4 Maine-based publishers accepting unsolicited manuscripts in December 2025
Congratulations on writing your book! The publishers based in Maine on this list are currently accepting manuscripts in December 2025 without a literary agent. I’ve done my best to weed out any vanity presses or publishers without any novels published from the past year.
Don’t forget to check out my developmental editing services or pre-querying package if you want to make sure your novel is in top shape before you send it to a publisher for consideration. I offer a variety of services to suit all budgets, from writers looking for the standard developmental editing experience to those seeking high-level feedback with a quick turnaround time.
Deerbrook Editions
Deerbrook Editions is a literary small press publishing noteworthy and emerging authors in well-designed trade books.
Genre: Poetry.
Word count: Not stated.
Islandport Press
Islandport Press publishes stories rooted in the essence and sensibilities of New England.
Genre: Genre fiction including adult, young adult, mystery, thriller and essay. They also consider picture books. For nonfiction, they accept history, humour, nature, outdoors, photography and gift books.
Word count: Not stated.
Ooligan Press
Ooligan Press is a student-run press in the Pacific Northwest dedicated to cultivating the next generation of publishing professionals.
Genre: Fiction and nonfiction.
Word count: Not stated.
Polar Bear and Co.
Polar Bear and Co. publishes books that fit into the following four themes: Inspiration, Place, History, and Imagination
Genre: Literary fiction, poetry and nonfiction.
Word count: Not stated.
Best of luck with your manuscript submissions! If you want to ensure your manuscript is in the best position to be accepted, check out my developmental editing services, pre-querying package or my free writing advice.