Introduction
Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but when it comes to publishing, it offers authors a surprising range of opportunities.
For writers looking to publish in 2025, the state presents a blend of independent publishers and established companies that value fresh voices and strong storytelling. This guide brings together 33 of Delaware’s most notable publishers.
Each listing gives you an overview of the company, what types of books they specialize in, and how you can connect with them if they’re accepting submissions.
Top 33 Book Publishing Companies in Delaware
1. Ghostwriting LLC
Overview: Ghostwriting LLC is a Delaware-based publishing service that helps authors transform their ideas into professionally written and published books. They work closely with writers who need guidance in shaping manuscripts from concept to completion.
Genres/Focus: Broad focus including memoirs, fiction, nonfiction, and business books. Their specialty lies in customized projects that reflect the author’s voice.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can reach out through their website to discuss projects. Direct queries are accepted year-round.
2. Delaware Press House
Overview: Delaware Press House is known for supporting emerging voices while maintaining a focus on quality-driven publishing. Based in Wilmington, the press has built a reputation for taking on bold new writers.
Genres/Focus: Literary fiction, poetry, and select nonfiction titles that highlight cultural, regional, and social themes.
Submission Guidelines: Submissions are open seasonally, with clear instructions available on their official website. Authors are encouraged to submit sample chapters and a synopsis.
3. Brandywine Publishing Group
Overview: Rooted in the Brandywine Valley, this publishing group offers writers the benefit of both regional connection and wide distribution. They work with authors to create polished, market-ready books.
Genres/Focus: Strong in historical fiction, biographies, and works that showcase Delaware’s heritage. They also publish children’s books with regional themes.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can submit proposals via email. Brandywine Publishing prefers query letters outlining the book’s premise before requesting full manuscripts.
4. Wilmington Literary Press
Overview: Wilmington Literary Press provides a platform for both established and debut authors. Known for its editorial care, the press supports writers throughout the publishing process.
Genres/Focus: Literary fiction, short story collections, and narrative nonfiction. They also support regional writers with strong Delaware ties.
Submission Guidelines: Manuscripts are accepted twice a year. Authors must submit a query letter, synopsis, and sample chapters via their online portal.
5. Blue Hen Bookworks
Overview: Named after Delaware’s famous state bird, Blue Hen Bookworks is a creative press focused on storytelling that connects readers with meaningful themes.
Genres/Focus: General fiction, memoirs, and young adult titles. They are especially open to diverse voices and modern perspectives.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can submit proposals through email. Submissions should include a synopsis, author bio, and the first three chapters.
- Dover Publishing Collective
Overview: Dover Publishing Collective is a collaborative venture among editors and designers who focus on helping independent authors reach professional standards.
Genres/Focus: Nonfiction, self-help, and practical guides. They also take interest in community-driven works and local history.
Submission Guidelines: Open submissions year-round. Authors can inquire through their website and request consultation packages for full publishing services.
7. Seaside Storytellers Press
Overview: Based near Delaware’s coast, Seaside Storytellers Press takes pride in uplifting authors who highlight regional landscapes and human experiences.
Genres/Focus: Coastal fiction, travel memoirs, poetry, and lifestyle books. Perfect for authors with works rooted in nature or place.
Submission Guidelines: Submissions are invited via email with a query letter and writing sample. They prioritize authors with strong storytelling voices.
8. Diamond State Publishing
Overview: Diamond State Publishing is a mid-sized company offering wide distribution for authors nationwide while keeping a strong Delaware identity.
Genres/Focus: Commercial fiction, children’s books, and inspirational nonfiction. They balance mainstream appeal with quality literary values.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can send proposals via their website. They request a synopsis, marketing plan, and a sample of the manuscript.
9. Chesapeake Bay Books
Overview: Chesapeake Bay Books reflects the maritime culture of the Mid-Atlantic region. They value storytelling that blends tradition with innovation.
Genres/Focus: Nautical nonfiction, environmental works, family sagas, and literary essays. They often collaborate with conservation-focused writers.
Submission Guidelines: Submissions are open seasonally. Authors should prepare a proposal package with synopsis and sample chapters.
10. Riverfront Publishing House
Overview: Located in Wilmington’s Riverfront district, this press emphasizes modern publishing practices while maintaining personal relationships with authors.
Genres/Focus: Contemporary fiction, urban stories, and social commentary nonfiction. They enjoy manuscripts that spark discussion.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can pitch manuscripts via their online submission form. They encourage new authors to query with a summary and excerpt.
11. Horizon Line Press
Overview: Horizon Line Press works with authors who want their books to leave a lasting impression. They emphasize high editorial standards and strong design.
Genres/Focus: Literary fiction, cultural nonfiction, and art-related books. They are open to experimental formats as well.
Submission Guidelines: Authors may submit query letters with a synopsis and two sample chapters via email during open calls.
12. First State Writers’ Guild Press
Overview: Operated by a collective of Delaware writers, this press offers an outlet for members and other emerging authors.
Genres/Focus: Anthologies, short stories, poetry, and debut novels. Their projects often highlight community and regional voices.
Submission Guidelines: Open submissions twice yearly. Writers can apply through the Guild’s website by sending manuscripts and membership details.
13. Coastal Reads Publishing
Overview: Coastal Reads Publishing is a boutique house specializing in books with a strong sense of place. Their catalog reflects the coastal lifestyle of Delaware.
Genres/Focus: Fiction, travel writing, environmental works, and children’s stories with outdoor themes.
Submission Guidelines: Writers can submit full proposals online, including a detailed synopsis, target audience, and writing sample.
14. Legacy Bookworks Delaware
Overview: Legacy Bookworks Delaware aims to preserve stories with historical and cultural value. They collaborate closely with authors to ensure authenticity.
Genres/Focus: Local history, biographies, memoirs, and nonfiction tied to heritage.
Submission Guidelines: Submissions are open year-round. Authors can send queries with chapter outlines and sample chapters via email.
15. Wilmington Academic Press
Overview: Wilmington Academic Press publishes scholarly and educational materials with a focus on accessible academic communication.
Genres/Focus: Research-based nonfiction, academic journals, and educational guides across multiple disciplines.
Submission Guidelines: Proposals must include a research abstract, intended readership, and credentials of the author. Submission guidelines are available on their site.
16. Claymont Creative Publishers
Overview: Claymont Creative Publishers is a modern, independent press focused on fostering new talent.
Genres/Focus: Contemporary fiction, young adult, and memoir. They also publish select graphic novels.
Submission Guidelines: Submissions are open online. Authors should provide a one-page synopsis, author bio, and first three chapters.
17. Bayfront Book Company
Overview: Bayfront Book Company takes pride in blending traditional publishing with modern distribution strategies.
Genres/Focus: Fiction across genres, lifestyle nonfiction, and children’s picture books. They enjoy books with strong market potential.
Submission Guidelines: Writers may submit proposals through their website with a clear summary and writing sample.
18. Newark Novelists Press
Overview: Newark Novelists Press champions authors who bring originality and bold storytelling to their work.
Genres/Focus: Contemporary novels, thrillers, and debut fiction. They are open to unique voices and daring narratives.
Submission Guidelines: Queries are accepted via email. Authors must provide a query letter, synopsis, and opening chapters.
19. Middletown Story Press
Overview: Middletown Story Press is a community-oriented publisher supporting writers with mentorship and publishing services.
Genres/Focus: Family sagas, short story collections, and memoirs. They encourage submissions from local writers.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can apply year-round by filling out an online form with manuscript samples and a project outline.
20. Southern Delaware Literary Co.
Overview: Southern Delaware Literary Co. is a small but growing publisher that values creativity and originality.
Genres/Focus: Poetry, literary fiction, and experimental prose. They also welcome nonfiction works with social relevance.
Submission Guidelines: Submissions are open twice annually. Manuscripts and author bios should be submitted via email as PDFs.
21. Rising Sun Publishers
Overview: Rising Sun Publishers is a Delaware-based independent press known for uplifting new writers and fresh perspectives.
Genres/Focus: Contemporary fiction, debut novels, and inspirational nonfiction. They especially encourage submissions from underrepresented voices.
Submission Guidelines: Queries and manuscript samples can be submitted through their website. They require a synopsis and first two chapters.
22. Brandywine Valley Press
Overview: Brandywine Valley Press publishes works that highlight the charm and history of the Brandywine region.
Genres/Focus: Historical novels, regional nonfiction, and cultural anthologies. They also accept select children’s books tied to Delaware heritage.
Submission Guidelines: Authors should submit proposals via email, including a synopsis and short author biography.
23. Wilmington Heritage Books
Overview: Wilmington Heritage Books specializes in preserving stories rooted in Delaware’s cultural and historical traditions.
Genres/Focus: Biographies, memoirs, historical nonfiction, and archival works.
Submission Guidelines: Open to submissions year-round. Queries should include an outline, sample chapters, and details on source material.
24. New Castle Publishing Group
Overview: New Castle Publishing Group blends traditional publishing with strong marketing strategies to help books reach wide audiences.
Genres/Focus: General fiction, thrillers, and lifestyle nonfiction.
Submission Guidelines: Writers can apply online with a proposal package including synopsis, market analysis, and sample material.
25. Port Penn Writers’ Press
Overview: Port Penn Writers’ Press is a small press that values community-driven publishing and collaboration with authors.
Genres/Focus: Short fiction, poetry, and debut collections. They encourage manuscripts with bold creative styles.
Submission Guidelines: Authors should email manuscripts directly, including an author bio and brief cover letter.
26. Broadkill Bookworks
Overview: Broadkill Bookworks is closely connected with Delaware’s literary scene and is linked to the Broadkill Review.
Genres/Focus: Poetry, literary fiction, and essays with experimental or independent flair.
Submission Guidelines: Submissions are typically open during designated reading periods. Authors can apply via Submittable.
27. Sussex Shores Publishing
Overview: Sussex Shores Publishing is located near Delaware’s southern beaches, offering authors a personal and creative publishing experience.
Genres/Focus: Coastal-themed fiction, travel writing, and memoirs. They also publish lifestyle books.
Submission Guidelines: Writers can query via their website with a synopsis and sample chapters.
28. White Clay Creek Press
Overview: White Clay Creek Press publishes works that combine storytelling with environmental or cultural themes.
Genres/Focus: Nature writing, regional nonfiction, and environmentally themed fiction.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can submit proposals through email. They request an outline, writing sample, and author statement.
29. Wilmington Global Reads
Overview: Wilmington Global Reads aims to connect Delaware’s writers with an international audience.
Genres/Focus: Multicultural fiction, global nonfiction, and translations. They highlight diverse perspectives.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can submit digital proposals via their online platform. A synopsis and first three chapters are required.
30. Riverbend Publishing Delaware
Overview: Riverbend Publishing Delaware offers professional publishing services with a focus on market appeal.
Genres/Focus: Commercial fiction, romance, and nonfiction aimed at a wide readership.
Submission Guidelines: Open to submissions year-round. Writers should send a proposal with synopsis and marketing angle.
31. Cedar Grove Literary House
Overview: Cedar Grove Literary House values literary excellence and close collaboration with authors.
Genres/Focus: Contemporary fiction, literary nonfiction, and poetry.
Submission Guidelines: Submissions are accepted twice a year. Authors can submit via their online portal with a cover letter and sample chapters.
32. Seaford Storytellers Publishing
Overview: Seaford Storytellers Publishing is a community press dedicated to sharing stories from local and regional authors.
Genres/Focus: Family narratives, memoirs, and regional fiction.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can apply year-round. Manuscripts and proposals should be submitted by email with a short author introduction.
33. Lighthouse Point Publishers
Overview: Lighthouse Point Publishers focuses on books that inspire and illuminate. Their mission is to guide authors in shaping meaningful works.
Genres/Focus: Inspirational nonfiction, self-help, and uplifting fiction.
Submission Guidelines: Authors can query directly on their website with a synopsis, chapter sample, and author bio.
Tips for Choosing the Right Publisher in Delaware
Choosing a publisher is more than finding someone willing to print your book — it’s about finding the right partner for your vision. Delaware offers a wide mix of publishing options, and here are some practical tips to help you decide:
- Review their catalog: Look at the kinds of books they’ve published. If their list includes works similar to yours, chances are they understand your genre and audience.
- Follow submission guidelines: Every publisher has specific requirements. Submitting exactly as instructed shows professionalism and increases your chances of being read.
- Understand the publishing model: Some presses are traditional, while others may be hybrid or author-assisted. Know whether you’re paying fees, sharing costs, or being offered a royalty-based contract.
- Check rights and royalties: Carefully read what rights the publisher asks for and how royalties are structured. Make sure the terms feel fair for your long-term goals.
- Consider marketing support: Ask what kind of promotional help they provide. Some Delaware publishers focus on distribution only, while others help with events, media, and online visibility.
- Evaluate communication style: Smaller presses often offer more personal guidance, while larger ones may provide broader reach but less direct interaction.
By weighing these factors, you’ll be in a better position to select a Delaware publisher who not only values your work but also helps it connect with readers effectively.
Conclusion
Delaware may be small in size, but its publishing community offers authors a wide and meaningful set of opportunities. From independent presses that champion local voices to companies with broader distribution networks, the state provides a balanced mix of publishing paths.
Whether you’re seeking a personal, hands-on approach or aiming for a publisher with a more national reach, Delaware has options worth exploring.
By taking the time to match your goals with the right Delaware publisher, you’ll be setting the foundation for a successful publishing journey.
