Our Story
Contrarian Publishing was born out of a need for change. As anyone who's touched the traditional publishing space knows, there are many aspects of the industry that—despite its benefits—can be frustrating, archaic, or restrictive. With stagnant wages, dropping advances, tighter budgets, and a near total lack of feedback for the budding writer, the publishing industry is difficult for professionals and authors alike. And readers may be keenly aware of similar, safe stories piling up in their TBR piles as they sit waiting with bated breath for something different. ​
Many authors choose to self-publish—whether that be because they want to go it alone or because they don't want to deal with the red tape of traditional publishing. And yes, with enough research and time and dedication, authors can absolutely publish a book themselves. But not every author wants to be a publisher and a production editor and a book designer and a marketer. Not every author wants to source a credible editor and cover designer. Some authors just want a book that they can be proud of.​
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That's where Contrarian comes in.
Contrarian is an assisted self-publisher that helps authors looking to tell the stories they've waited their whole lives to tell. Contrarian will edit your novel, manage your book schedule, design your cover, track your sales, and more. And you, the author, can be as hands on or hands off as you want to be. ​We want our authors to have input. We want our team to feel empowered and supported. You should be allowed to publish and share your story with the world. Offering publication as well as many
a la carte options for author services, Contrarian wants more than anything to help you bring your book to life.
And if you're a reader, we hope that you are able to find a book here that will help you at a critical point in your life. The books we publish are the kind of unputdownable that will keep you thinking and yearning for more long after you turn off the bedside lamp at 3 a.m. and lay back on your pillow.
Meet Our Team
Contrarian utilizes a team of professionals in order to bring your book to life. Pick and choose the personnel you want working on your book, or let Contrarian decide who will be best for your specific needs.
What kinds of books does she prefer?
Jamie loves books that feature a grounded core despite fantastical or exciting elements. Think The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue or The Raven Boys.
Jamie Ryu
is Contrarian's publisher and editor. She is a graduate of New York University with a degree in Comparative Literature. With experience at top literary agencies and at publishers such as Macmillan and HarperCollins, she is well-equipped to help writers accomplish their goals.
She is experienced in book design and cover design. She is also able to provide marketing consultation as well as website design.
What kinds of books does she prefer?
Leah loves contemporary romance, especially with queer characters, fantasy/romantasy, and literary fiction. Her favorites include Station Eleven and Red White & Royal Blue.
Leah Block
is Contrarian's Publicity and Marketing Coordinator. She is a graduate of New York University with a degree in English & American Literature and Creative Writing. After working for Kirkus Reviews as an Editorial Assistant, she became a freelance book reviewer and social media coordinator. When she's not working to get Contrarian's book in the hands of influencers and reviewers, she writes book reviews for Foreword Reviews and other outlets.
What kinds of books does she prefer?
Darrian loves high fantasy romance and historical/fantasy retellings.
Darrian Kirksey
is Contrarian's marketing consultant and website designer. She is a graduate of the University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley with degrees in Literature and Marketing. With experience in marketing, specializing in social media marketing and website design, she has grown accounts to over 70k followers across platforms.
She is experienced in creating brand kits and promotional materials for books and authors.