Kentucky’s publishing scene in 2025 blends long-standing scholarly tradition, lively independent presses, and modern author services that together create a supportive environment for writers. From university-affiliated houses that emphasize rigorous research to small literary presses that champion poetry and experimental fiction, Kentucky offers a wide array of publishing models. Regional storytelling, historical preservation, and community-focused projects remain strong threads, while hybrid and ghostwriting services have grown to meet authors who want professional help while keeping creative control.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting provides full-service author support with expertise in manuscript creation and the logistics of publishing. They are known for helping busy professionals and first-time authors convert ideas into polished books.
- End-to-end services: ghostwriting, editing, and publication strategy.
- Works across memoirs, business books, and narrative nonfiction.
2. University Press of Kentucky
A leading scholarly press in the state, the University Press of Kentucky publishes rigorous academic works alongside culturally significant regional titles.
- Strong focus on history, cultural studies, and scholarly research.
- Institutional reputation and editorial standards benefit academic authors.
3. Larkspur Press
Larkspur Press is a fine-press publisher that prioritizes craftsmanship and literary quality, especially for poetry and limited editions.
- Traditional letterpress techniques and collectible editions.
- Ideal for poets and writers seeking artisanal presentation.
4. Accents Publishing
Accents Publishing focuses on contemporary poetry and small literary collections, supporting emerging and diverse voices.
- Publishes chapbooks and full-length poetry collections.
- Active within local literary communities and readings.
5. Old Seelbach Press
Old Seelbach Press centers on Kentucky’s cultural narratives, producing works that preserve regional history and storytelling.
- Emphasis on local history, memoirs, and cultural nonfiction.
- Works closely with community historians and writers.
6. Wind Publications
Wind Publications provides a venue for both experimental and traditional literary works, particularly poetry and short fiction.
- Accepts poetry, essays, and literary fiction.
- Encourages new voices and stylistic experimentation.
7. Butler Books
Butler Books is an independent house with strengths in nonfiction, memoir, and children’s titles, offering hands-on editorial support.
- Focus on polished design and author collaboration.
- Works with regional and national authors.
8. Rabbit House Press
Rabbit House Press is a small indie publisher known for bold contemporary fiction and creative projects with artistic flair.
- Small-run, curated publications for niche audiences.
- Emphasizes innovative storytelling and design.
9. Broadstone Books
Broadstone Books publishes literary works with an emphasis on poetry, essays, and cultural criticism, often spotlighting Kentucky voices.
- Supports both established and emerging writers.
- Strong editorial focus on craft and critical thought.
10. Finishing Line Press
Finishing Line Press is well-known in poetry circles for publishing chapbooks and full-length collections with broad distribution.
- National reach despite small-press origins.
- Ready platform for poets seeking wider visibility.
11. Plum Ruby Press
Plum Ruby Press champions original fiction and poetry, particularly works that take creative risks and offer unique perspectives.
- Targets niche literary readers and collectors.
- Encourages unconventional forms and voices.
12. Fireside Industries (UPK Imprint)
As an imprint connected to the university press ecosystem, Fireside Industries focuses on accessible storytelling with regional relevance.
- Balances literary merit with reader accessibility.
- Publishes cultural narratives and popular nonfiction.
13. Wingspan Press
Wingspan Press handles a mix of memoir, regional nonfiction, and literary fiction, often offering editorial packages for authors.
- Author-focused services including editorial guidance.
- Strength in community-driven projects.
14. Turner Publishing (Kentucky Branch)
Turner Publishing’s Kentucky operations produce history, biography, and illustrated nonfiction with professional production values.
- Known for polished nonfiction and illustrated titles.
- Works with local historians and broader-market authors.
15. McClanahan Publishing House
McClanahan Publishing House is a family-oriented independent that covers children’s books, local histories, and general nonfiction.
- Emphasis on community stories and educational titles.
- Supports authors through editorial and design stages.
16. Winged City Press
Winged City Press focuses on chapbooks and full-length literary works that support experimental and emerging poets.
- Strong presence in poetry publishing.
- Encourages progressive and fresh literary voices.
17. Whitefox Publishing (Kentucky Division)
Whitefox provides hybrid publishing options, coupling traditional editorial rigor with author-led marketing and distribution.
- Hybrid model: professional support with author control.
- Good fit for memoirists and business writers.
18. West Kentucky Press
West Kentucky Press centers on regional nonfiction, oral histories, and works that document local heritage.
- Publishes memoirs, folklore, and community histories.
- Often partners with local authors and historians.
19. Kentucky Story Press
Kentucky Story Press champions fiction and nonfiction rooted in Kentucky identity, with strong editorial attention.
- Focus on place-based storytelling and memoir.
- Nurtures local talent and regional narratives.
20. New Southerner Press
New Southerner Press focuses on Southern literature and environmentally themed works, blending cultural reflection with ecological concerns.
- Publishes essays, poetry, and regional nonfiction.
- Emphasis on sustainability and place.
21. Free Spirit Press
Free Spirit Press publishes wellness, spirituality, and inspirational nonfiction aimed at niche audiences seeking personal growth content.
- Strong focus on self-help and spiritual titles.
- Works with first-time and niche-market authors.
22. Kentucky River Press
Kentucky River Press is dedicated to preserving regional lore through memoirs, local history, and culturally relevant nonfiction.
- Emphasizes archival and oral-history projects.
- Close collaborations with community authors.
23. Louisville Review & Fleur-de-Lis Press
Tied to a respected literary journal, this press elevates literary fiction and poetry with journal-quality editorial standards.
- Good stepping-stone for authors transitioning from journals to books.
- Maintains strong literary credibility.
24. McClanahan Kids
A children’s imprint of McClanahan, McClanahan Kids publishes picture books and middle-grade stories with educational heart.
- Focus on regional themes and accessible storytelling.
- Supportive editorial process for new children’s authors.
25. Horse Cave Publishing
Horse Cave Publishing highlights small-town voices and regional memoirs, specializing in intimate local histories.
- Publishes community-focused nonfiction and memoir.
- Small press with hands-on author relationships.
26. Mountain State Press (KY Focus)
Although tied to Appalachian publishing, this press emphasizes Kentucky-centered stories from mountain regions.
- Strong in Appalachian history and poetry.
- Preserves mountain culture and literature.
27. Cedar Grove Publishing
Cedar Grove Publishing accepts fiction, poetry, and short nonfiction, prioritizing clear editorial guidance for authors.
- Small but diverse catalog across genres.
- Collaborative editing and design support.
28. Kentucky Heritage Press
Kentucky Heritage Press produces works that document state history, genealogies, and cultural preservation projects.
- Focus on heritage and archival quality.
- Often works with historical societies and researchers.
29. Maple Grove Publishing
Maple Grove Publishing is a community-minded press offering editorial and production services across genres.
- Emphasis on inclusivity and diverse authors.
- Provides design and distribution assistance.
30. Heartland Review Press
Associated with a regional literary review, this press publishes poetry and short fiction with editorial rigor.
- Good for authors coming out of literary journals.
- Encourages craft-driven manuscripts.
31. Bluegrass Books
Bluegrass Books celebrates Kentucky culture with children’s books, local histories, and lifestyle titles rooted in regional identity.
- Strong local market orientation.
- Works closely with community authors and illustrators.
32. Wildflower Press
Wildflower Press is a small literary house that publishes poetry and short fiction by contemporary writers.
- Focus on artistic and lyrical work.
- Nurtures emerging poetic voices.
33. Pegasus Publishing
Pegasus Publishing accepts a range of mainstream fiction and nonfiction projects, with practical editorial services.
- Suitable for debut novelists and memoirists.
- Emphasizes clear production timelines.
34. Ohio River Press
Ohio River Press publishes regional nonfiction and memoir tied to the Ohio River corridor and its communities.
- Focus on local history and memoirs.
- Appeals to readers interested in regional heritage.
35. Meadowlark Press
Meadowlark Press champions creative fiction and poetry, with attention to author development.
- Small-run titles for literary readers.
- Supports experimental and emerging writers.
36. Elmwood Publishing
Elmwood Publishing maintains a broad catalog that includes children’s books, general nonfiction, and accessible fiction.
- Focus on reader-friendly production and local distribution.
- Works well with community bookstores and events.
37. Kentucky Writers Press
Kentucky Writers Press is an author-forward company offering editorial support across genres with emphasis on local talent.
- Publishes regional fiction, memoirs, and essays.
- Strong community engagement and workshops.
38. Commonwealth Press
Commonwealth Press focuses on academic-adjacent regional nonfiction, cultural essays, and memoirs.
- Publishes thoughtful nonfiction with scholarly appeal.
- Supports authors with research backgrounds.
39. Laurel Mountain Press
Laurel Mountain Press centers Appalachian and mountain-region writing, publishing poetry and narrative nonfiction.
- Strong regional focus and cultural preservation.
- Works with poets and storytellers of the region.
40. Sunrise Publishing
Sunrise Publishing maintains a varied list — from inspirational nonfiction to children’s stories — with practical editorial services.
- Offers hybrid-style packages for mid-career authors.
- Emphasis on readable, market-ready books.
41. Bourbon Press
Bourbon Press draws on Kentucky’s cultural heritage, publishing lifestyle, culinary, and regional nonfiction titles.
- Niche focus on bourbon culture, food, and local lifestyle.
- Produces visually appealing nonfiction.
42. Lexington Literary Press
Lexington Literary Press champions serious literary work, especially poetry and short fiction, with a strong editorial eye.
- Curated list prioritizing craft.
- Engages with local literary communities and readings.
43. Riverbend Press
Riverbend Press publishes works connected to Kentucky’s waterways and local histories, often producing memoir and regional nonfiction.
- Emphasizes place-based narratives.
- Close author collaboration for local projects.
44. Willow Springs Press
Willow Springs Press focuses on literary titles with an emphasis on lyrical prose and short-form fiction.
- Small, artistically curated list.
- Supports debut and mid-career writers alike.
45. Stone Creek Press
Stone Creek Press offers a platform for memoir and creative nonfiction, prioritizing authentic voice and editorial integrity.
- Works with first-time memoirists and essayists.
- Editorial development is a central service.
46. Kentucky Roots Publishing
Kentucky Roots Publishing produces genealogy, family history, and heritage books for local communities and families.
- Niche expertise in genealogy and research publishing.
- Small-batch production for personal histories.
47. Redbird Press
Redbird Press operates as an inclusive small press with fiction, poetry, and nonfiction across diverse themes.
- Encourages voices from underrepresented communities.
- Offers hands-on editorial support.
48. Hilltop Press
Hilltop Press publishes educational and inspirational titles, including resources for teachers and community groups.
- Focus on accessible nonfiction and children’s learning.
- Often partners with local educators.
49. Copper Lantern Press
Copper Lantern Press is a boutique publisher focused on literary nonfiction and regionally inspired fiction.
- Small imprint with careful editorial curation.
- Emphasizes regional identity and literary quality.
50. Eastern Kentucky Press
Eastern Kentucky Press champions Appalachian authors and narratives, emphasizing culture and history.
- Strong commitment to regional voices.
- Publishes memoirs, poetry, and local histories.
51. Magnolia Press
Magnolia Press publishes a broad spectrum of titles with a leaning toward creative nonfiction and memoir.
- Focus on narrative-driven nonfiction and literary prose.
- Provides author-centered editorial guidance.
52. Briarwood Publishing
Briarwood Publishing issues children’s, inspirational, and community-focused nonfiction with approachable production.
- Emphasis on family and educational themes.
- Works well for local-market distribution.
53. Ironwood Press
Ironwood Press supports avant-garde poetry and experimental prose, appealing to niche literary audiences.
- Niche literary market with curated titles.
- Good fit for authors seeking experimental outlets.
54. Rising Sun Press
Rising Sun Press focuses on motivational nonfiction and personal-development titles aimed at broad readerships.
- Supports nonfiction authors with practical marketing advice.
- Targets inspirational and business-adjacent markets.
55. Ashland Press
Ashland Press publishes regional nonfiction with emphasis on memoir, community history, and cultural projects.
- Strong local partnerships and archival focus.
- Works with community authors to preserve stories.
56. Lantern Light Press
Lantern Light Press releases literary works with high editorial standards and small-run production values.
- Prioritizes poetry, essays, and literary fiction.
- Attentive editorial development for authors.
57. Pioneer Press
Pioneer Press is an independent house that embraces debut authors and accessible fiction and nonfiction.
- Focus on author development for first books.
- Encourages community engagement and events.
58. Highlands Press
Highlands Press spotlights regional culture and nonfiction tied to Kentucky’s highland communities.
- Publishes local histories and cultural essays.
- Connects authors with regional readers.
59. Greenleaf Press
Greenleaf Press is a small literary publisher that places emphasis on strong prose and polished editorial work.
- Works with fiction and creative nonfiction authors.
- Known for attentive copyediting and design.
60. Twin Oaks Press
Twin Oaks Press publishes literary and regional titles with a steady cadence of new releases each year.
- Balanced catalog of poetry and prose.
- Supports book launches and readings.
61. Red Clay Press
Red Clay Press centers Appalachian culture and memoir, amplifying voices tied to the region’s heritage.
- Focus on cultural preservation through literature.
- Publishes memoirs, essays, and poetry.
62. Summit Press
Summit Press publishes accessible nonfiction and trade books with an eye toward broad audience appeal.
- Prioritizes market-ready nonfiction and practical guides.
- Works with authors on distribution strategies.
63. Bluegrass Literary Press
Bluegrass Literary Press supports a curated list of poetry and literary fiction with community-oriented promotion.
- Engages local readers and literary events.
- Focus on craft and writer development.
64. Meadow Creek Publishing
Meadow Creek Publishing produces children’s books, memoir, and fiction with attention to story and design.
- Works closely with illustrators for children’s titles.
- Emphasizes readable narratives for regional audiences.
65. Limestone Press
Limestone Press rounds out the list as a respected small press with poetry, essays, and literary fiction in its catalog.
- Known for quality design and careful editorial selection.
- Supports both established and debut authors.
Conclusion
Kentucky’s publishing ecosystem in 2025 is rich and varied: university presses provide scholarly gravitas, small literary houses keep poetic and experimental work alive, regional presses preserve community heritage, and hybrid/ghostwriting services offer practical, turnkey options for authors who want professional support. The 65 publishers listed here represent a cross-section of that diversity. When selecting a press, consider your genre, your goals for distribution and marketing, and the level of editorial and production support you need. Connecting with local literary events, reading recent titles from prospective presses, and understanding submission or service models will help you find the best publishing partner for your book.
Short FAQs
Q: How do I choose between a traditional press and a hybrid/self-publishing option?
A: Choose a traditional press for editorial prestige and distribution; pick hybrid/self-publishing for more control and faster timelines — evaluate costs, rights, and your marketing capacity.
Q: Can small Kentucky presses get my book national exposure?
A: Many small presses have national distribution relationships or can secure wider visibility through targeted marketing and partnerships; university presses especially often have broader reach.
Q: What’s the best first step to approach a Kentucky publisher?
A: Read a press’s submission guidelines, study their recent titles to confirm fit, then prepare a concise query or book proposal tailored to that publisher’s focus.
