38 Calls for Submissions in July 2018 - Paying markets

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There are more than three dozen calls for submissions in July. As usual, anything you can think of is wanted - flash fiction, speculative fiction and poetry, creative nonfiction, children's stories, along with several interesting themed issues. All of these literary magazines pay, and none charge submission fees.

Make sure to follow submission requirements carefully. Editors become cranky when writers don't follow their submission rules.

If you want to get a jump on next month's calls for submissions, check the page Calls for Submissions, which is where I post new calls as they come up.

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Cloaked Press. Genre: Fantasy stories. Payment: $10 and 3% of sales. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Cafe Irreal. Genre: Magical realist stories. Payment: 1 cent/word. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Alt-Minds. Genre: Fiction and non-fiction/memoir (1,000 to 3,000) of any genre and poetry (no more than 40 lines) that is related to mental health, in theme, subject matter, characterization, whatever “mental health” means to you. Payment: $50.00 CDN per fiction, non-fiction, and memoir piece, and $20.00 CDN per poem. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Spring Song Press: Oath and Iron Anthology. Genre: Speculative fiction,fantasy. Payment: 1 cent/word. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Coffin Hop Press: Baby, It’s Cold Outside – Holiday Crime Anthology. Genre: Dark, deadly and noirish tales of holiday havoc and yuletide woe. Length: Up to 5,000 words. Payment: $150 CAD. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Coffin Hop Press: Knucklehead Noir. Genre: Humorous tales of dimwitted criminals and unlucky twits on the wrong side of the law. Nimrods, numbskulls and rejects. Bumbling sidekicks and idiots-gone-wrong. Length: Up to 5,000 words. $0.03/word CAD. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Existere. Genres: All genres and forms of art and literature are welcome including and not limited to: poetry, short plays, short stories, postcard/flash fiction, art and literature reviews, critical essays, interviews, sketches, photos, etc. Payment: Small honorarium. Deadline: July 1, 2017.

Nexis Fantasy: Corporate Shadows. Genre: Speculative fiction on theme of Net Neutrality. Length: 2,000-15,000 words. Payment: $0.01 per word. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Briarpatch Magazine. Theme: Labour. Genre: Nonfiction writing and artwork on a wide range of topics, including current events, grassroots activism, electoral politics, economic justice, ecology, labour, food security, gender equity, indigenous struggles, international solidarity, and other issues of political importance. Payment: $50-$150. Deadline: July 3, 2018.

Monsters of Any Kind. Genre: Horror stories containing at least one non-human monster/creature (and not vampires, ghosts, werewolves, zombies). Unusual creatures will be particularly appreciated. All subgenres and forms of speculative fiction are welcome. Payment: $100. Deadline: July 10, 2018.

Alien Dimensions. Genre: Speculative short stories, “Set it in space, in the far future, and include some friendly non-humanoid aliens helping to solve a pseudo-scientific problem.” Payment: US$10.00 for 3500+ words. Deadline: July 10, 2018.

The Stinging Fly. Genre: Fiction and poetry. Payment: Token. Deadline: July 12, 2018.

Shimmer. Genre: Speculative fiction. Payment: 5 cents/word, minimum $50. Deadline: July 14, 2018.

Helios Magazine. Theme: “Infinite Regression.” Genres: Fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and art. Payment: $0.03 USD per word for the first 1,500 words and $0.01 USD after for short stories, and $0.25 USD a line for poetry. Deadline: July 15, 2018.

Hinnom Magazine. Genres: Science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Payment: $0.005 cents per word with a minimum payment of $5.00 and a maximum cap of $25.00. Deadline: July 15, 2018.

Natural Wonders Anthology: Time in Nature Can Change Your Life. Genre: Essay. “Nature” can be defined in terms of the great outdoors or observations in your own backyard. City dwellers experience the natural world in a park or on a patio and can find those connections meaningful. While readers enjoy immersing themselves deep in the forest, high on an isolated mountaintop, or in the vast wilderness of a desert, nature finds its way into urban settings, too. And no matter where you find it, Nature’s Healing Spirit can help." Payment: $50. Deadline: July 15, 2018.

Malahat Review. Theme: Queer Perspectives. Restrictions: Eligible writers must self-identify as LGBTQ2S? and be Canadians, Canadian residents, or Canadian expatriates. Genres: Poetry, Fiction, CNF. Payment: $60/page. Deadline: July 15, 2018.

Third Flatiron. Genre: Speculative fiction, SF, Fantasy, Horror. Theme is "Terra! Tara! Terror!"  Payment: 6 cents/word. Deadline: July 15, 2018.

Spider Magazine. Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, activities, and poetry  for children on theme of Our Diverse World. "We want stories about real or imaginary people with interesting hobbies, jobs, traditions, or inventions. We would like to see Black, Latinx, First Nations, East Asian, South Asian, and Middle Eastern children from first, second, or third generation families. Tell us quirky, funny, heartfelt, and lesser-known stories where race, ethnicity, class, culture, and ability might intersect." Payment: Stories and articles: up to 25¢ per word, Poems: up to $3.00 per line; $25.00 minimum, Activities and recipes: $75.00 flat rate. Deadline: July 15, 2018.

Ladybug. Genre: Stories and poems for children ages 3 - 6. Theme: Our Diverse World - "We want stories about real or imaginary people with interesting hobbies, jobs, traditions, or inventions. We would like to see Black, Latinx, First Nations, East Asian, South Asian, and Middle Eastern children from first, second, or third generation families. Tell us quirky, funny, heartfelt, and lesser-known stories where race, ethnicity, class, culture, and ability might intersect.. Our readers like simple yet strong plots, memorable characters, and humor. We prefer short work for young children (stories may be up to 800 words, poetry up to 20 lines)." Payment: Stories and articles: up to 25¢ per word. Poems: up to $3.00 per line; $25.00 minimum. Deadline: July 15, 2018.

Enchanted Conversation. Genre: Fiction, poetry - fairy tales. Payment: $30 per story, $10 per poem. Deadline: July 20, 2018.

Thunderbird Studios: San Cicaro. Genre: Speculative fiction. "We’re looking for yarns of dark urban fantasy, the weird, the macabre and the hopeful. Tell us of underground cults performing their rituals for good or ill. Of hell-born creatures leaving scenes of carnage that confound the police. Stories of unbelievable sightings leaving their mark on people. Yarns of fairies leading neighborhood children to safety from that which blurs the line between monsters and men." Payment: $125. Deadline: July 21, 2018.

NonBinary Review: Wind in the Willows. Genre: Fiction, CNF, poetry, art. "We are open to submissions which relate to Kenneth Grahame's 1908 book The Wind in the Willows. Please bear in mind that we're looking for pieces that relate to the BOOK ONLY. References movies or television shows will not be accepted." Payment:1 cent per word for fiction and nonfiction, and a flat fee of $10 for poetry (singular poems or a suite) and $25 per piece of visual art. Deadline: July 24, 2018.

Havok: Skeletons, Slashers, and Succubi. Genre: Horror between 300 and 1000 words. "Monsters, witches, creepy crawlies, things that go bump in the night, and all things terrifying are what we’re seeking in this issue. Make our skin crawl with undead delight!" Payment: 2 cents/word. Deadline: July 27, 2018.

Flame Tree: Haunted House. Genre: Speculative fiction. "The creaking floorboards, the children hiding in the mirror, the spirits that rake across the flesh of the mind, tell us your stories of hauntings and mansions. Oh, what is that sound within the walls?" Payment: 6 cents/word. Deadline: July 29, 2018.

Flame Tree: Cosy Crime. Genre: Mystery. "The armchair detectives, the murder in the vicarage, the family secrets unravelling in gossipy ears, such are the ingredients of a genteel bloodbath in an otherwise delightful village. Do you have any stories that might fit?" Payment: 6 cents/word.  Deadline: July 29, 2018.

Degustation Anthology. Genre: Personal essays of 1500-3000 words exploring sensual relationships with food. This anthology will be suitable for all audiences. Payment: Royalties. Deadline: July 30, 2018 (12pm, BST)

FIYAH. Genre: Speculative fiction and poetry about Africa Diaspora. The theme is Pilgrimage. "Every journey starts with a single step, and this issue is all about the trip, not the destination. We’re looking for stories of journeys to new worlds, of returning to lost worlds, and journeys of the soul. But, like always, make it weird, make it magical, make it Black." Payment: $150 per story. $50 per poem. $300 per novelette. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Haunted Waters Press. Genres: Fiction, poetry. "We welcome both the profound and the quirky. We are open to most styles and genres of fiction including speculative, dark, experimental, and literary. We love flash fiction of any word count as long as it tells a complete story. We enjoy all forms of poetry including experimental, rhyming, free verse, and invented form. While we welcome deep, meaningful poetry, we also enjoy works that are witty, peculiar, or offbeat. As a general rule, we do not accept erotica. Horror only upon request. Profanity and violence, if used, must be integral to the story." Payment: $.01 - $.04/word. Deadline: July 31, 2018. "For online SPLASH! publication and Penny Fiction submissions, we offer alternating no fee reading periods from January though July. We review the first 200 submissions per month."

Room Magazine: Magic. Restrictions: Open to women (cisgender and transgender), transgender men, Two-Spirit and nonbinary people. Payment: $50 - $150 Canadian dollars. Genre: Fiction, creative nonfiction and poetry on the theme of Magic. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

New Myths. Genre: Speculative fiction and poetry. Payment: 1.5 cents/word with a minimum payment of $30. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

INNSMOUTHBREATHERS: Cautionary Fables of Mythos Fandom! Genre: Humorous stories of a certain kind of Cthulhu Mythos fan: the rabid Lovecraft worshipper, the defender of the outmoded and outclassed, the pulp reader for whom Weird Fiction peaked somewhere in the middle of the last century. Length: 1,500-5,000 words. Payment: .03CAD per word, as well as a contributor copy (paperback) of the anthology, and copies in all electronic formats (mobi, EPUB, and PDF). Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Diabolical Plots. Genre: Speculative fiction. Payment: 8 cents/word. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Freeze Frame Fiction. Genre: Flash fiction. Payment: $10. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Virginia Quarterly Review. Genre: Poetry, fiction, nonfiction. Payment: $200 for poetry, $1,000 for prose. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Crannóg. Genres: Poetry, short stories. Payment: €50 per story, €30 per poem. Deadline: July 31, 2018. (Opens July 1)

Barking Sycamores is a literary journal entirely edited and operated by queer, neurodivergent people of color. Genres: Poetry, short fiction, hybrid genre, creative nonfiction, book reviews, and artwork submissions. They also welcome and publish essays about neurodivergence and the creation of literature. Payment: Not specified. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Sunlight Press. Genre: Fiction, poetry and personal essays. Payment: Not specified. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

25 Writing Contests in July 2018 - No entry fees

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There are more than two dozen free writing contests in July, some of which offer substantial prizes. Every genre, form, and style is covered, from short stories, to poetry, to published works. As always, read the guidelines carefully. Many contests have geographical and age restrictions.

If you want to get an idea of what kinds of contests are offered throughout the year, take a look at Free Contests. The majority of these contests are yearly events. It never hurts to plan ahead.
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Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award. Sponsored by Claremont Graduate University. Restrictions: Poets must be citizens or legal resident aliens of the United States. Genre: Poetry. The work submitted must be a first book of poetry published between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018. Manuscripts, CDs, and chapbooks are not accepted. Prize: $100,000. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Fred Otto Prize for Oz Fiction/Warren Hollister Prize for Oz Nonfiction. Genre: Short Fiction, Art & Creative Nonfiction. All work must be related to the world of Oz. Prize: $100 in each genre. 2nd Prize $50 in each genre. Deadline: July 1, 2018 (electronic submissions only).

Kate Tufts Discovery Award. Sponsored by Claremont Graduate University. Restrictions: Poets must be citizens or legal resident aliens of the United States. Genre: Poetry. Book must be author's first full-length book of poetry, published between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018. Self-published books are accepted. Prize: $10,000. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Richard J. Margolis Award. Genre: Journalism. Prize is awarded annually to a promising new journalist or essayist whose work combines warmth, humor, wisdom and concern with social justice. Prize: $5,000 and one month of residency at Blue Mountain Center. Deadline: July 1, 2018.

Emmy Awards - Sir Peter Ustinov Television Scriptwriting Award. Restrictions: Non-US citizens under the age of 30 only. Prize: $2,500, a trip to New York City, and an invitation to the International Emmy® Awards Gala in November. Deadline: July 3, 2018.

Scottish Book Trust New Writers Awards. Restrictions: Scottish writers over 18 years of age. Genres: The awards are divided into three different categories.: Fiction and Narrative Non-fiction in English and Scots, Poetry in English and Scots, Children’s and Young Adult Fiction in English and Scots. Prize: £2,000 and personal development opportunities, which can include mentoring from writers and industry professionals. Training in PR, performance and presentation training, and the opportunity to showcase work to publishers and agents. Deadline: July 4, 2018 (midday).

Stone Canoe. Restrictions: Open to people who live or have lived in Upstate New York (not New York City). Genres: Drama, fiction, nonfiction, poetry, art. Prize: $500 and publication. Deadline: July 8, 2018 (poetry), July 22, 2018 (fiction), July 28, 2018 (non-fiction).

Oregon Literary Fellowships. Fellowships of $3,000 each are given annually to Oregon writers to initiate, develop, or complete literary projects in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. One Women Writers Fellowship and one Writer of Color Fellowship of $3,000 each are also given annually. Submit three copies of up to 15 pages of poetry or 25 pages of prose with the required entry from. Deadline: July 9, 2018.

John Glassco Translation Prize. Sponsored by Literary Translators' Association of Canada.  Restrictions: Open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents only. Genre: The work submitted must be the translator's first published book-length translation into English or French. The book must have been published between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018. Prize: $1000. Deadline: July 9, 2018.

Oregon Literary Fellowships. Restrictions: Writers must be residents of Oregon. Fellowships of $3,000 each are given annually to Oregon writers to initiate, develop, or complete literary projects in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. One Women Writers Fellowship and one Writer of Color Fellowship of $3,500 each are also given annually. Submit three copies of up to 15 pages of poetry or 25 pages of prose with the required entry form. Deadline: July 9, 2018.

Linda Flowers Literary Award. Restrictions: Entrants must live in North Carolina. "The North Carolina Humanities Council invites original, unpublished entries of fiction, nonfiction, or poetry for the Linda Flowers Literary Award. Submissions should detail examinations of intimate, provocative, and inspiring portraiture of North Carolina, its people and cultures, bringing to light real men and women having to make their way in the face of change, loss, triumph, and disappointments." Prize: $1,500. Deadline: July 13, 2018.

Langdon Review Writer-in-Residence Program. This is a two-week residency at Texas-based Tarleton State University, providing an opportunity to present at the Langdon Review Weekend festival, and publication in the school's Langdon Review journal. Prize: $500. Deadline: July 13, 2018.

Frieze Writers' Prize. Genre: Essay: Art Criticism. Aspiring art critics are invited to submit one unpublished review of a recent contemporary art exhibition, which should be 700 words in length. Prize: The winner will be commissioned to write a review for frieze magazine and will be awarded GBP£2,000. Deadline: July 16, 2018.

Rogers Writers' Trust Fiction Prize. Genre: Fiction. Restrictions: Titles must be published in Canada and written by Canadians. No self-published works. Prize: $25,000 will be awarded to a novel or short-story collection published between May 16, 2018 and September 30, 2018. Prizes of $2,500 will be awarded to each of the finalists. Deadline: July 18, 2018.

Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize for Nonfiction. Restrictions: Books must be English-language, first-edition trade books published by a Canadian press, written by Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada. Titles must be published between May 16, 2018 and September 30, 2018.  Genre: Literary nonfiction including, among other forms, works of personal or journalistic essays, memoirs, commentary, criticism both social and political, history, and biography.  Prize: Winner: $60,000; Finalists: $5,000. Deadline: July 18, 2018.

The Margaret and Reg Turnill Competition. Restrictions: Writers must be 21 or under on July 23. (Those over 21 can enter for a fee.) Genre: Short story on theme of "Peace." Length: 1,500 to 5,000 words. Prize: £1,000 and publication in the annual HG Wells Short Story Competition Anthology.  Deadline: July 23, 2018.

Story of the Year Contest. Genre: Short stories/nonfiction/novellas between 1000-15,000 words. Prizes: There are three prize categories: and three grand prizes as follows Diversity Award ($3000), Texas Award ($5000), and Character Award ($2000). Only the Texas Award is limited to Texans.  Deadline: July 27, 2018.

Betjeman Poetry Prize. Restrictions: Open to UK residents aged 10-13. Genre: Poem.  Prize: £500.00.  Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Carers UK Creative Writing Competition. Restrictions: Open to UK residents. Genre: Poem or short story about caring for a loved one. "We’d particularly like to receive entries on the theme of 'keeping well, keeping connected.'" Prize: £100.00 in vouchers. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award. Restrictions: Open to young poets age 11 - 17. Genre: Poetry. Prize: Publication. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Landfall Essay Competition. Restrictions: Open to New Zealand writers. Genre: Essay about New Zealand. Prize: The winner will receive $3000 and a year’s subscription to Landfall. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Platt Family Scholarship Prize Essay Contest. Restrictions: Open to students who are FULL TIME, undergraduate students in an AMERICAN COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY during the Spring 2015 semester. Genre: 2018 marks the 160th anniversary of the famous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. It will also be the bicentennial of the birth of abolitionist Frederick Douglass.  Although Lincoln had major policy disagreements with both of these men,  they also greatly influenced his political philosophy. What is the historical impact of Lincoln's relationships with Stephen Douglas and Frederick Douglass? Prize: 1st Prize $1500 | 2nd Prize $750 | 3rd Prize $500. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

SLF Diverse Writers and Diverse Worlds Grants. Restrictions: Open to writers from underrepresented and underprivileged groups, such as writers of color, women, queer writers, disabled writers, working-class writers, etc. -- those whose marginalized identities may present additional obstacles in the writing / publishing process. Genres: Book-length works (novels, collections of short stories) of speculative fiction. Prize: $500. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Polar Expressions Publications Short Story and Poetry Competition. Restrictions: Open to Canadians only. Genre: Short story, poetry. Prize: $500. Deadline: July 31, 2018.

Dragonfly Tea Short Story Competition. Restrictions: UK residents only. Genre: Short stories up to 3000 words on the theme “Journey” (or up to 500 words for youth aged 4-15). Prize: 1st £1500, 2nd £750, 3rd £500 for adults, and a £50 book voucher for kids plus £100 going to their schools.  Deadline: July 31, 2018.

36 Writing Conferences in July 2018

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In July, writing conferences are in full swing. This month there are nearly three dozen writing conferences that span the country from one coast to the other. There are conferences that focus on the craft of writing, pitch conferences with agents and editors, and retreats for those who just need to get away.

Conferences that include intimate coaching sessions tend to fill up quickly. I have included these, even if they are full, so you can plan ahead for next year. Planning ahead also gives you an opportunity to apply for the scholarships offered by some of these conferences. You can find a comprehensive list of conferences throughout the year here: Writing Conferences.
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Fine Arts Work Center Summer Workshops (poetry, fiction, art, and creative nonfiction). June 17 - August 24, 2018, Provincetown, Massachusetts. The faculty includes Marisa Silver, Ariel Levy, Julia Glass, Henri Cole, Marie Howe, Marie Ponsot, Vijay Seshadri, Dean Albarelli, Kimiko Hahn, David Updikel, Pam Houston, Julia Glass, Alice Mattison. Tuition ranges from $600 to $725.

Idyllwild Arts Summer Program Writers Week. July 2 - 6, 2018, Idyllwild, California. Workshops, craft talks, readings, and one-on-one consultations in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. "For decades Idyllwild Arts has been a gathering place for some of the world's finest poets and writers - among them Ray Bradbury, Norman Corwin, Lucille Clifton, Sharon Olds, Maxine Kumin, Billy Collins, Ted Kooser, Philip Levine, Luis J. Rodriguez, David St. John and Natasha Trethewey. That fine tradition continues with our second annual Writers Week, a gathering of talented writers from Idyllwild Arts and beyond."

New York State Summer Writers Institute at Skidmore College. July 2 - 27, 2018: Saratoga Springs, NY. Workshops on Mon, Wed, Fri. Q & As with visiting writers on Tues and Thurs. Readings & presentations by visiting and staff writers. Symposia and student readings on weekends. Extra Manuscript Tutorials in fiction novels, and book-length non-fiction and poetry. Faculty: Danzy Senna, Amy Hempel, Adam Haslett, Joanna Scott, Claire Messud, Phillip Lopate, Campbell McGrath, Vijay Seshadri, Carol Muske-Dukes, Rosanna Warren, Victoria Redel, Garth Greenwell, Rick Moody, Jonathan Dee, Peg Boyers, Henri Cole and others.

IWWG Summer Writers Conference. July 6 - 13, 2018: Allentown, PA. The International Women's Writing Guild sponsors this residential writing program for women. Features: Over two dozen workshops ranging from three to six days in length and spanning fiction, poetry, memoir, creative nonfiction, screenwriting, playwriting, writing as performance, social justice, multi-genre, and mixed media; Critique sessions in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and playwriting; A multimedia open studio and Two book fairs.

The Summer Writers Institute. July 6 - 20, 2018, St. Louis, Missouri. The Washington University Summer Writers Institute is an intensive, two-week program featuring workshops in fiction, micro fiction, modern humor, personal narrative, playwriting, and poetry, as well as reading and individual conferences with instructors. Adult writers of all levels of experience work together with published authors and exceptional teachers in a supportive, non-competitive format that allows for personalized attention and constructive feedback.

Frost Place Conference on Poetry. July 8 - 14, 2018: Franconia, NH. Spend a week at “intensive poetry camp” with writers who are deeply committed to learning more about the craft of writing poetry. The Frost Place Poetry Conference offers daily workshops, classes, lectures, writing and revising time in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Tin House Summer Workshop. July  8 - 15, 2018, Portland, Oregon. Workshops with afternoon craft seminars and career panels. Evenings are reserved for author readings and revelry. Tin House editors and guest agents are available to meet individually with students throughout the week. Participating writers include poets Matthew Dickman, Dorianne Laux, Ada Limón, Shane McCrae, and Tommy Pico; fiction writers Dorothy Allison, Lesley Nneka Arimah, Robert Boswell, Alexander Chee, Lauren Groff, Randa Jarrar, Tayari Jones, Antonya Nelson, Chinelo Okparanta, Benjamin Percy, Wells Tower, and Lidia Yuknavitch; and creative nonfiction writers Melissa Febos, Lacy M. Johnson, and Kiese Laymon. Tuition is $1,200; the fee for lodging and meals is $600. Scholarships are available. Workshops may be audited for $300. The deadline for scholarship applications is March 18. Cost: $1200. Application deadline: April 29, 2018.

Young Writers Workshop. July 8 - 28, 2018, Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Restrictions: For students completing grades 9, 10, 11. Three 90-minute workshop sessions daily, including imaginative writing activities and discussion of readings. Weekly individual meetings with workshop instructor. Focus is on using various forms of creative writing to develop language and thinking skills.

Stonecoast Writers’ Conference. July 9 - 14, 2018, Portland, ME. Workshops in poetry, short fiction, novel, and nonfiction/memoir, and a mixed-genre Creative Writing Bootcamp. The Stonecoast Writers’ Conference is open to students of all experience levels. However, admission is selective. Writing sample and deposit required.

Summer Fishtrap Gathering of Writers. July 9 - 15, 2018: Wallowa Lake, Oregon. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as panel discussions, readings, and open mics. "Held each July at Wallowa Lake in northeast Oregon, Summer Fishtrap gathers writers for a week of inspired writing workshops and culminates with a weekend of passionate discussion on a key issue facing the West."

ThrillerFest XIII. July 10–14, 2018, New York City. This is the annual conference of the International Thriller Writers. The ThrillerFest conference has four main components: Master CraftFest, CraftFest, PitchFest, and ThrillerFest. Master CraftFest was designed as an educational tool for aspiring writers as well as debut and midlist authors to gain advanced training from the masters of the craft in an intimate, day-long training session. CraftFest was designed for all writers to learn from bestselling authors and subject experts who kindly offer their advice and assistance to advance attendees’ writing techniques and further their careers. PitchFest was designed to match writers with agents, editors, publishers, and producers. ThrillerFest, the final two days of the conference, is intended to offer readers a chance to meet the best authors in the industry and be introduced to debut and midlist authors. Expect innovative panels, spotlight interviews, and workshops to educate and inspire.

Martha’s Vineyard Institute of Creative Writing Summer Seminar. June 10 - 16 and 17 - 23, 2018, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Workshops in poetry and fiction, one-on-one manuscript consultations, panel discussions, and readings. Offers fellowships. Deadline April 21, 2018.

Southampton Writers Conference. July 11–22, 2018, Long Island, NY. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and publishing, as well as readings, lectures, and a master class series. Creative writing workshops are the heart and soul of the summer experience, meeting four afternoons or mornings throughout the session. Enrollment is limited to 13 lucky writers who have applied with writing samples. Those accepted have the privilege of sharing their work in an intimate, rigorous and friendly setting.

Green River Writers Workshops:Turning Memory into Story: Memoir Writing Workshop. July 12 - 15, 2018, Las Vegas, New Mexico. Using memory as a starting point, Green River Writers Workshops focus on the craft of storytelling through memoir, fiction, historical writing, and poetry. Both experienced and beginning writers are welcome.

The Gathering. July 13 - 15, 2018, La Plume, Pennsylvania. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as lectures and performances. "Each year The Gathering is structured around a theme that relates everyday experiences to broader issues. The purpose of The Gathering is to promote understanding and empathy to bridge cultural, social, and economic gaps. Lecturers include authors, poets, scientists, philosophers, musicians, performers, and artists who help shape contemporary thought in their field. A reading list gets us thinking ahead of time about the issues we’ll be immersed in at The Gathering. Our presenters have included Salman Rushdie, Gregory Maguire, Billy Collins, Ted Kooser, Diane Ackerman, Chris Abani, Susan Jacoby, Katherine Paterson, Peter Bohlin, Nancy Willard, Victor Navasky, Sandy Tolan, and many others. Their availability for conversation during meals and breaks and at social gatherings offers important opportunities for participants to gain new insights into the speakers’ work."

Peripatetic Writing Workshop and Retreat. July 13 - 18, 2018: Deal, Kent, England. The first week of the conference features daily workshops, discussions, readings, and time to write. The second week of the conference features writing time, discussions, readings, and individual manuscript tutorials. The workshop will be led by NYU teachers and authors Maureen Brady and Martha Hughes.

The Cleveland Writing Workshop. July 14, 2018, Cleveland, OH. A full-day “How to Get Published” writers conference. "One day full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome."

Antioch Writers' Workshop. July 14 - 20, 2018, Yellow Springs, Ohio. Featuring Keynoter  and Sunday Morning Craft Class Instructor, Connie Schultz.  Connie Schultz is a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist and professional in residence at Kent State University's school of journalism. Morning classes and afternoon seminars in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry for all levels of writers--beginning to advanced. The workshop includes opportunities to give readings, receive professional critiques, interact with faculty, and meet with a visiting agent.

Port Townsend Writers’ Conference. July 15 - 22, 2018, Port Townsend, Washington. workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as craft lectures, readings, open mics, and time to write. "The Port Townsend Writers’ Conference has been since 1974 at the wild heart of the thriving Pacific Northwest literary scene. With a focus on community and rigorous attention to craft, the Conference offers morning workshops, afternoon workshops, residencies, guided freewrites, and a vibrant readings and lectures series presented by vital, contemporary writers."

Green Mountain Writers Conference. July 16 - 20, 2018, Chittenden, Vermont. The program features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as one-on-one consultations, lectures, publishing discussions, and readings. The faculty includes poets Justen Ahren, Chard deNiord, Gary Margolis, Verandah Porche, and Kate Rushin; fiction writers T. Greenwood, Elizabeth Inness-Brown, and Stephen Kiernan; and creative nonfiction writers Chuck Clarino and Yvonne Daley. Tuition is $650 before June 1 and $675 thereafter.

Sewanee Writers’ Conference. July 17- 29, 2018: Sewanee, TN. Faculty will give readings and provide instruction and criticism through workshops and craft lectures, as well as meet individually with participants to discuss their manuscripts. The Conference will offer five fiction workshops, four poetry workshops, and a playwriting workshop supported by two professional actors. In addition, a substantial number of literary agents will attend.

Romance Writers of America. July 18 - 21, 2018, Denver, CO. The RWA Conference is the place where career-focused romance writers meet, mingle, and get down to the business of being an author. Conference highlights include the “Readers for Life” Literacy Autographing; the Keynote speech; hearing from great speakers; book signings; and the Awards Ceremony. At the conference, career-focused romance writers can anticipate: education and information, networking with fellow writers, interaction with editors, agents, publishers, booksellers, and other romance publishing industry professionals.

Writing the Rockies. July 18 - 22, 2018: Gunnison, Colorado. Workshops, readings, panels, seminars and other events in poetry, genre fiction, screenwriting and publishing. One-to-one visits with faculty for critiques & pitches. Sponsored by Graduate Program in Creative Writing, Western State Colorado University.

Saskatchewan Festival of Words. July 19 - 27, 2018, Moose Jaw, Canada. Workshops for all ages, reading sessions, concerts, film, panel discussions, interviews, music, theatre, a slam poetry competition as well as workshops and author readings.

North Carolina Writers' Network Squire Summer Writing Residency. July 19 - 27, 2017: Raleigh, North Carolina. The conference features workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as a presentation and readings. The faculty includes Paul Cuadros, Rob Greene, and Elaine Neil Orr. The cost of the residency ranges from $425 - $675, depending on membership and housing preferences.

Cascade Writers Critique and Pitches. July 20 –22, 2018: Tacoma, WA. Milford-Style critiques, agent pitches and query information, panels on writing, editing, self-publishing, and more. "Join us for our three-day event this July with editors and/or publishers John Joseph Adams, author Christie Yant, agent DongWon Song, author Spencer Ellsworth, author Randy Henderson, author John J.A.Pitts, author David D. Levine, author Rachael K. Jones, and author Liz Coleman. More to come!"

Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference. July 20 - 22, 2018, Grapevine, Texas. The Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference is a forum for journalists, writers, readers, students, educators and the general public to listen to, be inspired by and practice their craft at the highest possible level. Every year, the Mayborn Conference gathers some of the most talented storytellers in the country to share their stories, life-changing experiences and expertise with aspiring writers through three days of lectures, panels, one-on-one sessions, and student classes. In addition, the conference includes a variety of writing contests for anyone from high school students to Pulitzer prize winning professionals, who receive hand-made trophies, more than $26,000 in cash awards and have their work published in Mayborn's journal, Ten Spurs, or anthology, Best American Newspaper Narratives.

Gemini Ink Writers Conference. July 20 - 22, 2018: San Antonio, Texas. In this moment of social and historic flux, Gemini Ink’s Writers Conference will contemplate the role writing can play in reflecting and driving social, aesthetic and personal change. Participate in panels, roundtables, workshops, and readings. Engage in dynamic conversations on writing as an agent for change.

Juniper Institute for Young Writers. July 22 - 29, 2018:  Amherst, MA. For high school students. Daily workshops in poetry, fiction, & nonfiction; interactive craft sessions that include discussions & writing exercises; evening readings by faculty & writers-in-residence. The faculty includes poets Dorothea Lasky, Rickey Laurentiis, Camille Rankine, Bianca Stone, and Dara Wier; fiction writers Noy Holland, Mitchell S. Jackson, and Joy Williams; and creative nonfiction writer Eileen Myles. Visiting writers include poets Terrance Hayes, Lisa Olstein, Evie Shockley, Safiya Sinclair, and Matthew Zapruder; fiction writers Stephen Graham Jones, Margaret Wilkerson Sexton, and Leni Zumas; and creative nonfiction writer Paul Lisicky. Tuition, which includes some meals, is $1,600. Manuscript consultations are available for an additional $150. Several lodging options are offered, from $48 per night for a dorm room to $140 per night for a private room at a nearby campus hotel. Scholarships and grants are available. Scholarships available.

Mountain Maryland Writers' Institute. July 26 - 29, 2018: McHenry, MD. MMWI is a 3-day camp for adult writers of all abilities. Morning and afternoon writing sessions focusing on research, topic selection, poetry, destination travel guide. Guided by local and regional authors in a combination of indoor and outdoor venues. Faculty: Dr. Neal Brooks, Jess Daddeio, Jack DuBose, Rose Gordy, James Rada, Jr., and Ellouise Schoettler.

Midwest Writers Workshop. July 27 - 28, 2018, Muncie, Indiana. Craft and business sessions, agent pitches, manuscript evaluations. MWW includes quality instruction by a faculty of authors, agents, editors, and specialists.

Bookstock Literary Festival. July 27 - July 29, 2018: Woodstock, Vermont. From Poets & Writers: "The festival features workshops, readings, discussions, and a book fair for poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers. Participating writers have included poets Benjamin Aleshire, Laura Foley, Pamela Harrison, April Ossmann, and Elizabeth Powell; fiction writers Jean Hanff Korenlitz and Roland Merullo; and nonfiction writers Jabari Asim, Bruce Coffin, and Sarah Prager. All events and workshops are free and open to the public."

Confluence-SFF. July 27 - 29, 2018: Pittsburgh, PA. Located at the birthplace of the Ohio River, Confluence is Pittsburgh’s longest-running literary conference with a strong focus on science fiction, fantasy and horror. Award-winning authors, editors, artists and song-writers gather for three full days.

Napa Valley Writers’ Conference. July 29 - August 3, 2018, St. Helena, California. Workshops in poetry and fiction, craft lectures, panels, and evening readings with wine receptions at venues around Napa Valley. Conference will feature poets Camille Dungy, Brenda Hillman, Jane Mead, and Carl Phillips, and fiction writers Lan Samantha Chang, Lauren Groff, Mat Johnson, and Howard Norman.

Pennsylvania Writers Conference. July 29 - August 4, 2018: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. PWC includes workshops in creative nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and screenwriting. The conference will offer pitch sessions with agents, as well as certificate programs in publishing and arts advocacy and education.

VQR Conference. July 30 - August 4, 2018: Charlottesville, VA. This conference focuses on writing. Conference participants pay $1,100, which includes lodging and meals. For participants who do not need housing, the cost is $950. Deadline: Once admitted to the conference, a nonrefundable deposit of $200 is due by June 15.

20 Publishers Accepting Nonfiction - No Agent Required

Updated 3/9/24

Here are 20 publishers seeking nonfiction. They are looking for a wide range of subjects, including art, theater, children's nonfiction, calendars, memoirs, pop culture, politics, history - in short, if it isn't fiction, they want it. All are traditional publishers, and none require an agent.

Unlike fiction, in which writers are asked to either submit a sample of their writing or a full manuscript, nonfiction writers are required to submit a proposal. Proposals typically run about 25 pages. They contain an overview, a detailed table of contents, a bio of the author, a business plan, a competitive title analysis showing which similar books are already on the market and why yours is better, and sample chapters. The proposal is essentially a quick guide to your book that will enable a publisher to decide whether it is worth their time and effort, so make sure you spend time and effort writing your proposal.

For detailed information on how to write a proposal read Jane Friedman's excellent article: Start Here: How to Write a Book Proposal.

For more nonfiction publishers see: 22 Cookbook Publishers Accepting Unagented Manuscripts. Many of these publishing houses accept other nonfiction titles as well.

For a list of hundreds of publishers that don't require an agent, see Publishers Accepting Unagented Manuscripts.

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Allworth Press publishes business and self-help information for the general public and creative professionals. It is now owned by Skyhorse. Read their submission guidelines  HERE. Seeking: Graphic Design, Business, Performing Arts, Interior Design, Art, Theater, Web Design, Book Arts, Photography, Crafts.

Andrews McMeel Publishing is the country's premier calendar publisher. Its core publication categories include: inspiration, middle grade children's books, comics and humor, puzzles and games, inspiration and gift, and comics for middle grade children. Interestingly, they also publish poetry. See submission guidelines HERE.

Beacon Press, founded in 1854, is an independent publisher of serious non-fiction. Their books promote such values as freedom of speech and thought; diversity, religious pluralism, and anti-racism; and respect for diversity in all areas of life. Their current publishing program emphasizes religion, history, current affairs, political science, gay/lesbian/gender studies, education, African-American studies, women's studies, child and family issues and nature and the environment. They do not accept hard-copy submissions; they will only accept email queries to editorial@beacon.org. Read submission guidelines here.

Ben Bella publishes niche market books, works by celebrities and experts in their fields, pop culture books, and anything that is associated with a brand. Prospective authors should send a pitch. Read guidelines here.

Career Press, Inc. publishes quality, nonfiction books for adult readers seeking practical information to improve themselves in careers, college, finance, parenting, retirement, spirituality, and other related topics. Seeking: Business, Career, Job Search, HR & Work Place Issues, College Preparation, Small Business/Entrepreneurship, Motivation/Self-Help, Management, Marketing/Sales, Negotiation, Study Aids, and more. Read submission guidelines HERE. 

Free Spirit Publishing. "Our mission is to provide children and teens with the tools they need to overcome challenges and make a difference in the world. We publish high-quality nonfiction books and learning materials for children and teens, parents, educators, counselors, and others who live and work with young people." Read guidelines here.

Greystone Press. "We pursue high-quality non-fiction books about nature and the environment, travel and adventure, health, and current issues. We do not publish poetry or fiction." Read submission requirements here. Has submission periods.

Gryphon House, Inc. publishes books that help teachers and parents enrich the lives of children from birth through age eight. They do not accept children's books. Seeking: Educational resource books for parents and teachers aimed at young children. Read submission policy.

Haymarket Books. "We are interested in manuscripts that are accessible to a wide range of progressive and radical political activists, while also being useful to an academic audience. We are not accepting fiction submissions at this time." Read submission guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Hohm Press is committed to publishing books that provide readers with alternatives to the materialistic values of the current culture and promote self-awareness, the recognition of interdependence and compassion. Their subject areas include religious studies, natural health, parenting, women’s issues, the arts and poetry. Initially, they want a sample, not a full manuscript. Read submission guidelines here.

Adventure Keen publishes books on adventure, nature, and wilderness sports activities (excluding hunting and fishing). Read submission policy. 

Chicago Review Press is one of the oldest publishing houses in Chicago. They exclusively publish nonfiction and have more than two hundred published titles on their list. Academy Chicago publishes about 60 new titles yearly under five imprints: Chicago Review Press, Lawrence Hill Books, Ball Publishing, Zephyr Press, Chicago Review Press Children's, Parenting Press, and Academy Chicago. Seeking: Chicago Review Press publishes nonfiction in the following categories: African American interest, autobiography/biography, DIY, film, food and drink (not cookbooks), history, music, parenting, politics, popular culture, popular science, social science, sports, regional (Midwest), nature/outdoor/travel, true crime, and women's interest. Chicago Review Press also publishes an award-winning line of children's and young adult titles. They do not publish children's picture books whether fiction or nonfiction. They do not publish books in the following subject areas: mind/body/spirit, religion, diet/fitness/nutrition, family memoir, self-help, business, poetry, or photography. Read submission guidelines here.

OneWorld Publications was founded in 1986 by husband and wife team Juliet Mabey and Novin Doostdar as an independent publishing house focusing on stimulating non-fiction. Located in the UK. Read guidelines here.

Osprey is a UK publisher specializing in military history. Read submission guidelines here. 

Rowman & Littlefield offers academic and scholarly works aimed at a professional audience. Their submission requirements include a CV and a list of potential peer reviewers. Read submission guidelines here.

Shambhala. "Our acquisition interests are on the topics of Buddhism, mindful living, yoga, psychology, parenting, crafting, creativity, and cooking. We do not accept proposals for fiction (children’s books excepted), poetry, exposés, end-time prophecies, channeled works, martial arts manuals, quotation books, card decks, or audio/video. Anything sent within these genres/formats will not receive a response." Read guidelines here.

Skyhorse publishes a broad range of nonfiction titles. They only accept submissions that fall into their categories, so make sure you consult their list before submitting. See submission requirements HERE.

The New Press is a non-profit independent publisher focusing on contemporary social issues, with an emphasis on race relations, women's issues, immigration, human rights, labor and popular economics, and the media; education reform and alternative teaching materials; cultural criticisms; art and art education; international literature; and law and legal studies. The Press has also taken a leading role in publishing a wide range of new work in African American, Asian American, Latino, gay and lesbian, and Native American studies, as well as work by and about other minority groups. They are very selective. See submission requirements HERE.

Ulysses Press is a small house focusing on niche markets. Genres they publish include Cleanse, Arts and Crafts, Coloring, Gifty Grabs, Fashion and Beauty, Healthy Eating, Krav Maga, Mmm Bites, Pop Culture, Prepping (for the apocalypse), Fitness, Special Diets, Trivia, Working Out, Rehab and Injury Prevention. See submission requirements HERE.

Workman Publishing is owned by Hachette. They have two imprints: Storey Publishing and Timber Press. Storey Publishing publishes practical information that encourages personal independence in harmony with the environment, including nonfiction titles for adults and children on gardening, home reference, crafts, cooking, beer & wine, nature, raising animals, horses, building, farming, homesteading, and mind/body/spirit. Timber Press is devoted to sharing the wonders of the natural world by publishing books from experts in the fields of gardening, horticulture, and natural history, gardening how-to, garden design, popular science, nature, garden literature, and both regional and national field guides. Read their guidelines here.

2 New Agents Seeking Romance, Mysteries, Thrillers, Fantasy, MG and YA

Updated 12/2/19

Here are two new literary agents seeking clients. Tara Gelsomino (One Track Literary Agency) represents romance, women's fiction, mysteries, and young adult. Matthew Huff  (Levine Greenberg Rostan Literary Agency) is interested in novels with a dash of mystery and adventure, whether that be a middle grade/young adult novel, a high concept fantasy saga, or a twisty literary thriller.

As always, go to the agency website and carefully review submission guidelines before submitting. Guidelines can change, and agents may close their lists or switch agencies.

Note: For a comprehensive list of new and established agents expanding their client lists see Agents Seeking Clients.

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Tara Gelsomino of One Track Literary Agency

CURRENTLY CLOSED TO QUERIES

Tara is the founder of One Track Literary Agency. A voracious genre reader since childhood, Tara began her publishing industry career at Romantic Times magazine in 1998 as a writer/editor then managing editor, before transitioning to audiobook publishing in 2005 with BBC Audiobooks America as managing editor, acquisitions editor, and executive marketing manager. During her time with BBCAA, she also spearheaded creating and publishing the first crowd-sourced audiobooks via Twitter with renowned bestselling authors Neil Gaiman and Meg Cabot.

What she is seeking: One Track Literary is currently seeking completed works with vibrant, fresh voices in these genres: romance, women's fiction, mysteries, and young adult.

How to submit: Use the online submission form HERE.
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Matthew Huff of Levine Greenberg Rostan Literary Agency

CLOSED TO SUBMISSIONS

Hailing from what he believes is the best state, Michigan, Matthew grew up on a steady diet of mystery novels and milkshakes, before heading to Grove City, Pennsylvania for college. While majoring in English, his tastes in literature expanded to include everything from T.S. Eliot to Tina Fey, while his tastes in food remained that of a picky third grader. Scrounging around for any crack in the fortress of New York publishing, Matthew worked three jobs at once until he eventually landed at LGR. Now a solidified Manhattanite, he spends his weekends watching The Sopranos, eating donuts, and unashamedly dragging his friends to the touristiest venues the city has to offer.

What he is seeking: Matthew's tastes in books vary widely but he especially loves anything with a dash of mystery and adventure, whether that be a middle grade/young adult novel, a high concept fantasy saga, or a twisty literary thriller.

How to submit: Use the online submission form HERE.

15 Publishers Accepting Dark Fiction and Horror - No Agent Required

"First dates can be so awkward" (Wikimedia)

Updated 2/14/24

Here are fifteen publishers accepting dark fiction, horror, urban fantasy, military horror, and anything that goes bump in the night - including vampires. None require an agent, and all are traditional publishers.

Some of these publishers have been in business for a long time and have a great track record. Others are start-ups. Read their websites, look at the covers of the books they publish (do you like the art?), check out their authors on Amazon - in short, investigate before you submit your work. And be sure to read submission requirements carefully and follow them to the letter.

You can find additional speculative fiction publishers (including some horror) here: Publishers Accepting Unagented Manuscripts. All of these are traditional publishers. (No vanity presses.)

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Black Bed Sheet Books. Black Bed Sheet Books specializes in publishing fiction of a dark nature: Horror, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Suspense, Young Adult, Contemporary, Thriller. Accepting novels, novellas, short story collections. Black Bed Sheet Books has published over 80 authors. Advance: No information. Formats: Print and ebooks. Read guidelines here.

By Light Unseen Media. "By Light Unseen Media is currently seeking outstanding and unique manuscripts in the area of vampire fiction and non-fiction. Authors are asked to query before submitting manuscripts. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be considered." Advance: $200; Formats: Print (POD) and ebooks. Read guidelines here.

Chaosium Fiction. Currently, the Chaosium fiction line primarily features works centered on the Cthulhu Mythos. "We will consider original novels, anthologies, single-author collections, and non-fiction. Our target length for book releases is 90,000 to 100,000 words, though we will consider longer or shorter works if the content is compelling. We will consider reprints." Chaosium is a professional fiction market, offering advances, royalties, and, for short fiction, a word rate in line with HWA and SFWA guidelines. Read guidelines here. Has submission periods.

Cosmic Egg. Cosmic Egg is an imprint of John Hunt Publishers, a mid-list house located in the UK. The publisher offers traditional publishing deals as well as co-operative publishing for authors. The parent company publishes a total of 300 titles per year with global sales and a focus on physical stores. Worldwide distribution. Cosmic Egg imprint publishes speculative fiction: Vampires, Werewolves. Dragons and Faeries or Angels and Demons, Fantasy (including magical realism and spiritual fantasy), Metaphysical Cosmology, Horror or Science Fiction (including Steampunk). Advance: None. Royalties are 10% of net. Formats: Print and ebooks. Note: It has come to my attention that in some cases authors are expected to pay for some or all of publishing costs. Legitimate publishers do not require authors to pay for publishing their books under any circumstances. Read guidelines here.

Dark Hall Press. Dark Hall Press, a division of New Street Communications, LLC, was launched on October 31, 2011, "The Dark Hall list includes works of supernatural and non-supernatural horror, as well as cross-genre pollinations (sci-fi/horror, fantasy/horror, noir/horror, etc.) and experimental works." Formats: Print and Kindle. Read guidelines here.

Dark Regions Press is a small press specializing in dark fantasy, horror and science fiction. "Each book that is accepted for publication in Dark Regions Horror, Dark Regions Fantasy and Dark Regions Sci-Fi will have a Kickstarter/crowdfunding campaign associated with it. The campaigns will be created as a means for readers to preorder the book and to fully fund each project. Authors, artists, editors and everyone else involved in each book project will be asked to contribute to the campaign with videos, promotional efforts etc. Crowdfunding campaigns aren't always favored by authors, so it's important to know before thinking about submitting that if your manuscript is accepted for publication in Dark Regions Horror, Dark Regions Fantasy or Dark Regions Sci-Fi a crowdfunding campaign will be associated with it." Advance: Author will receive a base payment (or advance) in the amount of $500 and starting rates of 35% NET royalties (profit sharing) for trade paperback editions and 45% NET royalties (profit sharing) for ebook editions which can increase to 40% and 50%, respectively, based on sales thresholds being reached. Note: Books are crowd-funded. Please read guidelines here. Has submission periods.

Dead Sky Publishing is on the lookout for fiction, noir fiction, thriller, mystery, gothic fiction, dark magical realism, literary horror, science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction stories. Dead Sky Publishing accepts novel, novella, creative samples and/or story/series proposals for comics, graphic novels, art books and photography books. Please read guidelines here.

Flame Tree Press, an imprint of Flame Tree Publishing, specializes in speculative fiction, including horror. Flame Tree sells through all major wholesalers, retailers, and online outlets. In addition, foreign language co-editions and translation rights are sold to publishers in many countries around the world, including France, Germany, China and Brazil. They publish simultaneous hardcover, paperback and ebook editions to the trade market, online and retail stores, and library markets and pay industry standard royalties. Advances are modest. Read guidelines here.

Grinning Skull Press publishes novels, novellas, and anthologies. Terms: 50/50 split on royalties. Read full guidelines here. No simultaneous submissions.

Hellbound Books wants Horror, Bizarro, Erotic Horror, and Dark Erotica. They publish novels (60,000 to 120,000+ words), novellas (30,000 to 60,000 words), and anthologies. Royalties are 25% of net. Read full guidelines here.

Madness Heart Press is a home for all dark literature. They publish horror novels, chapbooks, poetry, novellas, short story collections. They are also interested in non-fiction, plays, and any number of forms of storytelling. "So long as they are dark, and twisted, we are interested. We are interested in all manner of sub-genre as well. Erotic, Extreme, Splatter, Bizarre, Serial Killers, Sci-Fi. We hate to say it over and over again, but if your story is dark, we may be interested in it no matter what genre or format it comes in." Has submission periods. Read guidelines here.

The Parliament House publishes Urban fantasy, Supernatural thriller, Paranormal romance, Dark fantasy, Horror and paranormal fiction with an emphasis on uplifting marginalized voices and unconventional narratives. "We strive to inscribe magic onto every page and to capture our passionate readership with the enduring power of storytelling. Our mission is not only to offer readers fantastical escapes, to make the impossible possible, but to share stories that are thought-provoking, evocative, and speak to the complexities of our lived reality." Read their submission guidelines. Check site for open submission periods.

Severed Press. "Established in 2008 Severed Press is a leading independent publisher of horror and science fiction. Publishing trade paperbacks and E-Books. Severed Press has earned a reputation for excellence, quality and commitment to new and established authors alike. We are proud of the diversity of our authors and aim in continuing to build strong relationships worldwide. Authors include seasoned masters of horrors such as Tim Curran, Mark Tufo and Jake Bible to best selling newcomers David Achord and Joseph Talluto." Severed Press is currently accepting novel submissions in the following categories: Apocalypse/Survival Horror, Dark Humour, Sci-Fi Horror, Anything out of the ordinary. Advance: None. Pays royalties. Note: Promotion and marketing for novels locally in Australia. Please read full submission guidelines here.

Tartarus is a small British independent press founded in 1990. They specialize in collectible hardback limited editions of literary supernatural/strange/horror fiction. They also publish paperbacks and ebooks. Tartarus has been the recipient of four World Fantasy Awards, and in 2010 received a "Stoker" from the Horror Writers Association. Submissions: Tartarus is looking for short story collections and novels of between 75,000 and 120,000 words. They are not interested in high fantasy, violent horror or young adult fiction. Electronic submissions should be sent to rosalieparker@btinternet.com as a Word or rtf attachment. Please send a synopsis or first two or three chapters/stories when first getting in contact. Please read full guidelines here. Has submission periods.

Tenebrous Press publishes New Weird Horror. They accept submissions of novels, novellas, and projects that fall under the graphic novel/comics umbrella, or other outside the box approaches to New Weird Horror. They are seeking work that starts at 20,000 words. They have no fixed upper limit. They ask for: “World English first rights in print, electronic, and ebook, and a three-year exclusivity period. All copyright belongs to the author”. They try to respond to all submissions within three months. Read full submission guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

2 New Agents Seeking MG, YA fantasy, commercial fiction, humor and more

Updated 10/7/20

Here are two new literary agents expanding their client lists. Lara Lea Allen (Lotts Agency) is seeking all genres of commercial fiction, YA fantasy, and nonfiction. Emma Sector (Prospect Agency) is interested in picture books and Middle-grade and YA of all types, but especially fantasy adventure, magical realism, and historical fiction.

Remember to check the agency guidelines before submitting. Agents may switch agencies or close their lists, and guidelines can change.

For a comprehensive list of new and established literary agents seeking clients see: Agents Seeking Clients.

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Lara Lea Allen of The Lotts Agency

NO LONGER AN AGENT

Lara has worked in large publishing houses like HarperCollins and St. Martin's. She is particularly skilled at working with an author to shape and hone their manuscript without losing an author's voice.

What she is seeking: "I’m currently looking for upmarket commercial fiction across all genres. The common thread is a strong, interesting voice and an atmospheric sense of place.  I appreciate a good sense of adventure and wit in a story--extra points if it has a strong female protagonist—but I’m not above an emotional pull if the story warrants it.  I’m more open to fantasy if it’s YA than adult, and I’m not looking for straightforward romance.

On the YA and middle grade side, the style of writing—a strong, sure plot, a sense of adventure, and a memorable protagonist with a sure voice—is the same. I’m not currently looking for nonfiction on the YA side. I am open to graphic novels, however.

For nonfiction, I like unusual histories (like COD) and pop culture narratives, including humor, though not celebrity bios or memoirs. I don’t represent business, lifestyle, self-help or cookbooks."

How to submit: Please send a brief email query that includes a description of the book, any information on previous publications, and the first 5-10 pages in the body of the email to queryla@lottsagency.com. Please put the title of the work and your name in the subject line of your email.

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Emma Sector of Prospect Agency

NO LONGER AN AGENT

Emma majored in English at the University of Vermont. She was an intern in Hachette's advertising and promotions department. She worked for Simon & Schuster's Children's Division for the next six years, first in marketing and later in editorial.

What she is seeking: Middle-grade and YA of all types, but especially fantasy adventure, magical realism, and historical fiction. She loves picture books with big ideas and few words and chapter books with quirky, vibrant characters.

How to submit: Submit a query letter, three chapters and a brief synopsis via the online form.