About

About XKI Publishing

XKI Publishing is an independent publishing house founded by A PWE alumni, Riley Ladiges. This publishing house was created to inspire those that write high fantasy, romance, psychological thrillers, horror, philosophy and more. We don't shy away from sensitive topics, unlike most publishing houses. We believe that if the topic pushes the story forward, however dark, mad, raw, or gritty, it is needed.

We think Melbourne’s fantasy writing community seems to be hidden underneath the gutters of the dirt-ridden streets. We want to raise the gutters and show the dirt and psychology of the fantasy community as much as we can. XKI Publishing places a lot of praise on people who are able to build their own worlds, lore, religions & more. Carefully curated works that are complex and thought-provoking.

​XKI encourages new authors to submit their work. We offer advice for improving your writing as well as your story.

XKI Core Team

  • Riley

    Riley is a writer, editor, and the founder of XKI Publishing. From a Maltese background, Riley brings a lifelong passion for storytelling, art, and championing new voices. With a background in teaching English and extensive experience in editing and writing, Riley founded XKI to support emerging authors through high-quality fiction, cross-genre works, and creative opportunities.

  • Ebony

    Ebony is XKI Publishing’s expert in formatting, layout, and visual storytelling. With a strong command of Adobe InDesign and Illustrator, they bring manuscripts to life through polished interiors, striking covers, and captivating illustrations. Passionate about design that enhances the reading experience, Ebony ensures every book from XKI is crafted with precision and creativity, helping authors’ visions shine on the page.

  • Nikita

    Nikita is a skilled editor dedicated to helping authors refine their work with clarity and confidence. As XKI Publishing’s freelance editor, they specialize in providing insightful feedback on plot, characters, and writing style, ensuring every manuscript reaches its full potential. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Nikita works closely with writers to polish their voice while maintaining authenticity, supporting XKI’s mission to champion emerging talent.
Are you an editor and want to join the team? Click here to learn how!

What Makes XKI Unique?


At XKI Publishing, we believe every writer and artist deserves more than just a chance; they deserve a partner. Unlike traditional publishers, we go beyond simply producing books. We offer personalized mentorship, pairing emerging and underrepresented authors with experienced editors to guide them through every stage of the creative process.

We also champion artist collaboration, bringing together writers, illustrators, and designers to create visually stunning, cross-genre works that push boundaries and celebrate unique voices. Our team is passionate about fostering a supportive community, where authors and artists are empowered to grow, experiment, and share their stories on their own terms.