List of Book Publishers in the UK: Where to Submit Your Work

The United Kingdom continues to stand as one of the world’s most dynamic publishing markets. From storied literary houses in London to independent presses across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, UK publishers are actively seeking new voices across genres.

Yet submitting your manuscript can feel like navigating a maze.

As a writing coach, ghostwriter, and author who’s guided over 130 clients to publication, I’ve seen firsthand how clarity and strategy can make the difference between rejection and success. Whether you're writing literary fiction, narrative nonfiction, poetry, or a business book, choosing the right publisher is critical.

This guide will help you do exactly that.

Below, you’ll find a curated list of UK publishers accepting—or requiring—manuscripts through specific channels, categorized by genre. You’ll also learn how to prepare your submission, decide whether you need a literary agent, and determine if traditional publishing aligns with your goals.

Many publishers on this list do not accept unsolicited submissions. But that doesn't mean the door is closed—it means your submission must be strategic, polished, and properly positioned.

If you want personalized guidance for your project, I invite you to book a consultation. Let’s make sure your book lands on the right desk, with the right impression.

Table of Contents

• Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?
• How to Submit to Traditional Publishers
• Nonfiction Publishers in the UK
• Literary Fiction Publishers in the UK
• Genre Fiction Publishers in the UK
• Children’s and Young Adult Publishers in the UK
• Poetry Publishers in the UK
• Academic and University Presses in the UK
• Finding the Right Publisher for Your Work

Should You Submit to Traditional Publishers?

Before pitching your manuscript, you need to decide whether traditional publishing is the right path for your goals. There is no one-size-fits-all model—especially today, when self-publishing has matured into a credible alternative.

Traditional publishing offers strong advantages: wider distribution, professional editorial support, built-in credibility, and access to established marketing and publicity channels. For nonfiction authors, especially those writing business books, memoirs, or thought leadership titles, it also enhances personal authority.

But it comes with trade-offs.

Traditional publishing is competitive, slow-moving, and selective. It often requires working with a literary agent, and even then, getting a deal can take months—sometimes years. You may also have limited control over your book’s design, title, or pricing.

If you’re unsure which route fits your vision, I recommend reading Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing, where I break down both options in detail. You may also want to review our List of Self-Publishers in the UK if you’re exploring direct publishing.

At Trivium Writing, I help clients choose the model that matches their message and market. For some, traditional publishing opens doors. For others, self-publishing offers more speed, control, and long-term ownership.

Whichever route you choose, make it intentional.

How to Submit to Traditional Publishers

Once you’ve committed to traditional publishing, your next task is preparing a compelling submission—one that aligns with industry standards and respects the preferences of each publisher or literary agent.

For Fiction Writers:

If you're submitting adult fiction, literary fiction, historical fiction, or genre fiction, most publishers expect a completed manuscript. You’ll also need a strong query letter and often a short synopsis.

Agents and editors are looking for clear prose, compelling characters, and market fit. Your manuscript needs to shine—both in its content and its formatting.

For Nonfiction Writers:

If you’re writing nonfiction—memoir, business, self-help, history, or any other nonfiction title—you likely won’t need a full manuscript upfront. What you need is a book proposal.

A strong book proposal includes:

• A clear concept and working title

• A detailed outline or table of contents

• Sample chapters

• Your author bio and platform

• A market analysis and competitive comparison

Your proposal should demonstrate why your book matters and why you’re the person to write it.

If you’ve never written one before, I recommend reading How to Write a Book Proposal, where I break down the process and show how to position your idea strategically.

Do You Need a Literary Agent?

Most large UK publishers do not accept unsolicited submissions, especially in fiction. In these cases, you’ll need a literary agent to represent you. Agents act as gatekeepers, filtering and pitching manuscripts directly to publishers.

Smaller and independent publishers, however, may still accept submissions directly from authors—especially in poetry, experimental fiction, or academic publishing.

Knowing the difference matters.

In the next section, you'll find publishers grouped by genre, along with their submission requirements. I’ve noted which ones require a literary agent and which offer open or unagented submissions—a key factor if you're not currently represented.

Nonfiction Publishers in the UK

The UK publishing industry boasts a strong tradition in nonfiction—biography, history, memoir, politics, science, and practical guides. Yet many authors overlook the strategic side of publishing: matching their book to a publisher with the right vision, audience, and editorial direction.

Below are the top UK nonfiction publishers, including both major houses and independent presses. Each entry includes who it’s for, what they publish, and how to submit your work.

Note: Many of these publishers require submissions through a literary agent. If you’re unsure how to find one—or want help crafting a strong pitch—I invite you to book a consultation.

Penguin Random House UK

Who it's for: Writers of memoir, history, politics, science, and mainstream nonfiction
About: As the largest publishing house in the world, Penguin Random House UK releases bestselling nonfiction titles across all categories. Their nonfiction catalog is wide-ranging, commercially focused, and highly competitive.
Submission: They do not accept unsolicited manuscripts. You must submit via a literary agent.

Profile Books

Who it's for: Authors of narrative nonfiction, business, history, and cultural commentary
About: A leading independent publisher, Profile Books is known for intelligent, idea-driven nonfiction. They value strong author voices and original thinking.
Submission: Only through literary agents.

Icon Books

Who it's for: Writers of accessible nonfiction—psychology, science, history, and self-help
About: Icon Books focuses on making complex ideas simple. Their titles are engaging, visual, and reader-friendly. Ideal for authors who combine subject expertise with storytelling.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited proposals via email. Submit synopsis, sample chapters, and author bio.

Faber & Faber

Who it's for: Writers of literary nonfiction, memoir, politics, and social issues
About: Faber is a prestigious independent publisher with a legacy in boundary-pushing literary works. Their nonfiction titles are thought-provoking and often award-winning.
Submission: Agented submissions only.

Bloomsbury Publishing

Who it's for: Writers of literary nonfiction, history, biography, and travel
About: Bloomsbury’s nonfiction division publishes high-quality, narrative-driven titles. They focus on voice, originality, and relevance.
Submission: Must go through a literary agent.

Hodder & Stoughton

Who it's for: Writers of history, self-help, inspirational nonfiction, and memoir
About: Part of Hachette UK, Hodder publishes widely-read nonfiction books that bridge personal growth, history, and pop culture.
Submission: Agented submissions only.

Atlantic Books

Who it's for: Writers of politics, culture, and narrative nonfiction
About: An independent UK publisher known for bold titles in current affairs and political commentary. Their catalog is sharp, timely, and socially conscious.
Submission: Accepts submissions via agents only.

Little, Brown Book Group

Who it's for: Writers of memoir, business, self-help, and popular science
About: Little, Brown publishes high-impact nonfiction with mass appeal. Their authors often have strong media platforms or professional credentials.
Submission: Via a literary agent only.

John Murray Press

Who it's for: Writers of science, biography, and historical nonfiction
About: A division of Hachette, John Murray publishes intelligent nonfiction with a narrative edge. Their list features critically acclaimed thinkers and historians.
Submission: Submissions must come through a literary agent.

Ebury Publishing (Penguin Random House)

Who it's for: Writers of lifestyle, wellness, memoir, and popular culture
About: Ebury specializes in commercially successful nonfiction across health, productivity, pop psychology, and inspirational memoirs.
Submission: Agented submissions only.

Verso Books

Who it's for: Writers of radical politics, philosophy, and social justice
About: Verso is a well-known independent radical publisher. Their list includes thinkers, activists, and academics writing about power, justice, and inequality.
Submission: Accepts direct proposals and agented submissions. Send proposal, sample chapters, and author bio via email.

Choosing a Nonfiction Publisher

Every nonfiction book has its own center of gravity—its subject, tone, and intended readership. Choosing the right publishing house means looking beyond prestige and into alignment.

Ask yourself:

• Does the publisher share your audience?

• Have they published similar books recently?

• Do their covers, blurbs, and titles resonate with your message?

A strategic fit can determine not just whether your manuscript is accepted—but whether it thrives in the market.

Literary Fiction Publishers in the UK

The UK remains a global hub for literary fiction, with publishers known for nurturing ambitious prose, bold themes, and emerging talent. While the path to publication is more competitive than ever, the literary market continues to reward originality and depth.

As a writing coach and ghostwriter, I’ve worked with authors who write across genres—but literary fiction poses unique challenges. Strong writing alone is not enough. You also need alignment with a publisher who shares your literary values and embraces new voices.

Below is a curated list of UK publishers that specialize in literary fiction, short stories, and hybrid forms. Some focus on experimental writing. Others lean toward contemporary realism or historical themes. All value craftsmanship.

Note: Most of these publishers do not accept unsolicited manuscripts. You’ll need to work through a literary agent unless otherwise noted.

Faber & Faber

Who it's for: Writers of literary fiction, poetry, and narrative nonfiction
About: One of the UK’s most prestigious independent publishers, Faber has launched the careers of literary icons from T.S. Eliot to Sally Rooney. Their fiction list prioritizes bold prose, emotional complexity, and narrative ambition.
Submission: Agented submissions only.

Bloomsbury Publishing

Who it's for: Authors of literary fiction, historical fiction, and genre-bending works
About: Bloomsbury publishes a mix of commercial and literary fiction. Their literary list focuses on strong storytelling and originality, often from debut voices.
Submission: Submissions must go through a literary agent.

Granta Books

Who it's for: Writers of literary fiction, novellas, and short story collections
About: Granta Books champions diverse literature and literary risk-takers. They publish award-winning fiction known for emotional clarity and stylistic innovation.
Submission: Closed to unsolicited manuscripts.

Canongate Books

Who it's for: Writers of contemporary, innovative literary fiction and memoir
About: Edinburgh-based indie publisher Canongate is known for publishing vibrant and distinctive voices. They actively seek fiction that defies categorization.
Submission: Via literary agents only.

Serpent’s Tail

Who it's for: Authors of experimental fiction, international literature, and edgy short stories
About: A champion of transgressive and socially conscious fiction, Serpent’s Tail is a home for boundary-pushing literature. They also publish works in translation.
Submission: Agented submissions only.

Salt Publishing

Who it's for: Writers of literary fiction, poetry, and short fiction
About: Salt is an independent publisher with a strong track record of supporting emerging voices. They have a particular focus on short story collections and contemporary fiction.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited submissions during open windows. Check their website.

Galley Beggar Press

Who it's for: Writers of experimental or unconventional literary fiction
About: Galley Beggar is small but influential, known for backing high-risk fiction that larger houses avoid. They published Booker-nominated titles and specialize in bold, idea-driven prose.
Submission: Open submission period once per year. Submit only during official window.

Picador (Pan Macmillan)

Who it's for: Writers of contemporary literary fiction and narrative nonfiction
About: Picador blends literary quality with broad market appeal. Their list includes both established authors and breakout debuts. They seek fiction that’s intellectually sharp and emotionally resonant.
Submission: Literary agent required.

Peepal Tree Press

Who it's for: Writers of Caribbean, Black British, and diasporic literary fiction
About: Peepal Tree Press is a leader in publishing diverse literature. Their mission is to amplify voices from underrepresented communities through fiction and poetry.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Include synopsis, sample chapters, and author bio.

Publishing Literary Fiction Today

Literary fiction is often more personal than commercial genres—but don’t confuse personal with unfocused. A strong concept, a clear audience, and excellent execution remain essential.

Many authors mistakenly believe literary fiction sells itself. It doesn't. Publishers still evaluate market fit, theme relevance, and voice. Think about:

• Which publisher aligns with your style and subject matter?

• Have they published similar authors or themes?

• Do they support debut fiction or prefer mid-career writers?

If you're writing literary fiction and want professional feedback or strategic guidance, I encourage you to book a publishing consultation. A single conversation can help you avoid missteps and find the right path forward.

Genre Fiction Publishers in the UK

The UK’s genre fiction market is one of the most active in the world. Whether you're writing science fiction, romance, crime, fantasy, or thrillers, there's a publisher that caters to your specific niche—and your ideal audience.

Unlike literary fiction, genre fiction relies heavily on clear structure, strong pacing, and market alignment. Your story may be original, but it must also meet the expectations of dedicated genre readers.

Below are the top UK publishers focused on commercial and genre fiction. This list includes both traditional and indie publishers, with notes on submission policies.

If you're submitting without an agent, pay attention to open submission windows and publishers that welcome unagented submissions.

Gollancz (Orion Publishing Group)

Who it's for: Writers of science fiction, fantasy, and horror
About: A legacy imprint for speculative fiction, Gollancz has published icons like Terry Pratchett and George R.R. Martin. They’re known for epic world-building and genre-defining titles.
Submission: Requires a literary agent. No unsolicited submissions.

Mills & Boon (HarperCollins UK)

Who it's for: Romance writers across contemporary, historical, and paranormal subgenres
About: One of the most recognized names in romance fiction, Mills & Boon publishes dozens of titles each month. Their guidelines are specific by romance line.
Submission: Accepts unagented submissions via their online portal. Ideal for debut romance authors.

Titan Books

Who it's for: Authors of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and tie-in fiction
About: Titan is known for publishing both original works and licensed fiction (e.g. Doctor Who, Marvel). Their catalog leans toward action, suspense, and speculative worlds.
Submission: Does not accept unsolicited submissions. Literary agent required.

HQ (HarperCollins UK)

Who it's for: Writers of commercial fiction, especially thrillers and women’s fiction
About: HQ publishes fast-paced, emotionally charged fiction—especially psychological thrillers and dramatic women’s fiction.
Submission: Literary agent required.

Orbit Books

Who it's for: Authors of high-concept science fiction and fantasy
About: Orbit is one of the leading UK publishers in speculative fiction. Their list includes both epic and crossover fantasy, space operas, and genre-bending hybrids.
Submission: Submissions only accepted via agents.

Black Library (Games Workshop)

Who it's for: Writers of action-heavy fiction in the Warhammer universe
About: Black Library focuses on military fantasy and science fiction tied to the Warhammer franchise. Ideal for writers with deep lore knowledge and dynamic style.
Submission: Opens periodically to unagented writers during "open submission" calls. Check their website regularly.

Hodderscape (Hodder & Stoughton)

Who it's for: Writers of speculative, dystopian, and supernatural fiction
About: An imprint of Hodder, Hodderscape publishes accessible, fast-paced fantasy and speculative novels. They often feature crossover appeal with younger readers.
Submission: Agented submissions only.

Canelo

Who it's for: Authors of romance, historical fiction, thrillers, and cozy mysteries
About: Canelo is a digital-first publisher known for commercial appeal and fast turnarounds. They work well with emerging writers and are accessible to first-time authors.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited submissions via online form. Submit a synopsis and full manuscript.

Angry Robot

Who it's for: Writers of experimental science fiction, fantasy, and horror
About: Angry Robot champions boundary-pushing genre fiction, often with dark, subversive, or hybrid elements. Their titles have strong cult followings.
Submission: Opens to unagented submissions during open windows. Watch their site or mailing list.

Head of Zeus – Aries Imprint

Who it's for: Authors of thrillers, crime fiction, and action/adventure
About: Aries, an imprint of Head of Zeus, publishes fast-paced commercial fiction in crime, military thrillers, and espionage. Strong plots and high stakes are essential.
Submission: Accepts submissions through literary agents only.

Publishing Genre Fiction: What to Know

Genre fiction is one of the most commercially viable paths for writers today—but success depends on execution and positioning. Editors in genre houses read dozens of submissions that hit the right “beats.” What stands out is clarity, craft, and market understanding.

Ask yourself:

• Does your story meet the conventions of the genre while still offering something new?

• Are you submitting to the right line (especially in romance or thrillers)?

• Have you polished both your manuscript and your pitch?

If you’re unsure whether your book fits a genre or which publisher to pursue, I’d be happy to review your concept and submission plan. Book a consultation to avoid wasting months—or years—submitting in the wrong direction.

Children’s and Young Adult Publishers in the UK

Writing for young readers requires precision, imagination, and emotional truth. Whether you're crafting picture books, middle-grade adventures, or YA fiction, your goal isn’t just to entertain—it’s to shape minds and expand hearts.

UK publishers have a strong presence in children’s literature globally, with many placing a premium on originality, diversity, and visual appeal.

This list covers leading publishing houses in the children’s and YA space. While most require agented submissions, several offer open doors to unagented authors—especially in picture books.

Reminder: Children’s publishing is visual by nature. If you're an illustrator or working with one, follow each publisher's guidelines carefully.

Walker Books

Who it's for: Writers and illustrators of picture books, middle-grade, and YA fiction
About: Walker Books is a major independent publisher known for high-quality visual storytelling. Their list includes award-winning titles across all age ranges.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited picture book manuscripts. Middle-grade and YA must go through an agent.

Nosy Crow

Who it's for: Authors of picture books, chapter books, and YA fiction
About: Nosy Crow is an award-winning indie publisher known for innovation—both in print and digital formats. Their titles are playful, engaging, and visually striking.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited submissions for picture books and some YA. Submit via email per their guidelines.

Bloomsbury Children’s Books

Who it's for: Writers of picture books, middle-grade, and YA fiction
About: A major player in the space, Bloomsbury publishes a wide variety of children's literature, including commercial blockbusters and literary middle-grade.
Submission: Accepts submissions only via agents.

Faber Children’s (Faber & Faber)

Who it's for: Writers of middle-grade fiction, YA novels, and picture books
About: Faber Children’s publishes thoughtful, original fiction across all age categories. Their books often explore personal growth, imagination, and complex themes.
Submission: Submissions must come through a literary agent.

Usborne Publishing

Who it's for: Writers of children’s nonfiction, fiction, and illustrated books
About: Known for educational titles and interactive formats, Usborne is one of the UK’s largest independent publishers of children’s books.
Submission: Authors must submit through an agent.

Chicken House

Who it's for: Authors of middle-grade and YA fiction
About: Chicken House specializes in discovering new talent and holds an annual writing competition. Their list is imaginative, voice-driven, and often whimsical.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts—especially through the Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition.

Simon & Schuster Children’s UK

Who it's for: Writers of picture books, middle-grade adventures, and YA novels
About: Their titles span commercial and literary categories, often featuring humor, adventure, or strong emotional themes.
Submission: Must submit through a literary agent.

Egmont UK (Farshore)

Who it's for: Authors of picture books through young adult fiction
About: Rebranded as Farshore, Egmont publishes globally popular series and standalone books. Their catalog includes licensed titles and original fiction.
Submission: Closed to unsolicited manuscripts. Submissions via agents only.

Scholastic UK

Who it's for: Writers of middle-grade fiction, YA, and educational books
About: Scholastic is known for publishing both school-market titles and global hits. Their focus is on literacy, engagement, and storytelling across formats.
Submission: Only accepts submissions via literary agents.

Andersen Press

Who it's for: Writers of picture books, middle-grade, and teen fiction
About: Andersen Press publishes beautiful, thoughtful stories with social relevance. They emphasize diversity and emotional intelligence.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited picture book submissions. Middle-grade and YA require an agent.

Writing for Young Readers: What Matters Most

Children’s publishing is highly competitive, but also uniquely rewarding. Success depends not only on writing skill but also on understanding your reader’s developmental stage, attention span, and emotional needs.

Before submitting:

• Study the publisher’s existing catalog and tone

• Ensure your manuscript meets age-appropriate structure and word count

• Don’t assume simplicity means ease—picture books are often harder to write than full-length novels

If you're working on a children’s book and want feedback, editorial support, or agent strategy, I can help. Book a consultation to discuss your project.

Faber & Faber Poetry

Who it's for: Poets writing literary, innovative, and intellectually driven poetry
About: Faber is the most recognized name in British poetry, having published T.S. Eliot, Sylvia Plath, and Seamus Heaney. Their list continues to shape the modern poetic canon.
Submission: Does not accept unsolicited submissions. Submit via agent or by invitation.

Bloodaxe Books

Who it's for: Poets exploring international, political, and personal themes
About: Bloodaxe is known for publishing diverse, contemporary poetry, including translations and debut voices. Their catalog reflects social engagement and emotional depth.
Submission: Accepts submissions during set reading periods. Follow the website for announcements.

Carcanet Press

Who it's for: Poets of both traditional and experimental styles
About: One of the UK’s most prestigious literary poetry publishers. Carcanet blends classical sensibility with modern innovation.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited submissions via email. Send up to 10 poems with a cover letter.

Nine Arches Press

Who it's for: Poets writing contemporary verse rooted in personal or social experience
About: A respected independent press, Nine Arches focuses on accessible yet layered poetry. They also run mentorship programs like “Primers” for emerging writers.
Submission: Open submission periods throughout the year, including special series.

Seren Books

Who it's for: Poets connected to Wales or writing literary, lyrical poetry
About: Seren publishes English-language poetry with Welsh literary connections. They focus on both debut and established voices.
Submission: Accepts submissions during specific reading periods.

The Emma Press

Who it's for: Emerging poets writing emotionally resonant or themed collections
About: The Emma Press curates handmade, themed poetry collections. Their books often feature poetry for children as well.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited manuscripts via themed calls. Submission windows announced on their site.

Penned in the Margins

Who it's for: Poets working in hybrid forms, performance, and literary experimentation
About: This small press publishes bold poetry that crosses genre lines and performance spaces. They favor poets who challenge traditional boundaries.
Submission: Open for submissions during specific windows.

Bad Betty Press

Who it's for: Poets active in spoken word, performance, or contemporary issues
About: Bad Betty is a cutting-edge indie press championing underrepresented voices and performance poetry. Their collections are bold and socially relevant.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited submissions during open calls.

Verve Poetry Press

Who it's for: Poets focused on spoken word, accessibility, and community voices
About: Based in Birmingham, Verve highlights poets from underrepresented backgrounds, especially those active in live performance.
Submission: Submissions open during defined windows, often tied to live poetry events.

Salt Publishing

Who it's for: Poets writing literary poetry with contemporary relevance
About: Salt supports both emerging and established poets. Their catalog includes award-winning collections and anthologies.
Submission: Accepts unsolicited submissions during announced periods.

How to Get Your Poetry Published

Publishing poetry requires more than sending out your favorite pieces. Before submitting:

• Research each press’s catalog to see if your work aligns

• Follow submission guidelines exactly

• Don’t send entire collections unless requested—most presses ask for a sample

If you’re building your first collection or preparing to submit, I can help you shape your manuscript and choose the right publishers. Book a consultation to explore how your poetry can reach the right audience.

Academic and University Presses in the UK

Academic publishing requires more than writing expertise. It demands rigor, clarity, and scholarly contribution. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a first-time scholar publishing your dissertation, choosing the right academic publisher can impact your work's reach, credibility, and long-term impact.

As a writing coach, I work with authors who bridge the worlds of practice and research—professionals writing for both general readers and academic audiences. If you're preparing a book that advances knowledge in your field, the publishers below are worth considering.

All academic presses require detailed proposals. Many also expect prior academic credentials, a strong CV, and a clearly defined audience.

Oxford University Press (OUP)

Who it’s for: Scholars in the humanities, sciences, law, and education
About: The world’s largest academic publisher, OUP is known for rigorous peer review and global impact. Their list spans monographs, journals, and textbooks.
Submission: Accepts proposals. Submit a synopsis, sample chapters, CV, and market overview.

Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Who it’s for: Researchers across disciplines including social sciences, economics, and STEM
About: CUP publishes foundational and cutting-edge scholarship. They are especially strong in literary studies, global politics, and higher education.
Submission: Submit a proposal with abstract, chapter outline, writing sample, and author background.

Edinburgh University Press (EUP)

Who it’s for: Academics in the humanities and social sciences
About: EUP is respected for work in literature, film, cultural studies, and philosophy. Their editorial board looks for originality and critical relevance.
Submission: Accepts proposals by email. Include synopsis, CV, sample chapters, and table of contents.

Manchester University Press (MUP)

Who it’s for: Scholars in history, politics, sociology, and critical theory
About: MUP publishes work that challenges academic conventions. Their list emphasizes interdisciplinary research and accessible writing.
Submission: Proposal via email with detailed outline and writing sample.

Bristol University Press

Who it’s for: Researchers in social sciences, public policy, and economics
About: BUP focuses on books that address global challenges—inequality, justice, and sustainability. Strong editorial direction and academic integrity.
Submission: Email proposal with CV, market analysis, and sample material.

Liverpool University Press (LUP)

Who it’s for: Scholars in modern languages, history, and visual culture
About: LUP blends scholarly prestige with an eye for cultural relevance. They publish both English and bilingual texts.
Submission: Academic proposal with synopsis, sample chapters, and author credentials.

Palgrave Macmillan (Springer Nature)

Who it’s for: Authors in the humanities, social sciences, and business
About: Palgrave is known for books that blend academic theory with real-world application. They publish widely in political science, sociology, and leadership studies.
Submission: Submit a proposal with chapter outline, author bio, target audience, and sample chapters.

Routledge (Taylor & Francis)

Who it’s for: Academics in humanities, education, psychology, and STEM
About: Routledge is one of the world’s largest academic publishers, with a vast catalog of books and journals. They welcome both cutting-edge and foundational works.
Submission: Email proposal with writing sample, market analysis, and audience description.

UCL Press

Who it’s for: Academics and researchers in any discipline with an interest in open access publishing
About: UCL Press is the first fully open access university press. They combine academic quality with digital accessibility.
Submission: Submit proposal by email with a focus on how open access enhances your book’s impact.

University of Wales Press (UWP)

Who it’s for: Scholars in Celtic studies, Welsh history, literature, and language
About: UWP specializes in Welsh and Celtic scholarship, with a commitment to linguistic and cultural preservation.
Submission: Accepts proposals including author CV, sample work, and outline of academic relevance.

Academic Publishing: Advice for First-Time Authors

Academic publishers expect you to make a contribution to your field. That means demonstrating your research matters—not just to other scholars, but to broader societal, policy, or cultural conversations.

Before submitting:

• Clarify your research question and methodology

• Identify your intended readership (academic vs. general vs. professional)

• Build a proposal that combines scholarly depth with practical structure

If you’re transitioning into academic publishing—or want support structuring your proposal—I can help you prepare a submission that reflects both intellectual integrity and publishing strategy. Book a consultation to start.

Finding the Right Publisher for Your Work

A strong manuscript means little if it ends up on the wrong desk.

Too many writers submit blindly to large publishing houses without understanding what those publishers actually want. Others miss opportunities with independent publishers simply because they don’t know where to look. But a successful submission isn't about luck—it's about strategy.

As a coach who has helped over 130 authors navigate the publishing landscape, I’ve seen that choosing the right publisher can make or break a book’s momentum.

Here's how to choose wisely:

Align with Their Catalog

Study what a publisher has released in the past three years. Ask:

• Do they publish books similar to yours in style, tone, or audience?

• Are their authors emerging or well-established?

• Is your book a thematic fit, or will it stand out awkwardly?

Follow Submission Guidelines Exactly

Every publisher’s website includes instructions for authors. Don’t ignore them. If they request a book proposal, don’t send a full manuscript. If they say “agented submissions only,” don’t try to bypass the process.

Breaking submission rules often leads to automatic rejection.

Understand Their Editorial Philosophy

Each press has its own approach. Some focus on literary depth. Others prioritize marketability. Some are mission-driven—especially in academic publishing or diverse literature. Make sure their editorial lens supports your goals.

Get Professional Support if Needed

Many authors fail to submit their strongest work simply because they lack feedback. A coach, editor, or publishing consultant can help you:

• Clarify your book’s concept and audience

• Polish your sample material

• Create a pitch or proposal that stands out

If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to submit, don’t leave your book’s future to chance. Book a publishing consultation to receive expert advice tailored to your project.

You’ve written the book. Now it’s time to place it in the right hands.

Next Step

Your next step isn’t guessing. It’s positioning.

If you're ready to submit your work—or need clarity before you do—I invite you to schedule a free consultation. Together, we’ll identify your best-fit publishers, shape your submission strategy, and increase your chances of getting published.