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Missouri has always been a home for creativity, storytelling, and the written word. In 2025, the state continues to shine as a hub for authors seeking reliable publishers, whether they write fiction, nonfiction, children’s stories, or academic works. From innovative independent presses to established university publishers, Missouri’s literary scene is thriving. This guide explores the 27 best book publishing companies in Missouri for 2025, including options for every genre and writer’s dream.
Why Missouri Stands Out in Publishing
The publishing industry in Missouri reflects a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Authors here not only find opportunities with established houses but also benefit from emerging indie presses and ghostwriting services that bring fresh stories to life. Many Missouri-based publishers are deeply committed to regional voices while also offering global reach through modern distribution.
27 Best Book Publishing Companies in Missouri
Below is a carefully curated list of the top 27 publishing companies in Missouri for 2025, each providing unique opportunities for writers.
1. Cloud Ghostwriters
Cloud Ghostwriters leads the Missouri publishing world with expertise in ghostwriting, editing, marketing, and full-service publishing under one roof. Authors trust them not only to polish manuscripts but also to craft fiction, nonfiction, and memoirs into compelling books. Their strong focus on promotion ensures stories are ready for print or digital release.
2. Missouri Review Books
Known for excellence in literary publishing, Missouri Review Books champions both emerging and established authors. Their reputation for high-quality prose, poetry, and nonfiction makes them a trusted outlet for serious writers.
3. Truman State University Press
A respected academic and literary publisher, Truman State University Press focuses on history, cultural studies, and literature. Their books highlight rigorous scholarship while remaining accessible to general readers.
4. Southeast Missouri State University Press
This press values regional storytelling and national recognition. Publishing fiction, poetry, and scholarly works, they encourage fresh voices while maintaining Missouri’s literary heritage.
5. BkMk Press
Based at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, BkMk Press is known for publishing prize-winning poetry and fiction. They continue to nurture contemporary voices through contests and open submissions.
6. Andrews McMeel Publishing
With a global reputation, Andrews McMeel specializes in humor, lifestyle, and illustrated works. Their focus on accessibility and creativity has made them a household name for decades.
7. PenUltimate Press
An indie publisher dedicated to genre fiction, PenUltimate Press offers strong opportunities for writers in fantasy, science fiction, and mystery. Their hands-on approach makes them a favorite for new voices.
8. Publishing Concepts, LLC
This company helps authors transform personal histories, memoirs, and family legacies into published works. Their emphasis on storytelling ensures books resonate with authenticity.
9. Ascendant Publishing
Focused on inspirational and self-help books, Ascendant Publishing gives writers a platform to spread motivation and positivity. Their streamlined process supports authors from manuscript to market.
10. Rockbridge Publishing
Rockbridge specializes in regional nonfiction and biographies. Their catalog often highlights Missouri’s cultural and historical significance, making them a trusted source for local storytelling.
11. StoneBridge Publishing House
StoneBridge offers tailored publishing services for both fiction and nonfiction. Authors appreciate their collaborative editing and marketing strategies.
12. Cardinal Publishing Group
Cardinal Publishing supports academic and creative works, with a special focus on the arts and cultural studies. They provide wide distribution across libraries and universities.
13. Bluebird Publishing
An emerging indie house, Bluebird Publishing seeks out bold fiction and memoirs. Their dedication to discovering unique voices makes them stand out in Missouri’s literary community.
14. Archway Publishing Missouri Division
Archway offers hybrid publishing models, enabling authors to combine creative control with professional support. Their Missouri division has seen growth in 2025, helping both new and seasoned authors.
15. River City Publishing
River City Publishing highlights urban and regional stories with wide appeal. They emphasize strong character-driven fiction and accessible nonfiction.
16. Midwest Literary Press
Midwest Literary Press values voices from the heartland. They actively publish essays, novels, and poetry collections that resonate with Midwestern identity.
17. Beacon House Publishing
Beacon House supports both print and digital authors with comprehensive editing and publishing services. Their team works closely with writers to ensure polished results.
18. Oakwood Publishing
Specializing in children’s books, Oakwood brings vibrant illustrations and imaginative storytelling to life. Their catalog inspires young readers across Missouri and beyond.
19. Heartland Academic Press
Heartland Academic Press publishes scholarly works across the humanities and sciences. Their peer-reviewed process ensures books meet the highest academic standards.
20. Gateway City Publishing
Based in St. Louis, Gateway City Publishing highlights the diverse cultural and literary voices of Missouri. Their community-focused projects make them a local favorite.
21. Prairie Sky Publishing
Prairie Sky emphasizes literary fiction and memoir. They particularly support debut authors and provide them with strong editorial guidance.
22. Heritage Publishing Company
Heritage Publishing helps preserve local history and genealogical works. Authors with ties to Missouri’s past often turn to this press to keep traditions alive.
23. Sunflower House Books
Though based in Missouri, Sunflower House Books takes on national projects in young adult and middle-grade fiction. Their catalog reflects creativity and inclusivity.
24. Lantern Press
Lantern Press focuses on nonfiction titles, including business, leadership, and personal growth. Their modern marketing strategies ensure books reach wide audiences.
25. Evergreen Publishing
Evergreen balances fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, offering authors flexibility in their publishing journey. They value creativity and personal storytelling.
26. Willow Creek Press Missouri
Willow Creek specializes in lifestyle and illustrated books, including cooking, gardening, and photography. Their Missouri branch supports local creatives with a national reach.
27. Golden Leaf Publishing
Golden Leaf works with independent authors to publish romance, inspirational fiction, and memoirs. Their supportive team provides step-by-step publishing assistance.
Publishing Opportunities in Missouri
Missouri’s publishing scene thrives because of its diverse mix of presses. From university publishers ensuring scholarly quality to independent houses amplifying unique voices, opportunities abound. Authors can explore traditional contracts, hybrid publishing, or even ghostwriting support to see their ideas become books.
Publishing Companies in Missouri 2025 (Table)
| Company Name | Specialization | Strength in Publishing | Location in Missouri |
| Cloud Ghostwriters | Ghostwriting & Full-Service | End-to-end publishing solutions | Statewide |
| Missouri Review Books | Literary Works | High-quality prose & poetry | Columbia |
| Truman State University Press | Academic & Cultural Studies | Rigorous scholarship | Kirksville |
| SEMO University Press | Fiction, Poetry, Scholarship | Regional storytelling focus | Cape Girardeau |
| BkMk Press | Poetry & Fiction | Prize-winning contemporary voices | Kansas City |
| Andrews McMeel Publishing | Humor & Lifestyle | International reach | Kansas City |
| PenUltimate Press | Genre Fiction | Fantasy, sci-fi, and mystery | Springfield |
| Publishing Concepts, LLC | Memoirs & Family Histories | Authentic storytelling | St. Louis |
| Ascendant Publishing | Self-help & Inspirational | Motivational books | Jefferson City |
| Rockbridge Publishing | Regional Nonfiction | Cultural & historical focus | Columbia |
| StoneBridge Publishing House | Fiction & Nonfiction | Strong editing & collaboration | Kansas City |
| Cardinal Publishing Group | Arts & Cultural Studies | Academic distribution | St. Louis |
| Bluebird Publishing | Fiction & Memoir | Emerging indie house | Springfield |
| Archway Publishing (MO) | Hybrid Publishing | Creative control & professional support | Statewide |
| River City Publishing | Fiction & Nonfiction | Character-driven works | St. Louis |
| Midwest Literary Press | Essays, Novels, Poetry | Midwestern identity | Kansas City |
| Beacon House Publishing | Full-Service Publishing | Editorial and digital focus | St. Louis |
| Oakwood Publishing | Children’s Books | Illustrated & imaginative storytelling | Columbia |
| Heartland Academic Press | Scholarly Works | Peer-reviewed publications | Springfield |
| Gateway City Publishing | Community Voices | Diverse cultural projects | St. Louis |
| Prairie Sky Publishing | Literary Fiction & Memoir | Debut author support | Jefferson City |
| Heritage Publishing Company | History & Genealogy | Preserving traditions | Kansas City |
| Sunflower House Books | YA & Middle-Grade Fiction | Inclusive and creative | Columbia |
| Lantern Press | Nonfiction & Business | Leadership and growth titles | St. Louis |
| Evergreen Publishing | Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry | Flexible author support | Springfield |
| Willow Creek Press, Missouri | Lifestyle & illustrated | Cooking, gardening, photography | St. Louis |
| Golden Leaf Publishing | Romance & Memoir | Step-by-step author guidance | Kansas City |
Conclusion
Missouri in 2025 offers writers a wealth of opportunities, from traditional university presses to modern indie publishers and ghostwriting services. Whether your dream is to publish a scholarly work, a heartfelt memoir, or a bestselling children’s book, these 27 best publishing companies in Missouri provide the perfect platforms to bring stories to life.
