Top 36 Book Publishing Companies in Bulgaria — Updated 2025

Introduction

Bulgaria’s publishing industry in 2025 is a diverse ecosystem that blends long-standing national houses with newer independent presses, educational publishers, hybrid models, and full-service providers. From major players like Ciela and Colibri to niche houses specializing in children’s, YA, literary, or technical titles, authors today have more options than ever.

This article outlines the Top 36 publishing companies in Bulgaria (2025), with a focus on what they do best, why an author might choose them, and their unique strengths. Whether you’re a first-time writer or an established author, this guide will help you identify the right publishing path.

1) Ghostwriter Inside

Overview: Ghostwriter Inside is a full-service ghostwriting and author-services firm, designed for authors who want an “idea-to-shelf” experience. They handle concept development, ghostwriting, editing, book design, publishing logistics, and even marketing strategies.

Why to Choose: Perfect for professionals, entrepreneurs, or individuals with powerful stories who lack the time or expertise to write and publish themselves.

Strengths:

• End-to-end service from manuscript to market.
• Experienced ghostwriters in multiple genres.
• Fast, structured workflows.
• White-glove service for memoirs, business books, and thought leadership.

2) Ciela Norma (Ciela Books)

Overview: Founded in the early 1990s, Ciela is one of Bulgaria’s largest publishers, also running a national bookstore chain. Its catalog includes fiction, non-fiction, law, academic materials, and translated bestsellers.

Why to Choose: Ciela provides the broadest national reach, making it ideal for authors aiming for mainstream visibility.

Strengths:

• Extensive bookstore distribution.
• High-volume annual output.
• Marketing campaigns and events.
• Trusted by bestselling Bulgarian and international authors.

3) Colibri Publishers

Overview: Established in 1990, Colibri is synonymous with high-quality literary translations and support for contemporary Bulgarian authors. They’ve brought names like Milan Kundera, Umberto Eco, and Haruki Murakami to Bulgarian readers.

Why to Choose: Ideal for authors of literary fiction, poetry, or cultural non-fiction.

Strengths:

• Renowned translation standards.
• Strong cultural reputation.
• Elegant design and editorial finesse.

4) Hermes Publishing

Overview: A leading commercial house specializing in popular fiction, romance, thrillers, and lifestyle titles. Hermes is also known for promoting Bulgarian authors to the bestseller lists.

Why to Choose: Best for writers of accessible, page-turning fiction or practical lifestyle non-fiction.

Strengths:

• Strong retail relationships.
• Active in promotions and mass-market sales.
• Proven ability to create national bestsellers.

5) Iztok-Zapad (East-West)

Overview: Known for translated non-fiction, history, philosophy, and cultural studies. They bring intellectual works from world-renowned thinkers to Bulgarian audiences.

Why to Choose: Great for authors with idea-driven works in philosophy, social sciences, or serious non-fiction.

Strengths:

• Thoughtful, curated catalog.
• Reliable in translations of global thought leaders.
• Appeal to intellectual readership.

6) Janet 45

Overview: An independent literary press with a strong focus on contemporary Bulgarian authors, poetry, and avant-garde writing. Founded in Plovdiv, Janet 45 has received recognition at international book fairs.

Why to Choose: Best for poets and literary authors who want serious editorial nurturing.

Strengths:

• Carefully curated titles.
• Literary credibility.
• Supportive of innovative and experimental works.

7) Prosveta Publishing

Overview: Bulgaria’s leading educational publisher with roots tracing back to the early 20th century. Prosveta produces textbooks, learning aids, and academic resources.

Why to Choose: Perfect for authors in education, pedagogy, or academic textbooks.

Strengths:

• Extensive reach in schools and universities.
• Strong institutional credibility.
• Expertise in curriculum design.

8) Egmont Bulgaria

Overview: Part of the international Egmont Group, specializing in children’s literature, YA series, and licensed global brands like Disney and Warner Bros.

Why to Choose: A must for authors of children’s books or YA fiction.

Strengths:

• International licensing power.
• High-quality illustrated book production.
• Access to global distribution pipelines.

9) Enthusiast Publishing

Overview: Independent press with a focus on niche genres such as history, memoirs, and collectors’ editions. Known for beautifully designed books.

Why to Choose: Great for historical non-fiction or niche-interest works.

Strengths:

• Elegant production.
• Loyal enthusiast audience.
• Special editions and premium designs.

10) Bard Publishing

Overview: A respected literary and cultural house, Bard publishes fiction, non-fiction, and cultural history.

Why to Choose: Ideal for works that balance commercial appeal with cultural value.

Strengths:

• Balanced catalog.
• Credibility with literary and cultural communities.
• Good for historical and Bulgarian-themed content.

11) Riva Publishing

Overview: A modern commercial press with a diverse catalog that includes lifestyle, self-help, and popular fiction.

Why to Choose: Great for authors aiming at a mainstream audience with practical or entertainment-driven works.

Strengths:

• Media-savvy promotion.
• Engaged with contemporary trends.
• Wide distribution channels.

12) Obsidian Publishing

Overview: Known for experimental and literary fiction, Obsidian supports bold authors pushing boundaries.

Why to Choose: Perfect for authors writing unconventional or avant-garde works.

Strengths:

• Creative freedom.
• Smaller, attentive team.
• Dedicated to high literary standards.

13) SoftPress

Overview: A boutique publisher with a reputation for stylishly designed fiction and non-fiction.

Why to Choose: If you want your book to stand out for its aesthetics and careful editing.

Strengths:

• Beautiful design.
• Boutique editorial care.
• Selective curation.

14) Pan Publishing

Overview: Focuses on general interest books, cultural topics, and children’s titles.

Why to Choose: A solid choice for family-friendly books or cultural non-fiction.

Strengths:

• Balanced portfolio.
• Experience in children’s and general titles.
• Trusted by Bulgarian families.

15) Kibea Publishing

Overview: Specializes in translations of world literature and non-fiction.

Why to Choose: Best for works that fit into cultural or translated literary markets.

Strengths:

• International partnerships.
• Expertise in translation.
• Quality-focused catalog.

16) Prozoretz

Overview: One of Bulgaria’s established publishing names with a mixed catalog covering fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books.

Why to Choose: A versatile house for authors across genres.

Strengths:

• Wide genre coverage.
• Trusted name in Bulgarian publishing.
• Strong distribution links.

17) Bulvest 2000

Overview: A major educational publisher that produces textbooks and supplementary school resources.

Why to Choose: Ideal for authors writing curriculum-aligned works or academic books.

Strengths:

• Strong institutional presence.
• Trusted by teachers and schools.
• Experienced editorial board.

18) Anubis Publishing

Overview: Known for producing cultural, art-focused, and specialized non-fiction titles.

Why to Choose: Best for art history, design, or cultural studies manuscripts.

Strengths:

• High-quality production.
• Cultural focus.
• Strong visual bookmaking.

19) Abagar Publishing

Overview: An independent press recognized for its fiction and non-fiction, with a focus on regional and Bulgarian voices.

Why to Choose: A good option for memoirs, local-interest books, or debut fiction.

Strengths:

• Personalized editorial care.
• Strong community engagement.
• Nurtures emerging writers.

20) Faber / Gutenberg Press

Overview: Smaller but respected houses focusing on regional, cultural, and artistic works.

Why to Choose: If your book has regional or cultural themes, or if you want artisanal-quality editions.

Strengths:

• Regional expertise.
• Collector-friendly editions.
• Strong literary focus.

21) ERA Publishers

Overview: A mass-market commercial publisher focusing on fiction and practical non-fiction with wide appeal.

Why to Choose: Suitable for authors targeting mainstream sales.

Strengths:

• High retail visibility.
• Popular fiction expertise.
• Active promotional campaigns.

22) InfoDar

Overview: A combined publishing and distribution company offering full logistics.

Why to Choose: If you need not just publishing but also warehousing, distribution, and logistics.

Strengths:

• Distribution power.
• Print-on-demand services.
• Flexible publishing options.

23) Kultura

Overview: Focuses on essays, cultural criticism, and high-level intellectual works.

Why to Choose: Ideal for authors writing thought-provoking cultural texts.

Strengths:

• Cultural networks.
• Intellectual credibility.
• Prestigious positioning.

24) Altera Books

Overview: A boutique literary press specializing in translations and contemporary Bulgarian fiction.

Why to Choose: Perfect for high-quality literary works.

Strengths:

• Strong translation focus.
• Hands-on editorial team.
• Reputation for literary excellence.

25) Locus Press

Overview: Independent press specializing in genre fiction, short stories, and novellas.

Why to Choose: Great for speculative fiction and genre works.

Strengths:

• Indie credibility.
• Flexible and creative.
• Attracts loyal niche readers.

26) Stenograf Books

Overview: Publishes memoirs, essays, and social history works.

Why to Choose: If your manuscript is autobiographical or culturally rooted.

Strengths:

• Regional and cultural themes.
• Author-focused publishing.
• Works well with first-time writers.

27) Sofia Press

Overview: Specializes in works tied to Bulgaria’s capital — guidebooks, photo collections, and cultural essays.

Why to Choose: If your book is related to urban culture or Sofia city life.

Strengths:

• Strong local branding.
• Collaboration with cultural bodies.
• Perfect for tourism-linked projects.

28) Ararat Publishing

Overview: Known for art books, coffee-table titles, and richly illustrated works.

Why to Choose: Best for visual-heavy, design-oriented projects.

Strengths:

• High-end printing.
• Strong in art and design.
• Premium product finishes.

29) Meridian Books

Overview: Balances world literature translations with Bulgarian authors.

Why to Choose: If you want a publisher that bridges the global and local literary scenes.

Strengths:

• Dual focus on Bulgarian and translated works.
• Steady, curated catalog.

30) TechPress

Overview: A specialized press for IT, engineering, and business-related works.

Why to Choose: For technical guides, manuals, or professional resources.

Strengths:

• Specialist distribution.
• Industry credibility.
• Academic and corporate sales.

31) YouthWave Press

Overview: Indie press focusing on YA and middle-grade books.

Why to Choose: Great for teen fiction, fantasy, or youth-driven stories.

Strengths:

• School outreach.
• Active youth marketing.
• Trend-savvy in YA genres.

32) HybridHouse Publishing

Overview: A hybrid publisher offering shared-cost models with editorial, design, and marketing support.

Why to Choose: If you want more control and higher royalties while still getting professional help.

Strengths:

• Faster publishing timelines.
• Transparent service packages.
• Retention of author rights.

33) Regional / Municipal Presses

Overview: Local presses backed by municipalities, producing history and community projects.

Why to Choose: If your manuscript is tied to local history, folklore, or community.

Strengths:

• Local funding and support.
• Community readership.
• Institutional credibility.

34) Digital-First Imprints

Overview: Specialize in eBook-first releases, serialized fiction, and audiobooks.

Why to Choose: For authors prioritizing digital discovery.

Strengths:

• Speed to market.
• Digital marketing.
• Audiobook expertise.

35) University Presses

Overview: University-affiliated publishers handling scholarly monographs and research.

Why to Choose: Perfect for academics and researchers.

Strengths:

• Academic indexing.
• Library distribution.
• Institutional authority.

36) Micropresses & Artist-Run Editions

Overview: Small, artisanal presses producing zines, limited editions, and experimental works.

Why to Choose: If you want complete creative freedom or collectible editions.

Strengths:

• Unique artisanal designs.
• Niche artistic community.
• Creative experimentation.

Top 36 Book Publishing Companies in Bulgaria (Updated 2025)

#	Publisher Name	Focus Areas	Why to Choose	Strengths
1	Ghostwriter Inside	Ghostwriting, publishing services, full packages	For end-to-end author support from writing to publishing	Turnkey services, professional writers, fast workflows
2	Ciela Norma (Ciela Books)	Fiction, non-fiction, law, academic, retail	Broad national reach and bookstore presence	Large distribution, bestseller potential, marketing strength
3	Colibri Publishers	Literary fiction, translations, poetry	For literary quality and excellent translations	Renowned for translation, cultural reputation, and elegant editions
4	Hermes Publishing	Popular fiction, romance, lifestyle	For mass-market appeal and commercial fiction	Retail connections, bestseller promotion
5	Iztok-Zapad (East-West)	Translated non-fiction, philosophy, and history	For intellectual or globally relevant non-fiction	Curated catalog, translation quality, cultural readership
6	Janet 45	Poetry, contemporary Bulgarian lit	For literary authors seeking recognition and care	Strong literary reputation, festival presence
7	Prosveta Publishing	Educational, textbooks, academic	For curriculum-based works and schoolbooks	Institutional trust, long history, educational expertise
8	Egmont Bulgaria	Children’s books, YA, licensed series	For children’s or YA authors with global reach	International licensing, high-quality illustrations
9	Enthusiast Publishing	History, memoirs, collector editions	For niche or enthusiast markets	Elegant design, targeted niche marketing
10	Bard Publishing	Fiction, cultural non-fiction	For authors balancing commercial and cultural appeal	Cultural credibility, varied catalog
11	Riva Publishing	Lifestyle, self-help, contemporary fiction	For popular non-fiction and trendy genres	Media promotion, modern design, broad reach
12	Obsidian Publishing	Experimental, literary fiction	For bold, avant-garde, or boundary-pushing works	Creative freedom, attentive team
13	SoftPress	Fiction, non-fiction, stylish editions	For authors who value aesthetics and boutique care	Strong design, careful curation
14	Pan Publishing	General interest, children, cultural works	For family-friendly or cultural books	Balanced catalog, trusted by families
15	Kibea Publishing	World literature, translations	For literary or translated works	Translation expertise, literary focus
16	Prozoretz	Fiction, non-fiction, children’s	For a versatile publisher across genres	Long-standing reputation, wide catalog
17	Bulvest 2000	Educational, schoolbooks	For authors writing textbooks or school resources	Trusted in schools, curriculum alignment
18	Anubis Publishing	Cultural, art-focused works	For art, design, or cultural non-fiction	High-quality design, cultural focus
19	Abagar Publishing	Fiction, local-interest, memoirs	For emerging writers or regional voices	Personalized care, community links
20	Faber / Gutenberg Press	Regional, cultural, and artistic works	For artisanal editions or regional culture books	Collector editions, artisanal printing
21	ERA Publishers	Popular fiction, practical non-fiction	For mainstream market visibility	Mass retail, bestseller experience
22	InfoDar	Publishing + distribution services	For authors needing full logistics + publishing	Print-on-demand, warehousing, distribution
23	Kultura	Cultural criticism, essays	For intellectual or cultural essays	Cultural networks, critical reputation
24	Altera Books	Literary fiction, translations	For authors wanting close editorial collaboration	Hands-on, literary quality
25	Locus Press	Genre fiction, speculative, short stories	For indie/genre authors	Indie credibility, agile marketing
26	Stenograf Books	Memoirs, essays, social history	For autobiographical or Bulgarian social history works	Focus on memoir, supportive editorial
27	Sofia Press	City culture, guidebooks, photo collections	For books tied to Sofia’s culture or tourism	Strong local branding, tourism links
28	Ararat Publishing	Art books, coffee-table, design-heavy	For high-end illustrated projects	Premium printing, artistic design
29	Meridian Books	Translations + Bulgarian fiction	For authors seeking a balance between local and global exposure	Dual literary focus, curated lists
30	TechPress	IT, business, technical manuals	For technical or professional resources	Specialist distribution, industry reach
31	YouthWave Press	YA, teen fiction, middle-grade	For youth-oriented novels and stories	School outreach, youth influencer ties
32	HybridHouse Publishing	Hybrid publishing services	For authors wanting more control + professional services	Fast timelines, flexible rights, shared-cost model
33	Regional Presses	Local history, folklore, municipal works	For region-specific or community projects	Local funding, institutional credibility
34	Digital-First Imprints	eBooks, serialized fiction, audiobooks	For authors prioritizing digital discovery	Quick turnaround, strong online presence
35	University Presses	Academic monographs, scholarly works	For researchers and academics	Academic indexing, library distribution
36	Micropresses & Artist Editions	Zines, experimental, limited editions	For creative freedom and collectible editions	Artistic design, artisanal runs, experimental publishing

Key Trends in Bulgarian Publishing (2025)

Bulgaria’s publishing sector is balancing tradition and innovation. Established houses like Ciela and Prosveta maintain dominance, while digital-first imprints and hybrid publishers are growing rapidly. Educational and children’s publishing remain strong, while literary presses like Colibri and Janet 45 preserve cultural prestige. Self-publishing and hybrid models, led by services like Ghostwriter Inside, are empowering more authors than ever.

How to Choose the Right Publisher in Bulgaria

1. Define Your Genre – Match your work with publishers specializing in it (e.g., YA with Egmont, academic with University Presses).
2. Consider Distribution – Large houses like Ciela or Hermes provide bookstore visibility, while niche presses offer targeted readership.
3. Evaluate Control & Rights – Hybrid publishers give more control, while traditional houses may claim stronger rights.
4. Check Reputation – Literary publishers add prestige, commercial presses boost sales, and service-based companies ensure speed.
5. Budget & Services – Decide whether you want a full-service package (Ghostwriter Inside, HybridHouse) or traditional royalty publishing.

Conclusion

The top 36 book publishing companies in Bulgaria (2025) reflect a vibrant literary and commercial ecosystem. From Ghostwriter Inside’s turnkey services to Colibri’s literary prestige and Ciela’s mass-market dominance, authors have a wide range of choices. By aligning your manuscript with the right publisher—whether literary, commercial, educational, or hybrid—you can maximize both reach and impact. Bulgaria’s publishing industry is not just preserving culture but also adapting to the digital age, making it an exciting market for both local and international authors.

FAQs

1: Can foreign authors publish with Bulgarian publishers?

Yes. Many Bulgarian publishers accept international authors, especially for translated fiction, academic works, and niche non-fiction.

2: What is the most popular genre in Bulgaria?

Commercial fiction, YA, and educational materials dominate, while literary fiction remains highly respected.

3: How long does the publishing process take in Bulgaria?

Traditional publishing can take 12–18 months, while hybrid and service publishers may reduce this to 3–6 months.

4: Do Bulgarian publishers offer translation services?

Yes. Houses like Colibri, Iztok-Zapad, and Kibea are known for world-class translations.

5: What’s the difference between hybrid and traditional publishing in Bulgaria?

Traditional publishers bear all costs and pay royalties, while hybrid models involve shared investment but give authors faster release and more control.