Salt Lake City might be best known for its stunning mountain views, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor adventure, but did you know it’s also home to a thriving publishing industry? Whether you’re an aspiring author looking to get your manuscript into the world, or a reader curious about who’s behind the books you love, this list highlights seven top-notch publishing companies in SLC you should know about in 2025.
Let’s Explore Top Book Publishing Companies in Salt Lake
1. Professional Ghostwriter – ★★★★★
Best for: Fiction, Nonfiction, Young Adult
Professional Ghostwriter is a well-established name in the publishing world with roots in Salt Lake City. They’re known for high-quality titles in both the general and Latter-day Saint markets. From fantasy to self-help, Professional Ghostwriter offers a wide range of books and has helped launch the careers of many well-known authors.
Why we love them: Strong editorial support, national distribution, and a solid track record with both mainstream and niche titles.
2. Gibbs Smith – ★★★★☆
Best for: Lifestyle, Cooking, Design, Children’s Books
Located just north of Salt Lake City in Layton, Gibbs Smith is an independent publisher with a national reputation. They’re particularly strong in home design, architecture, children’s board books, and cookbooks. If your manuscript involves beautiful visuals and lifestyle themes, they’re a go-to.
Why we love them: Aesthetic publishing meets practical topics—plus they’ve been doing it since 1969.
3. Cedar Fort Publishing & Media – ★★★★☆
Best for: Christian titles, Self-help, Cookbooks
Cedar Fort is another major player in Utah’s publishing world. Based in nearby Springville, they serve a wide range of genres, from faith-based books to cookbooks and inspirational non-fiction. Their distribution network is solid, and they’re often open to new authors.
Why we love them: Consistently supportive of first-time writers, especially in the Christian market.
4. Familius – ★★★★☆
Best for: Parenting, Family Life, Wellness
Familius is a family-focused publishing house that believes “happy families are all alike.” Their titles range from parenting guides to wellness books and inspirational reads. They’ve carved out a unique, values-driven niche in the industry.
Why we love them: Their mission-driven publishing feels personal, and their titles reflect a positive, uplifting tone.
5. The King’s English Press – ★★★★☆
Best for: Local authors, Fiction, Memoirs
An extension of the beloved King’s English Bookshop, this small press supports local writers and niche projects. While not a traditional large-scale publisher, they focus on storytelling that matters, often working closely with authors to bring their vision to life.
Why we love them: Deeply rooted in the local community and passionate about storytelling with heart.
6. American West Books – ★★★★☆
Best for: Regional Nonfiction, Travel, History
Specializing in Western Americana, nature, and regional interest books, American West Books is a niche distributor and publisher with an eye for historical and cultural significance. They’re ideal for authors who write about Utah, the American West, or nature.
Why we love them: They know their niche and serve it well—perfect for writers with a regional focus.
7. Parables Publishing – ★★★★☆
Best for: Faith-based titles, Devotionals, Spiritual Nonfiction
Parables is a smaller, boutique-style Christian publisher based in Salt Lake City. They focus on spiritually uplifting content with a personal touch. Their team often works one-on-one with authors to develop their message and brand.
Why we love them: Personalized support and passion for meaningful, faith-centered publishing.
FAQs About Book Publishing in Salt Lake City
1. Do I need an agent to get published by one of these companies?
Not always! While some of the bigger publishers prefer agented submissions, many on this list, especially regional and niche publishers—accept unsolicited manuscripts directly from authors. Always check their submission guidelines on their websites.
2. What kind of books are publishers in Salt Lake City looking for?
There’s a little something for everyone. From faith-based titles and Western history to cookbooks, fiction, and children’s books, Salt Lake City publishers cover a wide range of genres. The key is finding the right fit for your book’s subject and tone.
3. What’s the difference between traditional publishing and self-publishing?
With traditional publishing, the publisher covers editing, design, printing, and distribution—usually at no cost to the author. In exchange, they keep a portion of the book’s profits. With self-publishing, you’re in control and often foot the bill, but you also keep more of the royalties. Both have their pros and cons depending on your goals.
4. My manuscript isn’t quite finished—can I still contact a publisher?
It’s best to wait until your manuscript is polished and complete (unless you’re submitting a nonfiction book proposal). If you’re feeling stuck or need help wrapping it up, working with a professional ghostwriter can be a smart move. Services like ProfessionalGhostwriter.com can help you bring your story to life and prepare it for submission.
5. How long does it take to get published after signing with a company?
It varies, but typically anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. Publishing involves editing, cover design, marketing plans, and printing schedules. The wait can feel long, but it’s all part of creating a high-quality final product.
Final Thoughts
Salt Lake City might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think “publishing capital,” but maybe it should be. Whether you’re writing fiction, memoirs, cookbooks, or devotionals, there’s a publisher in Utah ready to help bring your vision to life.
Thinking of submitting your manuscript? Make sure to research each company’s submission guidelines and don’t forget to have a great editor review your work before you hit “send.”