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For over 20 years, Outskirts Press has helped thousands of new authors publish high-quality, award-winning books in every genre. As a full-service self-publishing company, we back our expert design and book production with the strongest guarantee in the industry.
Publishing your first book? We take the mystery (and the work) out of the process while allowing you to maintain control over every aspect of your published book — from how it looks, to how much it costs.
Wondering how to publish your first book? Our six-step process makes it simple and supported from start to finish — starting at just $999.
Now accepting new manuscripts — submit your book today and become a published author with Outskirts Press.
Outskirts Press is the #1-rated self-publishing company by Top Consumer Reviews—10 years in a row for trusted, full-service author support. "When it comes to reputation, Outskirts Press has been at the top of our list for years...a trusted one-stop shop for print and eBook publishing, marketing tools and more."— Top Consumer Reviews
Get Full-Service Publishing Help for Your First Book.
Publishing a book for the first time starts with choosing the right publishing partner. As a first-time author, you don’t need to know how to edit, design, format, or distribute a book—Outskirts Press handles all of that for you. We guide you step-by-step through the entire publishing process so you can focus on your book while we take care of the technical details.
Many new authors begin by comparing traditional publishing, DIY platforms, and full-service self-publishing. Traditional publishers rarely accept unagented manuscripts, and DIY platforms require you to handle editing, design, formatting, and promotion yourself. Outskirts Press offers a full-service alternative: professional editing, custom design, expert formatting, and worldwide distribution—all while you keep full ownership of your book.
Yes. Outskirts Press specializes in working with first-time authors who want a simple, guided publishing experience. Our dedicated U.S.-based team walks you through every step, clearly explains each stage, and ensures your book is professionally produced. We’ve helped thousands of new authors publish their first book with confidence.
You don’t need any prior publishing experience. You submit your manuscript, and our team handles editing, formatting, cover design, printing, and distribution. Every step includes clear instructions and individualized support to help you understand the process as you go.
First-time authors can expect a structured, supportive publishing process. This includes reviewing your manuscript, collaborating with our editors and designers, approving your cover and formatted interior, and giving final approval before your book is released to retailers. You stay in control creatively, while we take care of the complex production work.
DIY platforms may appear inexpensive, but they require you to manage every step on your own—editing, layout, design, printing, and distribution is often limited. Mistakes can be expensive and time-consuming or impossible to fix. Outskirts Press provides a professional publishing experience with a team that prepares your book to industry standards, distributes it worldwide through over 60,000 retailers/wholesalers, and supports you throughout the journey. This ensures your first book looks polished, credible, and retail-ready without the stress of doing everything yourself.
Yes. With Outskirts Press, you retain 100% of your rights, 100% of your royalties, and full creative control. Our job is to support you—not to own or control your work. This is one of the biggest advantages of full-service self-publishing for first-time authors.
Most new authors appreciate having a team to guide them, especially through editing, cover design, formatting, and distribution. Outskirts Press offers packages and optional services so you can choose the level of support you need—without paying for anything you don't.

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