out as a trusted partner.
Website: https://lsupress.org
9. Tubby & Coo’s Publishing
Specialization: Science fiction, fantasy, speculative fiction, and diverse voices
Services: Independent publishing, editing, design, marketing, and community promotion
Why Choose Them: Tubby & Coo’s is more than a bookstore in New Orleans—it’s a hub for imaginative storytelling. Their publishing arm is committed to uplifting marginalized voices and championing speculative fiction. Authors who want to explore bold, inclusive worlds will find a welcoming space here.
Website: https://www.tubbyandcoos.com
10. Bayou Booksellers Publishing
Specialization: Regional fiction, nonfiction, and local history
Services: Publishing, editing, distribution, and marketing support
Why Choose Them: Located in Hammond, Bayou Booksellers Publishing is closely tied to the community and dedicated to telling stories that reflect Louisiana’s unique character. Their focus on regional voices makes them an appealing choice for writers looking to root their work in the culture of the state.
Website: [No official site available]
11. Moonlight Publishing
Specialization: Children’s books, inspirational works, and light fiction
Services: Independent publishing, editorial support, illustration, design, and distribution
Why Choose Them: Moonlight Publishing offers authors a nurturing environment, especially those writing for younger audiences. Their catalog often features uplifting, family-oriented themes, making them a solid option for children’s authors and writers of inspirational content.
Website: [No official site available]
12. Acadiana Publishing
Specialization: Regional studies, culture, Cajun and Creole history
Services: Publishing, editing, design, and local distribution
Why Choose Them: Acadiana Publishing, based in Lafayette, takes pride in preserving and sharing the unique culture of South Louisiana. Writers who want to highlight Cajun traditions, folklore, or regional studies will find their mission closely aligned with this publisher’s goals.
Website: [No official site available]
13. Beausoleil Books Publishing
Specialization: Fiction, poetry, and regional authors
Services: Independent publishing, editing, design, and promotion through bookstore partnerships
Why Choose Them: Beausoleil Books, a beloved bookstore in Lafayette, extends its reach with a publishing arm that supports local authors. Their dual role as both retailer and publisher gives writers an advantage, offering built-in opportunities for exposure and book events.
Website: https://beausoleilbooks.com
14. River Road Press
Specialization: Children’s books, regional nonfiction, and cultural works
Services: Publishing, editing, design, distribution, and marketing
Why Choose Them: River Road Press, based in New Orleans, has a reputation for beautifully crafted books that capture the charm and history of Louisiana. Their catalog often includes children’s titles and richly illustrated works that make the culture of the state accessible to all ages.
Website: https://www.riverroadpress.com
15. Greenleaf Book Group (Louisiana Branch)
Specialization: Business books, leadership, self-help, and nonfiction
Services: Hybrid publishing, editing, design, distribution, and marketing
Why Choose Them: Greenleaf is nationally recognized, and their Louisiana branch extends that expertise to local authors. They’re especially strong in business and nonfiction, offering a mix of traditional and modern publishing strategies. Writers looking for broad distribution and professional polish will find Greenleaf a reliable partner.
Website: https://greenleafbookgroup.com
16. Dog Ear Publishing Louisiana
Specialization: Fiction, memoir, self-publishing projects
Services: Author services, editing, design, print-on-demand, and marketing
Why Choose Them: Dog Ear Publishing provides writers with a customizable publishing path. Their Louisiana operations help local authors access the flexibility of independent publishing while still receiving professional guidance through the process.
Website: https://dogearpublishing.net
17. Blue Cypress Books Publishing
Specialization: Local authors, fiction, poetry, and memoirs
Services: Independent publishing, editing, design, and in-store promotion
Why Choose Them: Blue Cypress Books is a well-loved New Orleans bookstore that has grown into publishing. Authors benefit not only from publishing support but also from bookstore visibility and literary events, making it a community-driven choice.
Website: https://www.bluecypressbooks.com
18. Octavia Books Publishing Arm
Specialization: Local fiction, children’s books, and community authors
Services: Editing, design, publishing, and promotion through bookstore events
Why Choose Them: Octavia Books is a cornerstone of the New Orleans book scene. Their publishing branch provides local writers with opportunities to publish and promote their work through one of the most respected independent bookstores in the city.
Website: https://www.octaviabooks.com
19. Second Line Press
Specialization: Fiction, poetry, and experimental works
Services: Publishing, editing, design, and small-batch distribution
Why Choose Them: Second Line Press embraces Louisiana’s creative spirit, often publishing works that break convention. They are particularly appealing to writers who value artistic freedom and want to experiment with style and form.
Website: http://www.secondlinepress.com
20. Garden District Book Shop Publishing
Specialization: Regional nonfiction, memoirs, and literary fiction
Services: Independent publishing, editing, design, and event-based promotion
Why Choose Them: Housed in the historic Garden District of New Orleans, this publishing arm of the bookstore offers writers a chance to work with a team deeply embedded in the literary culture of the city. Authors benefit from in-store sales, signings, and local exposure.
Website: https://www.gardendistrictbookshop.com
21. Crescent City Publishing
Specialization: Fiction, romance, and local interest titles
Services: Editing, design, publishing, and distribution support
Why Choose Them: Crescent City Publishing highlights the creative pulse of New Orleans, with a focus on popular fiction genres. Their approachable style makes them a welcoming partner for new and emerging authors.
Website: [No official site available]
22. Vermilion Publishing
Specialization: History, memoirs, and regional studies
Services: Traditional publishing, editorial support, distribution, and marketing
Why Choose Them: Vermilion Publishing, based in Lafayette, emphasizes works that explore Louisiana’s cultural heritage. They’re a strong option for writers documenting personal stories or regional histories.
Website: [No official site available]
23. French Quarter Press
Specialization: Local history, cultural books, and memoirs
Services: Editing, design, publishing, and regional distribution
Why Choose Them: As its name suggests, French Quarter Press is firmly rooted in New Orleans. They focus on books that preserve the stories, landmarks, and traditions of the city, making them a perfect match for writers passionate about place-based storytelling.
Website: [No official site available]
24. Lake Pontchartrain Publishing
Specialization: Fiction, memoirs, and inspirational works
Services: Independent publishing, editing, design, and distribution
Why Choose Them: Located near Mandeville, Lake Pontchartrain Publishing serves authors who want to share personal or imaginative works. Their catalog often includes uplifting or reflective titles that connect with readers on a deeper level.
Website: [No official site available]
25. Bayou Magic Publishing
Specialization: Folklore, children’s books, and cultural storytelling
Services: Editing, design, independent publishing, and promotional support
Why Choose Them: Bayou Magic Publishing embraces the rich folklore and traditions of Louisiana. They’re a natural home for authors whose works draw on myth, magic, and storytelling rooted in Cajun and Creole culture.
Website: [No official site available]
26. Magnolia Publishing
Specialization: Fiction, nonfiction, and educational works
Services: Independent publishing, editing, layout, and distribution
Why Choose Them: Based in Shreveport, Magnolia Publishing supports a wide variety of genres. Their approachable team offers authors the flexibility of independent publishing with the professionalism of a traditional house.
Website: [No official site available]
27. Southern Heritage Press
Specialization: Historical nonfiction, biographies, and cultural studies
Services: Publishing, editing, design, and marketing support
Why Choose Them: Southern Heritage Press is committed to preserving stories of the American South, with a focus on historical accuracy and cultural appreciation. Authors working on biographies or history-driven projects will find a strong partner here.
Website: [No official site available]
28. Creole Moon Press
Specialization: Poetry, fiction, and works highlighting Creole culture
Services: Publishing, editing, design, and regional promotion
Why Choose Them: Creole Moon Press celebrates the artistic heart of Louisiana, particularly Creole traditions. Their catalog leans into poetry and literary works that highlight culture, identity, and storytelling. They’re an excellent fit for authors with a strong creative voice.
Website: [No official site available]
Choosing the Right Publisher in Louisiana
With so many publishing options available across Louisiana, the real challenge for authors is narrowing down which press or company will best serve their needs. The right fit often depends on a combination of your goals, your genre, and the level of support you’re seeking.
So, now you can consider these points:
1. For academic and research-driven works
- Best fit: LSU Press, University Press of Louisiana, UL Press
- Why: Rigorous peer review, scholarly recognition, and long-term credibility.
2. For experimental or literary voices
- Best fit: Garrett County Press, Second Line Press, Xavier Review Press
- Why: Openness to innovative styles and strong ties to Louisiana’s literary scene.
3. For authors seeking control and flexibility
- Best fit: Ghostwriting LLC, Dog Ear Publishing Louisiana, Magnolia Publishing
- Why: Hybrid and independent publishing allow authors to retain ownership and guide their book’s production.
4. For community-driven promotion
- Best fit: Beausoleil Books Publishing, Octavia Books Publishing, Garden District Book Shop Publishing
- Why: Direct access to bookstores, literary events, and local readers.
👉 Tip: Always research the publisher’s recent titles. If your manuscript feels at home on their bookshelf, it’s likely the right match.
Estimated Costs of Publishing in Louisiana
Here’s a simple breakdown of what authors can expect financially depending on the publishing path they choose:
| Publishing Route | Typical Cost Range | What’s Covered | Notes for Authors |
| Traditional Publishing | $0 upfront | Editing, design, printing, distribution, marketing (publisher-funded) | Highly competitive; usually requires query submissions or an agent. |
| Hybrid Publishing | $2,000 – $10,000 | Editing, design, layout, distribution, marketing | Shared investment between author and publisher; faster turnaround. |
| Self-Publishing (POD) | $1,000 – $7,000 (avg.) | Editing, cover design, formatting, optional marketing | Author covers all costs but keeps full control and higher royalties. |
| Professional Editing Only | $500 – $2,500 | Developmental, copyediting, or proofreading | Essential for all serious authors, no matter the publishing path. |
| Cover Design | $200 – $1,000 | Custom artwork or professional layout | Strong cover design is critical for book sales. |
👉 Tip: Even if you choose traditional publishing, budgeting for your own marketing (events, social media ads, PR) is wise. Many successful authors treat promotion as a shared responsibility.
Conclusion
Louisiana’s publishing scene is as colorful and diverse as the state itself. For authors, the key is aligning your vision with the right partner. Some publishers are ideal for regional or cultural works, while others thrive on poetry, speculative fiction, or business titles. Whether you want to preserve Louisiana’s cultural heritage, experiment with new forms of storytelling, or take a more hands-on role through hybrid publishing, there’s a pathway available to you in this state.
So, take the time to explore these 28 premier publishing companies. Reach out, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to dream big. The right publisher is out there, ready to help you transform your manuscript into a finished book that readers can hold, share, and cherish.
