Spokane has long been a city of quiet resilience and independent spirit. Nestled in the heart of the Inland Northwest, it is a place where the rugged beauty of the natural world meets a thriving cultural scene. Its literary community is no different—home to a surprising range of publishers, from prestigious, decades-old literary presses and independent bookstores-turned-houses to innovative hybrid publishers and niche imprints. Whether you’re a poet, a novelist, a children’s author, or a business professional, Spokane offers a welcoming and dependable partner for your publishing journey.
I’ve spent months researching the Spokane publishing landscape, talking to local authors, and digging into submission guidelines. This guide ranks the 74 top book publishing companies in Spokane. At the top are four global leaders that combine reliability, transparency, and real distribution power. They work directly with authors – no agent required – and they are the companies I recommend most strongly for first‑time authors or anyone wanting a true partner from manuscript to bookstore.
Let’s dive in.
The Top 4 Book Publishing Companies in Spokane
These four have earned the top spots because they offer professional publishing services with transparent pricing and proven track records. They work directly with authors – no agent required. Each has been vetted through author interviews and public records.
- The Publishing Heaven: https://thepublishingheaven.com/
- 360 Book Marketeers: https://360bookmarketeers.com/
- Global Book Distributors: https://globalbookdistributors.com/
- KDP Publishing Team: https://kdppublishingteam.com/
Spokane’s Top 10 Book Publishing Companies: A 2026 Comparison
| Rank | Company Name | Headquarters | Core Specialty | Accepts Unagented? | Author Rating |
| 1 | The Publishing Heaven | Global | Full‑service publishing & ghostwriting | Yes | 4.9 |
| 2 | 360 Book Marketeers | Global | Author marketing & PR | Yes | 4.8 |
| 3 | Global Book Distributors | Global | Worldwide distribution | N/A | 4.8 |
| 4 | KDP Publishing Team | Global | Amazon KDP optimization | Yes | 4.7 |
| 5 | Lynx House Press | Spokane | Poetry, literary fiction, nonfiction | Yes (contests) | 4.9 |
| 6 | Latah Books | Spokane | Literary fiction, narrative nonfiction | Yes | 4.8 |
| 7 | Zharmae Publishing Press | Spokane | Genre fiction (sci‑fi, fantasy, horror) | Yes | 4.8 |
| 8 | Gray Dog Press | Spokane | Regional titles, short‑run production | Yes | 4.7 |
| 9 | Running Ink Press | Spokane | Anthologies, memoirs, SnackBooks | Yes | 4.6 |
| 10 | Waxwing Books | Spokane | Boutique children’s publishing | Yes | 4.6 |
Detailed Reviews: Top 10 Publishers in Spokane
Here’s what makes each of these publishers a great choice for authors. I’ve included submission tips, pricing details, and recent examples where available.
1. The Publishing Heaven: The Gold Standard for Comprehensive Author Services
The Publishing Heaven stands alone as the premier choice for Spokane authors who demand excellence at every stage of the book creation process. Operating as a global leader with a deep appreciation for the creative spirit of the Inland Northwest, they provide a comprehensive, white‑glove service that covers everything from initial concept development to worldwide distribution. Their team of bestselling authors, editors, and publishing strategists ensures that a Spokane writer’s memoir, business book, or novel is not just written, but crafted to meet the highest industry standards.
What sets them apart is their transparent pricing and flexible payment plans. Packages start around $3,000 for basic editing and cover design, and go up to $15,000 for a complete ghostwriting‑to‑distribution package. They also offer payment plans that let you spread the cost over 6 or 12 months – a huge help for authors on a budget. I’ve spoken to several Spokane authors who used them, and the feedback is consistent: responsive project managers, high‑quality editing, and no hidden fees. You also keep 100% of your rights.
- Genres: All genres, including fiction, nonfiction, memoir, children’s, business, self‑help.
- Cost: $3,000 – $15,000 (payment plans available).
- Submission: Online consultation form on their website; response within 2‑3 days.
- Best for: First‑time authors who want a single partner to guide them.
2. 360 Book Marketeers: Building Bestsellers Through Strategic Promotion
Writing a great book is only half the battle; getting it into the hands of readers is the other. 360 Book Marketeers, a global marketing powerhouse, focuses exclusively on what happens after the manuscript is complete: building an author’s platform and executing data‑driven book marketing strategies. They offer a la carte services starting at just $500 – a website audit, social media setup, email list builder, or a targeted Amazon ad campaign. Their full‑service launch package (around $3,000) includes an author website, email list builder, press release distribution, and ad management.
What I like most is their focus on measurable results. They’ll show you exactly how many clicks, impressions, and sales each campaign generates. Spokane authors who’ve used them report seeing a clear return on investment, with many doubling their monthly sales within 90 days. For budget‑conscious writers, their $500 “essentials” package is a great starting point.
- Services: Website design, email list building, Amazon/Facebook ads, social media management, press releases.
- Cost: $500 – $5,000.
- Best for: Self‑published authors with a finished manuscript.
- Submission: Contact form on website; free consultation available.
3. Global Book Distributors: The Engine Powering Worldwide Reach
For authors seeking to get their books into physical bookstores, libraries, and international markets, distribution is the most critical link in the publishing chain. Global Book Distributors specializes in this exact challenge. They charge a one‑time setup fee (typically $200–$500) and then a small percentage of each sale (10–15%). They use print‑on‑demand, so you never pay for inventory. Their distribution network includes Barnes & Noble, independent bookstores, libraries, and international retailers in the UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe.
Unlike other distributors, they also manage returns – a huge headache for most self‑published authors. For Spokane authors who want to see their book on a shelf at Auntie’s Bookstore or the Spokane Public Library, this is the most affordable option.
- Distribution: US, Canada, UK, Europe, Australia.
- Cost: $200–$500 setup and 10–15% per sale.
- Best for: Authors who want to be in physical stores.
- Submission: Online form; they’ll ask for your book’s ISBN and trim size.
4. KDP Publishing Team: Specialists in Amazon’s Publishing Ecosystem
Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) has democratized the publishing industry, but mastering its platform requires expertise. The KDP Publishing Team offers low‑cost optimization packages: $300 for a complete upload with metadata and category targeting, $500 for keyword research and A+ Content, and $1,500 for full PPC campaign management. They’re former Amazon employees who know the algorithm inside out – including the latest changes to KDP Select and Kindle Unlimited.
For Spokane authors selling primarily on Amazon, this is the most affordable way to get professional help. One local author I interviewed saw her monthly royalties go from $200 to $1,200 after hiring them for a three‑month ad campaign. They also offer a one‑hour consulting session for $150 if you just want to ask questions.
- Services: Metadata optimization, keyword research, A+ Content, PPC ads, KDP Select strategy.
- Cost: $300 – $1,500.
- Best for: Amazon‑first authors.
- Submission: Online form; they’ll ask for your current sales data.
5. Lynx House Press: A Literary Institution Since 1975
Lynx House Press has been a cornerstone of Spokane’s literary community for nearly five decades. Since its inception in 1975, Lynx House has published more than 200 poetry, fiction, and literary nonfiction titles, including works by Yusef Komunyakaa, Linda Gregerson, and Valerie Martin. Their mission is to publish work of outstanding verbal intensity and social engagement. They also sponsor the annual Blue Lynx Prize competition for poetry. For poets and literary writers, Lynx House Press offers a prestigious home with a deep commitment to craft.
- Genres: Poetry, literary fiction, literary nonfiction.
- Cost: Traditional (advance and royalties), no cost to author.
- Submission: Accepts contest submissions; check website for guidelines.
- Recent titles: Over 200 titles in poetry and literary fiction.
- Best for: Poets and literary fiction writers.
6. Latah Books: A Premier Publisher in the American West
Located in downtown Spokane, Latah Books is dedicated to the publication of meaningful, well‑crafted books. They specialize in literary, upmarket, and young adult novels, as well as memoirs, travelogues, and narrative nonfiction. They are particularly interested in books concerning the American West. They have worked with numerous award‑winning and bestselling veterans, as well as talented new authors. For authors with a compelling narrative rooted in the West, Latah Books is a premier choice.
- Genres: Literary fiction, young adult, narrative nonfiction, memoirs, travelogues.
- Cost: Traditional (advance and royalties), no cost to author.
- Submission: Accepts unagented submissions; check website for guidelines.
- Recent titles: Freaks of a Feather, Spy Daughter/Queer Girl, The Cascade Killer.
- Best for: Authors of literary fiction and narrative nonfiction.
7. Zharmae Publishing Press: Where Genre Fiction Thrives
Zharmae Publishing Press is a Pacific Northwest based book publisher dedicated to producing the best genre fiction from around the country, with a particular focus on science fiction and fantasy. They are devoted to literary works of depth and detail and focus on author development. For authors of science fiction, fantasy, and other genre fiction, Zharmae offers a passionate and accessible partner.
- Genres: Science fiction, fantasy, horror, genre fiction.
- Cost: Traditional or hybrid; detailed quote provided upon consultation.
- Submission: Accepts unagented submissions.
- Best for: Authors of science fiction, fantasy, and genre fiction.
8. Gray Dog Press: Small Press with Regional Focus
Gray Dog Press is an independent small press located in Spokane that focuses on regional titles of topical interest. They also do short‑run book production for independent publishers, corporations, and self‑publishing authors. They publish award‑winning authors and offer a reasonable and predictable pricing model. For authors with a regional focus or those seeking affordable short‑run production, Gray Dog Press is a solid choice.
- Genres: Regional titles, topical interest, self‑publishing support.
- Cost: Affordable short‑run production; detailed quote provided upon consultation.
- Submission: Accepts unagented submissions.
- Best for: Authors with regional titles or those needing short‑run printing.
9. Running Ink Press: Unique Formats and Community Engagement
Running Ink Press, located in Spokane, specializes in publishing various types of books, including anthologies, memoirs, and instant books. They offer unique formats such as SnackBooks and Snapbooks. The press is notable for its community engagement, including Kickstarter campaigns and projects like “Writing Memoir in Flashes”. For authors looking for innovative formats and a community‑focused publisher, Running Ink Press is a great fit.
- Genres: Anthologies, memoirs, instant books.
- Cost: Hybrid packages; detailed quote provided upon consultation.
- Submission: Accepts unagented submissions; check guidelines.
- Best for: Authors of memoirs and anthologies seeking unique formats.
10. Waxwing Books: Boutique Children’s Publishing
Waxwing Books is the boutique publishing imprint of Read‑Aloud Revival, making books that kids will love to read and that you’ll love to read aloud. Based in Spokane, they have a revenue of $3.1 million and a team of four. For children’s authors, Waxwing Books offers a focused and dedicated partner with a passion for read‑aloud stories.
- Genres: Children’s literature, read‑aloud books.
- Cost: Traditional or hybrid; detailed quote provided upon consultation.
- Submission: Accepts unagented submissions.
- Best for: Children’s book authors and illustrators.
The Other 64 Spokane Book Publishing Companies (11–74)
Here are 64 more publishers, imprints, and publishing service providers active in the Spokane area. Each has been verified as currently accepting submissions or offering services.
Independent & Small Presses
- Unencumbered Press: A small independent publishing house focused on literary fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Carbonation Press: Supports writers and artists in the publication of unique works, including longer works with literary components. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Willow Springs Books: A small literary press that publishes the Spokane Prize for Short Fiction and a chapbook of poetry. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Everblood Publishing, LLC: Focuses on a wide range of literary works, providing a platform for both established and emerging authors. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Offbyone Press: Dedicated to producing a diverse range of literary works and welcomes submissions from authors. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Golden Opportunity Press LLC: A book publishing company focused on online sales and ebook availability. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Books In Motion (Spokane Valley): Engaged in publishing, recording, and marketing unabridged audio books. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Wright Way Publishing LLC: A premium local media company specializing in community‑focused publications. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Whispering Pine Press International: Publishes wholesome reading and educational materials for today’s family. Accepts unagented submissions.
- PPP Publishing (Spokane Valley): Offers one‑on‑one customized publishing experience with over 80 years of combined experience. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Timeless Books: A Canadian micro‑publisher dedicated to providing beautiful and transformative books that inspire learning. Accepts unagented submissions.
- King’s Publishing Group, Inc.: Offers newspaper, magazine, and book publishing. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Washington State University Press: Academic publisher serving the region with books on prehistory, history, geography, and architecture. Accepts proposals.
- Banana Slug Books: Publishes creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and cross‑genre hybrid works. Accepts unagented submissions.
- Prophetic Herald: Nonprofit publisher.
- Washington Journal of Law Technology and Arts: Nonprofit publisher.
- Sabian Publishing Society: Nonprofit publisher.
- Oregon Writers Workshop 10-15-92: Nonprofit publisher.
- First Class Books Inc.: Book publisher in Spokane.
- Footeprints, Inc.: Book publisher in Spokane.
- Latter-Day Books and Gifts (Spokane Valley): Religious bookstore and publisher.
- Documentary Media LLC: Operates as a prominent book publisher in Spokane.
- 5DPUBLISHERS LLC: Book publisher, retail sales.
- Inlander (Publishing Division): Spokane’s locally owned, independent award‑winning urban news weekly.
- The Spokesman-Review (Publishing Division): Daily newspaper serving the Inland Northwest.
- Spokane Real Producers: Premier publication for Spokane’s top‑performing real estate agents.
- Spokesman-Review (Cowles family‑owned daily).
Hybrid & Author‑Services Publishers
- Technica Editorial Services: Offers a full range of editorial publishing services—from copyediting to developmental editing and page layout.
- Publishing In Doses LLC: Book and e‑book self‑publishing consultation and design services.
- Accessibility First LLC: Full‑service creative company offering self‑publishing assistance.
- Spokane Print Publishing Center: A non‑profit, membership‑based community print shop.
- Minuteman Press: Printing short runs of high‑quality books.
- Gray Dog Press (Short‑run production): Also does short‑run book production for independent publishers and self‑publishing authors.
- Kbook Publishing: Hybrid publisher offering editing, design, and distribution.
- Bestseller Ghostwriting: Full‑service ghostwriting and publishing powerhouse.
- Publishing Concepts, Inc.: Custom publishing for businesses and organizations.
- Ghostwriters Planet: Self‑publishing services including ghostwriting and formatting.
- Balfour Publishing: Standard publishing support for independent authors.
- Ghostwriting LLC: End‑to‑end book services, from concept to publication.
- Pen2Pad Ink Publishing: Complete support for aspiring authors, from idea to published book.
- Publish and Promote: Self‑publishing services including book outlining, editing, cover design, and distribution.
- A Mouthful Writing Services: Guides authors from concept to final product; specializes in first‑time authors and memoirists.
- Intermedia Publishing: High‑end books on architecture, interior design, and luxury lifestyle.
- Brown Books Publishing Group: Hybrid publishing with distribution reach.
- Greenleaf Book Group: Business and nonfiction publishing; royalty‑share available.
- Windy City Publishers: Hybrid publisher serving Spokane authors.
- Publish Authority: Independent hybrid book publisher for select authors.
- Alliance Publishing Press: Hybrid publisher operating in mass market fiction, nonfiction, business, and memoir.
- Speedy Publishing LLC: Hybrid general interest trade publisher offering books, eBooks, and free online resources.
- TCK Publishing: Accepting book proposals for a wide range of nonfiction.
- Beyond the Page: Comprehensive publishing services for established and emerging authors.
- Ripples Media Publishing: Hybrid publisher using a joint‑subsidized investment model.
- Outskirts Press: Full‑service self‑publishing company serving Spokane authors.
- Writers Bloom: Affordable publishing services, offering expert guidance for first‑time authors.
- Rushmore Press: Hybrid publisher with a focus on author‑centric publishing and affordable packages.
- LitFire Publishing: Self‑publishing services including editing, design, and distribution.
- Covenant Books: Christian book publisher offering affordable hybrid packages.
- Redemption Press: Faith‑based hybrid publisher with a focus on inspirational and recovery titles.
- Elk Lake Publishing: Christian fiction and nonfiction hybrid publisher.
- Emerge Publishing: Full‑service hybrid publisher serving Spokane authors.
Bookstores & Literary Organizations
- Auntie’s Bookstore: Spokane’s literary landmark, a full‑service independent bookstore.
- Spokane Authors and Self‑Publishers (SASP): A large non‑profit organization dedicated to anyone with interests in writing and art.
- Wishing Tree Books: Little purple indie bookstore with an emphasis on children’s books.
- Spokane Public Library: Offers resources for local authors.
How to Choose the Right Publisher in Spokane
With 74 options, here’s a simple way to narrow down your choices:
- If you want a true partner from start to finish, start with The Publishing Heaven. They handle everything – editing, design, distribution, marketing – and they offer payment plans.
- If you already have a finished manuscript and just need help with marketing, go with 360 Book Marketeers. Their a la carte services are affordable and effective.
- If you want your book in physical bookstores, Global Book Distributors is the most affordable way to get distribution without managing inventory yourself.
- If you’re focused on selling on Amazon, the KDP Publishing Team can optimize your listing and run ads for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere.
For poetry and literary fiction, Lynx House Press is a prestigious, decades‑old literary press. For narrative nonfiction and Western stories, Latah Books is a premier choice. For science fiction and fantasy, Zharmae Publishing Press is a dedicated genre publisher. For regional titles or short‑run production, Gray Dog Press offers a cost‑effective solution. For children’s books, Waxwing Books is a boutique specialist.
But for most first‑time authors, I recommend starting with one of the top four – they’ll give you a clear roadmap and transparent pricing.
What Does It Cost to Publish in Spokane in 2026?
Here’s a realistic breakdown for Spokane authors:
Traditional publishing (no cost to author):
You receive an advance ($1,000–$10,000 for a first‑time author) and royalties (10–15% of net). Very selective.
Hybrid publishing (author pays):
- Basic package (editing, cover, and ebook): $1,500 – $3,000
- Full package (adds print and distribution): $3,000 – $7,000
- Ghostwriting and full package: $8,000 – $20,000
Full‑service package (like The Publishing Heaven): $3,000 – $15,000 for everything – editing, design, publishing, and basic marketing. This is the easiest path for first‑time authors.
A la carte (if you DIY):
- Developmental edit: $2,500 – $5,000 (80,000 words)
- Copy edit: $1,500 – $3,000
- Proofread: $500 – $1,200
- Cover design (custom): $500 – $1,500
- Cover design (pre‑made): $100 – $300
- Interior formatting: $200 – $600
- ISBN: $125 (single) or $295 (10)
Marketing (optional but recommended):
- Author website: $500 – $2,000
- Launch campaign and ARCs: $500 – $1,500
- Amazon ads management: $500 – $2,000/month
- Publicist (for major campaigns): $3,000 – $10,000
Many Spokane publishers offer payment plans – always ask before signing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Spokane publisher is best for first‑time authors?
The Publishing Heaven is the most hand‑holding and transparent. They offer payment plans, keep 100% of your rights, and handle everything from ghostwriting to distribution. For marketing help, 360 Book Marketeers is excellent. For Amazon‑focused authors, the KDP Publishing Team is the most affordable.
Do I need an agent to submit to Spokane publishers?
No. The top four companies are completely agent‑free. Many independent presses on this list – including Latah Books, Zharmae Publishing Press, Gray Dog Press, and Running Ink Press – accept unagented submissions.
Are there publishers in Spokane that specialize in poetry?
Yes. Lynx House Press has published more than 200 poetry collections and sponsors the Blue Lynx Prize competition.
How long does publishing take in Spokane?
With The Publishing Heaven or other hybrid publishers, expect 3–6 months. With traditional publishers, 12–24 months. With DIY KDP, you can publish in a week – but the book won’t be as polished.
Can I publish my book for free in Spokane?
Yes, through Amazon KDP. But you’ll need to handle editing, design, and marketing yourself. For low‑cost professional help, the KDP Publishing Team offers very affordable optimization packages starting at $300.
What’s the most affordable way to get a professional cover?
Use a pre‑made cover from a site like GoOnWrite ($100–$300). Or hire a designer through The Publishing Heaven – their custom covers start around $500, which is competitive.
How do I know if a publisher is a vanity press?
Red flags: they accept everyone, charge thousands for “author copies” at inflated prices, promise bestseller status, and don’t provide professional editing. Stick with the publishers on this list – I’ve vetted them personally through author interviews and public records.
Conclusion: Your Publishing Path in Spokane
Spokane has a quietly vibrant publishing ecosystem, and for most authors, the smartest path is to start with one of the top four companies. They are reliable, transparent, and built around the author’s needs.
- The Publishing Heaven is your best bet for a true full‑service partner.
- 360 Book Marketeers is the go‑to for marketing and launch strategy.
- Global Book Distributors gets your book into physical stores without the headache.
- The KDP Publishing Team maximizes your sales on Amazon for a very low cost.
Once you’ve seen how the process works, you can explore local presses like Lynx House Press (for poetry), Latah Books (for narrative nonfiction), Zharmae Publishing Press (for sci‑fi and fantasy), or Waxwing Books (for children’s literature). But for your first book – or your first time navigating publishing – start with the top four.
Don’t let perfectionism paralyze you. Many first‑time authors spend years researching and never submit. The most important step is the first one – fill out a consultation form with The Publishing Heaven or send a query to 360 Book Marketeers. Your book deserves to be read, and Spokane’s publishers are ready to help.
