West Virginia has a thriving and diverse publishing scene that blends Appalachian heritage, modern storytelling, and academic excellence. Whether you’re an aspiring author, a poet, or a nonfiction writer, the Mountain State offers a variety of publishing opportunities — from independent presses to university-backed publishers.
At the top of this list stands Vox Ghostwriting, a full-service publishing powerhouse helping authors turn ideas into beautifully crafted, market-ready books.
Highlights of the West Virginia Book Publishing Market (2025)
The publishing industry in West Virginia is unique because it combines regional authenticity with modern literary professionalism. Here are a few key highlights shaping the market this year:
Rise of Indie Publishers: Independent presses like Headline Books and Blackwater Press have gained national attention for their creative output and author-friendly models.
Cultural Preservation: Many West Virginia publishers prioritize Appalachian voices, folklore, and history, keeping local identity alive through literature.
Academic Strength: Institutions like West Virginia University Press continue to dominate in research-based, educational, and historical works.
Growth of Digital Publishing: With the support of services like Vox Ghostwriting, authors can now publish, market, and distribute their books digitally worldwide.
Genre Diversity: From children’s fiction to poetry, memoirs, and Christian books, West Virginia’s publishers cover a wide literary spectrum.
Top 49 Book Publishing Companies in West Virginia (2025)
This comprehensive guide explores 49 top book publishing companies in West Virginia (2025), categorized by niche and style, along with insights into the state’s literary landscape, cost breakdowns, and FAQs to help you make an informed choice.
1. Vox Ghostwriting
Vox Ghostwriting stands out as a full-service publishing and ghostwriting agency offering a seamless journey from idea to publication. Unlike traditional publishers, it caters to authors who want a professional team to handle everything—writing, editing, designing, and even marketing. Whether you’re a business leader, fiction author, or first-time writer, Vox Ghostwriting helps bring your vision to life through expertly managed creative and publishing services.
- Services: Ghostwriting, editing, cover design, book formatting, and publishing.
- Best for: Busy professionals or aspiring authors seeking complete support.
- Strength: Personalized publishing experience with marketing guidance.
2. West Virginia University Press – Morgantown
As one of the most respected academic publishers in the state, West Virginia University Press focuses on high-quality scholarly, cultural, and creative works. It is well known for titles in Appalachian studies, history, and social sciences, as well as fiction and nonfiction that reflect the unique voice of the region. The press has a strong academic distribution network and collaborates closely with universities and research communities.
- Focus Areas: Academic, history, Appalachian culture, and scholarly research.
- Ideal Authors: Academics, historians, and nonfiction researchers.
- Strength: Peer-reviewed credibility and university affiliation.
3. Mountain State Press – Charleston
Mountain State Press is a nonprofit literary publisher that has championed Appalachian and West Virginian writers for decades. It’s dedicated to preserving and promoting regional literature, with a focus on poetry, short fiction, and essays that highlight the culture, struggles, and triumphs of Appalachian communities. The press is known for nurturing authentic voices and publishing writers who reflect the heart of the region.
- Focus Areas: Poetry, fiction, essays, and memoirs with Appalachian roots.
- Ideal Authors: Emerging literary voices from or writing about the region.
- Strength: Regional authenticity and literary integrity.
4. Headline Books – Terra Alta
Founded in Terra Alta, Headline Books is one of the largest independent publishers in West Virginia. It publishes across multiple genres, including children’s books, business guides, inspirational works, and nonfiction titles. Known for its award-winning authors and long-standing reputation, Headline Books bridges traditional publishing and author empowerment, helping writers reach national markets while retaining their creative voice.
- Focus Areas: Children’s books, nonfiction, business, and general trade titles.
- Ideal Authors: Writers seeking broad distribution and genre flexibility.
- Strength: Award-winning titles and national presence.
5. Middle Island Press – New Cumberland
Middle Island Press is a boutique publishing house specializing in poetry, short fiction, and artistic prose. It offers personalized attention to authors and often collaborates with poets, artists, and small creative groups. With an emphasis on design, aesthetics, and literary quality, Middle Island Press serves writers who value artistic presentation and quality over mass production.
- Focus Areas: Poetry collections, chapbooks, short fiction, and artful prose.
- Ideal Authors: Poets and literary writers seeking intimate, creative publishing.
- Strength: Artistic design and close editorial collaboration.
6. McClain Printing Company – Parsons
Founded in the early 20th century, McClain Printing Company doubles as both a commercial printer and regional book publisher. It has published hundreds of books centered on West Virginia history, folklore, genealogy, and Appalachian heritage. The company is known for preserving local culture through its publications and remains a go-to choice for historians and nonfiction authors across the state.
- Focus Areas: Regional history, folklore, genealogy, and heritage titles.
- Ideal Authors: Historians and authors preserving Appalachian culture.
- Strength: Long-standing reputation in regional publishing.
7. Blackwater Press – Charleston
Based in Charleston, Blackwater Press is an independent publisher committed to high-quality fiction, nonfiction, and essay collections. It’s known for blending local voices with global perspectives, publishing both established and debut authors. The press champions storytelling that provokes thought, explores identity, and challenges cultural boundaries.
- Focus Areas: Fiction, nonfiction, short stories, and literary essays.
- Ideal Authors: Writers exploring social themes and literary innovation.
- Strength: Independent voice with diverse catalogues.
8. Populore Publishing Company – Morgantown
Populore Publishing Company offers a distinctive mix of self-publishing assistance and editorial support for writers who want to maintain creative control. It focuses on transforming personal experiences into publishable works, often helping first-time authors turn memoirs or family stories into books. The company also provides professional layout, design, and printing services, making it a hybrid option for indie authors.
- Focus Areas: Memoirs, family histories, novels, and personal nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: First-time or self-publishing writers seeking guidance.
- Strength: Hands-on assistance from concept to print.
- W V Book Co – Charleston
W V Book Company is dedicated to promoting and distributing books that celebrate the culture, history, and people of West Virginia. Its catalog includes regional nonfiction, political essays, children’s literature, and cookbooks. The company helps preserve the state’s identity by publishing accessible, informative works that appeal to both locals and tourists.
- Focus Areas: Regional history, politics, children’s books, and cookbooks.
- Ideal Authors: Nonfiction and local culture writers.
- Strength: Deep understanding of West Virginia’s cultural landscape.
10. Elite Publishing Company – Huntington
Elite Publishing Company offers an independent platform for authors of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. The company focuses on quality storytelling and encourages creativity, giving new authors a place to shine. It combines the flexibility of self-publishing with the professionalism of traditional editing and design standards, making it an attractive option for indie authors.
- Focus Areas: Fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
- Ideal Authors: Writers seeking professional self-publishing assistance.
- Strength: Blend of indie publishing freedom and editorial quality.
11. Blue Acorn Press – Huntington
Blue Acorn Press is known for preserving Appalachian heritage through books that explore regional history, genealogy, and personal narratives. Its catalog features stories that capture the traditions, folklore, and values of small-town West Virginia. The press often collaborates with local historians and authors who aim to document family or community stories for future generations.
- Focus Areas: History, genealogy, Appalachian studies, and local nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: Historians, genealogists, and cultural researchers.
- Strength: Emphasis on cultural preservation and authenticity.
- Location: Huntington, West Virginia
12. Pocahontas Press – Lewisburg
Pocahontas Press publishes works that highlight Appalachian culture, nature, and history with a literary edge. It serves as a bridge between traditional storytelling and modern publishing, producing both creative and educational titles. The press appeals to readers who love the intersection of culture, environment, and art, making it a respected name in regional publishing.
- Focus Areas: Appalachian history, cultural studies, and nature writing.
- Ideal Authors: Writers documenting local traditions or environment.
- Strength: Regional focus with an academic touch.
- Location: Lewisburg, West Virginia.
13. Mountain Heritage Literary Press – Charleston
Mountain Heritage Literary Press takes pride in showcasing literary works that embody the spirit of Appalachia. With a strong focus on fiction, poetry, and reflective nonfiction, it publishes authors who write about identity, struggle, and belonging. The press provides a supportive space for writers who want to explore the connection between personal experience and regional life.
- Focus Areas: Fiction, poetry, memoir, and reflective nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: Literary writers exploring Appalachian identity.
- Strength: Strong editorial commitment to regional storytelling.
- Location: Charleston, West Virginia.
14. Appalachian Imprints – Morgantown
Appalachian Imprints is a small but respected independent publisher focusing on memoirs, essays, and creative nonfiction. It values personal storytelling and first-hand accounts that connect to Appalachian heritage or small-town life. The press gives emerging writers an opportunity to share deeply human stories rooted in real experiences.
- Focus Areas: Memoirs, essays, creative nonfiction, and local literature.
- Ideal Authors: Writers with personal or place-based narratives.
- Strength: Deep emotional and cultural resonance.
- Location: Morgantown, West Virginia.
15. Coal Country Publishing – Logan
Coal Country Publishing specializes in documenting the working-class culture, coal-mining heritage, and labor history of West Virginia. It supports authors who explore the struggles and triumphs of the Appalachian coalfields through nonfiction or fiction. The press has become a cornerstone for preserving industrial and community stories that might otherwise be forgotten.
- Focus Areas: Labor history, coal-mining, memoirs, and cultural nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: Historians, memoirists, and sociocultural writers.
- Strength: Unique focus on West Virginia’s industrial past.
- Location: Logan, West Virginia.
16. Echo Canyon Press – Beckley
Echo Canyon Press embraces originality, publishing fiction, nonfiction, and experimental works from new and established voices. The press values creativity and diversity, welcoming manuscripts that challenge conventions or offer new perspectives on familiar themes. It provides an open platform for literary innovation and storytelling with heart.
- Focus Areas: Fiction, creative nonfiction, and experimental writing.
- Ideal Authors: Writers seeking freedom of expression and innovation.
- Strength: Welcomes bold, boundary-pushing storytelling.
- Location: Beckley, West Virginia.
17. Valley River Press – Fairmont
Valley River Press is a small independent publisher focusing on romance, inspirational fiction, and family-centered stories. Its books often celebrate love, community, and faith, offering readers uplifting narratives with emotional depth. The press combines traditional values with modern storytelling to appeal to diverse audiences.
- Focus Areas: Romance, inspirational fiction, and family dramas.
- Ideal Authors: Writers of heartfelt and uplifting stories.
- Strength: Warm, character-driven storytelling approach.
- Location: Fairmont, West Virginia.
18. Vandalia Press – Morgantown
Vandalia Press, an imprint connected with West Virginia University, focuses on creative works including fiction, essays, and memoirs. It brings together the region’s best literary voices and supports new authors with a strong editorial process. Vandalia Press is respected for publishing thoughtful, well-crafted works that engage with West Virginia’s unique identity.
- Focus Areas: Literary fiction, memoirs, and essays.
- Ideal Authors: Emerging and established literary writers.
- Strength: Editorial excellence and connection to academic publishing.
- Location: Morgantown, West Virginia.
19. Woodland Press – Chapmanville
Woodland Press is one of West Virginia’s most recognizable publishers in the horror, folklore, and supernatural fiction niche. Known for titles inspired by Appalachian ghost stories and legends, it attracts authors and readers who love eerie, atmospheric tales. The press also supports anthologies that celebrate the storytelling traditions of the region.
- Focus Areas: Horror, folklore, ghost stories, and supernatural fiction.
- Ideal Authors: Genre writers interested in Appalachian myths and legends.
- Strength: Niche expertise in regional horror and folklore.
- Location: Chapmanville, West Virginia.
20. Shepherd University Press – Shepherdstown
Shepherd University Press is an academic and cultural publisher focusing on regional studies, educational resources, and scholarly nonfiction. It plays an important role in preserving West Virginia’s intellectual and historical contributions. The press works closely with educators, researchers, and historians to produce well-researched, enduring works.
- Focus Areas: Academic, educational, and historical nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: Academics, educators, and regional historians.
- Strength: Scholarly rigor and cultural preservation.
- Location: Shepherdstown, West Virginia.
21. Allegheny Echoes Publishing – Marlinton
Allegheny Echoes Publishing is dedicated to celebrating Appalachian heritage, folk music, and storytelling traditions. The press often collaborates with cultural organizations to publish books that reflect the heart of West Virginia’s artistic and musical identity. By preserving oral histories and folklore, it helps keep Appalachian creativity alive for future generations.
- Focus Areas: Folk music, oral history, Appalachian culture, and storytelling.
- Ideal Authors: Cultural historians, musicians, and regional storytellers.
- Strength: Authentic preservation of Appalachian music and lore.
- Location: Marlinton, West Virginia.
22. New Song Publishing – Huntington
New Song Publishing is a Christian-focused publishing company that emphasizes faith-based, inspirational, and devotional literature. It works with pastors, faith writers, and spiritual authors who want to share uplifting messages and biblical insights. The company combines spiritual purpose with professional publishing to produce books that motivate and encourage readers.
- Focus Areas: Christian literature, devotionals, and inspirational nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: Faith-based writers and church leaders.
- Strength: Promotes values of hope, grace, and personal growth.
- Location: Huntington, West Virginia.
23. Bluefield State College Press – Bluefield
Bluefield State College Press is an educational publishing branch of the college, specializing in academic, technical, and cultural works. The press supports research and education by producing textbooks, research papers, and books that enrich student and community learning. Its mission aligns with academic excellence and local impact.
- Focus Areas: Academic publications, technical manuals, and educational research.
- Ideal Authors: Professors, scholars, and educators.
- Strength: Strong institutional credibility and educational alignment.
- Location: Bluefield, West Virginia.
24. Appalachian Heritage Press – Beckley
Appalachian Heritage Press publishes books that honor the traditions, legends, and history of the Appalachian region. It focuses on nonfiction and cultural studies, often working with local historians and authors who want to preserve regional stories. The press plays a key role in maintaining a sense of identity within the broader Appalachian community.
- Focus Areas: Regional nonfiction, folklore, and cultural heritage.
- Ideal Authors: Local historians and writers documenting Appalachian life.
- Strength: Deep commitment to cultural preservation.
- Location: Beckley, West Virginia.
25. River City Publishing – Huntington
River City Publishing is a creative, independent press that publishes a diverse mix of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction. It values storytelling that captures the emotional and cultural pulse of West Virginia while appealing to a national audience. The company’s focus on strong narratives and relatable themes has earned it a loyal readership among regional authors.
- Focus Areas: Fiction, poetry, short stories, and nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: New and mid-career writers seeking indie publication.
- Strength: Balanced mix of creativity and accessibility.
- Location: Huntington, West Virginia.
26. The Appalachian Press – Charleston
The Appalachian Press focuses on memoirs, biographies, and local history that document the personal and collective experiences of West Virginians. Its catalog includes first-person accounts, rural histories, and family chronicles that shed light on the state’s cultural evolution. The press helps ordinary voices tell extraordinary stories.
- Focus Areas: Memoirs, biographies, and community history.
- Ideal Authors: Memoirists and writers with deep local roots.
- Strength: Emphasis on personal storytelling and heritage.
- Location: Charleston, West Virginia.
27. Kanawha Valley Press – Charleston
Kanawha Valley Press is a small but dedicated publisher known for poetry, essays, and creative nonfiction. Its mission is to highlight literary talent within the Kanawha Valley and beyond, supporting authors who express authentic emotional and cultural experiences. The press fosters a literary community built around creativity and voice.
- Focus Areas: Poetry, creative nonfiction, and reflective essays.
- Ideal Authors: Poets and essayists with personal or regional themes.
- Strength: Promotes literary craft and creative expression.
- Location: Charleston, West Virginia.
28. Heritage Press WV – Martinsburg
Heritage Press WV specializes in genealogical research, family histories, and historical compilations. It works with families, researchers, and local historians who wish to preserve personal legacies through print. Its dedication to accuracy and documentation makes it a trusted source for genealogy publications across the state.
- Focus Areas: Genealogy, family history, and local archives.
- Ideal Authors: Family historians and researchers.
- Strength: Detailed preservation of personal and regional heritage.
- Location: Martinsburg, West Virginia.
29. Allegheny Mountain Press – Elkins
Allegheny Mountain Press publishes works about nature, outdoor recreation, and environmental conservation. It appeals to readers who cherish the Appalachian outdoors, producing books on hiking, wildlife, and mountain life. The press aims to connect people with nature through educational and inspiring publications.
- Focus Areas: Nature writing, conservation, and outdoor adventure.
- Ideal Authors: Environmental writers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Strength: Promotes appreciation for Appalachian natural beauty.
- Location: Elkins, West Virginia.
30. Coalfield Writers Publishing – Logan
Coalfield Writers Publishing uplifts regional voices through fiction, short stories, and creative nonfiction that explore working-class experiences. It serves as a platform for emerging authors in Southern West Virginia, offering opportunities to share authentic community perspectives through literature.
- Focus Areas: Fiction, short stories, memoirs, and community literature.
- Ideal Authors: Emerging writers and community storytellers.
- Strength: Authentic representation of coalfield life and struggles.
- Location: Logan, West Virginia
31. Pioneer Publishing – Wheeling
Pioneer Publishing is a reputable independent publisher that focuses on nonfiction, biographies, and historical accounts. With a name that reflects its forward-thinking yet traditional roots, the company often publishes works that document the pioneering spirit of West Virginia communities. It’s an excellent choice for writers who wish to share stories of courage, discovery, and personal history.
- Focus Areas: Biographies, local history, and nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: Historians, memoirists, and nonfiction storytellers.
- Strength: Balances historical preservation with narrative quality.
- Location: Wheeling, West Virginia.
32. Copper Creek Press – Morgantown
Copper Creek Press brings a literary touch to West Virginia’s publishing scene with its emphasis on poetry, literary fiction, and short story collections. The press values artistic integrity and the emotional impact of language, providing authors with careful editorial attention. Its mission is to give voice to creative writers who explore human experiences with depth and honesty.
- Focus Areas: Poetry, literary fiction, and short stories.
- Ideal Authors: Poets and fiction writers with a strong literary style.
- Strength: Artistic publishing with a focus on emotional storytelling.
- Location: Morgantown, West Virginia.
33. New River Press – Fayetteville
New River Press captures the adventurous and natural essence of West Virginia through books about outdoor exploration, adventure writing, and environmental awareness. Its titles often celebrate the scenic beauty of the state, making it an ideal outlet for authors writing about hiking, rafting, or wilderness life.
- Focus Areas: Adventure, travel, and nature writing.
- Ideal Authors: Outdoor enthusiasts and environmental authors.
- Strength: Inspires readers through storytelling rooted in nature.
- Location: Fayetteville, West Virginia.
34. Greenbrier Press – Lewisburg
Greenbrier Press specializes in art books, photography collections, and cultural studies. The company highlights visual storytelling and regional artistry, collaborating with photographers, designers, and authors who capture the aesthetic side of Appalachian life. It’s known for producing beautifully designed books with visual impact and literary depth.
- Focus Areas: Art, photography, and cultural nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: Artists, photographers, and creative nonfiction writers.
- Strength: Stunning design and artistic presentation.
- Location: Lewisburg, West Virginia.
35. Mountain Heritage Books – Princeton
Mountain Heritage Books is a small independent publisher dedicated to preserving Appalachian culture and community stories. It focuses on nonfiction titles that highlight family traditions, oral histories, and local events that shaped the region. The press supports authors who wish to preserve the legacy of small-town Appalachia through meaningful, personal narratives.
- Focus Areas: Nonfiction, cultural history, and heritage preservation.
- Ideal Authors: Local historians and cultural storytellers.
- Strength: Deep connection to community heritage.
- Location: Princeton, West Virginia.
36. Monongahela Press – Fairmont
Monongahela Press publishes a mix of historical fiction, biographies, and cultural nonfiction centered around life in and around the Monongahela River region. The press values storytelling that blends fact and fiction, giving readers both education and entertainment. It’s an ideal choice for authors who love weaving West Virginia’s past into compelling stories.
- Focus Areas: Historical fiction, nonfiction, and biographies.
- Ideal Authors: Writers exploring the state’s industrial and cultural past.
- Strength: Blends storytelling with historical accuracy.
- Location: Fairmont, West Virginia
37. Elk River Publishing – Gassaway
Elk River Publishing focuses on community authors, local history, and family narratives. The company’s mission is to make publishing accessible to small-town writers, giving them a voice in the broader literary landscape. It often publishes community anthologies and memoirs that highlight the diversity and resilience of West Virginia life.
- Focus Areas: Memoirs, anthologies, and community stories.
- Ideal Authors: Local authors and small-town storytellers.
- Strength: Community-based publishing with a personal touch.
- Location: Gassaway, West Virginia.
38. Wildwood Press – Morgantown
Wildwood Press is an emerging independent publisher that focuses on literary fiction, women’s writing, and nature-inspired storytelling. The press seeks manuscripts that emphasize character development and emotional depth, often centered around Appalachian themes. Its goal is to bring thoughtful, introspective voices to a wider audience.
- Focus Areas: Literary fiction, women’s fiction, and nature writing.
- Ideal Authors: Writers with emotional and character-driven stories.
- Strength: Nurtures new voices and expressive storytelling.
- Location: Morgantown, West Virginia.
39. Iron Bridge Publishing – Wheeling
Iron Bridge Publishing publishes nonfiction, memoirs, and community history, reflecting the hardworking spirit of West Virginians. It supports authors who document everyday experiences and regional heritage, helping transform personal memories into well-crafted books. Its publications often blend nostalgia with historical importance.
- Focus Areas: Memoirs, community history, and nonfiction.
- Ideal Authors: Writers documenting personal or family stories.
- Strength: Encourages storytelling rooted in real-life experience.
- Location: Wheeling, West Virginia.
40. Laurel Creek Press – Summersville
Laurel Creek Press is an independent house dedicated to children’s literature, young adult fiction, and educational books. It helps authors craft stories that engage and inspire younger readers, combining creative storytelling with valuable life lessons. The press’s mission is to promote literacy and imagination among West Virginia’s youth.
- Focus Areas: Children’s books, YA fiction, and educational titles.
- Ideal Authors: Writers for young audiences and educators.
- Strength: Encourages youth literacy through inspiring stories.
- Location: Summersville, West Virginia.
Cost Breakdown of Publishing Services in West Virginia (2025)
| Service Type | Average Cost (USD) | Includes | Best For |
| Traditional Publishing (via regional press) | $0 – $500 | Editing, cover design (publisher-funded) | Authors seeking traditional contracts |
| Hybrid Publishing | $1,500 – $5,000 | Shared cost for editing, design, and marketing | Authors who want partial creative control |
| Self-Publishing (via Vox Ghostwriting) | $800 – $3,000 | Ghostwriting, editing, formatting, ISBN, eBook setup | Authors who want fast, professional results |
| Print-on-Demand (Amazon, IngramSpark) | $100 – $500 | Uploading, distribution, print setup | Budget-conscious self-publishers |
| Book Marketing & PR Packages | $500 – $2,000 | Press releases, author website, social media campaigns | Authors seeking visibility and book sales |
FAQs About Book Publishing in West Virginia (2025)
How do I choose the right publisher for my book?
Look for a publisher that aligns with your genre, budget, and goals — academic, literary, or commercial.
Do I need a literary agent to publish in West Virginia?
Not necessarily. Many regional and independent presses accept direct submissions.
Can I publish both print and eBook versions?
Yes. Most publishers and services like Vox Ghostwriting offer both formats for broader reach.
How long does the publishing process take?
Typically, between 3 to 12 months, depending on editing, design, and marketing needs.
What genres are most popular in West Virginia?
Appalachian nonfiction, poetry, regional history, children’s books, and inspirational literature.
Conclusion
West Virginia’s book publishing industry in 2025 reflects the state’s deep cultural roots and growing literary innovation. From Vox Ghostwriting’s full-service global reach to local presses preserving Appalachian voices, authors have access to diverse pathways to success.
Whether you’re writing your first memoir, a regional history, or a novel inspired by mountain life, the right publishing partner can transform your vision into a lasting contribution to West Virginia’s storytelling legacy.
