Smith Publicity

Smith Publicity is one of the most recognized book publicity firms in the U.S., founded in 1997 in Cherry Hill, NJ. The firm explicitly takes self-published, hybrid, and traditionally published authors — describing itself as an "equal opportunity" book PR firm. Campaigns are run by multiple publicists with genre-specific expertise across TV, radio, podcasts, print, and online media.

• Best for: Authors funding a launch with a 5-figure budget who want a name-brand firm and a multi-publicist team
• Key services: Media list building, pitching, podcast booking, broadcast and online interviews, press release writing, media training, ongoing campaign management
• Pricing: Not published; per their own blog, full campaigns typically run $12,000 to $30,000+. Hourly consulting and monthly retainer options exist for smaller budgets
• Indie stance: Explicitly indie-friendly — has worked with thousands of self-published authors and routinely places indie books in Tier 1 outlets
• Limitations: No pricing transparency; budgets reported by clients suggest a $5,000+ floor for any meaningful engagement; campaigns require a polished, distribution-ready book and a long lead time
• Why authors love it: 25+ years of operation, deep media database, and a stated commitment that "how a book was published" doesn't affect campaign acceptance