Top 38 Book Publishing Companies in Maine – 2025 Expert Guide

Maine’s literary landscape is as diverse as its rugged coastlines. From small-town independent presses to professional ghostwriting firms, the Pine Tree State offers a wealth of opportunities for authors, memoirists, and storytellers. Whether you’re aiming to publish a regional masterpiece or a nationwide bestseller, the following 38 publishing companies in Maine can guide your journey from manuscript to market.

In this guide, we’ll explore each company’s specialties, highlight their unique services, and share insights on why they stand out in Maine’s publishing ecosystem.

Table of Contents

1.    Bestseller Ghostwriting – Crafting Your Next Bestseller

If your goal is to hit the charts, Bestseller Ghostwriting is a premier partner. Their team transforms ideas into fully realized books while maintaining your unique voice. Beyond ghostwriting, they offer editorial support, marketing strategies, and publication guidance—essential tools for authors aiming for impact.

Key Highlights:

Explore their success stories on Bestseller Ghostwriting.

2.    Book Writing Inc. – Comprehensive Author Support

Book Writing Inc. provides an end-to-end publishing solution, perfect for both debut and seasoned authors. Their services cover:

  • Ghostwriting tailored to your voice
  • Professional editing and cover design
  • Marketing strategy and book promotion

By offering a hands-on approach, Book Writing Inc. ensures each author feels supported throughout the publishing process.

3.    Maine Authors Publishing & Cooperative – Local Authors’ Hub

Situated in Thomaston, Maine Authors Publishing & Cooperative empowers independent authors to retain creative control while accessing professional publishing services. Their cooperative model encourages collaboration among Maine writers.

What They Offer:

  • Affordable editing and design
  • Local distribution channels
  • Marketing resources tailored for regional audiences

4.    Islandport Press – Celebrating Maine’s Stories

Specializing in New England-focused publications, Islandport Press is based in Yarmouth. Their portfolio spans biographies, historical works, and regional culture books, making them a go-to publisher for Maine-centric narratives.

5.    Sea Street Publishing – Personalized Publishing for Local Voices

This Camden-based, family-run publisher prides itself on offering a personal touch for every author. Services include:

  • Full-service publishing and printing
  • Public relations support
  • Regional marketing campaigns

Their intimate approach ensures every book is treated with care and attention.

6.    Littoral Books – Nurturing Literary Talent

Littoral Books focuses on poetry, fiction, and non-fiction, prioritizing artistic expression and literary quality. Ideal for authors seeking an outlet that values creativity alongside professionalism.

7.    Common Courage Press – Voices for Change

Based in Monroe, Common Courage Press emphasizes social justice and progressive ideas. Their mission is to give authors a platform to share meaningful, change-driven content.

8.    Bauhan Publishing – Crafting Quality Literature

Bauhan Publishing combines years of experience with personalized service, providing comprehensive support from manuscript review to marketing. They excel at blending artistry and business strategy for every author.

9.    The Anthoensen Press – Maine’s Historic Legacy

Though it ceased operations in 1987, The Anthoensen Press left an indelible mark on Maine’s publishing history. Its legacy continues to influence regional publishing standards and practices.

10. Graham Publishing Group – Expert Ghostwriting & Publishing

Near Portland, Graham Publishing Group has assisted hundreds of authors in publishing memoirs, novels, business books, and inspirational works. Their 22+ years of experience ensures a professional and reliable publishing journey.

11. Maine Woods Editing – Precision Editing for Authors

For writers who want a manuscript polished to perfection, Maine Woods Editing offers meticulous proofreading and copyediting services. Their team ensures your story is error-free, coherent, and ready for publication, while preserving your authentic voice.

Services Include:

  • Line editing and copyediting
  • Manuscript proofreading
  • Guidance on narrative flow and clarity

12. Cider Mill Press – Specialty & Niche Publishing

Although not based exclusively in Maine, Cider Mill Press has a strong influence on authors looking to publish cookbooks, humor books, and children’s literature. Their high-quality design and distribution services help authors create visually appealing, market-ready books.

Highlights:

  • Cookbook and specialty book publishing
  • Creative book design
  • Distribution support for niche markets

13. Midcoast Villager – Community-Centered Publishing

Midcoast Villager, serving Knox and Waldo counties, is a weekly newspaper that provides opportunities for local authors to contribute stories and articles. Operating under Islandport Media, it maintains strong ties to Maine’s literary community.

Why It Stands Out:

  • Local focus and community engagement
  • Opportunities for serialized storytelling
  • Collaboration with regional writers

14. Reedsy – Professional Publishing Marketplace

While not a traditional publisher, Reedsy connects authors with vetted professionals for editing, design, and marketing. Reedsy is ideal for authors who prefer a tailored team approach without committing to a full-service publisher.

Key Features:

  • Access to experienced editors and designers
  • Transparent pricing and project management
  • Customizable support for any stage of publication

15. Upwork – Freelance Publishing Support

Upwork provides a flexible platform to hire freelance editors, ghostwriters, and designers. Authors can build a custom publishing team to fit their needs and budget.

Advantages:

  • Wide range of freelance talent
  • Flexible pricing and contracts
  • Supports both traditional and self-publishing projects

16. Fiverr – Affordable Freelance Assistance

Fiverr offers authors cost-effective access to freelance writers, editors, and book designers. It’s perfect for authors experimenting with self-publishing or supplementing their existing publishing team.

Why Authors Use Fiverr:

  • Affordable services starting from $5
  • Diverse skill sets including cover design and copyediting
  • Fast turnaround options

17. Freelancer.com – Global Talent Pool

Freelancer.com connects authors with professionals worldwide for writing, editing, illustration, and book formatting. It’s ideal for authors looking for specialized expertise beyond Maine.

Services Include:

  • Ghostwriting and editing
  • Illustration and formatting
  • Flexible freelance arrangements

18. Scribendi – Expert Editing Services

For meticulous editing and professional manuscript refinement, Scribendi offers online services for authors at every stage. Their editors focus on clarity, grammar, and narrative flow.

Highlights:

  • Proofreading and copyediting
  • Manuscript critique and structural editing
  • Quick turnaround options for urgent projects

19. BookBaby – Self-Publishing Made Simple

BookBaby empowers authors to self-publish with ease. From eBook formatting to global distribution, they provide comprehensive tools for independent authors seeking professional results.

Services:

  • Editing, design, and printing
  • Distribution to online retailers
  • Marketing resources and guidance

20. IngramSpark – Global Distribution Power

IngramSpark is a self-publishing platform with wide-reaching distribution, making it a top choice for authors looking to get their books into bookstores and libraries worldwide.

Why Choose IngramSpark:

  • Print-on-demand services
  • Global retail distribution
  • Support for both print and digital formats

21. Lulu – Empowering Independent Authors

Lulu is a popular self-publishing platform that allows authors to create, print, and sell books online. With its print-on-demand technology, Lulu is ideal for writers who want control over design, distribution, and pricing.

Key Features:

  • Print-on-demand services for global distribution
  • Flexible author control over formatting and pricing
  • Resources for marketing and book promotion

22. Blurb – Visual Storytelling Made Easy

Blurb specializes in visually-driven books such as photo books, art portfolios, and creative publications. Authors can use intuitive design tools to bring their projects to life with professional-quality printing.

Highlights:

  • Customizable book design tools
  • High-quality print options for photography and art books
  • Distribution to online retailers and marketplaces

23. CreateSpace – Amazon’s Publishing Solution

Now integrated with Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, CreateSpace offers a seamless route to self-publishing print books and eBooks. It provides global reach and direct access to Amazon’s marketplace.

Why Authors Choose CreateSpace:

  • Print-on-demand service with no upfront inventory costs
  • Integration with Amazon for global exposure
  • Tools for marketing and sales tracking

24. Smashwords – EBook Distribution Made Simple

Smashwords is an eBook publishing platform that allows authors to distribute digital books to multiple retailers, including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo. It’s perfect for writers focusing on digital-first strategies.

Features:

  • Wide digital distribution network
  • Flexible pricing options for authors
  • Easy formatting tools for multiple eBook formats

25. Draft2Digital – Streamlined EBook Publishing

Draft2Digital offers a professional platform for eBook creation and distribution. Its user-friendly tools simplify the publishing process while ensuring your work reaches readers across multiple platforms.

Highlights:

  • Easy-to-use eBook formatting and conversion
  • Wide digital distribution
  • Helpful author dashboard for tracking sales

26. Booktango – Free Self-Publishing

Booktango allows authors to publish eBooks for free, with flexible royalty options. It’s a good choice for new authors experimenting with digital publishing.

Key Services:

  • Free eBook publishing platform
  • Simple upload and formatting process
  • Global distribution to major retailers

27. PublishDrive – Global eBook Reach

PublishDrive helps authors publish and distribute eBooks internationally, offering tools to manage pricing, sales, and royalties across multiple platforms.

Why Authors Like PublishDrive:

  • Wide-reaching distribution network
  • Multilingual support for international markets
  • Analytics to track sales performance

28. StreetLib – Digital and Audiobook Publishing

StreetLib provides services for eBooks and audiobooks, making it ideal for authors exploring multiple media formats. Their platform supports global distribution and royalty management.

Services Include:

  • eBook and audiobook publishing
  • Global distribution channels
  • Author-friendly royalty management

29. PublishAmerica – Traditional & Hybrid Publishing

PublishAmerica combines aspects of traditional and hybrid publishing. They guide authors through editing, design, and distribution, supporting both print and digital book formats.

Features:

  • Full-service publishing options
  • Support for traditional and hybrid models
  • Marketing and promotional guidance

30. Archway Publishing – Strength from Simon & Schuster

Archway Publishing, a division of Simon & Schuster, provides authors with the resources of a large publishing house while allowing them to retain creative control.

Why Authors Choose Archway:

  • Experienced publishing professionals
  • Customizable publishing packages
  • National and international distribution networks

31. Page Publishing – Streamlined Self-Publishing

Page Publishing is a self-publishing platform that supports authors in bringing their books to market quickly. From editing and cover design to distribution, they simplify the publishing journey.

Key Features:

  • Full-service publishing support
  • Editing, design, and marketing services
  • Distribution through online retailers

32. Tate Publishing & Enterprises – Experienced Hybrid Publishing

Tate Publishing offers hybrid solutions, combining traditional publishing support with self-publishing flexibility. They provide hands-on assistance for authors looking to reach wider audiences.

Highlights:

  • Editing and proofreading services
  • Distribution and marketing support
  • Guidance for both print and digital formats

33. AuthorHouse – Trusted Self-Publishing Partner

AuthorHouse has helped thousands of authors publish both print and digital books. Their experience ensures that manuscripts are professionally edited, designed, and marketed.

Services Include:

  • Editing, formatting, and cover design
  • Print and eBook publishing
  • Marketing and promotion assistance

34. iUniverse – Comprehensive Author Services

iUniverse is known for its wide range of publishing packages, providing authors with everything from editorial support to global distribution. They cater to both first-time and experienced authors.

Why Authors Choose iUniverse:

  • Flexible publishing packages
  • Professional editing and design
  • Access to online retailers worldwide

35. Balboa Press – Focused on Self-Improvement & Spirituality

Balboa Press specializes in self-help, spirituality, and motivational titles. Their team guides authors from manuscript development to polished publication.

Highlights:

  • Editing and design tailored to self-help and motivational genres
  • Marketing and distribution support
  • Author-focused guidance

36. Xlibris – Flexible Self-Publishing Solutions

Xlibris provides self-publishing packages designed to meet authors’ unique needs, from manuscript preparation to distribution. They have helped thousands of authors get their books into print.

Key Services:

  • Professional editing and design
  • Print-on-demand and eBook publishing
  • Marketing and distribution guidance

37. Dog Ear Publishing – Independent & Author-Friendly

Dog Ear Publishing focuses on empowering independent authors with affordable publishing options, while maintaining professional quality.

Why It Stands Out:

  • Flexible print-on-demand solutions
  • Personalized support throughout the publishing process
  • Author retains creative control

38. Archway Publishing – Simon & Schuster’s Author Platform

Rounding out our list, Archway Publishing (a Simon & Schuster division) offers the expertise of a large publishing house with the personalized support of a self-publishing platform. They provide authors with guidance, editing, design, and distribution resources.

Services Include:

  • Professional editing and design
  • National and international distribution
  • Comprehensive marketing support

Conclusion

Maine offers an impressive range of publishing options for authors, from boutique local presses to globally connected self-publishing platforms. Whether you aim to:

  • Publish a regional story with Islandport Press,
  • Transform your idea into a bestseller with Bestseller Ghostwriting, or
  • Self-publish efficiently through platforms like IngramSpark or Lulu,

…there’s a solution tailored to your goals.

Expert Tips for Success:

  1. Define your publishing goals: regional influence, niche market, or national reach.
  2. Evaluate services: editing, design, marketing, and distribution are essential.
  3. Consider experience: established companies offer guidance through common pitfalls.
  4. Retain creative control: find a balance between professional input and authorial freedom.
  5. Research testimonials: past success stories highlight reliability and results.

By understanding your needs and exploring Maine’s diverse publishing landscape, you can find the perfect partner to bring your story to life. Whether your book is a memoir, a historical narrative, or a business guide, Maine’s publishers are equipped to help you succeed in 2025 and beyond.

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