Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Are you an aspiring Christian author wondering how to take your work to the next level? Partnering with Christian publishers can be a great way to share your message and reach readers who are hungry for faith-filled literature. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the world of Christian publishers and understand how they can help bring your book to life.
Christian publishers specialize in producing books that reflect faith-based values and inspire readers. They work with authors who focus on topics like theology, Christian living, devotionals, fiction, and more. These publishers often have a mission to uplift, educate, and encourage the global Christian community.
Why Work with a Christian Publisher?
Expertise in Faith-Based Content: They understand the nuances of creating books with biblical themes and Christian principles.
Access to a Targeted Audience: Christian publishers have established connections with bookstores, churches, and online retailers that cater to your audience.
Professional Support: From editing to marketing, publishers offer resources to polish and promote your work.
Top Tips for Working with a Christian Publisher
Know Your Genre: Research publishers that specialize in your niche, whether it’s devotionals, Christian fiction, or theology.
Perfect Your Manuscript: A clean, well-edited manuscript is more likely to catch the attention of publishers.
Understand Submission Guidelines: Each publisher has specific requirements for proposals and submissions—follow them carefully.
Be Patient: The publishing process can take time, but it’s worth it to see your work reach the right audience.
The Difference Between Traditional and Self-Publishing for Christian Authors
Choosing between traditional and self-publishing is one of the biggest decisions you’ll face. Both paths have unique benefits and challenges, so let’s break them down in a way that feels less overwhelming and more empowering.
Traditional Publishing
Traditional publishers, like Tyndale House or Zondervan, take the reins when it comes to turning your manuscript into a polished book. They handle everything—editing, cover design, marketing, and distribution. These publishers have the connections to get your book into stores, libraries, and online retailers, which can feel like a huge relief if the publishing world seems daunting.
But here’s the catch: it’s a competitive process. Getting a book deal often requires submitting through a literary agent, and even then, acceptance isn’t guaranteed. If your manuscript is accepted, you’ll likely receive an advance and royalties from sales, but you’ll have less control over creative decisions like your cover or final edits. And the timeline? Traditional publishing can take months or even years to bring your book to market.
That said, traditional publishing offers a level of prestige and credibility that’s hard to match. Having a recognized name on the spine of your book can open doors and help you reach readers who might not discover you otherwise.
Self-Publishing
On the other hand, self-publishing puts you firmly in the driver’s seat. Platforms like Amazon KDP or Christian-focused services like WestBow Press let you control every aspect of your book, from the cover design to pricing. You can publish as soon as your manuscript is ready, which is perfect if you’re eager to get your message out quickly.
Of course, being in control means taking on a lot of responsibility. You’re in charge of hiring editors, designing the cover, and figuring out how to market your book. There may also be some upfront costs, especially if you want to invest in professional help for editing or design.
But the rewards can be worth it. Self-publishing often gives you higher royalties, meaning you earn more per book sold. And if you’ve got a clear vision for your book and a specific audience in mind, self-publishing can be an incredibly fulfilling way to share your work.
How to Decide
So, which is the right path for you? If you love the idea of having a professional team handle the details and you’re okay with giving up some creative control, traditional publishing might be your best bet. It’s a great choice if you’re aiming for wide distribution or want the credibility that comes with being published by a well-known house.
On the other hand, if you’re someone who thrives on creative freedom and you’re ready to take charge of the process, self-publishing could be the perfect fit. It’s especially appealing if you want to get your book out quickly or if you’re writing for a smaller, specific audience.
Whichever route you choose, remember that both have the potential to help you share your message and glorify God through your writing. The most important thing is to stay true to your calling and trust that your story will reach the people who need to hear it.
Here’s a list of reputable Christian publishers that cater to various genres and might be helpful for your readers.
10 Traditional Christian Publishers
These publishers are ideal for authors looking for a traditional publishing deal, where the publisher covers costs like editing, design, and distribution in exchange for a share of royalties.
Tyndale House Publishers
Focus: Bibles, Christian living, fiction.
Notable Authors: Francine Rivers, Karen Kingsbury.
Website: tyndale.com
Zondervan
Focus: Bibles, academic resources, children’s books.
Notable Authors: Tim Keller, Rick Warren.
Website: zondervan.com
Thomas Nelson
Focus: Christian living, devotionals, fiction.
Notable Authors: Max Lucado, Billy Graham.
Website: thomasnelson.com
Bethany House Publishers
Focus: Christian fiction, especially romance.
Notable Authors: Beverly Lewis, Tracie Peterson.
Website: bakerpublishinggroup.com
Crossway
Focus: Bibles, theology, Christian living.
Notable Works: ESV Bible, books by John Piper.
Website: crossway.org
Moody Publishers
Focus: Christian living, marriage, and parenting.
Notable Authors: Tony Evans, Gary Chapman (The 5 Love Languages).
Website: moodypublishers.com
InterVarsity Press (IVP)
Focus: Theology, discipleship, and cultural topics.
Notable Authors: N.T. Wright, Ruth Haley Barton.
Website: ivpress.com
Abingdon Press
Focus: Ministry resources, devotionals, and fiction.
Notable Authors: Adam Hamilton, James W. Moore.
Website: abingdonpress.com
Harvest House Publishers
Focus: Christian living, devotionals, marriage and family.
Notable Authors: Stormie Omartian (The Power of Praying series).
Website: harvesthousepublishers.com
B&H Publishing Group
Focus: Christian living, academic works, ministry.
Notable Authors: Priscilla Shirer, Thom S. Rainer.
Website: bhpublishinggroup.com
10 Self-Publishing Christian Platforms
These platforms allow authors to maintain creative control and earn a higher share of royalties. They often provide professional services like editing, design, and distribution for a fee.
WestBow Press
Affiliated with: Thomas Nelson & Zondervan.
Focus: Self-publishing for Christian authors with optional marketing packages.
Website: westbowpress.com
Redemption Press
Focus: Christian-focused self-publishing services, including coaching and editing.
Notable Benefit: Owned by a Christian author with a mission to mentor others.
Website: redemption-press.com
Xulon Press
Focus: Self-publishing services tailored for Christian authors.
Notable Feature: One of the largest Christian self-publishing platforms.
Website: xulonpress.com
Christian Faith Publishing
Focus: Partnering with authors to publish and market faith-based books.
Notable Benefit: Provides customized services and retains Christian values.
Website: christianfaithpublishing.com
BookBaby
Focus: Self-publishing platform with faith-based options.
Notable Feature: Offers an end-to-end publishing service with distribution to major retailers.
Website: bookbaby.com
Covenant Books
Focus: Focuses on Christian authors and offers full-service publishing packages.
Notable Feature: Their services include editing, cover design, and worldwide distribution through retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Website: covenantbooks.com
Outskirts Press
Focus: Provides services tailored to Christian authors, including custom book covers, editing, and marketing options.
Notable Feature: They focus on helping self-published authors retain control of their work while reaching a broad audience.
Website: outskirtspress.com
Kingdom Publishing
Focus: A smaller, boutique self-publishing platform specifically for Christian authors.
Notable eature: Kingdom Publishing offers one-on-one support, marketing guidance, and professional publishing services.
Website: kingdom-publishing.com
Kharis Publishing
Focus: Kharis Publishing operates as a hybrid model, focusing on Christian authors who want to self-publish with professional backing.
Notable Feature: They offer royalties and worldwide distribution for both digital and print formats.
Website: kharispublishing.com
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing
Focus: Self-publishing with Amazon allows authors to retain full creative control while reaching a global audience through Amazon’s vast distribution network.
Featured Benefit: One of the standout benefits of self-publishing with Amazon is the ability to earn higher royalties—up to 70% on eBook sales—while having your book available on Amazon’s marketplace, which is trusted by millions of readers worldwide.
Website: kdp.amazon.com
How to Market Your Book as a Self-Published Christian Author
Publishing your book is just the first step—marketing is where the real work begins! As a self-published Christian author, you have the unique opportunity to share your message with readers in ways that resonate deeply with their faith. Here are a few effective strategies to help promote your book and reach your target audience.
Social Media Engagement
Social media platforms are powerful tools for connecting with readers. Use Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter to share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your writing process, inspirational quotes from your book, or even short devotional reflections. Joining faith-based Facebook groups or book clubs can also help you network with like-minded readers and authors.
Partner with Faith-Based Communities
Consider reaching out to local churches, Christian bookstores, or organizations to host events like book signings, readings, or even workshops. Many communities are eager to support faith-based authors, especially when the message aligns with their mission. You can also collaborate with other Christian authors to cross-promote your work.
Leverage Email Marketing
One of the most effective ways to build a lasting connection with your readers is through email marketing. A newsletter lets you keep your audience updated on book releases, share exclusive content, and offer free resources like devotionals or study guides. With email, you’re building a relationship with your readers directly—without relying on ever-changing social media algorithms.
If you’re unsure where to start, download my free resource, 50 Email Ideas for Your Christian Author Newsletter, which is packed with ideas to help you craft engaging emails that your readers will love.
List Your Book on Indie Author Central
As a self-published Christian author, visibility is key. Indie Author Central offers affordable promotional packages tailored to Christian authors. You can list your book on the site, feature it on the homepage, or even promote it through Pinterest marketing. Learn more about our promotional services and start reaching your readers today by visiting our Christian Book Promotion page.
Marketing your book doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By implementing even just a few of these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to finding and connecting with the audience God has prepared for your message.
Conclusion
As a Christian author, the decision to publish your book is a significant step in sharing the message God has placed on your heart. Whether you choose to partner with a traditional publisher or embrace the creative freedom of self-publishing, the ultimate goal is to glorify Him through your words and reach the readers who need your story.
If you decide to self-publish, don’t overlook the importance of marketing. Building a connection with your audience through tools like email newsletters, social media, and community partnerships can help your book make a meaningful impact. Remember, you’re not just selling a book—you’re offering hope, encouragement, and inspiration.
Your words have the power to inspire, uplift, and transform. Trust God with the journey, and take the next steps boldly, knowing He will guide your path.
Pin this article for later:
Personalized Bible Verse Book by Personalised Me