South Dakota may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about book publishing, but it boasts a diverse and growing publishing landscape. From full-service ghostwriting firms to university presses and regional-focused publishers, the state offers options for authors of all genres and experience levels.
Whether you are a first-time writer looking for professional guidance, a researcher aiming to publish scholarly work, or a storyteller wanting to preserve local culture, South Dakota’s publishers provide the resources, expertise, and support needed to bring your book to life.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top publishing companies in South Dakota in 2025, organized by niche, with insights on services, costs, and the step-by-step process to help you choose the right platform for your book.
Step-by-Step Publishing Process
Publishing a book can seem overwhelming, but understanding the workflow for each type of publisher helps authors prepare and make informed decisions. Below is a breakdown of how authors move from manuscript to published book with ghostwriting services, regional presses, and academic/university presses.
1. Ghostwriting & Full-Service Publishing
Step 1: Writing / Ghostwriting
- The process begins with the author collaborating with a professional ghostwriter.
- The ghostwriter may interview the author, outline the book, and draft chapters based on the author’s ideas and vision.
- This step ensures the manuscript reflects the author’s voice while maintaining high-quality writing standards.
Step 2: Editing
- Once the draft is complete, it undergoes comprehensive editing, including developmental editing (structure, plot, or argument), copyediting (grammar, style, and consistency), and proofreading.
- Authors usually provide feedback during this phase to ensure the content matches their vision.
Step 3: Publishing Preparation
- The manuscript is formatted for print and digital formats, and a professional cover is designed.
- The ghostwriting platform may assist with ISBN registration and distribution setup for Amazon, bookstores, or online retailers.
Step 4: Marketing & Launch
- Ghostwriting services often include marketing guidance, including press releases, social media campaigns, and book launch strategies.
- Authors are supported in building visibility and reaching their target audience effectively.
2. Regional & Local Interest Presses
Step 1: Manuscript Submission
- Authors submit a completed manuscript directly to the press. Some regional publishers have submission guidelines, including genre focus, word count limits, or regional relevance.
Step 2: Review Process
- The publisher reviews the manuscript for quality, audience fit, and regional relevance.
- This may include editorial evaluation, content feedback, or a short revision period before approval.
Step 3: Publication
- Once accepted, the manuscript is formatted, and the book is prepared for print and sometimes digital release.
- Regional presses may handle limited distribution, mainly targeting local bookstores, events, and regional readers.
Step 4: Optional Marketing
- Some regional presses provide basic promotional support, such as book signings or press announcements, but authors may need to handle broader marketing themselves.
3. Academic & University Presses
Step 1: Peer Review
- Authors submit manuscripts to the university press, which are reviewed by subject experts for academic rigor, accuracy, and originality.
- Peer review can take several months and may result in suggestions or revisions.
Step 2: Editing
- After approval, the manuscript undergoes thorough editing, focusing on clarity, consistency, citations, and formatting according to academic standards.
Step 3: Academic Distribution
- Once finalized, the book is published and distributed through academic channels, libraries, and sometimes online retailers.
- University presses prioritize scholarly credibility, so marketing is often limited but may include academic conferences, journals, and institutional networks.
Summary Table: Publishing Workflow by Type
| Publisher Type | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 |
| Ghostwriting & Full-Service | Writing / Ghostwriting | Editing | Publishing Preparation | Marketing & Launch |
| Regional Press | Manuscript Submission | Review Process | Publication | Optional Marketing |
| Academic / University Press | Peer Review | Editing | Academic Distribution | Limited Academic Promotion |
39 Ghostwriting & Full-Service Publishing
Ghostwriting and full-service publishing platforms are companies that assist authors in turning ideas into fully finished books. These services usually include ghostwriting, editing, formatting, cover design, and sometimes marketing or publishing guidance.
Authors who use these platforms benefit from professional support throughout the entire process, ensuring their books are polished, publish-ready, and aligned with industry standards. This niche is ideal for writers who may lack time, experience, or confidence in writing and publishing independently.
1. Vox Ghostwriting
Vox Ghostwriting is widely recognized as a leading full-service ghostwriting company in South Dakota. They specialize in working closely with authors to craft manuscripts that reflect the author’s voice while meeting professional publishing standards. Their services go beyond just writing; they provide comprehensive editorial guidance, manuscript structuring, publishing support, and marketing advice. Vox Ghostwriting caters to a variety of genres, including fiction, nonfiction, memoirs, and business books. What sets them apart is their personalized approach, ensuring that each project is uniquely tailored to the author’s vision.
2. Ghostwriting LLC
Ghostwriting LLC focuses on providing collaborative writing experiences for authors who want professional assistance but still wish to maintain input on their book’s content. Their core strength is helping first-time authors, professionals, and entrepreneurs translate their ideas into well-structured and engaging manuscripts. Services include ghostwriting, content development, editing, formatting, and some guidance for publishing. Ghostwriting LLC stands out for its ability to overcome writer’s block and craft coherent, compelling narratives, ensuring the book reads naturally while aligning with market expectations.
3. Cloud Ghostwriters
Cloud Ghostwriters specializes in fast, professional ghostwriting services for authors who want to bring their ideas to life without writing the manuscript themselves. They focus on efficiency without compromising quality, offering ghostwriting, proofreading, editing, and manuscript consultation. Cloud Ghostwriters is particularly suited for busy professionals or entrepreneurs who have a story or concept but lack the time to write. While the author remains involved in key decisions.
4. Black Hills Publishing
Black Hills Publishing is a South Dakota-based publisher dedicated to producing works that capture the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the Black Hills region. Their catalog includes regional history, nature writing, and literary fiction that reflects the landscapes, communities, and heritage of western South Dakota. The press emphasizes authentic storytelling, often highlighting local voices and historical events, making it a trusted choice for authors who want to preserve and share the stories of the Black Hills.
5. Pine Hill Press
Pine Hill Press focuses on publishing works related to the American West, including novels, short stories, and historical narratives. They aim to bring the spirit of the frontier and western lifestyle to life through compelling storytelling. Pine Hill Press is ideal for authors whose works celebrate Western traditions, landscapes, and cultural themes, offering a platform that understands and appreciates the unique character of this region.
6. Prairie Hills Publishing
Prairie Hills Publishing specializes in contemporary Western fiction, publishing stories that explore modern life on the plains while maintaining connections to the region’s history and traditions. They focus on relatable characters and authentic settings, ensuring that each story resonates with readers familiar with prairie life or interested in Western culture. Authors looking to tell modern narratives rooted in the West find Prairie Hills Publishing to be a supportive and knowledgeable partner.
7. Bear Butte Press
Bear Butte Press, located in Sturgis, South Dakota, emphasizes regional history and fiction, with a strong focus on the Black Hills and surrounding areas. They publish works that capture the heritage, local legends, and cultural narratives of the region. Bear Butte Press is recognized for preserving local stories and making them accessible to a wider audience, providing authors a platform to share historically and culturally significant works.
8. Dakota Territory Press
Based in Yankton, Dakota Territory Press publishes works that explore South Dakota’s culture, history, and heritage. Their focus includes historical nonfiction, regional storytelling, and culturally meaningful narratives. Dakota Territory Press is known for its commitment to authenticity, offering authors a chance to publish works that contribute to the understanding of the state’s past and present.
9. Great Plains Press
Great Plains Press, located in Vermillion, South Dakota, focuses on stories set in the Great Plains region. They publish works that capture the spirit of prairie life, regional history, and local culture. The press emphasizes literary quality and cultural relevance, making it an excellent choice for authors whose works are deeply rooted in the landscapes and traditions of the Great Plains.
11. Coteau Books
Coteau Books, based in Aberdeen, South Dakota, publishes a wide variety of genres including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, all with a strong focus on regional themes. They aim to highlight the culture, history, and landscapes of South Dakota and the broader Great Plains region. Authors who want their work to reflect local identity and resonate with regional readers find Coteau Books to be a supportive and well-established platform.
12. Badlands Publishing
Located near the Badlands, Badlands Publishing specializes in works that explore the unique landscapes, history, and culture of the Badlands region. They focus on both nonfiction and fiction, providing readers with stories deeply rooted in the geography and heritage of this iconic area. Authors benefit from their regional expertise and strong local readership, making it ideal for books tied to the Badlands.
13. Little Missouri Press
Little Missouri Press focuses on works connected to the Missouri River region of South Dakota. They publish historical accounts, local stories, and literary works that reflect the river’s cultural and environmental significance. The press supports authors looking to create works that celebrate the communities and landscapes along this important river, combining local authenticity with literary quality.
14. Prairie Fire Press
Prairie Fire Press emphasizes capturing the essence of prairie life through its publications. They focus on stories that highlight the landscapes, rural communities, and traditions of South Dakota and the surrounding plains. The press is ideal for authors who want to write about everyday life, history, or cultural heritage of the prairie region, offering a platform that appreciates the nuances of this environment.
15. Heartland Books
Heartland Books publishes works that explore the culture, people, and landscapes of America’s heartland, particularly South Dakota. Their catalog includes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, all reflecting regional identity and values. Authors who wish to connect with readers interested in Midwestern life find Heartland Books to be a trusted and knowledgeable partner for sharing authentic regional stories.
16. Wind River Press
Based in Brookings, Wind River Press focuses on works connected to the Wind River region, including both fiction and nonfiction. They aim to highlight local heritage, natural beauty, and community life, providing authors with a platform to share stories that are meaningful to regional readers. The press values authentic storytelling and cultural relevance, making it a great choice for region-focused projects.
17. Western Sky Publishing
Western Sky Publishing specializes in Western-themed works, including fiction and historical narratives. Their publications often explore frontier life, western culture, and the landscapes of the American West. Authors benefit from the press’s deep understanding of Western settings and themes, ensuring their stories resonate with both regional and broader audiences interested in the West.
18. Black Hills Press
Black Hills Press publishes works that focus on the Black Hills region, including history, fiction, and cultural studies. They aim to preserve and promote the stories of the area, emphasizing local heritage and landscapes. Authors whose work reflects the Black Hills region find a platform that supports regional storytelling while reaching a targeted audience interested in this iconic part of South Dakota.
19. Northern Plains Pres
Northern Plains Press focuses on publications related to the northern plains, including South Dakota and neighboring states. They publish works that capture the history, culture, and life of this vast region, offering authors a platform that understands the unique challenges and stories of the northern plains. Their emphasis on regional authenticity and literary quality makes them ideal for authors writing about the area.
20. Red River Valley Press
Red River Valley Press specializes in works set in the Red River Valley, encompassing historical and contemporary narratives. They publish fiction, nonfiction, and regional studies that highlight the landscapes, communities, and heritage of this fertile and culturally rich area. Authors seeking a regionally focused readership and an understanding of local contexts benefit from publishing with Red River Valley Press.
21. Frontier Heritage Press
Frontier Heritage Press, based in Spearfish, South Dakota, focuses on works that explore the heritage and history of the American frontier. They publish historical nonfiction, regional stories, and fiction inspired by frontier life. Authors benefit from the press’s expertise in historical accuracy and cultural context, making it a strong choice for works that aim to preserve and share stories from the frontier era.
22. Prairie Creek Publishing
Prairie Creek Publishing specializes in capturing the essence of prairie life, including both rural communities and natural landscapes. They publish fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that reflect the culture, history, and daily life of the Great Plains. This press is ideal for authors who want their work to highlight the unique experiences of prairie living, offering readers authentic and relatable stories.
23. Meadowlark Press
Meadowlark Press focuses on works that celebrate the prairie environment and its cultural heritage. They publish fiction, nonfiction, and poetry with themes tied to the local landscapes, wildlife, and communities. Authors who want to convey the beauty and challenges of life on the plains find Meadowlark Press to be a supportive platform that understands regional nuances.
24. South Prairie Press
South Prairie Press is dedicated to publishing works that explore southern prairie life, including the culture, traditions, and history of southern South Dakota. They provide a platform for both emerging and established authors to share regionally grounded narratives, with a focus on authenticity and cultural preservation.
25. Big Sioux River Publishing
Big Sioux River Publishing focuses on works related to the Big Sioux River region, highlighting local communities, history, and landscapes. They publish fiction and nonfiction that connect readers to the cultural and natural heritage of the area. Authors benefit from the press’s regional expertise and established readership within the community.
26. Rolling Plains Press
Rolling Plains Press emphasizes works that capture the rolling plains landscapes and culture of South Dakota. They publish regional fiction, historical accounts, and narratives that celebrate the plains’ unique lifestyle. The press is ideal for authors seeking a publisher attuned to the geography, history, and traditions of the plains region.
27. Prairie Ink Publishing
Prairie Ink Publishing specializes in works that reflect the spirit of the prairie, including both contemporary and historical narratives. They publish fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that connect deeply with regional culture and identity. Authors choosing Prairie Ink Publishing gain a platform that values storytelling, authenticity, and regional relevance.
28. Dakota Star Press
Dakota Star Press focuses on works that highlight the people, culture, and heritage of South Dakota. They publish both fiction and nonfiction with an emphasis on regional stories and community narratives. Authors benefit from the press’s dedicated focus on local readership and culturally rich content.
29. Black Hills Book House
Black Hills Book House publishes works centered on the Black Hills region, including history, fiction, and culturally significant narratives. They aim to preserve local stories while providing wide exposure to regional audiences, making them a strong choice for authors whose work is tied to this iconic area.
30. Sioux Falls Publishing Group
Sioux Falls Publishing Group is a versatile publisher based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, providing a platform for both fiction and nonfiction works that reflect the region’s culture, history, and contemporary life. Authors benefit from their knowledge of local readership and commitment to producing high-quality publications that resonate with regional audiences.
31. Great Plains Literary Press
Great Plains Literary Press focuses on literary works rooted in the Great Plains region, including fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Their mission is to highlight regional voices and cultural identity, offering authors a platform to tell stories that reflect the landscapes, communities, and traditions of the plains. The press emphasizes both literary quality and regional authenticity, making it ideal for authors seeking a balance of art and local relevance.
32. Riverbend Publishing Services
Riverbend Publishing Services provides authors with a platform for works that explore the natural and cultural aspects of South Dakota’s river regions. They publish fiction and nonfiction with themes tied to local communities, environmental features, and historical events. Authors benefit from their focus on regional specificity and storytelling accuracy, which helps books resonate with readers familiar with the area.
33. Mount Rushmore Literary Works
Mount Rushmore Literary Works specializes in publications connected to the Mount Rushmore area and the surrounding Black Hills region. They publish historical narratives, regional fiction, and nonfiction works that celebrate the heritage and cultural significance of this iconic landmark. Authors gain a platform that values both historical accuracy and regional storytelling, ensuring their works are culturally relevant.
34. Heartland Book Partners
Heartland Book Partners publishes works that focus on the culture, history, and everyday life of the American heartland, particularly South Dakota. Their catalog includes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that reflect regional identity and values. Authors benefit from the press’s understanding of local readership and commitment to authentic, relatable stories that connect with the heartland audience.
35. Dakota Writers Collective
The Dakota Writers Collective supports authors in South Dakota by providing a community-driven publishing platform for regional works. They publish fiction, nonfiction, and poetry with a focus on local culture, history, and contemporary life. Authors benefit from collaborative support, networking opportunities, and guidance on producing culturally relevant and high-quality publications.
36. Plains Horizon Publishing
Plains Horizon Publishing emphasizes works that reflect the broad landscapes, communities, and culture of the plains region. They publish fiction and nonfiction that highlight the life, history, and environment of South Dakota and neighboring states. Authors gain a platform that prioritizes regional authenticity and storytelling excellence, making it ideal for works rooted in the plains.
37. Prairie Sky Books
Prairie Sky Books focuses on publishing works that capture the vast skies and rural life of the prairie region. Their catalog includes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that explore community life, landscapes, and cultural heritage. Authors choosing Prairie Sky Books benefit from a publisher attuned to regional nuances and committed to producing stories that resonate with local and regional readers alike.
38. Sunflower Press South Dakota
Sunflower Press South Dakota specializes in works that explore the cultural, historical, and natural aspects of the state, with a focus on local communities and heritage. They publish fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that highlight South Dakota’s unique identity. Authors gain a platform that emphasizes both regional relevance and literary quality, connecting their work with readers invested in local culture.
39. Badlands Literary Press
Badlands Literary Press focuses on works related to the Badlands region, including historical narratives, cultural studies, and fiction inspired by local landscapes. The press emphasizes regional storytelling and cultural preservation, making it ideal for authors whose works explore the history, heritage, and natural beauty of the Badlands.
Cost Breakdown of Publishing Services
| Publisher / Service | Ghostwriting / Editing | Cover & Formatting | Publishing & Distribution | Notes |
| Vox Ghostwriting | $8,000 – $20,000 | Included | Included | Full-service, personalized |
| Ghostwriting LLC | $5,000 – $15,000 | Optional | Limited guidance | Collaborative model |
| Cloud Ghostwriters | $4,000 – $12,000 | Optional | Guidance available | Fast turnaround |
| Regional Publishers (avg.) | $500 – $3,500 | $100 – $500 | $50 – $200 | Mainly self-publishing support |
| Academic Press | $0 – $500 (submission fee) | Included | Included | Nonprofit, research-driven |
| Specialty Publishers | $500 – $5,000 | Optional | Varies | Niche-focused |
Note: Costs vary by word count, genre, and service package. Ghostwriting services are typically the highest cost, while regional presses may charge minimal fees for local publishing.
FAQs
Q: Can I publish without hiring a ghostwriter?
A: Yes, many regional and academic presses accept manuscripts directly from authors.
Q: How long does publishing typically take?
A: Full-service ghostwriting can take 3–12 months; regional presses may take 2–6 months.
Q: Do these publishers handle marketing?
A: Ghostwriting & full-service platforms often include marketing support; regional and specialty presses may provide guidance but limited services.
Q: Are these publishers only for South Dakota authors?
A: No, many accept authors nationally, especially ghostwriting and specialty publishers.
Q: Can I retain rights to my book?
A: Most ghostwriting and regional publishers allow authors to retain rights, though contracts should be reviewed carefully.
Conclusion
South Dakota offers a diverse landscape of publishing options for authors, from professional ghostwriting services to academic presses and regional-focused publishers. Whether you’re seeking full-service support, scholarly credibility, or regional storytelling, there’s a platform that fits your goals and budget. By understanding the strengths and costs of each publisher, authors can make informed choices to bring their manuscripts to life in 2025.
Disclaimer: Vox Ghostwriting lists publishers and literary markets for informational purposes only. We are entirely independent of these organizations and do not guarantee anything related to submissions, acceptance, or publication. Our services are designed to help authors polish their manuscripts and strengthen their submissions for better presentation.
