A New Chapter at Higher Ground Books & Media

For more than a decade, Higher Ground Books & Media has had the privilege of traditionally publishing healing-centered, faith-driven books by authors whose stories matter deeply. Those books—and the voices behind them—have shaped our catalog, our mission, and the work we are proud to steward.

As we move into our next chapter, we want to share an important update about how Higher Ground Books & Media will be operating going forward.

Moving to a Hybrid-First Publishing Model

Higher Ground Books & Media will now operate as a hybrid-first publisher.

This shift allows us to continue supporting meaningful, purpose-focused books in a way that is intentional, transparent, and sustainable for the long term. Under this model, most new projects are published through Hybrid Publishing, while authors retain full creative ownership and receive 100% of net royalties.

In addition, we will continue to offer a limited number of Traditional Publishing Scholarships each year for select titles that strongly align with our mission and editorial focus. These opportunities are values-based, capacity-limited, and awarded during scheduled review periods.

Why This Change Matters

This transition is not about stepping away from our mission—it is about protecting it.

Higher Ground Books & Media exists to steward stories of healing, faith, and lived experience with care and integrity. Moving to a hybrid-first model allows us to do that work more responsibly, ensuring that the books we publish—and the authors we serve—are supported with clarity and intention.

Honoring the Journey Behind Us

Our history as a traditional publisher remains an important and honored part of who we are.

The authors and books published under that model continue to reflect the heart of Higher Ground Books & Media, and we are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us over the years.

This update does not affect any books currently under contract.

Looking Ahead

As always, our focus remains on publishing books that offer hope, depth, and spiritual insight—especially stories and perspectives that are often underrepresented in the broader publishing landscape.

Updated submission guidelines, publishing pathways, and review timelines are available on our website.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. We look forward to what’s ahead.

Rebecca Benston

Higher Ground Books & Media