About First Book Directory
Last updated November 2, 2026Published by Defining Moments Press
First Book Directory is published by Defining Moments Press, a US-based company that helps authors around the world write, publish and launch nonfiction books.
This site is one of a small number of websites Defining Moments Press publishes. It exists to help new authors, especially professionals with a nonfiction story, compare book publishing options using published facts. Defining Moments Press appears in the directory as the publisher's own pick, and this guide is not independent.
Who publishes First Book Directory?
Defining Moments Press publishes and writes this site. Its main website is mydefiningmoments.com.
The publisher
What Defining Moments Press does
Defining Moments Press is an online education and publishing company that teaches people how to write, market and publish their first book in as little as 8 weeks. It works with entrepreneurs, professionals, coaches, healers and people with powerful stories. Its services range from a do-it-yourself 8-week course to one year of book coaching, done-for-you launches and ghostwriting. Authors keep all rights and royalties, and the company states there are no hidden fees.
Founder
Melanie Warner
Melanie Warner founded Defining Moments Press. She is a #1 international bestselling author and self-publishing expert, and has been a publisher of magazines, newspapers and books for over 25 years. She founded the Defining Moments book series of positive stories from people who have overcome extreme challenges. After losing her son, she wrote the first book in the series, Defining Moments: Coping With the Loss of a Child.
Why this site exists
Why we built a directory
New authors searching for publishing companies face very different models with very different costs. We built a list-first directory so each option is judged on the same five criteria with linked sources. Read how we rank entries on the methodology page.
Disclosure
Our relationship to the entries
Defining Moments Press publishes this site and is one of the entries ranked. We have no sponsorship or affiliate relationship with any other company listed, and we did not test or audit any service. Other companies are described only with figures from published pages.
Common questions
See all 44 questions- How does Defining Moments Press work?
- You start with a complimentary call with one of its Acquisition Editors, who explores your book idea, ideal reader and business goals, and helps you create a clear plan. If your book is a good fit, you choose a service level, from the do-it-yourself Author Blueprint to done-for-you ghostwriting. Applicants receive an email reply within 2 business days.
- Does Defining Moments Press charge hidden fees?
- No. Defining Moments Press states there are no hidden fees. It is paid a fee for its service, authors keep all rights and royalties, and authors can order copies of their book at cost directly from the provider. Pricing for its done-with-you and done-for-you services is discussed on a complimentary call.
- What if Defining Moments Press does not accept my book?
- You still leave with clarity. The company says it only accepts authors it feels it can help succeed, and that whatever happens on the call, you will gain clarity on your book project and know your next step. Applicants receive an email reply within 2 business days; check spam or promotions folders if you do not see it.
- How do I talk to Defining Moments Press about my book?
- Book a complimentary discovery call through the Defining Moments Press website at mydefiningmoments.com/book-a-call. On the call, an Acquisition Editor helps you explore your book idea, get clear on your ideal reader, discuss your business goals, and leave with a clear plan for your next step as an author.
- Are bestseller results guaranteed?
- No. Defining Moments Press states in its program disclaimers that results are not guaranteed or typical and that a lot of hard work is involved. Be cautious of any company that promises sales or rankings. Ask instead what the plan includes, what you will own afterward, and how the launch will actually be run.
Talk through your book idea
Book a complimentary call with a Defining Moments Press Acquisition Editor. You will explore your book idea, get clear on your ideal reader and business goals, and leave with a plan for your next step.