First Light Literary was founded to offer an alternative to both traditional publishing and fully DIY self-publishing. We believe creators deserve transparency, ownership, and professional support without pressure, unfair contracts, or unrealistic promises.
We are not a literary agency and we are not a traditional trade publisher. Instead, First Light Literary operates as a collaborative publishing studio, supporting independent authors and artists at the level they choose.
Creators working with us retain full copyright and control of their work. We do not claim ownership, representation rights, or long-term exclusivity.
Our focus is sustainability, clarity, and respect for the creative process; helping people publish thoughtfully, not quickly.
Our Model
First Light Literary partners with authors and artists who wish to publish independently with professional support. With more than 20 years experience in marketing, website design, editing, and design, we are confident we can help you reach your goals.
Unlike traditional publishers, we do not acquire rights or offer advances. Unlike fully DIY self-publishing, we provide hands-on editorial, design, and production guidance.
Key principles of our model:
- Creators retain 100% ownership of their work
- Services are transparent and clearly defined
- There are no submission fees or required packages
- We do not guarantee sales, reviews, or bookstore placement