In 2026, New York City remains the undisputed capital of the publishing world. But for the modern independent author, the goal isn’t just to find a printer; it’s to find a partner that carries the weight of a New York imprint. The “Big Five” are no longer the only way to achieve prestige. Today, elite hybrid and self-publishing houses offer the same global distribution and professional polish that were once reserved for a select few.
At Adept Ghostwriting, we specialize in the foundational work that makes these publishers take notice. Whether you need professional ghostwriting to articulate your vision, meticulous editing to meet industry standards, or a strategic marketing and publishing roadmap, our team ensures your book doesn’t just launch—it lands.
If you’re ready to transition from writer to published author, connect with Adept Ghostwriting to see how our bespoke services can prepare you for the world’s most competitive market.
Top 12+ Self-Publishing Companies in New York 2026
This curated list features actual publishing houses that provide an imprint, distribution, and a professional platform for your work.
1. Manhattan Book Group (Manhattan)
Widely considered the “gold standard” of hybrid publishing in 2026, Manhattan Book Group is an invitation-only house that focuses on results. They provide a high-authority environment for authors who want significant media exposure.
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Key Strengths: Bestseller campaigns and media placements on major networks (NBC, CBS, FOX).
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Services Offered Since: 2015.
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Geographic Reach: Global (Distribution via Ingram).
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Cost to Authors: Premium, tiered hybrid packages.
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Royalties: 100% (Author retains full ownership).
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Service Ratings: 4.9/5.
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Best For: Authors seeking high-level credibility and guaranteed visibility.
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Category: Premium Hybrid Publishing House.
2. Barnes & Noble Press (Manhattan)
B&N Press is the retail giant’s direct-to-author arm. In 2026, their integration with physical bookstores has made them a top contender for authors who want to see their names on the shelves of Fifth Avenue or Union Square.
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Key Strengths: Seamless integration with B&N’s retail ecosystem.
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Services Offered Since: 2018 (rebranded).
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Geographic Reach: Primarily USA.
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Cost to Authors: Free title setup.
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Royalties: Up to 70% for eBooks; competitive print rates.
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Service Ratings: 4.6/5.
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Best For: DIY authors who want direct access to B&N readers.
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Category: Retailer / Self-Publishing Platform.
3. Kensington Publishing Corp. (Manhattan)
As “America’s Independent Publisher,” Kensington offers the scale of a major house with the flexibility of an independent. They are a force in commercial fiction and mass-market genres.
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Key Strengths: Unmatched distribution to retail outlets and libraries.
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Services Offered Since: 1974.
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Geographic Reach: Worldwide.
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Cost to Authors: Competitive collaborative/hybrid structures.
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Royalties: Varies by contract (Independent standard).
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Service Ratings: 4.8/5.
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Best For: Romance, thrillers, and commercial fiction.
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Category: Large Independent Publisher.
4. Soho Press (Manhattan)
Known for their “Soho Crime” and “Soho Teen” imprints, this house is a champion for bold, atmospheric storytelling. They offer a boutique experience that values the author’s unique voice.
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Key Strengths: Strong genre-specific branding and literary prestige.
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Services Offered Since: 1986.
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Geographic Reach: Global.
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Cost to Authors: Primarily independent; some collaborative costs for select imprints.
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Royalties: Above traditional averages.
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Service Ratings: 4.9/5.
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Best For: Mystery, crime, and underrepresented voices.
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Category: Boutique Independent Publisher.
5. Skyhorse Publishing (Manhattan)
Skyhorse is one of the most prolific independent publishers in NYC. They are known for their massive distribution network (via Simon & Schuster) and an eclectic catalog that covers everything from true crime to lifestyle.
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Key Strengths: Powerful distribution muscle and diverse imprints.
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Services Offered Since: 2006.
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Geographic Reach: International.
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Cost to Authors: Varies; standard hybrid and boutique contracts.
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Royalties: Competitive industry percentages.
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Service Ratings: 4.3/5.
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Best For: Niche non-fiction and “high-concept” commercial titles.
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Category: Independent Publishing House.
The Power of Professional Preparation
While these New York houses offer the platform, the quality of the book is what determines its fate. In 2026, publishers and readers are more discerning than ever. At Adept Ghostwriting, we specialize in ghostwriting and book editing that transforms good ideas into great manuscripts. By ensuring your work is “submission-ready,” we help you secure better terms and higher sales, regardless of which house you choose.
Get your manuscript evaluated by Adept Ghostwriting
6. Melville House (Brooklyn)
An intellectually rigorous house that has published Nobel Prize winners. They are the ideal home for authors writing about current events, progressive politics, or high-concept literature.
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Key Strengths: Critical acclaim and “rapid-response” publishing for current affairs.
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Services Offered Since: 2001.
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Geographic Reach: Global.
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Cost to Authors: Selective investment-based models.
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Royalties: Varies by project.
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Service Ratings: 4.7/5.
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Best For: Academics, activists, and literary novelists.
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Category: Independent Literary Press.
7. Europa Editions (Manhattan)
Europa is synonymous with “high-end.” Best known for the Neapolitan Novels, they offer a sophisticated platform for international mystery and narrative non-fiction.
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Key Strengths: Exquisite book design and a reputation for global quality.
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Services Offered Since: 2005.
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Geographic Reach: International.
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Cost to Authors: Very selective hybrid/collaborative paths.
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Royalties: Competitive boutique rates.
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Service Ratings: 4.9/5.
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Best For: Translated fiction and high-brow noir.
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Category: Boutique Independent Publisher.
8. Austin Macauley Publishers (NYC Office)
With a presence in NYC, London, and Sharjah, this house offers an international pathway for authors. They provide a range of contracts from traditional to hybrid, depending on the manuscript’s potential.
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Key Strengths: Global footprint and accessibility for debut authors.
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Services Offered Since: 2006.
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Geographic Reach: Global.
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Cost to Authors: Variable publishing packages.
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Royalties: Net percentage-based (varies).
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Service Ratings: 4.1/5.
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Best For: Authors looking for a bridge between the US and UK markets.
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Category: Hybrid / International Publisher.
9. Seven Stories Press (Manhattan)
This house is a sanctuary for authors focused on social justice. Distributed by Penguin Random House, they give independent voices the distribution power of a global giant.
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Key Strengths: Strategic alliance with PRH and an activist-driven mission.
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Services Offered Since: 1995.
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Geographic Reach: International.
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Cost to Authors: Project-specific collaborative models.
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Royalties: Industry-standard hybrid rates.
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Service Ratings: 4.5/5.
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Best For: Socially conscious non-fiction and poetry.
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Category: Independent / Activist Press.
10. BookBaby (NYC Hub)
BookBaby serves the “modern indie” by providing all-in-one production and distribution. Their New York hub specializes in high-quality physical book showcases for libraries and local bookstores.
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Key Strengths: User-friendly technology and high-quality POD printing.
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Services Offered Since: 2011.
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Geographic Reach: Worldwide.
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Cost to Authors: Packages starting around $1,100.
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Royalties: 100% net sales.
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Service Ratings: 4.6/5.
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Best For: DIY authors who want professional printing and global distribution.
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Category: Full-Service Self-Publishing Provider.
11. Akashic Books (Brooklyn)
A champion of “urban literary” fiction, Akashic has carved out a niche that is both gritty and sophisticated. They are perfect for authors whose work doesn’t fit the “corporate” mold.
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Key Strengths: Strong brand community and niche genre dominance.
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Services Offered Since: 1997.
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Geographic Reach: Global.
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Cost to Authors: Selective; collaborative investment models.
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Royalties: Competitive independent rates.
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Service Ratings: 4.8/5.
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Best For: Urban fiction and independent memoirs.
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Category: Independent Literary House.
12. Abrams Books (Manhattan)
Specializing in “the world of visual culture,” Abrams is a legendary name in art, photography, and high-end children’s books. They offer collaborative paths for visually stunning projects.
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Key Strengths: Best-in-class art book production and global prestige.
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Services Offered Since: 1949.
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Geographic Reach: Global.
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Cost to Authors: Project-specific (Illustrated books focus).
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Royalties: Varies (Traditional and Hybrid options).
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Service Ratings: 4.8/5.
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Best For: Photographers, artists, and lifestyle authors.
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Category: Specialty Independent Publisher.
Conclusion: New York Publishing in the Age of Independence
The 2026 publishing landscape proves that you don’t need a traditional contract to have a New York impact. Whether you choose the high-velocity marketing of Manhattan Book Group or the artistic craftsmanship of Europa Editions, the tools to succeed are more accessible than ever.
However, the “New York standard” is a high bar. At Adept Ghostwriting, we ensure you don’t just clear that bar, but soar over it. Our ghostwriting, editing, marketing, and publishing services are designed to give you the competitive edge in the world’s toughest literary market.
Ready to start your New York chapter? Contact Adept Ghostwriting today for a free project consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I choose between these New York companies?
Focus on your genre and goals. If you want a business bestseller, choose a hybrid house like Manhattan Book Group. If you write literary fiction, look at Soho Press or Melville House.
2. Can I self-publish without a company and still succeed?
Yes, but the “New York” prestige often comes from having a professional imprint behind you. Working with an established house helps with bookstore placement and media reviews.
3. What is the role of Adept Ghostwriting in this process?
We are your professional production team. We write, edit, and market the book to ensure that when you approach these publishers (or go it alone), your product is world-class.
4. How much of my royalties will I keep in a hybrid model?
In most New York hybrid models for 2026, authors keep 100% of their net royalties, though some boutique houses take a small percentage (15-30%) in exchange for distribution.
