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The publishing industry in Iowa has been quietly but steadily growing, offering writers a variety of platforms to bring their stories, research, and creative works to readers. From ghostwriting services to independent presses and university-backed publishers, Iowa presents a balanced mix of tradition and innovation. This guide highlights the Top 30 Book Publishing Companies in Iowa for 2025, starting with CloudGhostWriting, and provides insights into their unique strengths, publishing trends, and opportunities for authors.
Publishing Trends in Iowa 2025
The year 2025 is shaping up to be a transformative time for Iowa’s publishing scene. Several key trends stand out:
- Hybrid Publishing Models – Authors are increasingly seeking publishers that combine traditional editing with modern digital marketing.
- Rise of Ghostwriting Services – Companies like CloudGhostWriting are giving busy professionals and new writers the chance to publish books without having to draft every word themselves.
- Focus on Regional Voices – Iowa publishers are paying more attention to Midwestern culture, farming stories, small-town narratives, and nonfiction tied to community history.
- Digital and Print Balance – While eBooks are growing, print books remain strong in Iowa, particularly in educational and literary genres.
- Sustainability in Printing – Eco-friendly printing and recycled materials are gaining traction, making publishers more mindful of their environmental footprint.
Top 30 Book Publishing Companies in Iowa 2025
1. CloudGhostWriting
CloudGhostWriting leads Iowa’s publishing scene in 2025. Known for its ghostwriting expertise, it helps authors create books across genres like business, memoir, self-help, and children’s literature. Its hybrid model blends writing, editing, design, and publishing seamlessly. With strong marketing campaigns, branding strategies, and wide distribution, CloudGhostWriting ensures authors not only publish professionally but also reach their ideal readers.
2. Prairie Lights Press
Prairie Lights Press draws inspiration from Iowa’s rich literary tradition. Specializing in poetry, literary fiction, and regional stories, the press has built strong connections with local bookstores and libraries. Writers who want to highlight Midwestern identity find a welcoming platform here. The publisher is also known for supporting emerging poets, hosting workshops, and actively engaging in Iowa’s literary festivals.
3. Hawkeye Publishing
Hawkeye Publishing has carved a niche in children’s literature. Known for its vibrant illustrations and age-appropriate storytelling, it publishes books that spark curiosity and imagination. Parents and educators appreciate the publisher’s focus on values, education, and fun. In 2025, Hawkeye continues to expand into bilingual titles, making stories more inclusive for Iowa’s growing multicultural communities.
4. Cedar River Press
Cedar River Press is a well-respected name in Iowa’s historical and memoir publishing scene. With a reputation for capturing the stories of communities, farmers, and small-town life, it brings local voices to the forefront. Authors appreciate the press’s careful editing and dedication to preserving regional history. Their catalog reflects a mix of nostalgia and modern-day storytelling.
5. Midwest Academic Press
Midwest Academic Press plays an essential role in scholarly publishing across Iowa. Focused on research, higher education, and technical fields, the company supports academics and professionals aiming for peer-reviewed publication. Its partnership with universities and academic networks ensures wide distribution. In 2025, it continues to push into digital publishing for faster, broader access to knowledge.
6. StoryBarn Publishing
StoryBarn Publishing specializes in young adult fiction, capturing themes of identity, friendship, and adventure. The press connects with teen readers through both print and eBook releases, using fresh cover designs and marketing strategies. Authors value StoryBarn’s editorial support and innovative promotional methods. With YA fiction booming, the company has become a go-to choice for aspiring writers in the genre.
7. Des Moines Bookworks
Des Moines Bookworks focuses on nonfiction and biographies, offering polished and professional books that showcase real-life stories. It caters to authors who want to highlight achievements, business journeys, or personal memoirs. The publisher’s editorial team is skilled at shaping narratives while maintaining authenticity. Their publications often become popular at local libraries and business conferences.
8. Riverbend Publishing
Riverbend Publishing stands out for its focus on environmental nonfiction and conservation themes. Known for blending storytelling with ecological awareness, the press appeals to activists, educators, and researchers. In 2025, its portfolio includes books on sustainable farming, climate action, and outdoor exploration. With eco-conscious values, Riverbend also leads in using sustainable printing practices.
9. Golden Corn Press
Golden Corn Press celebrates Iowa’s agricultural heritage through books that focus on farming, food, and rural life. The publisher specializes in nonfiction titles that document farming innovations, recipes, and lifestyle stories tied to the land. With agriculture central to Iowa’s culture, the press plays an important role in preserving and sharing farming narratives for both local and global audiences.
10. Iowa Heartland Books
Iowa Heartland Books is dedicated to fiction that captures everyday family life and community values. With a catalog filled with heartwarming novels and relatable stories, the publisher attracts readers looking for comfort and connection. Authors appreciate the supportive editorial team, which helps refine stories while staying true to the author’s voice. The press continues to thrive in small-town and regional fiction
11. Bluegrass Publishing House
Bluegrass Publishing House offers a home for contemporary fiction and essays. Known for its strong editorial guidance, it works closely with authors to create polished, market-ready books. The company emphasizes originality, giving voice to fresh perspectives. In 2025, it continues expanding digital distribution, ensuring Iowa writers gain visibility beyond the state, while keeping local identity alive in its storytelling.
12. Silver Maple Press
Silver Maple Press has a reputation for quality nonfiction, particularly in travel, lifestyle, and cultural commentary. Authors admire the detailed editing process and the publisher’s keen sense of design. With a modern approach, it balances digital and print editions seamlessly. In 2025, Silver Maple is focused on supporting mid-career authors who want to expand their reach through creative publishing models.
13. Cornfield Literary Works
Cornfield Literary Works highlights the voices of Midwestern authors. Specializing in poetry and short fiction, the press aims to capture the simplicity and depth of rural life. Its anthologies have become popular in Iowa classrooms and community centers. By 2025, the publisher continues to build a network of literary events that connect authors and readers through storytelling rooted in place.
14. Driftwood Books
Driftwood Books stands out for publishing contemporary romance and women’s fiction. It creates stories that are heartfelt, engaging, and often set against small-town backdrops. The authors value its supportive editorial staff, who help refine emotional narratives while keeping them authentic. In 2025, Driftwood expands its marketing with podcast appearances, book club partnerships, and interactive online campaigns to engage loyal readers.
15. Cedar Valley Publishing
Cedar Valley Publishing has established itself as a children’s book powerhouse. Its illustrated picture books and early chapter books are widely read in schools across Iowa. Teachers admire the way its stories blend fun with important life lessons. In 2025, the publisher is investing more in digital learning tools, making interactive reading experiences accessible to classrooms statewide.
16. Fieldstone Academic Press
Fieldstone Academic Press is trusted for its scholarly and educational publications. A catalog ranging from textbooks to research monographs, it provides academic content across multiple disciplines. Authors appreciate the professional peer-review process and attention to accuracy. In 2025, Fieldstone expands its digital offerings, making research widely available through online platforms for students and academics worldwide.
17. Sunflower Story Press
Sunflower Story Press celebrates inspirational and motivational works. It specializes in personal growth, spirituality, and wellness titles that encourage readers to live with purpose. Authors admire its uplifting editorial style and engaging cover designs. In 2025, the publisher strengthens its online community, hosting virtual events and workshops to help authors connect directly with readers in meaningful ways.
18. Red Barn Press
Red Barn Press is well-loved for publishing cozy mysteries and regional fiction. Its catalog often features charming settings, engaging characters, and captivating storylines that highlight the Midwest. Authors value the collaborative editing process and personalized guidance. In 2025, Red Barn continues to focus on building loyal readership by partnering with book clubs and launching serialized mystery collections.
19. Heritage House Publishing
Heritage House Publishing specializes in genealogy books, memoirs, and family history projects. Authors who want to preserve their legacy turn to this press for its personalized publishing process. Its editorial team ensures accuracy and professional presentation. In 2025, Heritage House gains popularity among younger readers interested in connecting with their roots, offering hybrid digital and print family history editions.
20. Prairie Rose Press
Prairie Rose Press thrives in the romance and historical fiction genres. Known for sweeping storylines and strong character development, its titles appeal to readers across the Midwest. Authors enjoy the creative freedom the press offers while still receiving strong editorial guidance. In 2025, Prairie Rose expands into audiobooks, reaching new audiences who enjoy listening to heartfelt stories on the go.
21. Tallgrass Publishing
Tallgrass Publishing embraces independent authors and experimental voices. It accepts unconventional manuscripts that larger houses might overlook, giving emerging writers a chance to shine. With a focus on artistic freedom, the press has gained recognition in creative circles. In 2025, Tallgrass continues building a reputation for risk-taking, offering both print-on-demand and limited-edition runs for unique projects.
22. Horizon View Press
Horizon View Press publishes nonfiction centered on business, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Professionals turn to this press to establish authority and expand their brand through books. Its hybrid publishing model combines traditional editing with modern marketing strategies. In 2025, Horizon View is particularly strong in helping authors create thought leadership books that align with their professional speaking careers.
23. Maple Leaf Books
Maple Leaf Books specializes in cultural nonfiction and memoirs. Authors who want to tell personal stories with universal appeal find a home here. Its editors are known for their sensitivity and skill in shaping emotional narratives. In 2025, Maple Leaf expands its catalog to include translated works, bridging cultural divides and introducing global stories to Iowa readers.
24. Meadowlark Press
Meadowlark Press has built its name on publishing collections of essays, regional anthologies, and literary nonfiction. With an emphasis on craft, it attracts serious writers who want their work showcased in well-designed volumes. In 2025, Meadowlark deepens its connections with universities, offering student internships and creative writing collaborations that enhance both the press’s visibility and community engagement.
25. Walnut Grove Publishing
Walnut Grove Publishing focuses on faith-based literature, including devotionals, spiritual guides, and family-friendly fiction. Authors who want to share uplifting messages find strong support here. Its editorial team works closely with writers to balance accessibility with depth. In 2025, Walnut Grove strengthens its presence through podcasts, webinars, and online church partnerships that expand readership beyond Iowa.
26. Silver Prairie Press
Silver Prairie Press is a small but impactful publisher of speculative fiction, particularly science fiction and fantasy. Known for imaginative world-building, it attracts authors eager to push boundaries. In 2025, Silver Prairie launches a new anthology series showcasing Iowa-based speculative writers, positioning itself as a hub for creative, futuristic storytelling that resonates with younger and niche audiences.
27. Great Plains Academic Books
Great Plains Academic Books is dedicated to higher education publishing. It specializes in textbooks, research collections, and reference guides. With a commitment to academic excellence, it supports professors and researchers across Iowa. In 2025, the press expands its digital distribution partnerships, ensuring students can access affordable and high-quality educational resources across multiple formats.
28. Wildflower Literary Press
Wildflower Literary Press celebrates diverse voices, particularly women and underrepresented authors. Its catalog includes poetry, essays, and short fiction collections. Authors appreciate the supportive and inclusive atmosphere, which allows them to share authentic narratives. In 2025, Wildflower strengthens its community presence through writing workshops, open mic events, and partnerships with local art organizations.
29. Rolling Hills Publishing
Rolling Hills Publishing is known for producing practical nonfiction, including guides on farming, rural development, and community building. Its mission is to share knowledge that improves daily life in Iowa communities. Authors enjoy its straightforward approach and wide distribution networks. In 2025, the press gains attention for eco-friendly titles focusing on regenerative farming and sustainable living.
30. Sunrise Book Press
Sunrise Book Press concludes the list with its strong emphasis on inspirational fiction and memoirs. It publishes uplifting stories that explore resilience, hope, and human connection. Authors value the publisher’s supportive process and marketing assistance. In 2025, Sunrise Book Press grows its catalog with audiobooks and online book club partnerships, ensuring its titles reach broader, diverse audiences.
Iowa Publishing Industry Overview Table
| Category | Strength in Iowa 2025 | Examples of Publishers |
|---|---|---|
| Ghostwriting & Hybrid | Full-service author solutions | CloudGhostWriting, Horizon View Press |
| Children’s Literature | Picture books, bilingual titles, and education | Hawkeye Publishing, Cedar Valley Publishing |
| Academic Publishing | Research, textbooks, scholarly works | Midwest Academic Press, Great Plains Academic Books |
| Regional Literature | Local history, memoirs, farming stories | Cedar River Press, Golden Corn Press |
| Fiction & Poetry | YA, romance, literary works | StoryBarn Publishing, Prairie Lights Press |
| Niche & Experimental | Speculative, diverse voices, faith-based books | Silver Prairie Press, Wildflower Literary Press |
FAQs About Book Publishing in Iowa
Q1. Is Iowa a good place for authors to publish their books?
Yes, Iowa has a thriving literary culture, with a mix of traditional presses, academic publishers, and hybrid companies that give authors flexible options.
Q2. Which Iowa publishers are best for children’s authors?
Hawkeye Publishing and Cedar Valley Publishing stand out for their strong focus on illustrated children’s books and early education titles.
Q3. Can authors find ghostwriting services in Iowa?
Absolutely. CloudGhostWriting is a leader in ghostwriting and publishing services, offering complete packages for authors who want professional support.
Q4. Do Iowa publishers accept self-published authors?
Yes, several hybrid publishers like StoryBarn Publishing and Horizon View Press welcome self-published authors looking for expanded distribution and professional editing.
Q5. Are Iowa publishers open to diverse genres?
Yes, from speculative fiction at Silver Prairie Press to faith-based books at Walnut Grove Publishing, Iowa publishers support a wide range of genres.
Conclusion
The publishing landscape in Iowa in 2025 is both dynamic and diverse. From the innovative ghostwriting services of CloudGhostWriting to the academic depth of Midwest Academic Press and the community-driven storytelling of Cedar River Press, Iowa’s publishers provide opportunities for every kind of writer. Authors seeking to share their voice—whether in fiction, nonfiction, or academic work—will find Iowa a welcoming hub where tradition and modern publishing trends meet.
