PUBLISHERS – GENRE BASED SMALL PRESS & E-BOOK PRESSES:

This is the definitive list of commercial based small presses and online ebook sellers, complied mainly through the hard work of Piers Anthony. I rechecked a lot of his info, and only included the links that I found to be working. My understanding is that this is really for authors who are writing more commercialized genre based stuff, those fantasy, sci-fi, romance, and mystery books that fit right in with general run of the mill fiction you often see in stores. If you’re an aspiring writer who’s mastering the craft of completing these kinds of books and can’t find a traditional book publishing deal with an agent, etc – this may be the route for you. I think generally they mimic some of the same selling tactics of the larger publishers, but conduct a lot of their business online. This may make doing business with them more risky, particular for those not aware of all the contracts and rules, many of them have completely different formats and agreements. Proper homework may help you sort out who’s who and I recommend, if you use these sellers, to do the homework first, Piers Anthony’s research may be limited. Also, some of these smaller online presses might work if your fiction is less traditional, although I think most of them focus on lower quality genre fiction, and give the author more direct control than using the middleman of an agent and a larger press. Although I would highly doubt any of these authors are getting rich, or achieving mass coverage and press for these mainly non-stand out titles, this may be the route to go if you think self-publishing, where you have all the control, isn’t the answer, and it also seems like a good stepping stone to dealing with larger publishers and perhaps winning over an agent, particularly if you are writing very genre based commercial fiction. Here is a great link to an article at the swfa website that goes into some of the specifics of what to know first before you get involved with small presses: https://www.sfwa.org/other-resources/for-authors/writer-beware/small/

ABERDEEN BAY - “Via PA: This is a traditional, mainstream, independent publisher that asked to be included in this listing. I try to cover electronic publishers, but will add others as they come to my attention if they seem to represent a viable market for writers. "Quality is our top concern. If your manuscript is truly outstanding, then we will publish your work regardless if you are a published author or not." They like to cultivate long-term relationships with their authors by providing them with dedicated editorial and marketing assistance. So this would seem to be a good place to be, if you have a good enough book. I was not able to learn much from their site, however.”

ATLANTIC BRIDGE PUBLISHING - “Via PA: There is a good audit clause. They are looking only for Paranormal at this time. They pay author's 45% of all download sales, quarterly, and buy electronic rights for one year. A satisfied writer tells me that they are easy to work with, and that they were #6 among best publishers as listed by Preditors & Editors in 2001. See also their hot romance imprint, Liquid Silver Books. Unfortunately submissions are closed.”

BEWILDERING STORIES - “Via PA: I was told about this, but haven't looked them up yet. They don't pay, but are responsive. My informant says they will accept anything.”

BLUE WOOD PUBLISHING — “Via PA: They were formed in mid 2009 by two authors, one a New Zealander, one English, to provide publishing services, particularly to brand new authors, because both founders had enormous difficulty getting accepted by existing publishers. So they are trying to do it right. They have been open only to story submissions, but are open for longer ones in March, 2010. they do not charge authors, and do pay royalties. They try to report in 4-8 weeks. They don't say what genres. They have changed their submission policy, no longer asking for complete manuscripts, and have dramatically reduced their list of restrictions. No formatting restrictions either, as long as it is a document type they can process. They have published 36 authors, cover a wide range of genres, and have seen dramatic growth in their second full year in operation. It looks from here as if they are doing something right.”

BOOKS TO GO NOW - “Via PA: New electronic publisher covering the major emarkets. They report only one desire:: to see great stories get the exposure they deserve. Horror, Thriller, Mystery, Erotica, Fantasy/SciFi, Fiction, Historical, Inspirational, Romance, Paranormal, Young Adult—50-50 split after editing, artwork, promoting.”

CAN WRITE WILL WRITE — “Via PA: They started out as a showcase website for authors to display their work, but now have branched into publishing. An author reports that they have been professional and helpful throughout. I don't have information on terms; it was a slow site. February 2009 update: If they like your work, a contribution of £100 to get started. They will post your work on their website for one year. Um, as publication goes, this is barely minimal. They are not charging authors anything to showcase their work. They have expanded their literary services. They now electronically publish books. "Anyone with a decent, completed, coherent book has a reasonable chance of obtaining an ePublishing deal with us. Free. We make our money taking a percentage of sales." They also supply editing and critique services. They have an interesting attitude. They publish about twelve books a year. If you feel you can ignore their requirements, but have a really positive attitude, you might persuade them to make it thirteen. They welcome new authors.”

CARINA — “Via PA: They are expecting to launch in summer 2010 and release new titles weekly. They expect to have a wide range of genres. I understand that Carina is completely separate from Harlequin Horizons, not connected. Carina is not a self publisher. They will go digital first. No advances, but larger royalties. They are accepting submissions in all genres of romance, erotica, science fiction, fantasy, horror, mystery, women's fiction, and more, but no non-fiction or poetry. They will consider fiction from 15,000 words to over 100,000 words. You may submit manuscripts that were rejected by Harlequin or any other publisher. They want all rights for 7 years, 30% royalty on ebooks sold through their site, half that on books sold elsewhere. What will count is how much they sell. A report of a very prompt and personal acceptance process, until a supposedly negotiable contract turned out to be non-negotiable. But the rest went very well, and the overall experience was good. February 2014 update: Now they are more limited, no longer interested in nonfiction, women's fiction, horror, thrillers, literary, faith, young adult, or general historical fiction. That still leaves plenty, however, so check their list. February 2015 update: Their guidelines changed as of March 1, 2014. they discourage submissions of under 35,000 words, and are looking for 50,000 words and up.”

CLUB LIGHTHOUSE PUBLISHING - “Via PA: This is a newly-launched epublisher located in Canada. They are open for submissions in many genres of fiction and non-fiction. They take only electronic rights, for one year, and pay royalties of 40% of all download sales. Reports on submissions in one month to six weeks.  February 2007 update: They are open for submissions in many genres of fiction and nonfiction. February 2012 update: They say their royalties are among the best in the industry, without saying what they are. They want hot, spicy romance, erotica, GBLT, and vampire stories.”

CREATIVE GUY PUBLISHING - “Via PA: He calls his ebooks e-xtras, novellas 15,000 to 50,000 words long, with special features. Open for submissions as of February 2003, pays 65% of the net sales. Query first, with a bit about who you are, your genre, and the length of your piece. Go wild.” 

CROSSROAD PRESS - “Via PA: I heard from the proprietor. As an author and IT professional he set out to get his own backlist into digital. It worked. Then friends asked him to do theirs—and the company was born. Six years later he and his partner have built it up to about 175 authors and over 1,300 titles. This is a different type of publisher. They charge nothing, ever. They specialize in bringing back the titles of authors with out of print books. They can scan and digitize paperback and hardcover editions if necessary. They do their covers in-house, always with the author's approval. They pay 80% of anything made on ebooks back to the author, 65% on digital audio, and have a line of print on demand editions with 50% to the author. However, they are not really open to new authors; they specialize in backlist titles. If you have a backlist you want to get republished, check them out.”

CUNE - “Via PA: Founded in 1994 to explore innovative ways of bringing superior writing to public attention. The name derives from "cuneiform," as in ancient script. Yet, oddly, they misspell "Sumer," where that script was used. They propose that writers, independent presses, and mission-oriented large publishers make common cause to lift public taste.   2003 UPDATE: One of their goals is to publish thoughtful books by Arab, Arab-American, and American authors. They seem to have a strong pro-Arab, and perhaps anti-Israel stance. This would seem to be a convenient site to get the other side's version of current history.”

DANCING STAR PRESS — “Via PA: Jennifer Crispin is starting a new micro press for speculative fiction novellas. Check their submissions guide. (I can't get online at present, so have no other information.)”

DOUBLE-DRAGON – “Via PA: Publisher Deron Douglas. They are a small company composed of three people dedicated to bringing quality books to the Internet. They offer a two year contract, 30-35% royalty, paid quarterly. They also do hardcover and paperback. I have a very favorable report from one of their authors. I received a report from a writer who used this Survey to try several publishers, and in due course settled on this one, and is highly pleased. DD was quick to respond, accommodating about contract changes, and moved things along efficiently. All reports on this publisher have been favorable. They have Draco awards for unpublished or self published fiction, for Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror; the annual winner in each category will be published by DOUBLE DRAGON. April 2004 update: I finally have a negative report: an author put in a huge marketing effort, resulting in very few reported sales. I recommended auditing the publisher's books, as I have a conflict of interest here.. February 2006 update: 2006 has been filled, but they are accepting submissions for 2007. Allow 4-6 weeks for review. Now they have large-type as an option. Sales: Can be as high as 145 downloads per title per year, average.” 

DPDOTCOM - “Via PA: Electronic and POD publisher currently accepting poetry, short stories 5[35,000 words, and novels 40-100,000 words from new and established authors. I found no information on terms; it seems you have to submit your work, and they'll let you know if they want it. March 2011 update: They remain open for submissions and will respond within three weeks. No porno or hate material. June 2011 update: They do a 50-50 split on all profits. You have to have a PayPal account set up. They do a cover and place your book on their list; you do the rest. It seems they do not have a contract; everything is based on trust. That's nice in theory, but no legal protection for the author.”

DREAMING BIG - “Via PA: This is a small electronic publisher run by Kristi King-Morgan, a fan of mine. I tried them out on some novella length pieces, such as Hair Power and Writer's Retweet, and have now received royalties. I have found them to be highly responsive, ready to negotiate terms—my agent and I have some strict ones, as you might imagine—and with good taste in covers. They are open for submissions, and pay the author 50% of money received. My impression is that while they are into science fiction and fantasy, they will consider any genre if the piece is well done, though perhaps not erotica. They are especially interested in anything relating to mental health or psychology. If your normal publisher balks at something different from your usual, Dreaming Big would like to see it.”

ELDER SIGNS PRESS - “Via PA: An independent press specializing in science fiction, dark fiction, fantasy, and horror. I was asked about it, so looked it up, but it's site doesn't say much. However, submissions are closed.”

ELECTRON PRESS - “Via PA: This publisher hopes to make the quality of writing, rather than its commercial potential, the key factor in selecting manuscripts for publication, to keep books "in print" forever, and generally open up the system. It feels that by the end of the year there will be ten million PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) in use, such as the Palm Pilot, and as the technology improves to make them more readable, more people will use them and come to prefer them. "Electron Press is unalterably opposed to the closed architecture, proprietary publishing schemes and high book prices that appear to be the core principles of the dedicated ebook device companies." But I wasn't able to ascertain the terms offered writers. They say they pay "substantial" royalties. March 2014 update: This time they give their original 1997 message. No indication that they remain a market.”

ELM GROVE PUBLISHING -  “Via PA: This is a small traditional publisher that also does ebooks. They are open to anything: “If you write it, we'll publish," though they will refuse anything they deem unsuitable or potentially illegal. What makes them different? “We look at everything from the author's point of view," as they are authors themselves. They try to make it easy. “We want you to just write and let us do the rest!" There is no cost to the author, and they share the profits equally, which translates to 50% of the net.”

ENTANGLED PUBLISHING - “Via PA: Royalties start at 40% and increase with sales. Simultaneous electronic and print releases. No word yet on exactly what they are looking for, apart from “Great stories with fresh voices." No track record yet. March 2012 update: They are open for submissions. September 2013 update: I have a report from a former editor that this publisher broke out and got big fast, with attendant glitches, but is doing well, with good editors and authors.”

ERASERHEAD PRESS — “Via PA: Founded in 1999, this is an independent publishing company with a focus on Bizarro Fiction. They have eight imprints, one of which is a magazine, published quarterly. "We aim to bring you the weirdest fun to read books you'll ever find." They are looking for strong fiction, strong plot, strange and outlandish worlds. The one I read was exactly that. Pay one cent per word up to a hundred dollars, on publication. 100-6,000 words for fiction, 300-10,000 nonfiction. February 2012 update: I should mention that they published my horror shocker The Sopaths, and my experience with them has been good. March 2014 update: They have an amazing line of bizarre titles. They are open for submissions, but only for their type of books. March 2015 update: But I also should say that they have been extremely slow paying royalties or responding to my agent's queries. Caution.”

EVERNIGHT PUBLISHING - “Via PA: They are open for submissions. 45% royalties from sale off their website, 50% net royalties from distributors. 15,000 to 80,000 words. Query first. They seem to be in a number of genres, but focus mainly on sexy romance with the usual cautions. I have a report that says statements are quarterly and arrive on time, but they need to improve on editing. They are friendly and responsive. Sales vary but can be good. May 2011 update: A report of more than 400 copies sold in the first three days of publication. That is good. November 2011 update: a report that few come close to that level, and that their editing isn't great. But they are friendly. May 2012 update: A favorable report. July 2013 update: Complaints about poor editing, books being published with mistakes left in them, and late cover art. That it is an author mill. March 2015 update: This not looks like a parked domain listing other outfits. July 2015 update: One of the dicey things about erotic writing is involving underage folk, such as he being eighteen, she almost seventeen. In real life this is common, but in erotic fiction it can be complicated. The complaint is that this publisher's tolerances may not match its specs for submissions, so a carefully done piece may be rejected despite the specs. That can be infuriating, as it wastes the author's time.”

FINCH BOOKS - “Via PA: They have been in business a decade and specialize in young adult, romantic, and erotic fiction. They have more than 400 authors. They hive an automated response to submissions within 24 hours and a response within six weeks. They say they have some of the best royalty rates in the industry. They pay royalties monthly. Their standard contract is for four years. “We offer 100% dedication and commitment to each and every author..."

FLYING PEN PRESS - “Via PA: A new publisher with big ambitions. "We are taking on the world of book publishing with a fresh new attitude, and we intend to define the way books are published in the Twenty-First Century." They are interested in science fiction, fantasy, mystery, poker, and role-playing game books. An early report is that they are good to work with, but sales are not high. April 2009 update: As of January 1, 2009, they have a new office and mailing address, but their site remains the same. They remain open for submissions, with a minimum length of 65,000 words. March 2010 update: At this time they are not considering unsolicited submissions. That doesn't mean they aren't buying, just that you need to have a dialogue with them first. 65,000 to 150,000 words, preferably halfway between. April 2011 update: Not considering unsolicited submissions at this time. April 2012 update: Now they are interested in science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and poker and role-playing books. April 2013 update: They are not currently considering unsolicited submissions of fiction, but are seeking nonfiction. April 2014 update: Now they are open for submissions. April 2015 update: They say to check back soon for their new look. Meanwhile they remain open for submissions in science fiction, fantasy, mystery, poker books, and role playing game books. But you need to contact them first with your resume and your publishing status. Don't just send a manuscript.”

GLOBAL PUBLISHING GROUP LLC -  “Via PA: I have one report from a satisfied writer.”

GOOSE RIVER PRESS - "Via PA: A traditional full-service publishing house that also does self publishing. February 2005 update: They are now seeking manuscripts including but not limited to poetry, novels, short stories, juvenile, spiritual, and self-help; no erotica or occult. April 2008 update: they have a $30 reading fee. April 2010 update: They remain open for submissions, with the reading fee. But this is one way to get consideration for traditional print publication, and if you don’t make it there, they will help you self publish. This could be worthwhile for a novice who isn’t sure what to do.”

GYPSY SHADOW - “Via PA: I tried to check their submission guidelines, but they took so long to download that I gave up. So I have no information as yet on what they want or what their terms are. December 2010 update: they sent me their Frequently Asked Questions brochure, which strikes me as a fair way to learn the basics of publishing with them or anyone else. They discus prospects and fees in a sensible manner. I recommend looking at this even if you're not looking to do business with them. April 2011 update: The site says their submission guidelines were updated 1-19-2011, but they will need a few extra weeks to respond to yours. An email notice released by the publisher says their second year was rugged. "To say we are stretched too thinly seems to us to be an understatement." They beg indulgence as they catch up. They look forward to funding in June so their chief editor can work full time. They hope to change to a quarterly report, considering that most of their distributors are on a quarterly schedule. May 2011 update: their quarterly reports were delayed again, but they are scrambling to catch up. They had a host of problems, such as two car breakdowns and a computer crash.”

LIQUID SILVER - “Via PA: This is an imprint of Atlantic Bridge Publishing, dedicated to erotic romances. Send the first three chapters and a synopsis, with a cover letter about your writing background, why you are interested in doing erotica romance, and your thoughts on epublishing. They will respond in a day and treat you right if they want your novel. Royalties are 40% on retail sales, paid quarterly. They take electronic rights for one year, and are thinking about print publication with a 30% royalty. This looks good from here. April 2004 update: They seem to be broadening their genres to include Historical, Science Fiction, Paranormal and others, but all have an erotic romantic slant. In short, it seems to be the kind of Romance male readers should like too.  October 2006 update: A favorable report "I'm a Liquid Silver author, and am very, very happy with them." December 2006 update: sales report: ranging from 60 for a fantasy novel to 260 for a vampire/horror, romance. April 2007 update: More very favorable report: "They treat their authors like gold." Average time from submission to release is 3 months. Sales range from 120-175 books, and the royalty rate increases when sales pass certain thresholds. For example, if a title sells 1000 copies, royalty is 50%. This would be paradise for the average author. June 2008 update: an extremely positive report: "My absolute favorite! They are quick, friendly, professional, the artwork wonderful, and I sold 220+ books during the last quarter." But very few books are put into print. June 2009 update: They are currently accepting erotic romance. Royalties are now 35% on ebooks. May 2010 update: They are currently accepting all erotic romance genres. May 2011 update: Now their deal is 35% royalties on monies received from all outlets, paid quarterly. Electronic rights for two years. May 2012 update: Yet another very favorable report. April 2013 update: They are currently accepting all erotic romance genres and subgenres. Just make sure there's romance.”

LYRICAL PRESS -  “Via PA: They will open May 5, 2008. They are now accepting submissions in all genres. If you dare to write it, they will consider it. 40% royalty on the sale price. Preferred word length is 30,000 up, but they will consider pieces down to 12,000. The usual restrictions. August 2008 update: A favorable report, saying the proprietors are highly responsive. September 2009 update: There have been ugly reports on other sites condemning this publisher. As far as I can ascertain, they are fallacious, a hate campaign. May 2010 update: They are actively seeking erotica, romance, paranormal between 60,000 and 85,000 words. June 2010 update: I heard from the publisher, thanking me for the May update. I do updates of whatever nature seems correct, and rarely get thanked by publishers; quite the opposite sometimes. "I'm doing everything in my power to keep to the goal of being a quality publisher who treats authors and editors fairly and readers respectfully." May that continue. March 2011 update: They sent me a sample contract, which I critiqued, and they immediately addressed my concerns. For example, I felt their audit clause was mediocre; now it's fully up to snuff. Specifically, if the author audits, and an error of more than 5% is found to the author's disfavor, the publisher must pay for the audit. May 2011 update: They are actively acquiring all sub-genres of erotica between 20,000 and 90,000 words. No need to query; just send the full manuscript. That's a breath of fresh air, considering how some publishers will delete unsolicited manuscripts unread. But do follow their guidelines. April 2014 update: they have been acquired by Kensington publishing, and their contract is not as good as it was, but I think still acceptable. May 2015 update: timed out.”

MELANGE BOOKS - “Via PA: I was notified of this new house by the publisher, who says that many of their authors had been with Midnight Showcase Fiction, now closed. You can chat with their authors Thursday February 10, 2011, at www.theromancestudio.com/chat.php. They are looking for Romance of different types, science fiction, horror, contemporary, drama, gay, lesbian, young adult, erotica, non fiction and others, of assorted lengths from 6,000 words up. Response time can be 10-18 weeks (I hope faster). Royalties are 35% of net royalties digital, 10% of print. May 2011 update: They have assorted anthologies with varying submission deadlines, so it's probably worth checking every so often. May 2012 update: They remain open for submissions, but no Science Fiction at this time. May 2013 update: Now their royalties are 40% of net for e-books, 10% on print. October 2013 update: a complaint that there is only one book in their gallery, that one written by the owner. But I have to say that I am in doubt about the accuracy of this report. For one thing, I counted 36 new titles listed and described, and they have most of the alphabet listing their authors. May 2014 update: I have a report that there may be more than one Melange. This one is said to be professional and courteous. The author has a say on the cover and editing. The contract is for three years. Royalties are now 40% on ebooks. But it seems that Barnes And Noble does not work with this company's printer, so books won't hit that shelf. May 2015 update: Timeout.”

PUBLIC BOOKSHELF - “Via PA: PublicBookshelf.com is now open for fiction and non-fiction book submissions. We pay 70% Google ad revenues on each page of your book. Take advantage of our million+ annual visitor traffic to get your book read, earn money, and promote yourself." December 2008 update: they say you can read many of their books free, and also say they publish you online at no cost to you and pay an advance of up to $500. I'll be interested to see feedback from authors who try them, and this comes under the probably too good to be true heading. May 2010 update: I have moved this entry from the Services section to the Publishing section, because it now seems more like a publisher than a service. It seems that their contract is non exclusive, which means you can also publish elsewhere. That could be a good deal for authors. I have a report from an author confirming non-exclusivity but not the advance. May 2013 update: It still there, still offering to publish your novel free. June 2014 update: Still there, still looking too good to be entirely true. But I have received no complaints.”

PUBLISH AMERICA - “Via PA: We are an old fashioned publishing company with new, innovative ideas. We pride ourselves on publishing books that are having a hard time being accepted elsewhere." They respond within weeks or months, and are looking for Children's/Young Adult, Fiction, Health, Mystery/Suspense, Nonfiction, Spiritual/Philosophy, Romance, or Sci-fi. They use print-on-demand to avoid big inventories or warehousing. Thus they can give talented undiscovered authors a fair chance. They pay standard traditional-publisher royalties of 8% to 10%. Bear in mind that these seemingly small royalties are apt to bring in a good deal more money for the writer than 50% or 100% with a straight online publisher, because of the likely volume of sales. Less is often more, in publishing. However, there may be an odor here. The "Ask Ann" service (check it in the Services section) has posted a number of complaints, and there is some fierce dialogue with the publisher. Elsewhere reports have been mixed. Whether it is unscrupulous or merely impatiently efficient is uncertain, and perhaps depends on your perspective. Remember, the "old fashioned" publishers can be arrogant as hell. I heard from one writer who was seriously disappointed in their performance. October 2003 update: another writer says that they are a thinly disguised vanity press, their fee not being money but an "announcement list" of two to three hundred addresses the author is required to provide. I presume they then hit up those addresses for sales. I would distrust this. December 2003 update: But another writer says that they ask for only 100 or fewer addresses and don't expect to sell to many of those. August 2004 update: a writer forwarded me a copy of the San Antonio Current review: they are doing well, paying small advances of one dollar, but have generally low sales. They do retaliate against complainants, removing them from their message boards or banning them. PA (that's Publish America, not Piers Anthony) warns to beware of sci-fi or fantasy authors: "They have no clue about what it is to write real-life stories, and how to find them a home." Well, I am such an author, so consider yourself warned. December 2004 update: complaints continue, and PUBLISHERS WEEKLY ran an expose, saying that PA does not pay royalties. That's a no-no. My impression is that this publisher is best avoided. February 2005 update: And I have a positive feedback on them, from an author who was paid a small advance, is satisfied with their editing and responsivity, does receive royalties, and discovered that some who pan the company do so based on rumors rather than personal experience. Still, it seems that the WASHINGTON POST published an article trashing them as selling false dreams, and see my column for February 2005 for the SF writers' hilarious response to PA's put-down of them. June 2005 update: yet I received an ad for one of their books, so they do do that amount of promotion. June 2006 update: And I have a positive response, that they do exactly what they say they will do. Authors really do have to do 99% of the marketing of their books; PA doesn't charge and does pay royalties. And another negative report. One writer feels they make sales difficult because books are non-returnable. Here I can't fault PA; POD books generally are non-returnable, having been in effect special-ordered. October 2006 update: Another complaint that the company became non-responsive after receiving the manuscript. So the manuscript was withdrawn. Meanwhile, I have what amounts to a leaked document on the inner workings of this publisher. There are 20-some "editors" who are hard pressed. Layout/editors are required to do three books a day. There's no time to check story-line or continuity or even spelling. Basic editors (a different class) do about one book a day, and are lucky to correct punctuation, grammar, spelling, tense, or point of view. Questions are shunted to Support, where they are answered with pre-made blurbs drawn from the contract or form letters. So if service seems perfunctory, it's not because the editors don't care; they just are on such an assembly-line schedule that they can't do much for any book. It is reminiscent of a sweat shop. December 2006 update: another bad report, of their firing their best editors and engaging in sex discrimination. Another says "they are rude ignorant and down right nasty." Some folk believe they will fold in six months. We'll see. April 2007 update: more negatives. See MEET REAL PA in the services section. August 2007 update: a positive report, they performed as promised, though they do price the books high. October 2007 update: and another negative about non-payment. June 2008 update: They have an item titled Publish America Confronts Amazon. I am not keen on Publish America, but I believe they have the right of this one, refusing to let Amazon dictate who prints their books. However, I also have another negative report from a writer: they are difficult to work with. If you post something negative on the boards, they delete it immediately. They can take forever to get back to you if you have an issue. December 2008 update: a report that they have extended their contract term from three to seven years, that they take movie rights, and pay an advance of one dollar. Be wary. I also have another mediocre report: they did pay a royalty check, but the author could not verify its accuracy. Typos were left in even after supposedly corrected. April 2009 update: Publish America won its suit against Preditors & Editors. I do not know the details, but conjecture that the P&E report was considered to be intended to prejudice people against the publisher, rather than being objective. June 2009 update: I note this on their page: "Welcome to Publish America! We are the Nation's number one book publisher!!" They are talking about numbers of books, not quality. But, oddly, I could get none of their supplementary sections. July 2009 update: I have another generally favorable report. They have a clearly worded contract and follow through with every promise they make. They reportedly accept only 30% of submitted manuscripts. "PA's staff have answered every single one of my multiple emails over the last 2 years ... I've never had an impolite or improper response and they've always responded within 2 weeks." They sent out many copies of the book at their cost for reviews. They paid royalties on time. June 2010 update: But complaints of nonperformance continue. February 2011 update: for a $149 processing feel an author can get the rights to a book reverted. This strikes me as a variant of the kill fee. May 2011 update: here is their response to an unsatisfied author: "We received the email below from a drivel spewing individual who claims to speak on your behalf. We will of course ignore her nonsense and herself..." January 2012 update: One author finally got her rights back, but now is being pestered for deals to get her rights reverted. She says she already has them back, but they keep offering. May 2013 update: it's still there in good order, still ready to publish you. Plug-ins are required, so I don't have the whole story, but it's clear that they remain in business. June 2014 update: The link now leads to America Star Books, which seems similar; it may simply be a name change.”

ROGUE PHOENIX PRESS - “Via PA: They are open for all submissions in Romance, Sci-Fi, Young Adult, Historical Fiction and Mystery. Royalties of 40% of the cover price, or 35% if books are sold through other outlets. Two year contract. I don't think they have a track record yet.”

SOUTHERN OWL - “Via PA: I received a flier on this. They started accepting submissions on January 10, 2017. They don't seem to say what they want, just “You wrote it, we'll promote it!" They seem to be more into promotion than publishing. January 2018 update: I received their December 27, 2017 Newsletter promoting their books, so it is clear that they are doing what they can. April 2018 update: They have now been in business for a year, and continue to do promotions for authors. However, they have opened up their publishing company and are now accepting submissions. To date they have 50 books published from 25 authors. October 2018 update: I received a flier headlined GREAT BOOKS HERE! with several titles and cover pictures. So they are still in business, still promoting. I admit to being intrigued by one title, A Sea of Smoke.”

STRAWBERRY BOOKS - “Via PA: They offer 50% royalties on ebooks and POD. They are looking for new material with the potential to reach a wide readership. Especially cutting edge, offbeat, dark, or literary works you wouldn't find anywhere else. Don't just send them an attachment; they can't open it; send a query describing the book, the prospective audience, and what experience you have reaching it.”

SYNERGEBOOKS - “Via PA: Founded in March 1999 by Debra Staples. Electronic, CD ROMs, paperbacks. 40% royalties on electronic, 30% on paperbacks 25% on children's books, 60% to Independent Authors (I'm not sure what that means). They publishe most genres of fiction and nonfiction, some poetry. They accept less than 30% of submissions. Query first, with your manuscript as an email attachment, MS Word or RTF formats. They'll respond in 4-6 weeks. But they are presently closed for submissions. June 2005 update: until November 2005. August 2006 update: Closed for submissions until August 2006. So they should be just about due to reopen. June 2007 update: They no longer put any of their books into print, just electronic formats. August 2008 update: They are closed to submissions until at least September 2008. July 2009 update: They are not accepting submissions until October 1, 2009. Except for authors already there; they can submit in July. July 2010 update: Submissions are closed until 2011. July 2011 update: They remain closed to submissions. July 2012 update: still closed. It's been 7 years now; I'd say this is not a market. August 2012 update: But I am told they do accept new authors for a limited time, from February 1 to March 15; that information is in FAQ rather than submission guidelines. A satisfied report by a new author.“

THE NOVEL FOX - “Via PA: I haven't looked this one up yet, but am told that they promise a $1,000 advance, and royalties on gross sales. They respond in 4-6 weeks. Looks promising, but it's too soon to tell. September 2015 update: It's an independent digital-first publishing company founded in 2014. They do various genres in novel length or shorter. They seem to be open to submissions.”

TWILIGHT TIMES - “Via PA: I was put on to this one by Celia A Leaman, one of their authors who will now be their Submissions Editor. They are looking for Fantasy (including Dark), Literary, Magic Realism, Mystery, Non Fiction, Pagan, Paranormal, Science fiction, Slipstream, and Specialty/New age. If your work is in a "blended" genre, is too "literary," or quirky in tone for other publishers, they're interested. Just tell a great story. Send a cover letter, synopsis, and first chapter in the body of the email query; no attachments. They say they offer a standard epublishing contract; that should mean electronic rights only and good royalties. December 2003 update: I have a very favorable report on this publisher.    June 2005 update: They are still there, apparently doing well. But I found no information on terms.  August 2006 update: They evolved from an epublisher to a traditional print publisher with initial print runs of 500-750 books. That's good, for a small publisher. They will be open for submissions until August 5, 2006. So about the time you see this note, it will be too late.  Sales: up to 145 downloads per title per year.  August 2007 update: They say they launched 21 titles in 2004. How about 2007? July 2009 update: a negative report: "My experience with this publisher has been nothing short of frustrating." Royalty payments were six months or more late, communications were often confusing, and there seemed to be little follow through. No evidence of this at their site, of course. July 2011 update: The site remains, but I did not find submission information. July 2012 update: They are currently open to non-fiction submissions only. They will be open for fiction submissions from July 15 to August 15, 2012, when they will want fantasy, historical, literary, military, mystery/suspense, paranormal romance, science fiction, SF romance, and YA fantasy. July 2013 update: Still no submission information. Maybe you have to get accepted before learning their terms.”

UNCIAL PRESS -  “Via PA: I understand that this is a startup founded by two competent editors from Awe-Struck. It will release its first titles on October 2006. Present needs are for Georgian, Regency, Victorian, and Western American Historical Romance, Fantasy/Paranormal, mysteries, and nonfiction books and humor. Query if you have something else; they might be interested. They hope to respond to all manuscripts within 60 days; nag them if they don't. Royalties are 42% on books sold from the publisher's site, less otherwise. They have a sample contract, and it has an audit clause. August 2009 update: I learn that it is pronounced UN-see-ul or UN-shul/, derived from Greek and Roman scripts, part of the chain of developments that brought about the modern book. April 2010 update: Word from the publisher that now they publish short stories over 5,000 words as well as full length books. They release only two titles a month because they feel that's all they can manage while adhering to their standards of excellence. Even so, this summer they will release their one hundredth title. They have done well in the EPIC contests. They remain primarily an ebook publisher, but do also publish a few college-level textbooks in paper. August 2012 update: They are open for submissions. August 2014 update: Open for submissions, except for erotica, horror, or Christian Inspirational.”

THE WILD ROSE PRESS - “Via PA: A new small electronic and print publisher of Romance. Currently accepting submissions in all subgenres, all lengths. Check their site for information on category editors, so as to select the right one for your piece. The usual restrictions. I did not find information on royalties. August 2007 update: They are still accepting submissions in all romantic sub-genres and in all lengths, with the usual restrictions. October 2007 update: Two favorable reports. They are professional, friendly, and quick. Royalties seem to be 40%. June 2008 update: But not a report that they can be very slow, taking a year to get into the editing process. August 2008 update: And a mixed report: there were problems, but they seem to be doing better now, though still very slow. Then an evident campaign: I received a cluster of seven letters telling me how good they are, the essence being that they are prompt, responsive, and easy to work with. October 2008 update: more reports. Their contract currently specifies publication within one year of signing of the contract. Royalties are now 30% ebook, 7% print; sales can be low. Another report that they can be slow with edits, but are quick to respond to emails. And from editor-in-chief Rhonda Penders: they have clearly defined timelines, replying within 45 days to a query, 60 days for a partial, and 90 days for a full manuscript, then one year to publish. She posted a note to her authors that if anyone experienced delays, let her know. That should take care of it. December 2008 update: a complaint about low royalties. I addressed this matter in my OctOgre 2008 column, after investigating, showing that such royalties may not be erroneous. A writer clarifies that they publish one year after the edits, and the edits can take many months. August 2009 update: They remain open to submissions at all times, but limited to Romance, in many sub-categories. August 2011 update: Still open for submissions. July 2013 update: They are now open to queries about submissions other than Romance, such as women's fiction, mystery, thriller, historical fiction, and erotica. October 2013 update: A favorable report on their information, editing, and helpfulness.”

WILDSIDE PRESS - “Via PA: They are looking for published books that are out of print. They must be in English, and the rights must be available. They take essentially all publishing rights worldwide in the English language, to prevent other editions from competing with theirs. They're looking for Mystery, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, Romance, Suspense, and Classics. They pay 50% of net revenues after expenses. The contract is for a four year term, automatically extended unless someone objects, and it has an auditing clause: overall, not a bad deal.
August 2004 update: I received an unknown host message. That may mean they are out of business. December 2004 update: No, they are still there.  October 2006 update: They are announcing a mass-market paperback line. That's a different league, if they can swing it. August 2008 update: Several of their imprints are currently closed to submissions, but Juno Books and some story magazines remain open. August 2009 update: 99% of their titles are POD, so sales are small. July 2013 update: I note with peripheral interest that one of their editors is Robert Reginald, whose Borgo Press is now an imprint here. I know him from way back when he published my novel Hasan. I take his presence here as a good sign.”

WRITERS EXCHANGE - “Via PA: Romance, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Children/Young Adult, Mystery, Western, Action/Adventure/Thriller/War, Humor, Writing Advice, Parenting, Christian, Self Help/How To. They do electronic and print on demand books. For the latter there is a one-time set-up fee, variable depending on what their cost is. Author receives 60% of the cover price, or less, depending on what the publisher has to pay for, like cover art. Contract has no specified time limit; the author merely cancels it at will, giving 90-day notice. There doesn't seem to be an audit clause, but there is a dispute-resolution clause. The proprietor Sandy Cummins tells me that they won the "Inscriptions Engravers award for Best E-Publisher." Indeed, the site has pretty pictures. She's a Xanth fan, so must be legitimate. 2003 UPDATE: They intend to be open for submissions for two to three months, then close for about six months to get through the submissions. Thereafter they should be open twice a year. So check the site to see if they are in phase before submitting. August 2004 update: they are currently open for submissions. So act quickly, before the window of opportunity closes. June 2005 update: They are still open. February 2006 update: They advised me that they have revised the site. It looks clear enough. They are currently open for submissions, but it may take 12 months for an acceptance.  October 2006 update: Royalties are 50%. They remain open for submissions. August 2008 update: They now have the acceptance time down to 5 months, and expect to bring it down more as they clear their queue. June 2009 update: now at www.readerseden.com. It seems it is now a bookstore rather than a publisher. In due course I will simplify the listing to reflect this, if it is confirmed. August 2009 update: They have moved to www.readerseden.com/. They are currently open to submissions. August 2010 update: They remain open to submissions. January 2011 update: A report that they do take a long time, but can be very nice, even when rejecting a manuscript. August 2011 update: The site is there, but I found no submission information. October 2011 update: I heard from the publisher, who says that on the front page there is a list of links in a blue bar, where Submissions is. Okay, I looked, and didn't find it there, but did find it under Wish List, and it's a thoroughly detailed discussion including a sample contract and rules of syntax. This is surely worth some time, for new writers.”

YARD DOG PRESS - “Via PA: This is a small print press. This list is primarily for electronic publishers, but I will list others as I come across them, without pretending to be remotely comprehensive. "Our mission: To bring to the attention of the reading public the talent of authors who haven't earned the 'big numbers' yet, so therefore get little or no attention from the corporation giants. These are often great story tellers with equally great stories to share. We think it is shameful that there is no forum for their work." Well, now; I like their attitude. So if you have been shut out of the big ones, here is a small one to try. August 2008 update: Royalties are 50% of net profit. That's fair, but could be a small figure. September 2009 update: They are open for submissions, but want no porn or hate fiction. August 2011 update: They express themselves bluntly. "...come into the YARD, grab a chain, pull up a tree, and bark at the passing cars." "What we're reading for...Absolutely nothing right now." Except what they specify on this page. September 2014 update: Still there with the same streetwise attitude. I've never done business with them, but can't help liking them.”