North Carolina is home to a thriving literary culture, with a wide array of publishing houses that cater to both emerging and established authors. From traditional publishing firms to independent presses and hybrid models, the state provides countless opportunities for writers to share their work with the world. Whether you’re interested in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, academic writing, or
1. The Legacy Ghostwriters
The Legacy Ghostwriter has built a strong reputation in the publishing industry for helping authors transform their ideas into professionally written, edited, and published books. Known for its versatility, it works across genres including memoirs, business books, novels, and self-help titles.
Key Highlights:
- Full-service ghostwriting and editing support
- Tailored publishing strategies for each author
- Guidance from manuscript creation to publication
2. Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill
A prestigious imprint originally based in Chapel Hill, Algonquin Books is known for publishing literary fiction and creative nonfiction that stand out for their narrative depth and quality.
Key Highlights:
- Award-winning literary works
- Focus on Southern voices and unique storytelling
- Strong national distribution network
3. Press 53
Based in Winston-Salem, Press 53 specializes in short stories and poetry collections. The company is celebrated for promoting emerging voices and maintaining high editorial standards.
Key Highlights:
- Dedicated to short fiction and poetry
- Hosts annual writing contests
- Strong author–publisher collaboration
4. Blair Publisher
Located in Durham, Blair Publisher focuses on publishing diverse voices, particularly those from the American South. It offers an inclusive approach to storytelling that spans memoirs, fiction, and history.
Key Highlights:
- Southern literature and culture
- Diverse and inclusive authorship
- Regional and national distribution
5. Main Street Rag Publishing Company
Based in Charlotte, Main Street Rag is known for its literary magazine and book publishing division. It supports poets, novelists, and short-story writers with a commitment to literary quality.
Key Highlights:
- Publishes poetry, fiction, and essays
- Affordable print runs for authors
- Active literary magazine community
6. John F. Blair, Publisher
A respected name in North Carolina publishing, John F. Blair, Publisher, has a long history of producing books that explore Southern life, travel, and biography.
Key Highlights:
- Regional history and nonfiction
- Strong editorial and design quality
- Books with cultural and educational value
7. Bright Mountain Books
Operating from Asheville, Bright Mountain Books publishes titles that celebrate Appalachian heritage, natural history, and local storytelling traditions.
Key Highlights:
- Appalachian culture and history
- Nature and environmental topics
- Family-friendly literature
8. McFarland & Company, Inc.
Based in Jefferson, McFarland is one of the most prominent academic and nonfiction publishers in North Carolina, known for scholarly works across humanities and pop culture.
Key Highlights:
- Academic and reference publishing
- Global author base
- High-quality academic standards
9. Redhawk Publications
An imprint of Catawba Valley Community College, Redhawk Publications publishes literary works, educational materials, and local history.
Key Highlights:
- Poetry and fiction
- Regional nonfiction and history
- Community-focused initiatives
10. Warren Publishing
Located in Charlotte, Warren Publishing offers both traditional and hybrid publishing services, helping authors across genres bring their books to life.
Key Highlights:
- Professional editing and marketing
- Hybrid publishing model
- Focus on author education and branding
11. Pisgah Press
Asheville’s Pisgah Press publishes thought-provoking nonfiction, memoirs, and poetry collections that reflect human experience and regional culture.
Key Highlights:
- Small press approach
- Personal editorial attention
- Focus on high-quality design and printing
12. Lystra Literary Services
Headquartered in Chapel Hill, Lystra offers book production, editing, and publishing consultation to authors across genres.
Key Highlights:
- Editing and layout design
- Literary and nonfiction works
- Strong author collaboration
13. Down Home Press
Known for books about North Carolina’s culture and cuisine, Down Home Press produces titles that reflect local flavor and community spirit.
Key Highlights:
- Cookbooks and local history
- Southern culture and storytelling
- Rich visual design
14. Apprentice House Press (North Carolina Branch)
While originally based in Baltimore, this press maintains a partnership with North Carolina-based editors who focus on student and emerging authors.
Key Highlights:
- Academic and student publishing
- Contemporary fiction and essays
- Mentorship-based publishing model
15. Regal House Publishing
Located in Raleigh, Regal House Publishing supports literary fiction, memoirs, and poetry that combine creativity with meaningful insight.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse catalog of genres
- Literary contests and awards
- Emphasis on emerging voices
16. Mint Hill Books
A small but reputable press in Charlotte, Mint Hill Books focuses on historical fiction, memoirs, and local-interest stories.
Key Highlights:
- Historical storytelling
- Family memoirs
- Personalized publishing process
17. Crooked Letter Press
Specializing in Southern Gothic and literary fiction, Crooked Letter Press offers a platform for bold and experimental writers.
Key Highlights:
- Southern literature and mystery
- Limited edition print runs
- Independent publishing ethos
18. Old North Press
Operating from Durham, Old North Press publishes works centered on North Carolina’s culture, heritage, and people.
Key Highlights:
- Nonfiction and local history
- Photobooks and memoirs
- Art and photography collaborations
19. University of North Carolina Press
One of the nation’s most prestigious academic publishers, UNC Press publishes scholarly and trade titles that highlight history, culture, and social issues.
Key Highlights:
- Academic research
- History and cultural studies
- Southern literature
20. Duke University Press
Renowned worldwide, Duke University Press publishes academic and intellectual works in humanities, social sciences, and cultural theory.
Key Highlights:
- Scholarly publishing leader
- International reach
- Innovative digital content
21. Black Mountain Press
Based in Asheville, this press publishes poetry, fiction, and essays, emphasizing creativity and literary experimentation.
Key Highlights:
- Literary contests and anthologies
- Support for emerging poets
- Independent editorial approach
22. Lookout Books
An imprint of UNC Wilmington, Lookout Books focuses on emerging authors and distinctive literary voices.
Key Highlights:
- Nationally recognized imprint
- Fiction and creative nonfiction
- Partnership with UNCW’s MFA program
23. 67 Press
Located in Raleigh, 67 Press is dedicated to publishing independent poetry and literary fiction by new voices.
Key Highlights:
- Limited print runs
- Experimental literature
- Small press collaboration
24. Asheville Poetry Review Press
Connected to the Asheville Poetry Review, this press publishes full-length poetry collections by local and national poets.
Key Highlights:
- Contemporary poetry
- Anthologies and chapbooks
- Literary community involvement
25. Lune Spark Books
Based in Cary, Lune Spark promotes creativity in children and young adult literature, blending imagination with moral lessons.
Key Highlights:
- Children’s stories and YA fiction
- Educational value
- Inclusive authorship
26. Bright Leaf Press
Bright Leaf Press in Raleigh publishes fiction and nonfiction that highlights Southern experiences and modern storytelling.
Key Highlights:
- Modern Southern fiction
- Narrative-driven nonfiction
- Emerging author support
27. Story River Press
With a focus on literary fiction and memoirs, Story River Press aims to publish emotionally resonant, well-crafted narratives.
Key Highlights:
- Literary realism
- Author development programs
- Reader-centered marketing
28. Dogwood Press
A small North Carolina press known for nature writing, poetry, and environmental themes.
Key Highlights:
- Nature-focused literature
- Illustrated works
- Community engagement
29. Old Well Press
Operating in Chapel Hill, Old Well Press emphasizes academic nonfiction, biographies, and historical analyses.
Key Highlights:
- Scholarly and cultural topics
- Historical essays
- Academic partnerships
30. Tar Heel Press
Known for regional fiction and local-interest nonfiction, Tar Heel Press promotes works celebrating the North Carolina spirit.
Key Highlights:
- Local authors
- Southern storytelling
- Folklore and history
31. MoonShine Cove Publishing
Located in Hendersonville, MoonShine Cove specializes in literary fiction, thrillers, and memoirs with distinctive voices.
Key Highlights:
- Print and eBook publishing
- Accessible submission policy
- National distribution
32. Grateful Steps Publishing
Asheville-based Grateful Steps publishes spiritual, inspirational, and family-centered books.
Key Highlights:
- Faith and personal growth
- Community publishing projects
- Editing and mentoring services
33. Pisgah Literary Press
Focuses on contemporary literature, poetry, and reflective nonfiction that captures Appalachian life.
Key Highlights:
- Regional poetry
- Cultural preservation
- Small-run editions
34. Blue Ink Press
Based in Greensboro, Blue Ink Press publishes young adult, middle-grade, and adult fiction with engaging plots.
Key Highlights:
- Author-focused approach
- YA and adventure genres
- High-quality book design
35. Firefly Southern Fiction
Charlotte-based publisher that emphasizes strong female voices and Southern storytelling traditions.
Key Highlights:
- Women’s fiction
- Southern culture
- Literary realism
36. VanderWyk & Burnham
Publishes nonfiction books in education, business, and self-improvement, focusing on practical knowledge and clarity.
Key Highlights:
- Educational resources
- Business and leadership topics
- High editorial standards
37. Asheville Historical Press
Publishes works that document and preserve Western North Carolina’s cultural and historical heritage.
Key Highlights:
- Local history and genealogy
- Illustrated nonfiction
- Cultural storytelling
38. Red Clay Press
Specializes in literary fiction, poetry, and essays reflecting the Southern experience.
Key Highlights:
- Modern literary voices
- Southern identity
- Anthology publishing
39. Hilltop Press
Publishes contemporary fiction and nonfiction with a focus on social change and innovation.
Key Highlights:
- Social justice themes
- Diverse authorship
- Hybrid publishing options
40. Lake Norman Publishing
Publishes fiction, memoirs, and local-interest books celebrating community stories.
Key Highlights:
- Regional writers
- Creative nonfiction
- Family-oriented titles
41. Blue Ridge Books & Publishing
Located in Waynesville, Blue Ridge Books & Publishing focuses on local authors and stories rooted in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Their catalog includes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry celebrating regional heritage.
Key Highlights:
- Appalachian storytelling
- Historical and cultural themes
- Community-centered publishing
42. Greenleaf Book Group (North Carolina Division)
While headquartered in Texas, Greenleaf’s North Carolina division assists local authors through a hybrid publishing model, providing comprehensive editorial and distribution services.
Key Highlights:
- Hybrid publishing flexibility
- National distribution channels
- Strong author support programs
43. Catawba Publishing Company
Located in Charlotte, Catawba Publishing specializes in self-publishing assistance for independent authors. They provide editing, design, and distribution under a supportive model.
Key Highlights:
- Self-publishing assistance
- Print-on-demand options
- Affordable publishing packages
44. New South Books
With a focus on modern Southern identity, New South Books publishes fiction and nonfiction that redefines regional storytelling.
Key Highlights:
- Contemporary Southern writing
- Diverse perspectives
- Socially conscious narratives
45. Sandhills Press
Based in Fayetteville, Sandhills Press produces literary works and regional nonfiction reflecting the Sandhills region’s traditions and voices.
Key Highlights:
- Poetry and essays
- Southern culture
- Local authors and educators
46. Hidden Timber Books
Hidden Timber Books, operating partly in the Carolinas, focuses on literary fiction, memoir, and poetry. Their titles often explore personal growth and transformation.
Key Highlights:
- Narrative-driven stories
- Debut author support
- Creative nonfiction focus
47. Queen City Writers Press
Charlotte’s Queen City Writers Press is known for promoting urban literature, memoirs, and contemporary fiction with strong character development.
Key Highlights:
- Urban storytelling
- Fiction and memoirs
- Independent publishing model
48. Black Ink Books
Based in Raleigh, Black Ink Books focuses on African American literature, history, and creative works that amplify underrepresented voices.
Key Highlights:
- Black authors and cultural history
- Poetry and fiction
- Educational publishing initiatives
49. Tidewater Press
Operating out of Wilmington, Tidewater Press publishes maritime fiction, coastal histories, and books that celebrate the Carolina coast.
Key Highlights:
- Coastal heritage focus
- Illustrated nonfiction
- Local tourism literature
50. St. Andrews Press
Associated with St. Andrews University in Laurinburg, this press emphasizes literary works and scholarly essays, particularly poetry and academic research.
Key Highlights:
- Academic publications
- Poetry collections
- Creative writing faculty works
51. Blue Crow Publishing
Based in Chapel Hill, Blue Crow Publishing is a woman-owned press that publishes fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature with inclusive themes.
Key Highlights:
- Feminist and inclusive focus
- High-quality design and editing
- Author-first philosophy
52. White Heart Press
Located in Greensboro, White Heart Press focuses on romance and contemporary fiction that speaks to emotional and personal journeys.
Key Highlights:
- Romance and women’s fiction
- Contemporary storytelling
- Collaborative author process
53. River House Publishing
Situated along the Cape Fear River, River House Publishing produces historical fiction, memoirs, and local nonfiction that reflect the region’s culture.
Key Highlights:
- Southern history and heritage
- Memoirs and biographies
- Regional narratives
54. North State Books
A Greensboro-based press, North State Books specializes in North Carolina history, biographies, and works by regional historians.
Key Highlights:
- Historical research publications
- Local nonfiction
- Culturally significant topics
55. Magnolia Press
Magnolia Press publishes fiction, poetry, and nonfiction with a focus on stories of resilience, community, and Southern life.
Key Highlights:
- Southern family sagas
- Historical and cultural nonfiction
- Short story anthologies
56. Carolina Wren Press
A long-standing nonprofit publisher in Durham, Carolina Wren Press publishes multicultural and literary works by diverse authors.
Key Highlights:
- Diversity and equity in literature
- Literary fiction and poetry
- Support for new and marginalized voices
57. Indigo River Publishing (NC Division)
This hybrid publisher supports North Carolina authors by combining creative freedom with professional publishing services.
Key Highlights:
- Hybrid publishing model
- Business and self-help genres
- Coaching for first-time authors
58. Catbird Press
Located in Asheville, Catbird Press publishes literary fiction and satire, known for its wit, originality, and narrative craftsmanship.
Key Highlights:
- Literary fiction and humor
- Innovative narratives
- Independent ethos
59. Blue Ridge Literary Press
Based in Boone, this publisher highlights the culture, art, and heritage of the Appalachian region through essays and creative works.
Key Highlights:
- Appalachian studies
- Nature and arts writing
- Poetry and short fiction
60. Wildflower Press
Headquartered in Raleigh, Wildflower Press produces uplifting and inspiring books across genres, from memoirs to self-help.
Key Highlights:
- Motivational and wellness titles
- Memoirs and personal stories
- Hybrid publishing options
61. The Main Street Publishing Collective
A collaborative press in Winston-Salem, this collective supports independent authors in fiction, poetry, and art books.
Key Highlights:
- Cooperative publishing model
- Artist and writer collaborations
- Small print runs for exclusivity
62. Emerald House Group
Operating partly in the Carolinas, Emerald House Group publishes Christian and inspirational books with wide market appeal.
Key Highlights:
- Faith-based literature
- Family and spiritual themes
- Educational ministry books
63. Broad River Books
Located in Shelby, Broad River Books focuses on contemporary fiction and memoirs with relatable, emotional depth.
Key Highlights:
- Literary and women’s fiction
- Local author support
- Personal storytelling themes
64. Hidden Hills Press
Based in the Asheville area, Hidden Hills Press is dedicated to eco-literature and environmental nonfiction.
Key Highlights:
- Nature and conservation
- Environmental essays
- Illustrated field guides
65. Windy Ridge Publishing
Rounding out the list, Windy Ridge Publishing in Hickory publishes fiction, memoirs, and community-based projects celebrating creativity and life stories.
Key Highlights:
- Fiction and creative nonfiction
- Support for debut writers
- Regional author collaboration
Final Thoughts
North Carolina’s publishing industry is as rich and diverse as its geography—from the coastal plains to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re seeking an academic press, a literary small press, or a hybrid model for your first novel, there’s a home for your manuscript here. The state’s blend of tradition and innovation makes it one of the most supportive literary environments in the United States.
Writers in North Carolina can connect with publishers that not only refine and distribute their work but also nurture the authentic voices shaping the region’s literary legacy.
FAQs
Q: How many publishing companies are based in North Carolina?
There are dozens of publishing houses, with over 65 notable ones actively working across genres.
Q: Do North Carolina publishers accept unsolicited manuscripts?
Many small and independent presses do, but always review their submission guidelines first.
Q: Which North Carolina publisher is best for poetry?
Press 53, Carolina Wren Press, and Asheville Poetry Review Press are highly regarded for poetry.
Q: Are hybrid publishing options available in North Carolina?
Yes, several companies like Warren Publishing and Indigo River offer hybrid models.
Q: What genres are most popular among North Carolina publishers?
Southern fiction, poetry, memoirs, regional history, and academic works are especially popular.
