Self-Publishing Publishers in the US

Self-publishing has become the most empowering route for authors in the United States—and not just because of creative freedom. It offers control over your timeline, ownership of your intellectual property, and far greater royalty potential than traditional publishing ever could.

As someone who's written multiple books and helped over 130 authors bring their manuscripts to life, I can tell you this: publishing success today doesn’t rely on finding a gatekeeper. It depends on clarity, quality, and strategy.

The challenge? Navigating the sheer number of platforms and companies out there. Each promises visibility, professionalism, and sales. But not all self-publishing options are created equal—and some may do more harm than good to your book and your brand.

This guide breaks down the leading self-publishing publishers in the US, comparing their strengths and use cases. Whether you're releasing your first book or pivoting from traditional publishing, you'll learn what to look for, what to avoid, and how to publish with confidence.

Let’s demystify the self-publishing landscape—so you can make smart decisions and get your book into the hands of the readers who need it.

Table of Contents

• Why Self-Publishing Is a Powerful Choice for Modern Authors
• Who Should Self-Publish?
• How to Self-Publish a Book in the US
• Top Full-Service Self-Publishing Companies
• Best Print-On-Demand (POD) & Distribution Platforms
• Top E-Book Publishing Platforms in the US
• Hybrid Publishing Companies
• Which Platform Should You Choose?
• Cost Considerations in Self-Publishing
• Common Mistakes First-Time Authors Make

Why Self-Publishing Is a Powerful Choice for Modern Authors

Traditional publishing once held all the power. Authors waited months—sometimes years—for agents and editors to say yes. Today, that’s no longer necessary. Self-publishing gives you a direct path from manuscript to market, without asking anyone for permission.

For nonfiction writers, business leaders, and thought leaders, this is more than convenience—it’s strategic. You maintain full creative control, set your own publishing timeline, and retain the rights to your content. Most importantly, you own the relationship with your audience.

With the right platform and professional support, your book can compete with anything released by a traditional publisher. Many of the authors I coach are surprised to learn that the quality gap is not as wide as they thought—especially when they invest in editing, design, and proper positioning.

Self-publishing also offers greater financial potential. While traditional royalties hover around 10–15%, self-published authors can earn up to 70% of their book’s retail price depending on the platform. That’s a meaningful difference if you're selling a book at scale or leveraging it to grow your brand.

Ultimately, self-publishing isn’t a fallback—it’s a smart, modern approach to authorship. But only if you do it well. That’s why understanding your options is critical before you hit “publish.”

Who Should Self-Publish?

Self-publishing isn't for everyone—but it's a powerful option for the right kind of author. Over the years, I’ve worked with entrepreneurs, consultants, academics, and creatives. While their goals vary, those who thrive with self-publishing share a common mindset: they want autonomy, and they’re willing to take ownership of the process.

If any of the following describe you, self-publishing may be your best path:

• You want full control over your message, cover, and content.

• You have a time-sensitive project and can’t wait 12–24 months for traditional publishing cycles.

• You’re building a personal brand or business and want to leverage your book as a strategic asset.

• You’re writing for a niche audience that traditional publishers overlook.

• You value ownership and higher royalty rates over the prestige of a publishing house.

Self-publishing also works well for first-time authors who are coachable and committed to quality. If you're willing to invest in professional editing, design, and strategic marketing, your book can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with traditionally published titles.

That said, self-publishing isn’t an excuse to cut corners. A book still needs structure, substance, and polish to make an impact. That’s where experienced writing consultants and coaches come in—to help you create something that reflects your expertise and earns your reader’s trust.

If you're still unsure whether self-publishing is right for you, ask yourself this: Do I want to wait for validation—or do I want to take responsibility for reaching my readers now?

How to Self-Publish a Book in the US

Publishing a book on your own terms doesn't mean doing everything alone. It means making informed decisions at each step—from the moment you finish your manuscript to the day your book appears on Amazon or bookstore shelves.

Here’s a practical breakdown of how to self-publish your book in the United States:

1. Finalize the Manuscript

Before you even think of uploading a file, your manuscript must be complete, edited, and ready for layout. Many authors underestimate this step. A strong draft isn’t enough—you need clean structure, coherent flow, and polished prose.

At Trivium Writing, we often guide authors through developmental edits before anything else. A good book begins with clear thinking.

2. Choose Your Publishing Model

There are three main self-publishing paths:

• DIY Platforms (e.g., Amazon KDP, IngramSpark)

• Full-Service Companies (e.g., BookBaby, Outskirts Press)

• Hybrid Publishers (e.g., She Writes Press, Greenleaf Book Group)

Each model comes with different levels of support, control, and cost. Later in this article, we’ll break them down in detail.

3. Edit and Proofread

This step cannot be skipped. Every author needs a professional editor—ideally one who understands your genre and voice. Line editing clarifies your writing. Proofreading catches errors. Both are essential to reader trust.

4. Format Your Book

Book formatting ensures your manuscript appears correctly in print and digital formats. Formatting affects margins, font, line spacing, and chapter structure. You can do this yourself with tools like Vellum or outsource it to professionals.

5. Design the Cover

Your cover is your book’s first impression. It must be professional, genre-appropriate, and designed with both print and digital display in mind. This is not where you use a DIY tool. Work with a designer who understands publishing conventions.

6. Choose a Distribution Channel

Where do you want your book to appear?

• Amazon KDP gives access to the largest online bookstore.

• IngramSpark helps you reach libraries and brick-and-mortar stores.

• Draft2Digital and Smashwords expand your eBook reach to platforms like Apple Books, Kobo, and Nook.

Each platform has unique strengths—and using more than one may serve your goals better.

7. Set Your Book’s Price and Royalties

You'll decide your book’s retail price, royalty structure, and distribution territory. Consider your audience’s expectations and the platform’s royalty tiers. This affects how much you earn per copy sold.

8. Publish and Promote

Publishing is pressing "go." Promotion is everything that happens afterward. Launching a book without a marketing strategy is like printing flyers and leaving them in your basement.

Many authors I work with start strong by building anticipation: through email lists, podcast appearances, launch teams, and strategic pricing.

Self-publishing is a business decision. The more clarity you have on your goals, the better you'll be able to choose the right path forward. In the next sections, we’ll explore the best publishing options based on what kind of support and reach you need.

Top Full-Service Self-Publishing Companies in the US

Full-service self-publishing companies are ideal for authors who want professional support without giving up ownership. These companies handle editing, formatting, cover design, and distribution—so you can focus on writing and strategy.

As a writing coach and ghostwriter, I often recommend full-service options to first-time authors who need structure and accountability. With the right partner, you get a polished, market-ready book without the overwhelm of coordinating freelancers or navigating technical platforms alone.

Here are the most established full-service self-publishing companies in the US:

BookBaby

Who it’s for: Authors looking for a full-service provider with a strong focus on quality and distribution.
About: BookBaby is one of the most popular self-publishing companies in the US. They offer editing, cover design, formatting, printing, and distribution, along with eBook and print-on-demand options. BookBaby provides global distribution through major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and more.
>> Visit their site

Xulon Press

Who it’s for: Christian authors seeking specialized publishing services.
About: Xulon Press is the leading Christian self-publishing company in the US, offering editing, design, marketing, and distribution services tailored to Christian authors. They provide both print and eBook services, with distribution to major retailers.
>> Visit their site

Outskirts Press

Who it’s for: Authors looking for flexible and customizable publishing options.
About: Outskirts Press offers a variety of self-publishing packages that allow authors to choose the services they need, including editing, formatting, cover design, and marketing. They provide distribution through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and IngramSpark, along with optional book marketing services.
>> Visit their site

iUniverse

Who it’s for: Writers seeking professional publishing services with editorial support.
About: iUniverse is a full-service self-publishing company offering editorial, design, and marketing services. Their packages include options for professional editing and evaluation, making it a good choice for authors seeking comprehensive support throughout the publishing process.
>> Visit their site

These companies serve as publishing partners—not just vendors. They can elevate your book’s quality while saving you time and stress. That said, not all services are equal. Read contracts carefully and make sure you understand rights, royalties, and what’s included.

Up next, we’ll cover a more hands-on model: print-on-demand and distribution platforms for authors who want broader control and better margins.

Print-On-Demand (POD) and Distribution Platforms

Print-on-demand (POD) has revolutionized self-publishing by eliminating upfront printing costs. Instead of printing hundreds of copies, books are printed only when ordered. This keeps overhead low and removes the burden of managing inventory.

For independent authors who want full control over pricing, layout, and distribution, POD offers a streamlined, cost-effective model. In fact, many of my clients who publish through Amazon or IngramSpark do so entirely with POD—while still reaching global retailers.

Here are the top print-on-demand and distribution platforms available in the US:

Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing)

Who it’s for: Authors seeking easy-to-use POD and eBook publishing with global reach.
About: Amazon KDP is the leading platform for self-publishing eBooks and print-on-demand paperbacks. It offers free publishing services and global distribution through Amazon. With KDP, authors can publish in digital and print formats, set their own prices, and access Amazon’s vast audience.
>> Visit their site

IngramSpark

Who it’s for: Authors looking for wide print distribution, including brick-and-mortar bookstores.
About: IngramSpark is a popular POD platform that offers global print and eBook distribution, including access to physical bookstores. Their distribution network includes thousands of retailers, libraries, and schools, making it a great choice for authors seeking broader reach beyond Amazon.
>> Visit their site

Blurb

Who it’s for: Writers and visual artists creating photo books, art books, or other high-quality printed works.
About: Blurb is a self-publishing platform that specializes in high-quality print books, including art, photo, and illustrated books. They offer a range of print options and distribution through Amazon, Ingram, and Blurb’s own bookstore.
>> Visit their site

POD Publishing Tips:

• Always order a proof copy to assess print quality before launching.

• Compare printing costs vs. retail price to set profitable margins.

• Use each platform’s pricing calculator to preview royalty scenarios.

• Consider using both KDP and IngramSpark (carefully) to optimize reach and control.

One of my clients used KDP for speed and affordability, but relied on IngramSpark to place their book in university bookstores. That dual-channel approach helped maximize both accessibility and credibility.

Top E-Book Publishing Platforms in the US

Publishing a strong eBook can dramatically increase your reach—especially when you distribute it beyond Amazon. Digital platforms allow independent authors to connect with readers across devices and continents, often with minimal overhead.

Some of my most successful clients built international audiences by distributing eBooks through multiple retailers, not just Amazon. Others used strategic pricing and promotions to grow their email lists or funnel readers into paid programs.

If you're publishing a nonfiction book, consider how your eBook fits into your broader goals—visibility, authority, or revenue. Then choose the platforms that match that strategy.

Here are the leading US-based platforms for eBook publishing and distribution:

Draft2Digital

Best for: Authors who want wide eBook distribution without exclusivity
About: Draft2Digital makes it easy to publish and distribute your eBook across major platforms, including Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and OverDrive (for libraries). Their dashboard is clean, and their automated formatting tools save time.

They don’t take your rights and don’t require exclusivity—a major plus for authors who want to retain full control while expanding reach.

Strengths:

• Wide distribution to multiple retailers

• Clean, user-friendly interface

• No upfront fees—platform takes a small cut of royalties

• Great for authors managing their own launch strategy

Visit their site

Smashwords

Best for: Authors who want additional reach into smaller eBook retailers
About: Although Smashwords has now merged with Draft2Digital, its legacy platform helped indie authors reach niche eBook storefronts and international markets. Some tools and distribution options from Smashwords are still active in D2D’s backend.

Strengths:

• Expands your reach to retailers not covered by Amazon

• Offers coupon and pricing tools for reader promotions

• Long-standing player in the indie publishing ecosystem

Visit their site

Kobo Writing Life

Best for: Authors with a global audience, especially in Canada and Europe
About: Kobo Writing Life gives direct access to the Kobo eBook store and distribution through Rakuten and international retail partners. It’s a major player in markets where Kindle isn’t dominant.

If you want a presence in Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe, Kobo is essential.

Strengths:

• International reach beyond Amazon

• Author-friendly platform and royalty structure

• Built-in promotional tools for pricing discounts

Visit their site

Nook Press

Best for: Reaching readers through Barnes & Noble
About: Nook Press lets you publish eBooks directly to Barnes & Noble’s online store. Though its market share has declined, it still holds value for niche audiences and authors who want visibility on one of the US's best-known book retailers.

Strengths:

• Access to loyal Barnes & Noble customers

• Simple publishing interface

• No exclusivity requirements

Visit their site

Google Play Books

Best for: Broad reach to Android and Google users
About: Google Play Books gives you access to a vast, global digital marketplace—and you keep control over pricing, which is rare. Unlike Amazon, Google doesn’t require exclusivity or follow strict royalty tiers.

It's an underutilized platform with powerful potential for authors who want long-term discoverability.

Strengths:

• Huge Android and Chromebook user base

• Excellent SEO discoverability in Google search

• Easy integration with Google Books preview

Visit their site

Hybrid Publishing Companies: A Middle Ground

For authors who want the best of both worlds—professional quality and creative control—hybrid publishing offers a compelling path. These companies combine the polish of traditional publishing with the ownership and flexibility of self-publishing.

You don’t give up your rights. You don’t wait for permission. And you don’t have to become your own project manager.

Hybrid publishers typically operate on a partnership model: you invest in the production and marketing of the book, and in return, you receive a higher share of royalties and a professionally produced product. Many of my clients who take this route do so because they want to protect their intellectual property while ensuring their book matches the standards of major publishers.

Here are some of the most respected hybrid publishing companies in the US:

She Writes Press

Who it’s for: Female authors looking for a high-quality hybrid publishing option.
About: She Writes Press is a hybrid publishing company that offers professional editorial, design, and marketing services to female authors. They focus on providing the best aspects of traditional publishing while giving authors control over their rights and royalties.
>> Visit their site

Greenleaf Book Group

Who it’s for: Authors seeking a hybrid publishing experience with a focus on quality and professionalism.
About: Greenleaf Book Group is a hybrid publisher that offers high-end editorial, design, and marketing services. They specialize in producing market-ready books with strong distribution channels and offer professional support while giving authors control over their content and earnings.
>> Visit their site

Archway Publishing (Simon & Schuster)

Who it’s for: Authors seeking a reputable hybrid publisher with traditional publishing ties.
About: Archway Publishing is a hybrid publisher backed by Simon & Schuster, offering professional services like editing, design, and marketing, while allowing authors to retain control over their books. This makes it a good option for authors looking for traditional publishing quality with more independence.
>> Visit their site

Hybrid publishing is ideal if you want professional quality without the slow timelines and lack of control typical of traditional publishing. But you must choose wisely.

In the next section, we’ll help you compare all the major self-publishing paths so you can decide which one best suits your goals.

Which Platform Should You Choose?

Choosing the right self-publishing platform is less about finding the “best” option and more about identifying the one that aligns with your purpose. Every author has different goals, and your publishing strategy should reflect those goals clearly.

Having worked with more than 130 authors across industries and genres, I’ve seen firsthand that success looks different for everyone. Some writers want broad visibility. Others want tight control. Some aim to make money directly from book sales. Others use the book as a tool for influence or lead generation.

Here’s how to think strategically about your options.

When Full-Service Self-Publishing Makes Sense

Full-service companies work well if you want professional help without managing every moving part yourself. These companies offer editing, design, formatting, and distribution in one package. You still retain your rights, but you hand off the logistics.

This option is ideal for authors who want to maintain control but don’t have the time or desire to learn the publishing process or hire multiple freelancers. It’s also a great fit if this is your first book and you want to ensure a professional result from the start.

When to Use Print-on-Demand Platforms

Print-on-demand platforms like Amazon KDP or IngramSpark are best if you value independence. They allow you to upload your files, set your retail price, and earn high royalties. You manage every detail—design, layout, distribution, and marketing.

If you have a clear vision for your book and are willing to learn the publishing process or hire help strategically, this path offers maximum control and flexibility. Many of my entrepreneurial clients take this route because they want to experiment with pricing, run ad campaigns, or build a publishing brand.

When to Prioritize eBook Aggregators

If you’re focused on digital distribution and want your eBook available across multiple platforms—such as Apple Books, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, and Google Play—then an aggregator like Draft2Digital is a smart choice.

This model is particularly useful for authors who have international audiences or who want to test different pricing and promotional strategies. It’s also a great entry point if your book is short, digital-first, or tied to a broader online business.

When Hybrid Publishing Is the Right Fit

Hybrid publishing combines the polish of traditional publishing with the freedom of self-publishing. You invest in your book’s production, receive professional support, and retain your rights and a higher share of royalties.

This path works best for authors with high standards and a long-term vision. It’s especially valuable if you want your book in bookstores, libraries, or media outlets—and need a publishing partner that brings market credibility.

Authors who benefit from hybrid publishing often include consultants, thought leaders, and professionals writing authority-building nonfiction. Their return on investment often comes not from royalties, but from business opportunities the book unlocks.

Deciding Factors

To choose the right path, ask yourself:

• What is my main goal for this book—income, influence, credibility, or reach?

• Who is my target reader, and where do they discover and purchase books?

• How much time and effort am I willing to put into publishing and promotion?

• Am I writing just this book—or building a long-term author platform?

One of my clients, a tech executive, needed his book published in time for a major industry event. He used Amazon KDP for speed and IngramSpark for bookstore access. Another client, a leadership coach, invested in a hybrid publisher to ensure strong design and media placement—and used the book to secure new speaking engagements.

Neither approach was better. Each was strategic.

Cost Considerations in Self-Publishing

One of the biggest myths about self-publishing is that it’s free. It isn’t. While the barrier to entry is low—especially with print-on-demand platforms—publishing a high-quality book requires financial investment. What varies is how you invest and what results you expect in return.

Too many authors either overspend without a plan or underspend and publish a book that damages their credibility. If your book represents your ideas, your business, or your reputation, it should reflect a certain standard.

Here’s what you need to consider when budgeting for your project:

1. Editing

Professional editing is non-negotiable. At minimum, your manuscript needs copyediting and proofreading. Ideally, it also receives structural or developmental editing—especially if it’s your first book.

• Copyediting & Proofreading: $500–$2,000

• Developmental Editing: $1,000–$5,000 depending on length and complexity

The authors I coach often underestimate this step. A sharp editor not only improves your writing—they protect your credibility.

2. Cover Design

Your cover sells the book long before the content does. A generic or amateur cover signals that the content isn’t worth reading. Your design should be professional, genre-appropriate, and visually striking—especially in thumbnail form.

• Custom Cover Design: $500–$1,500

• Pre-made or templated covers: $100–$300 (not recommended for professional nonfiction)

3. Formatting & Typesetting

Interior formatting ensures your book looks good on the inside—both in print and digital formats. It also affects reader experience and perceived quality.

• Professional Formatting (Print + eBook): $300–$1,000

• DIY tools exist, but they come with a learning curve and limitations.

4. ISBNs and Copyright Registration

If you want full ownership and control, purchase your own ISBNs rather than using a free one from Amazon. This ensures you remain the publisher of record.

• ISBN (via Bowker): $125 each or $295 for 10

• Copyright Registration (optional in the US): $65

5. Printing Costs

With print-on-demand, your book is printed as readers order it. You don’t pay upfront for inventory, but print costs do reduce your royalties. The longer your book or the higher your print quality, the more you’ll pay per unit.

Use the platform’s pricing calculator to understand your per-book cost and determine a smart retail price.

6. Distribution Fees

Most platforms take a percentage of your royalties in exchange for distribution.

• Amazon KDP: Up to 60% royalty on paperbacks (minus print cost); 70% on eBooks priced $2.99–$9.99

• IngramSpark: Distribution discounts typically 45–55% for bookstores

• Draft2Digital and other aggregators: Take around 10–15% of your net sales

7. Marketing and Promotion

This is where many self-published authors fall short. Publishing your book is only half the equation. Getting readers to find and buy it is the other.

• Launch Strategy and Consulting: $500–$3,000

• Book Ads (Amazon, Meta): $200–$1,000+ monthly depending on goals

• Email marketing, podcast tours, social media campaigns: variable costs

I've seen authors pour money into design and editing, then skip promotion—only to wonder why no one reads their book. Budget for marketing from the start.

What’s a Reasonable Budget?

Here’s a rough range for a high-quality self-published book:

• Lean DIY Project (with pro editing and design): $2,000–$4,000

• Full-Service or Hybrid Publishing: $5,000–$15,000+

• Premium, Market-Ready Book: $10,000–$30,000 depending on services and goals

The investment should match your expectations. If your book is part of your brand, lead generation strategy, or intellectual legacy, treat it as such.

In the next section, we’ll review common mistakes self-published authors make—and how to avoid them so you publish with confidence, not regret.

Common Mistakes First-Time Authors Make

Self-publishing gives you control—but with control comes responsibility. Without the guidance of a publisher or experienced professional, many first-time authors walk straight into avoidable mistakes.

After helping over 130 authors bring their books to life, I’ve seen the same missteps repeat over and over. Some cost time. Others cost money. A few can cost you your reputation.

If you’re publishing a book to elevate your authority, attract opportunities, or grow your business, avoiding these mistakes is non-negotiable.

1. Skipping Professional Editing

No one—not even seasoned authors—can self-edit their way to a publishable manuscript. Many first-time writers assume their draft is “close enough,” only to face negative reviews, poor engagement, or lack of trust from readers.

Editing isn’t a luxury. It’s the minimum standard for anyone publishing publicly.

2. Choosing a Weak Cover Design

Readers absolutely judge books by their covers. A poor design tells readers your book isn’t worth their time. It also makes online ads and promotions fall flat.

Your cover is not for you—it’s for your reader. It must fit your genre, stand out in a thumbnail, and convey professionalism at a glance.

3. Publishing Without a Distribution Strategy

Uploading your book to Amazon is not a distribution plan. Neither is sharing the link on social media once and hoping for the best.

You need to decide where your audience buys books, how they find them, and what channels make sense for your goals. This includes choosing between Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, and more.

4. Setting the Wrong Price

Some authors underprice out of fear. Others overprice out of ego. Neither approach helps you reach your audience—or achieve your publishing goals.

Your book’s retail price should reflect its value and align with market expectations. Use pricing calculators and competitor research to make an informed decision.

5. Overlooking Marketing

Many first-time authors assume that writing the book is the hard part. It’s not. Getting people to read it is.

A book without a launch plan is like opening a store without telling anyone. Your marketing should start before your book is published—not after.

6. Choosing the Wrong Platform

Some authors pick the first platform they hear about, without considering distribution goals, rights management, or long-term flexibility. Others lock themselves into exclusivity programs without understanding the trade-offs.

The right platform depends on your audience, goals, and publishing strategy—not convenience.

7. Rushing the Process

Publishing your book quickly might feel satisfying in the moment—but cutting corners guarantees a mediocre result. If you want to build authority, generate leads, or leave a lasting legacy, the process needs time, strategy, and support.

You only launch once. Make it count.

Every author makes mistakes. The difference between amateurs and professionals is whether you learn from others’ experience—or from your own expensive lessons.

Publishing Your Book with Confidence

Publishing a book isn’t just about getting your words onto a page—it’s about creating something that reflects your thinking, your expertise, and your identity. That’s why the choices you make around publishing matter.

In the US, authors have more tools, platforms, and freedom than ever before. You don’t need permission from a traditional gatekeeper. But you do need clarity.

You need to know:

• What your book is meant to do

• Who it’s for

• How you want it to live in the world

Once you’ve defined those answers, the rest becomes a strategic process. Whether you choose Amazon KDP, a full-service provider, a hybrid publisher, or a digital distribution network, you can publish confidently—as long as you stay committed to quality.

Many of the authors I’ve worked with came in overwhelmed by options. What helped them succeed wasn’t picking the perfect platform—it was getting support, making informed decisions, and focusing on the long game.

Publishing a book is not a race. It’s a professional milestone. And when done right, it can transform your career, your brand, and your life.

If you’re serious about publishing well and want guidance from someone who’s helped dozens of authors do exactly that, let’s talk.