List of Book Publishers in Canada: Where to Submit Your Work

Over the years, I’ve helped more than 130 authors navigate the publishing process—many of them asking the same question: Which publisher should I submit to?

Publishing in Canada can feel like stepping into a maze. You might wonder if your manuscript will land on the right desk—or whether it’s even ready for submission. As a writing coach, ghostwriter, and author, I’ve worked with aspiring and seasoned writers alike to bring clarity and strategy to this process.

Traditional publishing offers many benefits: professional editing, wide distribution, and industry recognition. But it also demands precision. You need to know who publishes what, how to approach them, and when to make your move. This guide outlines Canada’s top book publishing companies, organized by genre, with clear direction on where—and how—to submit your work.

If you're serious about seeing your book in print with a Canadian publisher, you're in the right place.

Table of Contents

• Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?
• Understanding the Submission Process
• Canadian Book Publishing Landscape
• Best Canadian Publishers by Category
• What Makes a Publisher a Good Fit?
• How I Help Authors Get Published
• Final Thoughts

Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?

Choosing between traditional publishing and self-publishing is one of the most strategic decisions an author can make. The answer depends not only on your goals—but also on how much control, time, and effort you're willing to invest in the publishing process.

With traditional publishing, you partner with a book publishing company that handles editing, design, production, and distribution. This model often leads to higher credibility, especially if you're targeting media coverage, awards, or academic audiences. However, it comes with one major trade-off: control. You don’t choose your cover. You don’t dictate the timeline. And you’ll likely earn less per book sold.

If you’re writing a business, leadership, or expert-driven nonfiction book, traditional publishing can elevate your authority. But it’s not for every author—or every book.

I’ve seen firsthand how some manuscripts thrive in traditional publishing environments, while others are better suited for the speed and flexibility of self-publishing. If you're unsure which route is best, I recommend reading Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing for a detailed breakdown of both paths.

The bottom line: traditional publishing is an excellent choice if you have a strong concept, a clear audience, and the patience to go through a competitive vetting process.

Understanding the Submission Process

Submitting your work to a Canadian publisher isn't as simple as attaching a manuscript to an email and clicking send. Each book publishing company has its own preferences, timelines, and expectations—and your success depends on how well you follow them.

If you’re writing fiction, most publishers want to see a complete, polished manuscript. For nonfiction, you’ll typically need a book proposal that outlines your concept, structure, audience, and marketing potential. A strong proposal isn’t optional—it’s your sales pitch.

If you’re unsure how to craft a professional proposal, I break it down in detail in How to Write a Book Proposal. I’ve also helped dozens of clients develop market-ready proposals that have landed book deals.

Some publishers only accept submissions through literary agents, especially the larger players like Penguin Random House Canada or McClelland & Stewart. If you're hoping to go this route, you'll need to research agents who represent your genre and follow their individual guidelines.

Other publishers—often smaller or independently run—accept unsolicited manuscripts, meaning you can submit directly without an agent. These are excellent opportunities, especially for first-time authors or those working in niche genres.

Not sure if you need an agent? Start with How to Find a Literary Agent. If you're not quite ready for that step, don't worry. Many of the publishers listed in this guide accept submissions directly from authors.

Canadian Book Publishing Landscape: An Overview

Canada is home to a diverse publishing ecosystem—from major players like Penguin Random House Canada to independent presses and respected university publishers. Whether you're writing literary fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or young adult books, there's likely a Canadian publisher that aligns with your voice and vision.

Understanding this landscape matters. Not every publisher is the right fit for every author. Some specialize in experimental literature. Others focus on regional history, social justice, or LGBTQ+ stories. A few are renowned for their work with graphic novels or children’s books. And if you’re an academic, Canada’s university press network offers robust options for scholarly work.

Too many authors make the mistake of submitting their work blindly—without taking the time to study each press’s catalogue. In coaching sessions, I often ask: Have you read at least one book they’ve published in your genre? If not, you’re already at a disadvantage.

The good news? Many of Canada’s book publishing companies are proudly independent and actively seek fresh voices. If your work is aligned with their mission, and you present it professionally, you stand a real chance of getting published.

In the next sections, I’ll break down top Canadian publishers by category, so you can quickly identify who’s most likely to resonate with your manuscript—and what you need to submit.

Best Canadian Publishers by Category

A. Nonfiction Publishers in Canada

Nonfiction remains one of the most powerful genres in traditional publishing, especially for authors with expertise, research, or lived experience to share. Canadian nonfiction publishers span a broad spectrum—from academic presses to socially engaged independents. Each one serves a distinct audience, which is why aligning your manuscript with their editorial mission is critical.

Below are standout Canadian publishers that specialize in nonfiction. I’ve worked with many authors navigating these exact submissions—often guiding them through the proposal development and positioning process.

ECW Press
Based in Toronto, ECW Press publishes a broad range of nonfiction including memoir, biography, sports, pop culture, and true crime. They are known for accessible, compelling titles that appeal to general readers. ECW accepts unsolicited nonfiction submissions via email. Writers should send a query letter, sample chapters, and a detailed proposal.
Visit ECW Press 

Greystone Books
Greystone is known for books that focus on the environment, health, nature, and social justice. They publish narrative nonfiction that inspires action and reflection. If your book tackles timely, global issues in a story-driven format, this is a strong candidate. Submissions are accepted via email with a well-developed proposal.
Visit Greystone Books  

Douglas & McIntyre
This publisher has a strong focus on Canadian history, politics, culture, and memoir. Douglas & McIntyre seeks nonfiction that engages with Canadian identity and current affairs. They accept submissions by email, including a detailed book proposal and sample chapters.
Visit Douglas & McIntyre 

Between the Lines
Between the Lines is a nonprofit publisher focusing on social justice, activism, Indigenous issues, and political commentary. If your book contributes to public discourse and aligns with progressive movements, this is a publisher to consider. Submit a synopsis, proposal, and sample chapters via email.
Visit Between the Lines 

House of Anansi Press
As one of Canada’s most respected literary presses, House of Anansi publishes high-quality narrative nonfiction, including memoir, essays, and cultural criticism. They work with both emerging and established voices. Submissions are accepted during open reading periods via Submittable.
Visit House of Anansi 

Arsenal Pulp Press
Arsenal Pulp specializes in politically engaged nonfiction across topics such as LGBTQ+ issues, cultural studies, and food writing. Their books push boundaries and reflect diverse perspectives. They accept unsolicited submissions by email during specific reading windows. A proposal and sample chapters are required.
Visit Arsenal Pulp Press 

Nimbus Publishing
As Atlantic Canada’s largest independent press, Nimbus focuses on regional nonfiction, including local history, lifestyle, and nature. They also publish titles on food, travel, and culture. Submissions are accepted via email with a full proposal, sample chapters, and a market analysis.
Visit Nimbus Publishing  

Cormorant Books
Cormorant Books publishes literary nonfiction and memoir with a focus on culture, identity, and Canadian life. They value strong storytelling and original perspective. Submissions are open during designated periods and require a proposal and sample chapters.
Visit Cormorant Books 

University of Toronto Press
UTP is Canada’s leading academic publisher, specializing in nonfiction across history, political science, sociology, and cultural studies. They welcome proposals from scholars and professionals. A standard submission includes a proposal, CV, sample chapters, and manuscript outline.
Visit University of Toronto Press 

McGill-Queen’s University Press
This press publishes both scholarly and general nonfiction, particularly in Canadian history, Indigenous studies, and political theory. Submissions should include a proposal, sample chapters, and a CV. Their editorial board emphasizes intellectual rigor and broad appeal.
Visit McGill-Queen’s University Press 

Note from a Writing Coach
Many nonfiction writers underestimate how important market positioning is in a book proposal. Publishers aren’t just evaluating content—they’re assessing its fit within their catalogue and its potential reach. If you need help developing a strong proposal, I recommend reading How to Write a Book Proposal, where I explain the exact process I use with clients.

B. Literary Fiction Publishers in Canada

Canada has a rich tradition of literary fiction. While commercial fiction focuses on plot and pace, literary fiction prioritizes character, style, and theme. It often challenges form, explores cultural identity, and asks big questions. But as powerful as it can be, literary fiction can also be one of the hardest genres to place—especially for first-time authors.

That’s why understanding a publisher’s editorial focus is so important. Some Canadian publishers value experimental prose, while others lean toward accessible, socially conscious narratives. Regardless of your style, you need to demonstrate that your manuscript aligns with their publishing vision.

Here are the Canadian book publishing companies most respected for their work in literary fiction.

House of Anansi Press
House of Anansi is one of Canada’s premier literary publishers, known for its award-winning fiction and commitment to emerging voices. They publish novels that engage with culture, politics, and identity. Writers may submit unsolicited manuscripts during open reading periods through Submittable. A full manuscript and query letter are required.
Visit House of Anansi  

McClelland & Stewart
As an imprint of Penguin Random House Canada, McClelland & Stewart publishes some of the country’s most acclaimed literary voices. Their titles span fiction and nonfiction with strong literary merit. This press does not accept unsolicited submissions. Writers must query through a literary agent.
Visit McClelland & Stewart 

Biblioasis
An independent press based in Windsor, Ontario, Biblioasis publishes literary fiction, nonfiction, and translated works. Their list often features short story collections and novels with a strong sense of voice and place. Submissions are accepted by email and must include a cover letter and full manuscript.
Visit Biblioasis  

Goose Lane Editions
Canada’s oldest independent literary press, Goose Lane publishes literary fiction that reflects Canadian culture and identity. They champion both emerging and established writers. Submissions are accepted during specific windows through Submittable. Writers must include a synopsis and full manuscript.
Visit Goose Lane Editions  

Dundurn Press
Dundurn publishes both literary and genre fiction, with an interest in stories grounded in Canadian history, place, and experience. Their literary list includes novels that explore themes of identity, belonging, and transformation. Submissions are accepted by email and should include a query letter and full manuscript.
Visit Dundurn Press  

Coach House Books
Known for its innovative, avant-garde titles, Coach House Books publishes literary fiction that pushes formal and thematic boundaries. Writers interested in experimental narratives will find a home here. They accept unsolicited manuscripts during defined submission windows. Submit a synopsis, a query letter, and sample chapters by email.
Visit Coach House Books  

Cormorant Books
Cormorant focuses on literary fiction with strong characters, distinctive voice, and cultural relevance. Their authors often explore the complexities of Canadian life and identity. Submissions are accepted during reading periods and must include a synopsis and completed manuscript.
Visit Cormorant Books  

Invisible Publishing
Invisible Publishing publishes contemporary literary fiction, short story collections, and essays. They seek fresh voices and unflinching stories about everyday life. Manuscripts are accepted year-round by email. Writers should send a cover letter, synopsis, and full manuscript.
Visit Invisible Publishing 

Brick Books
Although primarily a poetry publisher, Brick Books occasionally publishes literary fiction with a poetic or lyrical style. Writers with cross-genre or hybrid manuscripts may inquire by email. Submissions must be highly polished and aligned with the press’s aesthetic.
Visit Brick Books  

Freehand Books
Based in Calgary, Freehand Books publishes literary fiction and short story collections that are character-driven and socially relevant. They accept unsolicited manuscripts during open reading periods. Writers should include a query letter, synopsis, and full manuscript.
Visit Freehand Books 

Writing Coach Insight:
Literary fiction relies heavily on voice, nuance, and structure. Many manuscripts fail not because they lack talent, but because they lack clarity in purpose and positioning. If you're unsure how to present your manuscript—or whether it’s ready—I can help you refine your submission package.

For strategic guidance, visit the Trivium Writing consulting page or schedule a one-on-one session.

C. Genre Fiction Publishers in Canada

Many writers assume that genre fiction—romance, mystery, fantasy, and science fiction—is easier to publish than literary fiction. That’s not always true. While the audience for genre fiction is broader and often more commercially viable, the market is saturated. You’re not only competing with other emerging writers but also with long-established franchises and self-published bestsellers.

That’s why choosing the right Canadian publisher—one that understands your subgenre and values original storytelling—is essential. Each of the presses listed here specializes in specific genres and often works closely with writers who blend entertainment with depth.

If your manuscript is tightly structured, market-aware, and aligns with their focus, you may not need an agent. Many of these publishers accept unsolicited manuscripts, giving new voices a real shot at getting published.

ChiZine Publications
ChiZine is an independent press that publishes dark fantasy, horror, and surreal speculative fiction. Their list is known for boundary-pushing work that challenges traditional genre conventions. They accept submissions during open windows via Submittable. A full manuscript and query letter are typically required.
Visit ChiZine 

Harlequin Canada
Part of the global Harlequin brand, Harlequin Canada is a major player in romance publishing. They publish everything from contemporary and historical romance to romantic suspense. Each imprint has specific guidelines. Writers can submit directly through Harlequin’s online portal—no agent required.
Visit Harlequin Canada 

Dundurn Press
In addition to literary titles, Dundurn has a strong focus on mystery, thriller, and historical fiction. Their genre fiction list often incorporates Canadian settings and themes. Submissions are accepted by email and require a query letter and full manuscript.
Visit Dundurn Press  

Edge Science Fiction and Fantasy Publishing
Based in Calgary, EDGE publishes original science fiction and fantasy novels that explore imaginative worlds and speculative futures. They look for strong storytelling and character-driven plots. Submissions are accepted via email during open calls and must include a full manuscript.
Visit EDGE Publishing 

Ravenstone (Imprint of Turnstone Press)
Ravenstone specializes in mystery, thrillers, and speculative fiction. They look for sharp narratives and engaging characters. Submissions are open during specific periods and require a query letter, synopsis, and sample chapters.
Visit Ravenstone  

Orca Book Publishers
Orca is a leader in fiction for young readers and young adults, particularly in action-oriented genres like mystery, thriller, and sports. Their Orca Currents and Orca Soundings series are ideal for fast-paced, high-interest fiction. Submissions are accepted year-round with a synopsis and sample chapters.
Visit Orca Book Publishers  

Carina Press
Carina Press is Harlequin’s digital-first imprint. It publishes a wide range of genres including romance, mystery, and LGBTQ+ fiction. The editorial team looks for diverse voices and dynamic storytelling. Writers can submit full manuscripts through their website without an agent.
Visit Carina Press  

Tyche Books
Tyche Books is an Alberta-based publisher focusing on science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction. They often publish work inspired by myth, folklore, and alternate realities. Tyche accepts unsolicited submissions during open periods. Submissions must include a query and full manuscript.
Visit Tyche Books  

Bold Strokes Books
Bold Strokes specializes in LGBTQ+ genre fiction, from romance and mystery to speculative fiction. They publish across multiple imprints and are committed to representing a wide range of LGBTQ+ voices. Submissions are accepted via email and require a complete manuscript.
Visit Bold Strokes Books  

Napoleon and Company (RendezVous Crime)
RendezVous Crime is an imprint focused exclusively on crime fiction. Their books emphasize character development, pacing, and plot twists. Unsolicited submissions are accepted via email with a synopsis, query letter, and sample chapters.
Visit Napoleon and Company  

Writing Coach Insight:
Genre fiction gets dismissed by some as commercial or formulaic. That’s a mistake. The best genre fiction combines structure with nuance—and readers know the difference. If your manuscript isn’t ready, publishers will sense it immediately. If you need help tightening your story, revising your structure, or finding your angle, book a consultation with me. We’ll make sure your work doesn’t get lost in the slush pile.

D. Children’s and Young Adult Publishers in Canada

Publishing for young audiences demands more than imagination—it requires clarity, structure, and emotional precision. Whether you're writing picture books, middle grade, or young adult fiction, your manuscript must speak directly to the developmental stage and inner world of the reader. It also must resonate with the gatekeepers: parents, educators, librarians, and publishers.

The Canadian publishers listed below specialize in books for children and teens. Many of them are leaders in the field, producing award-winning and socially conscious work. While some require agented submissions, several still welcome unsolicited manuscripts, giving new writers access to competitive opportunities.

Kids Can Press
As Canada’s largest children’s publisher, Kids Can Press produces picture books, middle grade, and young adult books. Their titles often blend education with entertainment. They do not accept unsolicited manuscripts—submissions must come through a literary agent.
Visit Kids Can Press  

Annick Press
Annick publishes innovative books for children and teens, often with a social or cultural theme. Their catalogue includes bold young adult fiction and engaging picture books. Writers may submit unsolicited manuscripts via email, with a synopsis and sample chapters.
Visit Annick Press 

Orca Book Publishers
Orca offers a wide range of titles for young readers, including reluctant readers. Their series include Orca Currents (middle grade) and Orca Soundings (YA), both of which emphasize fast-paced, high-interest stories. Submissions are accepted via email.
Visit Orca Book Publishers 

Second Story Press
This press focuses on books that promote social justice, diversity, and equity. They publish fiction for children and teens that tackles real-world issues through compelling narratives. Unsolicited submissions are accepted by email.
Visit Second Story Press 

Pajama Press
Pajama Press publishes high-quality children’s fiction across picture books, middle grade, and young adult genres. They focus on storytelling that blends strong characters with emotional depth. Submissions are open via email with a full proposal.
Visit Pajama Press 

Scholastic Canada
Part of the global Scholastic brand, Scholastic Canada is a major player in children’s publishing. Their focus includes chapter books, middle grade, and young adult fiction. Submissions must be made through a literary agent.
Visit Scholastic Canada 

Groundwood Books
An imprint of House of Anansi, Groundwood publishes inclusive, multicultural children’s and YA books that address complex issues. They accept unsolicited submissions during specific reading periods.

Red Deer Press
Red Deer publishes picture books, middle grade, and young adult novels, often with historical or contemporary Canadian themes. Submissions are accepted by email and must include a query, synopsis, and sample chapters.
Visit Red Deer Press  

Nimbus Publishing
In addition to nonfiction, Nimbus publishes children’s books with a focus on Atlantic Canada. Their stories often explore regional culture and natural landscapes. Submissions should include a query letter and sample chapters.
Visit Nimbus Publishing 

BookLand Press
An Indigenous-owned publisher, BookLand Press focuses on children’s and young adult books that highlight Indigenous and multicultural voices. They welcome submissions from diverse authors via email.
Visit BookLand Press 

CrackBoom! Books (Chouette Publishing)
CrackBoom! publishes picture books and early readers. Their titles are accessible and engaging for very young children. Submissions are accepted by email and should include a cover letter, synopsis, and sample pages.
Visit CrackBoom! Books  

Writing Coach Insight:
Writing for young people is not about simplifying language—it’s about sharpening intention. Your manuscript must speak with clarity, emotional intelligence, and narrative focus. If you’re unsure whether your work hits the right tone or structure, reach out for editorial guidance before submitting.

E. Poetry Publishers in Canada

Poetry remains one of the most enduring literary forms—and one of the most intimate. Canadian publishers continue to support both experimental and traditional poetry, offering a home to voices that might not find space in commercial publishing. Many of these publishers value innovation, lyrical mastery, and cultural relevance.

Unlike fiction and nonfiction, poetry is almost always submitted as a full poetry manuscript or poetry collection. The publishers listed below have long-standing reputations for curating quality work and are central to Canada’s contemporary literary landscape.

Brick Books
Brick Books is Canada’s only press dedicated solely to publishing poetry. They focus on contemporary, innovative, and literary poetry, welcoming submissions from emerging and established poets during annual reading periods.
Visit Brick Books  

House of Anansi Press
Anansi publishes high-quality poetry collections with a focus on language, identity, and cultural discourse. They accept submissions through Submittable during limited windows. Poets should submit a full manuscript, cover letter, and CV.
Visit House of Anansi 

McGill-Queen’s University Press
This academic press publishes poetry with intellectual and historical depth. Their titles often intersect with scholarly and cultural themes. Submissions must include a CV, sample poems, and a proposal.
Visit McGill-Queen’s University Press  

Goose Lane Editions
Known for literary innovation, Goose Lane publishes experimental, lyric, and narrative poetry. Submissions are accepted during designated reading periods through Submittable.
Visit Goose Lane Editions 

Book*hug Press
Bookhug champions avant-garde and genre-defying poetry. They seek poets who challenge norms and blend form, language, and politics. Submissions are accepted through Submittable during open calls.
Visit Bookhug Press 

Talonbooks
Talonbooks publishes poetry that engages with social justice, environmental themes, and Indigenous voices. Their list often explores intersectional identities and political realities. Submit during reading periods with a cover letter and 10–15 sample pages.
Visit Talonbooks 

Nightwood Editions
This independent press focuses on contemporary literary poetry. They work with both emerging and established poets and are known for editorial rigor. Submissions are accepted during reading periods.
Visit Nightwood Editions 

Vehicule Press (Signal Editions)
Signal Editions, the poetry imprint of Vehicule Press, publishes refined, language-focused poetry collections. They are selective and value strong literary craftsmanship. Submit a cover letter and manuscript sample during open periods.
Visit Vehicule Press 

Exile Editions
Exile publishes a wide range of poetry, from traditional to experimental. Their catalogue often includes translations and international voices. Submissions are accepted via email with a brief synopsis and sample poems.
Visit Exile Editions 

Invisible Publishing
Invisible supports emerging poets writing on contemporary issues. They welcome new voices and publish work that blends poetry with social observation and personal reflection. Submissions are accepted year-round via email.
Visit Invisible Publishing 

Writing Coach Insight:
A poetry manuscript is not a stack of individual poems—it’s a curated body of work. If you’re compiling a collection, make sure it flows with intention. If you’re unsure how to shape or structure your manuscript, a consultation can save months of guesswork and rejection.

F. Academic and University Presses in Canada

For scholars, researchers, and writers producing intellectually rigorous work, university presses provide the credibility and distribution reach that mainstream book publishing companies often lack. These presses cater to specialized audiences in fields such as history, political science, Indigenous studies, sociology, and education.

What distinguishes academic publishing is its editorial process. Peer review, proposal vetting, and alignment with the press’s research goals are common. If you’re writing a scholarly monograph or a deeply researched nonfiction book, a university press is likely your best route—especially if your primary objective is credibility, not commercial sales.

Here are some of Canada’s most respected academic publishers.

University of Toronto Press (UTP)
One of North America’s oldest and largest university presses, UTP publishes scholarly and professional nonfiction in history, social sciences, and cultural studies. Submissions must include a full proposal, CV, table of contents, and sample chapters.
Visit University of Toronto Press 

McGill-Queen’s University Press
This bilingual academic publisher produces high-impact books in Canadian history, Indigenous studies, and political theory. They accept proposals with a detailed outline, CV, sample chapters, and manuscript description.
Visit McGill-Queen’s University Press 

UBC Press (University of British Columbia)
UBC Press publishes across the social sciences and humanities, with notable strengths in Indigenous studies, public policy, and environmental issues. They emphasize research that contributes to public discourse.
Visit UBC Press 

Wilfrid Laurier University Press
WLUP focuses on interdisciplinary academic titles and general interest nonfiction that intersects with social issues, sustainability, and culture. They accept detailed proposals and sample chapters via email.
Visit Wilfrid Laurier University Press 

Athabasca University Press
Canada’s first open access scholarly press, Athabasca publishes peer-reviewed books in distance education, digital culture, and Canadian studies. They support wide, barrier-free access to academic content.
Visit Athabasca University Press 

Concordia University Press
Concordia focuses on critical and interdisciplinary works in the humanities and social sciences. Their catalogue frequently intersects with urban studies, media, art, and politics.
Visit Concordia University Press 

University of Alberta Press
This press publishes research-driven nonfiction in Canadian studies, education, Indigenous perspectives, and social justice. They welcome proposals with an academic framework.
Visit University of Alberta Press 

University of Manitoba Press
Best known for its leadership in Indigenous studies, UMP also publishes works on Canadian history and social movements. Proposals should include a detailed synopsis, CV, and sample chapters.
Visit University of Manitoba Press 

University of Ottawa Press
Canada’s oldest bilingual press, UOP publishes in English and French across public policy, bilingualism, and Canadian culture. Their editorial process reflects academic standards while aiming for accessible prose.
Visit University of Ottawa Press 

Laval University Press
Publishing primarily in French, Laval’s press offers a wide range of scholarly work in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. A detailed proposal in French is required for submission.
Visit Laval University Press 

University of Calgary Press
UCalgary Press emphasizes open access, interdisciplinary research, and titles that support contemporary scholarly conversations in the humanities and social sciences.
Visit University of Calgary Press

Writing Coach Insight:
Publishing with an academic press requires a strong sense of purpose and positioning. Your writing must bridge scholarship with relevance. If you’re unsure how to develop a formal proposal or need help refining your sample chapters, this is an area where expert guidance can move you from idea to acceptance.

What Makes a Publisher a Good Fit?

There’s no “best” publisher—only the best fit for your manuscript. Too many writers choose publishers based on prestige or proximity without asking the more strategic question: Does this press consistently publish work like mine?

When I work with clients, we don’t just look at genre. We assess voice, scope, tone, and audience. We also evaluate the publisher’s recent titles, editorial team, submission preferences, and distribution reach. If you want your manuscript to land, you must match its content and intention to the publisher’s publishing program.

Here’s how to assess fit:

• Review their catalogue. Do they consistently publish books similar to yours—in topic, tone, or format?

• Check submission guidelines. Are they open to unsolicited manuscripts, or do they require agented submissions?

• Understand their values. Are they focused on innovation, social justice, regional identity, or commercial viability?

• Look at their authors. If they support debut writers or emerging voices, that may be an opportunity.

Publishing is about partnership. The more aligned you are with a press’s mission, the more likely you’ll find advocates on the other side of the inbox.

If you're unsure how to evaluate publishers or want help preparing your submission strategy, visit Trivium Writing’s consulting services page or schedule a session to map your next steps.

How I Help Authors Get Published

Over the past several years, I’ve worked with more than 130 authors—from entrepreneurs and researchers to first-time writers—helping them bring their books to life and into the right hands.

Some of these authors needed help structuring a book proposal. Others needed clarity on whether to self-publish or pursue traditional publishing. A few had already written drafts and simply needed guidance on refining their manuscript and finding a compatible publisher. What they all had in common was a commitment to producing something meaningful—and a need for support to navigate the process.

At Trivium Writing, we don’t treat publishing as a one-size-fits-all venture. We assess your manuscript, your goals, and your audience. Then we reverse-engineer a plan that aligns with the publishing landscape—whether that means preparing a strong submission for a Canadian publisher or crafting a self-publishing strategy that builds your authority and income.

If you're unsure where to begin, you don't need to figure it out alone. We’ll evaluate your manuscript’s readiness, identify the most promising publishers for your genre, and help you prepare a submission that respects the expectations of the industry.

To explore your options and create a custom publishing roadmap, visit the consulting page or book a consultation.

Final Thoughts

Traditional publishing in Canada is competitive—but not impenetrable. What separates published authors from unpublished ones often comes down to clarity, preparation, and positioning.

If you want your work to reach the right readers, you need more than a polished manuscript. You need to understand where your book fits, how to present it, and when to act. That’s the difference between simply finishing a book and turning it into a published work that reflects your vision and values.

Whether you're writing literary fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or young adult fiction, the resources and opportunities exist. The key is knowing how to access them—and how to present your work with purpose.

If you’re ready to take that next step, I invite you to book a consultation. We’ll clarify your path and make sure your manuscript gets the attention it deserves.