35 Calls for Submissions in August 2018 - Paying Markets

Pixhere

There are more than two dozen calls for submissions in August. As always, 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.

___________________

Body Parts: Issue #11: A is for Aliens, Apocalypse and Armageddon. Genre: Horror. Themed issue. Payment: $5 for flash fiction and $10 to $20 (depending on length) for short stories and nonfiction to authors, and $5 to $20 for artwork and photography. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Mojo. Genre: Comics. "We are looking for anything: Political commentary. Comedy. Memoir. Or just a good story. Feel free to submit genre-bending work." Payment: $15. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Critical Read. Genre: Nonfiction. They want pitches for stories about the origins of the fine, literary and performing arts. Payment: Not specified. Deadline: August 1, 2018 or possibly mid-August. (?)

The First Line. Genre: Short story with the first line: "The window was open just enough to let in the cool night air." Also, critical essays about your favorite first line from a literary work.  Length: 300-5,000 words for fiction, 500-800 words for nonfiction. Payment: $25-50 for fiction, $25 for nonfiction, $5-10 for poetry. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Blood Bath Litzine. Genre: Horror. Length: Up to 2,500 words. Poetry up to 15 lines. Payment: £10 per 1,000 words for prose, and £10 per poem. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Don't Cry to Mama. Genre: Horror short stories. Length: Between 2,500 and 6,000 words. Payment: $25. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

London Reader: Drama & Dragons/Fans & Fantasy. Genre: Creative writing and artwork where fantasy and fantasy games are central to the story. Payment: Portion of revenues. Deadline: August 5, 2018.

Bright Wall/Dark Room. Theme: Work. Genre: Essays, criticism, poetry, reportage, interviews, and short humor pieces. Payment: $25 per story. Deadline: August 6, 2018.

Ruminate. Ruminate welcomes submissions that both subtly and overtly engages faith from all the world religions. Genre: Fiction. Payment: $15/400 words for prose. Deadline: August 14, 2018.

Cricket. Genres: Middle Grade (9 - 14) fiction, nonfiction, poetry, recipes, and activities on theme of Make a Splash. Payment: Fiction: up to 10¢ per word, Nonfiction: up to 25¢ per word, Poems: up to $3.00 per line; $25.00 minimum. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Heart and Humanity: Back to School: Lessons Learned. Genre: Essays, fiction or poetry about lessons learned from school. Payment: $15-25. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Outlook Springs is a literary journal "from another dimension." Genres: Fiction, poetry, and non-fiction tinged with the strange. Payment: $25 for fiction, $10 for poetry. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Punk Rock Future. Genre: Speculative fiction. Length: 350-500 words. Payment: 6 cents/word.  Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Robot Dinosaurs. Genre: Short story featuring a robot dinosaur of some kind. Payment: $60.  Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Psychopomp. Genre: Short story, up to 5,000 words. Payment: 2 cents a word up to $100 (and starting at a minimum of $5). Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Three Crows. Genre: Speculative fiction stories set in dark, weird, and gritty fantasy, horror, and sci-fi settings. Payment: $25. Deadline: August 22, 2018.

Spark: Lab Coats and Love Letters. Genre: Flash fiction between 300 and 1000 words. "Send us your stories featuring broken bones, mishaps, and long nightshifts. As long as there is a happily ever after, we want to see them." Payment: 2 cents/word. Deadline: August 24, 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: August 24, 2018.

Every Day Fiction. Genre: Flash Fiction. Payment: $3. Deadline: August 27, 2018.

Midnight Breakfast. Genre: Fiction and nonfiction on theme of “America and Other Nightmares,” which is inspired by the horror of modern-day America, but not limited to it. Payment: $50. Deadline: August 27, 2018.

Briarpatch. 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: $75 - $225. Deadline: August 30, 2018.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: "Grandparents". Genre: True stories about grandparents. "The moment a grandchild is born, grandparents are born too. Just seeing your baby hold his or her baby is an unbelievable experience. Everyone has a great story about the unconditional love between grandparents and their grandchildren. We are looking for true heartwarming, insightful and humorous stories celebrating grandparents and grandchildren; written by grandmothers and grandfathers about being grandparents and written by grandchildren about their grandmothers and grandfathers. Stories about or by step-grandparents and honorary grandparents are welcomed too." Payment: $200. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Geek Out! Genre: All genres: "Where queer meets geek. Whatever you geek out about, we want to read it!" Payment: $5 per printed page. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Apparition Lit. Genre: Speculative fiction on theme of Diversion. Payment: $0.01 per word, minimum of $10. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Freefall. Restrictions: Canadians only. Genre: Prose and poetry. Prose: Maximum length 4000 words. Fiction: short story & novel excerpts, non-fiction, writing related or general audience topics, creative non-fiction, plays, postcard stories. Poetry: Submit 2-5 poems, any style. Length of any individual poem cannot exceed 6 pages. Payment: For prose, $10.00 per page in the magazine, to a maximum of $100.00 and one copy of issue that your piece is published in. For poetry, $25.00 per poem and one copy of issue that your piece is published in. Payment is made upon publication.  Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Filling Station. Genre: Previously unpublished poetry, fiction, creative non-fiction, critical non-fiction (about literature and occasionally about visual art), and visual art. Payment: $25. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Qu Literary Magazine. Genres: Fiction, essays, poetry. Payment: $100 per prose piece, $50 per poem. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Tech Edge Magazine. Genre: Nonfiction articles on Teaching Tech. Payment: $50-$125 per article. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Strange Constellations. Genre: Speculative fiction. Payment: $30 per piece. Deadline: August 31, 2018. Accepts reprints.

The New Quarterly. Restrictions: Canadian writers only. Genre: Poetry, nonfiction and short fiction. Payment: $250 for fiction and nonfiction, $40 for prose. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Fireside. Genre: Novels and novellas. Payment: Royalties. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Typehouse. Genre: Fiction, nonfiction, poetry. Payment: $7. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Unnerving Magazine: Inspired by Stephen King. Genre: Short story submissions of horror, dark science fiction (light), dark fantasy, crime, thriller, and suspense inspired by Stephen King. Payment: 6 cents/word. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Pioneertown. Genre: Fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, hybrid work, and beyond. Payment: $20. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

The Spectacle. Genres: Fiction, Poetry, CNF. Payment: $20. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

34 Writing Contests in August 2018 - No entry fees

Pixabay

There are more than two dozen writing contests in August, none of which charge entry fees. This month there are contests for short stories, essays, poetry, and for both published and unpublished full-length works. Prizes range from $50 to $25,000. 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. When it comes to contests, it's always a good idea to plan ahead.
_____________________

Bethune & Son Texas Short Story Competition. Genre: Unpublished short stories with the Texas theme: "Highway 90." Prize: up to $1,000. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Transitions Abroad. Genre: Essay on living, working or moving abroad. Prize: $500. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Let's talk emoticon. Genre: Flash fiction? (You'll just have to go to the site, because it's hard to explain.) Prize: $50. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Epigram Books Fiction Prize. Restrictions: Authors must be Singaporean, Singaporean permanent resident or Singapore-born. Genre: A full-length, original and unpublished novel written in the English language. Prize: $20,000. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Milwaukee Irish Fest. Genre: Poetry. Entries should have a culture/literary relation to either Ireland, Irish-America, or to Irish poetry. Prize: $100. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

The Governor General’s Literary Awards. Restrictions: Books must have been written, translated or illustrated by Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada. Genre: Best English-language and the best French-language book will be chosen in each of the seven categories of Fiction, Literary Non-fiction, Poetry, Drama, Children’s Literature (text), Children’s Literature (illustrated books) and Translation (from French to English). Prize: $1,000 - $25,000. Deadline: Nominations by publishers for books in English must reach the Canada Council no later than August 1, 2018.

Boardman Tasker Prize. Restrictions: Books published between 1st August 2017 and 31st July 2018 in the UK. Genre: Books with mountain,not necessarily mountaineering, theme whether fiction, non-fiction, drama or poetry, written in the English language. Prize: £3,000.00. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Leeway Foundation Art and Change Grants. Restrictions: Writers living in Bucks, Camden, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, or Philadelphia counties Delaware who are 18 years of age or older and who are not full-time students in a degree-granting arts program are eligible. Genres: Poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction. Prize: $2500.  Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Delaware Division of the Arts Individual Artist Fellowships. Restrictions: Delaware poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers who have lived in Delaware for at least one year prior to application and who are not enrolled in a degree-granting program. Genres: Poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction. Prize: Established Professional Fellowships of $6,000 each and Emerging Artist Fellowships of $3,000 each. Deadline: August 1, 2018.

Costa Short Story Award. Restrictions: Residents of UK and Ireland. Genre: Short story.  Prize: £3,500.00. Deadline: August 3, 2018.

Essay Service Writer’s Encouragement Scholarship. Restrictions: Open to high school and college students. Genre: Essay. (See themes on site.) Prize: Up to $500. Deadline: August 14, 2018.

Dogfish Head Craft Brewed Ales Poetry Prize. Restrictions: Poets living in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., or West Virginia. Genre: Poetry. Prize: $500, publication by Broadkill River Press, ten author copies, and two cases of Dogfish Head craft beer. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

#SweekPride Writing Contest. Genre: Stories and poetry about the LGBTQ community. Prize: $75. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Jack Pine Publishing. Genre: Chapbook. Proposals should include visual content, excellent writing, and great book design. This includes graphic novels, poetry, short essays. Literary merit, typography and binding techniques will be considered.. Prize: $1,500 grant to make a limited edition chapbook. You’ll also get paid a reading fee to present your work at a launch/poetry reading in Saskatoon, as well as an all-expense-paid trip to the Paris of the Prairies for JackPine’s next launch. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Ernest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence. Restrictions: Emerging African American writers.  Genres: Short story collection or novel published in the current year. Prize: $10,000.   Deadline: August 15, 2018.

PEN/Phyllis Naylor Working Writer Fellowship. Restrictions: Candidates must have published one or more novels for children or young adults that have been warmly received by literary critics, but have not generated sufficient income to support the author. Genre: Book-length children's or young-adult fiction. Prize: $5000. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Pockets Fiction Contest. Genre: Children's fiction. Stories should be 750–1,000 words. Prize: $500 and publication. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

Scotiabank Giller Prize. Restrictions: Open to books published in Canada in English between July 1, 2018 and Sept 30, 2018. Must  be nominated by publisher. Genre: Fiction. Full-length novel or collection of short stories published in English, either originally, or in translation. Prize: $100.000 to the winner and $10,000 to each of the finalists. Deadline: August 15, 2018.

RBC Taylor Prize. Restrictions: Citizens or residents of Canada. Must be published author. Genre: Literary nonfiction. Prize: $25,000 (CAN). Deadline: August 23, 2018 for books published between June 1 and August 20, 2018.

Gotham Writers: Travel Caption Contest. Genre: An original, unpublished photo caption, no more than 15 words. Prize: Free Gotham Writers Class. Deadline: August 28, 2018.

Harvill Secker Young Translators' Prize. Restrictions: Open to anyone between the ages of 18 and 34. Genre: Short story translation from Korean to English. Prize: £1,000.00. Deadline: August 28, 2018.

Hollingworth Prize for Poetry. Restrictions: Open to UK poets. Genre: Poetry chapbook.  Prize: mentorship and critical feedback on their work from an established poet, followed by publication by Sine Wave Peak and Partus. Deadline: August 28, 2018.

Kindle Storyteller Award (UK). Restrictions: The prize is open to all authors who publish their book through Kindle Direct Publishing on Amazon.co.uk. Genre: Book. Prize: £20,000. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Broken River Prize. Sponsored by Platypus Press. Genre: Poetry chapbook.  Prize: $250/£200.  Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Diana Woods Memorial Award in Creative Nonfiction. Genre: Essay, maximum 5,000 words. Prize: $250 top prize. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Gabo Prize for Literature in Translation or Multi-Lingual Texts. Restrictions: Translators and authors of multi-lingual texts. Genres: Poetry and prose. Prize: $200. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Jack Grapes Poetry Prize. Genre: Poetry. Prize: WINNERS will receive $200 each, plus publication. FINALISTS will receive $50 each, plus publication. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Jacques Maritain Prize for Nonfiction. Genre: Essay, Catholic themes. Prize: $500 top prize.   Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Lee & Low Books New Voices Award is sponsored by Lee &Low Publishers. Restrictions: The contest is open to writers of color who are residents of the United States and who have not previously had a children’s picture book published. Genre: Children's books - fiction, nonfiction or poetry. Prize: $1,000 and publication. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Preservation Foundation Essay Contest for Unpublished Writers. Restrictions: The contest is open to writers whose creative writing has never produced revenues of over $750 in any single year. Genre: Nonfiction: Biographical Nonfiction, General Nonfiction, Travel Nonfiction, and Animal Nonfiction.  Prize: First prize in each category will be $200. Runners-up will receive $100. Finalists will receive $50. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

Young Lions Fiction Award. Restrictions: Open to US citizens 35 years of age or younger. Genre: Novel or a collection of short stories published between January 2017 and December 2017. Submissions by publisher only. Authors may not submit their own work. Prize: $10,000.00.   Deadline: August 31, 2018.

The End of Our World Short Story Contest. Genre: Short story dealing with the many existential issues facing us. "No nonsense, no wild, impossible fantasies but strong, intelligent stories, based on realistic speculation, cautionary tales, plausible and thought-provoking." Prize: $1,000. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

VCU Cabell First Novelist Award. Genre: First published novel. USA only. Prize: $5,000. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

On The Premises Short Story Contest. "For this contest, write a creative, compelling, well-crafted story between 1,000 and 5,000 words long in which one or more characters almost die, but do not. (Other characters in the story can die, but not the one(s) the story focuses on.)" Prize: Winners receive between US$60 and US$220, and publication. Deadline: August 31, 2018.

32 Writing Conferences in August 2018

Photo credit: Laura Hoffmann, Flickr, www.bbx.de

This month there are nearly three dozen writing conferences spanning 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.

Attending a conference is the best thing you can do for your writing career. Nothing is a better use of your time and money than meeting writers, industry professionals, and agents.

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.

______________________

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.

Mendocino Coast Writers Conference. August 2 - 4, 2018: Fort Bragg, California. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as panels and workshops with editors and agents, craft lectures, readings, and discussion forums on publishing and marketing. The faculty includes poet Indigo Moor; fiction writers Vanessa Hua, Elizabeth McKenzie, Jason S. Ridler, and Shanthi Sekaran; and nonfiction writer Linda Joy Myers. Participating publishing professionals include agent Duvall Osteen (Aragi Inc.) and editors Susan Chang (Tor Books) and Summer Dawn Laurie (Tricycle Press). Fiction writer Elizabeth Rosner will deliver the keynote. CLOSED

Cape Cod Writers Center Conference. August 2 - 5, 2018: Hyannis, Massachusetts. Workshops and craft classes in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as manuscript consultations and mentoring sessions with editors and agents. The faculty includes poet David Surette, fiction writer C. E. Lawrence, and nonfiction writer Judah Leblang. Participating publishing professionals include agents Noah Ballard (Curtis Brown, Ltd.), Eric Myers (Myers Literary Management), Monica Odom (Liza Dawson Associates), and Monika Woods (Curtis Brown); and editor Diane O’Connell (Write to Sell Your Book). Tuition is $150 for a three-session course, $120 for a two-session course, or $70 for a single workshop.

Taylor's Professional Writers Conference. August 3 - 4, 2018: Upland, Indiana. 35 seminars covering General & First-timers, Fiction, Nonfiction, Platform & Marketing and Specialty Writing.

Florida Authors and Publishers Association Annual Conference. August 3 - 4, 2018: Orlando, Florida. Professional development sessions designed to provide authors and publishers with up-to-date publishing resources. This networking and educational event will offer two days of sessions with a focus on The Business of Publishing.  Industry leaders, including NYT best-selling authors Charles Todd and Lisa Black, will share their expertise and a variety of tools needed to flourish in this evolving publishing environment.

Willamette Writers Conference. August 3 - 5, 2018: Portland, Oregon. This year the conference will feature Celebrating Diverse Voices in Writing with three full days of classes, workshops, keynotes, critiques, and events. There are also Master Classes with industry professionals in which you can learn from top instructors in a small group setting and many options for one on one critique, including On the Spot Critiques and Advance Manuscript Critique. As always, they will have a roster of agents, editors and film executives ready to hear about your project.

Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators Annual Conference. August 3 - 6, 2018: Los Angeles, California. More than 100 writers, editors, illustrators, & agents. Workshops, breakout sessions, manuscript and portfolio consultations, panels, discussions.

Revision Retreat. August 3 – 7, 2018: Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Sponsored by Highlights Foundation. In this working retreat, Harold Underdown and editor Eileen Robinson will teach proven techniques for self-editing and revising and help writers try them out on their manuscripts. Mornings will be dedicated to revision techniques and afternoons to model critique groups, individual meetings, and writing time.

Hurston/Wright Summer Writers Workshop. August 4 - 10, 2018: Washington, DC. For more than 20 years, the Hurston/Wright Summer Writers Workshop has offered a safe space for black writers in intensive workshop sessions and master classes. Workshops are led by award-winning writers who are influencing today’s literature. The program features critiques, craft talks, writing time and public readings. Hurston/Wright workshops serve emerging and experienced writers who are starting projects, developing projects or seeking to polish projects. More than a thousand writers have participated in workshops since the first session in 1996.

Nature Retreat for ALL Writers & Artists 2018. August 5 - 9, 2018: Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Sponsored by Highlights Foundation. Let your art and mind be inspired at this retreat: enjoy time to write or sketch plus fun and relaxing activities in beautiful surroundings. At this retreat, there will be plenty of time to create–but we’re also planning a few fun and relaxing activities to give you some natural inspiration: Hiking on their 1,400-acre property; Kayaking on the Delaware River with NorthEast Wilderness Experience; Enjoy a farm & flower outing to Fox Hill Farm; Visit Calkins Creamery for a cheese-making demonstration; Bird-watching; Nature journaling, and more.

Catamaran Writing Conference. August 5 - 9, 2018: Pebble Beach, CA. The conference will be held on the campus of the Robert Louis Stevenson school, and attendees will meet in the elegant Stevenson classrooms, commons, theater, and chapel for workshops, lectures, and presentations. Also available are optional daily literary themed excursions, daily craft talks, nightly special guest readings, and student readings. For their 2018 Summer Conference, they are asking participants to submit a manuscript of their preferred genre for review and approval.  Fiction and nonfiction pieces may be short stories or novel excerpts of up to twenty pages.  Poetry submissions may include up to five poems, not to exceed a complete page count of ten pages. You will receive submission instructions after registering.

10 Min Con. August 9 - 11, 2018: Cincinnati, Ohio. Speakers: Donald Maas, James Scott Bell, Janice Hardy.

Deadly Ink Mystery Conference. August 10 - 12, 2018: Rockaway, New Jersey. Guest of Honor: Meg Gardiner, Toastmaster: Roberta Rogow, Fan Guests of Honor: Bill and Carol Aronoff. Other authors: Eileen Watkins, Kate Gallison, Ilene Schneider, R. G. Belsky, Peggy Ehrhart, Jeff Markowitz, James McCrone, Rebecca Mears...and more. Cost ranges from $75.00 to $250.00.

Nuts and Bolts of Science Writing is sponsored by Highlights. August 8 - 10, 2018. Honesdale, PA. "You love science and our world—and want to share your knowledge and passion with kids. How do you accomplish it? Learn the dynamics of engaging science-based writing for children and teens—whether you’re published already or just beginning. Faculty will demonstrate how to energize readers through active fiction and nonfiction writing that shines the light on exciting science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts. Through presentations, hands-on workshops, one-to-one manuscript critiques, ample writing time, and sessions with acquiring editors, this workshop will give you the tools and insights you need to advance on your path to success."

Northwestern University Summer Writers’ Conference. August 9 - 11, 2018: Chicago, Illinois. "Join a community of writers at Northwestern University for a three-day institute on writing fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. The program, which is now in its 14th year, includes a diverse array of workshops, panels, keynote speakers, networking events, and literary readings. Learn how to structure your novel with Christine Sneed, write without fear with Amin Ahmad, and make a scene with Rebecca Makkai. Hear from publishers, agents, literary editors, and critics, and enjoy a keynote on the uses of memory from award-winning poet Roger Reeves. You can also schedule an individual manuscript consultation with conference faculty. Writers at all levels of experience are welcome, as are writers of all genres and backgrounds. Come seek a fuller understanding of the craft—and business—of writing." Registration ends on August 5.

The 2018 Writers' Police Academy. August 9–12, 2017: Green Bay, WI. The annual Writers’ Police Academy offers an exciting interactive and educational hands-on experience for writers to enhance their understanding of all aspects of law enforcement, firefighting, EMS, and forensics.

Travel Writers & Photographers Conference. August 9–12, 2018: Corte Madera, Calif. Writing and photography workshops in the morning, a full afternoon of panels and discussions, and evening faculty presentations. There are optional, working field trips to explore the resources of the Bay Area. The faculty includes publishers, magazine editors, photographers, travel essayists, food writers, restaurateurs, guidebook writers, and more.

Writer’s Digest Conference. August 10 - 12, 2018: New York City. Annual Writer's Digest Conference featuring: Pitch Slam, with more than fifty agents and editors in attendance, educational tracks devoted to publishing and self-publishing, platform and promotion, and the craft of writing,  speakers and instructors.

Murphy Writing of Stockton University: Live Free and Write. August 12 - 17, 2018: Sunapee, NH. "Combine an extended writing retreat with a relaxing summer vacation in the picturesque mountains of New Hampshire. This getaway blends our trademark challenging and supportive workshop experience with plenty of free time for you to write and bask in the refreshing New England summer." 2017/2018 faculty includes Stephen Dunn, Sharon Olds, Gregory Pardlo, Barbara Hurd, Carol Plum-Ucci, James Richardson, Peter E. Murphy and more.

Whole Novel Workshop. August 12 - 18, 2018: Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Sponsored by Highlights Foundation. The Whole Novel Workshop is specifically designed for writers of middle-grade and young adult novels. This unique program offers the one-on-one attention found in degree programs, but without additional academic requirements, lengthy time commitments, or prohibitive financial investments. Our aim is to focus on a specific work in progress, moving a novel to the next level in preparation for submission to agents or publishers. Focused attention in an intimate setting makes this mentorship program one that guarantees significant progress.

Vermont College of Fine Arts Postgraduate Writers’ Conference. August 13 - 19, 2018: Montpelier, Vermont. The conference is designed for writers with graduate degrees or equivalent experience. Workshops in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as readings, craft classes, and individual consultations with faculty members. "At the heart of the Postgraduate Writers' Conference's unique model is the small workshop size, with groups led by acclaimed faculty limited to five or six writers. The intimate format allows for an extraordinarily in-depth, far-reaching discussion of participants’ work. Beyond the daily group sessions, each member has an individual consultation with the workshop instructor. The schedule also features a rich menu of readings by faculty and participants, craft talks, generative writing sessions and social events that galvanize our vibrant, inclusive community."

Iota Short Prose Conference. August 15 - 18, 2018: Lubec, Maine. Workshops, craft discussions, readings, open mics, one-on-one meetings with faculty, and field trips to nearby locations for poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers. Faculty includes Beth Ann Fennelly and Sven Birkerts.

Bread Loaf Writers' Conference. August 15- 25, 2018: Ripton, VT. Workshops in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction are at the core of the conference. Each faculty member conducts a workshop that meets for five two-hour sessions over the course of the 10 days. Groups are kept small to facilitate discussion, and all participants meet individually with their faculty leaders to elaborate on workshop comments. Faculty members also offer lectures on issues around literary writing and one-hour classes on specific aspects of the craft. Readings by the faculty, conference participants, and guests take place throughout the day and into the night. Participants meet with visiting editors, literary agents, and publishers who provide information and answer questions, individually or in small groups.  Applications are due by February 15, 2018.

SFWA @ Worldcon. Aug. 16-20, 2018: San Jose, CA. Worldcon (the World Science Fiction Convention) is the annual gathering of science fiction and fantasy fans, writers, artists, musicians and other creators, first held in New York City in 1939. Worldcon is held in a different city and organized by a different volunteer organization each year. "If you’re an aspiring writer, consider participating in the Writers’ Workshop. This is an opportunity to have both new and experienced authors critique your work.  Many well known writers got their feet wet at a Worldcon Writers’ Workshop. Not sure you’re ready for that? Consider participating in a Deep Dive, where discussion focuses around how to write a particular type of scene or develop a character. Need to develop your artist’s portfolio?  That is another Deep Dive topic, along with other tools to advance your career."

Responsible Representation: Writing Diverse Commercial Fiction for Middle-Grade and Young Adult Readers 2018. August 18 - 21, 2018: Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Sponsored by Highlights Foundation. "Instead of the old writing adage–write what you know–learn how to know what to write. Whether you’re drawing from your own experience or outside of it, writing diversely demands research, empathy, attention to detail, an interrogation of one’s own place in this world, and a willingness to be open-minded. In this workshop, the emphasis will be on respectful and responsible representation and craft.

The Emotional Craft of Fiction with Donald Maass. August 20, 2018: Portland, OR. Based on psychological research and extensive study of what makes novels emotionally gripping, workshop participants will discover how to go beyond showing or telling to create an emotional journey for readers—one unseen but nevertheless deeply felt and ultimately unforgettable. Donald Maass founded the Donald Maass Literary Agency in 1980. His agency sells more than 150 novels every year to major publishers in the U.S. and overseas. He is the author of The Career Novelist (1996), Writing the Breakout Novel (2001), Writing the Breakout Novel Workbook (2004), The Fire in Fiction (2009), Writing 21st Century Fiction (2012), and The Emotional Craft of Fiction (2016). He is a past president of the Association of Authors’ Representatives, Inc.

Killer Nashville Writers’ Conference. August 23 - 26, 2018: Nashville, TN. The Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference was created in 2006 by author/filmmaker Clay Stafford in an effort to bring together forensic experts, writers, and fans of crime and thriller literature. "At the conference, we try diligently to ensure that the weekend has something for every writer and lover of literature, and our sessions are structured to assist writers on multiple career levels. Our learning tracks tackle the craft of writing, business of writing, marketing, and forensics. Killer Nashville features nine breakout sessions for intense smaller group interaction, an authors’ bar (free for hotel guests), a moonshine and wine tasting, free agent/editor roundtable pitch sessions, a mock crime scene designed by special agents and other law enforcement professionals, cocktail receptions, the Guest of Honor Dinner and Awards Banquet, film previews, live music performances and—of course—all the great activities one can enjoy in downtown Nashville."

HippoCamp Creative Nonfiction Conference. August 24 - 26, 2018: Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Craft and query workshops, panel discussions, lectures, open mics, and readings for creative nonfiction writers. Faculty: TBA.

Santa Barbara Summer Poetry Workshop. August 25, 2018: Santa Barbara, CA. "Time will be spent on all aspects of the practice of poetry: crafting, writing exercises, discussion, publication advice and the art of reading your poems.This workshop is an opportunity for you to grow your poems with thoughtful attention from experienced poets who combine their approaches for you to hone your skills and go deeper into your own creative process."

STORY 360 with Lorin Oberweger. August 25 - 26, 2018: Houston, TX. "From premise to publication, the Story 360 workshop offers a hands-on course on the craft and business of writing. Expect to be engaged, to dig into your work, and to come away with a toolbox of techniques that will propel your writing to new heights."

The Ins and Outs of a Picture Book and Its Many Forms 2018. August 26 - 29, 2018: Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Sponsored by Highlights Foundation. "This hands-on workshop will help you discover what you must write and how to get that work ready for submission to editors and agents. Along with one-on-one critique sessions and opportunities for critical feedback, Bethany, Carmen, and Salina will cover: The Picture Book Biography Only You Can Write; Creating Compelling Characters Readers Care About; From Submission to School Visits, and Everything in Between; Scene and Structure in Picture Books; How to Keep “I Think I Can” Alive on the Path to Publication ; Writing by Storyboard: A Good Story is Like a Rollercoaster; Revising: If You Love the Work, It Will Love You Back; SOS: Stand-Out Submissions.

DragonCon. August 30 - September 3, 2018: Atlanta, Ga. HUGE sci-fi event, with parade, autograph sessions, live performances, readings, wrestling (!), workshops on belly dancing, writing (yes, there's even some writing), art show. (This conference sounds really wild.)

DAW Books Opens Its Doors to Sci-Fi and Fantasy Writers - No agent needed

Pixabay

Updated 5/15/22

DAW now appears to be closed to unagented submissions.

DAW Books, a division of Penguin/Random House, is the oldest publishing company devoted exclusively to science fiction and fantasy. DAW has published such luminaries as Patrick Rothfuss, Tad Williams, C. J. Cherryh, Mercedes Lackey, Kristen Britain, Melanie Rawn, C.S. Friedman, and Tanith Lee.

From the site: "Science fiction and fantasy have always been genres in which creators have infinite space to explore bold and inventive new ideas, while also reflecting the multiplicity of cultures, traditions, and identities of our own world. At DAW, we are proud of the work that our authors have already done to explore and celebrate diversity. We have a history of publishing feminist and LGBTQIA+ fiction, but we are always seeking to expand our own horizons, as well as those of our readers.

To this end, DAW is actively seeking new works of science fiction and fantasy written by and/or featuring people of color, Native people, disabled people, neurodiverse people, LGBTQIA+ people, and those from other underrepresented or marginalized communities."

How to submit: DAW accepts electronic submissions through Submittable. Science fiction and fantasy novels should not be fewer than 80,000 words. Please send the entire completed manuscript with a query letter. The manuscript should be double-spaced, with at least 1″ margins. Please number your pages consecutively, and put the title of your novel at the top of each page.

No simultaneous submissions. However, if you have not heard back from them after three months, you may submit your novel elsewhere.

Read full guidelines HERE.

12 Feminist Publishers - No agent required

New Woman by Frances Benjamin Johnston - Wikimedia Commons

Updated 4/4/24

Although there are many women authors, publishing is a man's world. In 2017, Quartz examined literary prizes in the US and found that since 1950, only a quarter have gone to women. What's more, author Nicola Griffith discovered that from 2000 to 2015, not one of the 15 Pulitzer Prize-winning books were written from the point of view of a woman or girl, regardless of who wrote them. In same period, eight of the 15 Pulitzers were given to male novelists who wrote books about men or boys.

To compensate for the domination of the male voice in the publishing world, a number of houses have sprung up that cater exclusively to women writers. The majority are feminist, meaning they represent a female perspective. Most of these are small presses, which means they rarely offer advances. All offer royalties. None require an agent.

Note: For a list of over 150 publishers accepting work directly from writers, no agent required, see: Publishers Accepting Unagented Manuscripts. Also see: 40 Feminist and Women's Publications That Pay Writers

_______________________

Aqueduct Press publishes works of feminist science fiction as well as works about feminist science fiction or of particular interest to readers of feminist science fiction. "We are interested in seeing feminist sf novels of any length; for our Conversation Pieces series, we are interested in original novellas, poetry, and prose work of every kind at lengths ranging from 20,000-35,000 words. Please send a query to info[at]aqueductpress.com before sending us nonfiction or a collection of short fiction." Read guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Aunt Lute Books is a nonprofit multicultural women’s press based in San Francisco. "For over thirty years, we have been publishing literature that voices the perspectives of women from a broad range of communities. We have published a number of well-known feminist and lesbian authors, including Paula Gunn Allen, Gloria Anzaldúa, Judy Grahn, LeAnne Howe, Melanie Kaye/Kantrowitz, Audre Lorde, and Alice Walker." They seek manuscripts, both fiction and nonfiction, by women from a variety of cultures, ethnic backgrounds and subcultures. Read guidelines HERE.

Bedazzled Ink is a press that exclusively publishes work by women authors. They are dedicated to literary fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books that celebrate the unique and under-represented voices of women and books about women. Read guidelines HERE.

BLF Press is an independent Black feminist press dedicated to amplifying the work of women of color. "We strive to create a space for forward thinking, creative women of exceptional talent.  We embrace difference, and envision BLF Press as an outlet for the expression of various types of writing that exemplify the experiences of women of color in the United States." They are especially interested in literary fiction and short story collections. Read guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Caitlin Press was established in 1977 by Carolyn Zonailo as a feminist literary press. In the 1980s, Caitlin Press expanded its mandate to that of a BC literary press. Their focus is mainly on topics concerning or by writers from the BC Interior and stories about and by BC women. In a normal year they publish twelve to fourteen books, most of which are regional non-fiction (e.g. pioneer history or exploration, industry, politics, guide books, contemporary creative non fiction). The remaining titles are literary selections such as a works of fiction, short fiction, poetry or prose. Read guidelines HERE.

Clash Press is looking for strong voices & POVs in any genre. Fiction, nonfiction, & poetry. "Especially looking for unique voices of female identifying & POC from all over the world. CLASH Books is about global perspectives, contrasts, & juxtapositions." (There is literally no other information about submissions on their site.) Read guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Dorothy is an award-winning feminist press dedicated to works of fiction or near fiction or about fiction. "Each fall, we publish two new books simultaneously. We work to pair books that draw upon different aesthetic traditions, because a large part of our interest in literature lies in its possibilities, its endless stylistic and formal variety. Dorothy books are available through most major retail channels, but we offer special sales on titles purchased together through this website, to encourage readers to approach them as a conversation (a project)." Has submission periods. Read guidelines HERE.

The Feminist Press is an educational nonprofit organization founded to advance women's rights and amplify feminist perspectives. FP publishes classic and new writing from around the world, creates cutting-edge programs, and elevates silenced and marginalized voices in order to support personal transformation and social justice for all people. They publish fiction and nonfiction. No poetry, drama, doctoral dissertations, or literary criticism. Read guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Honno publishes Welsh women writers – for the purposes of submission to Honno this means that you must be a woman born in Wales or resident in Wales at the time of submission. Honno also publishes titles of exceptional interest to women within Wales from writers who may not meet the first two criteria i.e. that they are female and that they are of Welsh birth or residence. They publish full length works of fiction and non-fiction for adults (manuscripts of between 60,000 and 120,000 words). Honno is open to all genres of fiction and is particularly interested in increasing the number of literary fiction, crime/thriller, commercial women’s fiction, science fiction and fantasy titles it publishes. Honno is also building a list of non-fiction works to include biography (untold tales of remarkable Welsh women, places and industries), memoir, nature and travel writing. Read guidelines HERE.

Inanna Publications and Education Inc. (Canada) was founded in 1978 with the goal of making current writing and research on a wide variety of feminist topics accessible to the largest possible community of women. "We welcome fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction and essays on ideas, society, politics, culture and the arts that speak to the diverse lives of women around the world. While we do not restrict our always-expanding sense of what makes a contribution "feminist" -- we strive for a presentation of different perspectives -- we will not publish writing that is sexist, racist, homophobic or in any other way discriminatory or harmful to women." Read guidelines HERE. (Has submission periods)

Second Story Press is a Canadian feminist press publishing books of special interest to women. Their list is a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and books for young readers. They look for manuscripts dealing with the many diverse and varied aspects of the lives of girls and women, as well as social justice, diversity, and children's empowerment. They not publish poetry, short story collections, traditional romance novels, rhyming picture books, or books with anthropomorphized animals. Canadian authors only. Read guidelines HERE.

Women’s Press is Canada’s oldest English language feminist publisher. For over forty years, Women’s Press has played an integral role in the proliferation of high-quality Canadian writing in the fields of gender, sexuality, and women’s studies. Scholarly nonfiction only. Read guidelines HERE.

2 Literary Agents Actively Seeking Literary Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Nonfiction, Graphic Novels and more

Updated 1010/20

Here are two agents actively building their client lists. Peter Ryan is seeking graphic novels. Johanna Castillo is interested in Upmarket Commercial Fiction, Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Memoir, Inspirational Self-Help, Latinx Fiction and Nonfiction (adult & children), Literature in Translation, Narrative Nonfiction, and Cookbooks.

Always check the agency website before submitting. Agents may switch agencies or close their lists, and submission requirements can change.

If these agents don't suit your needs, you can find a comprehensive list of new and established agents seeking clients here: Agents Seeking Clients.

__________________

Johanna Castillo of Writers House

Johanna is a seasoned professional in the publishing industry with over 18 years of experience. Formerly a Vice President & Executive Editor at Atria Books/Simon and Schuster and Editorial Director of Atria Español for fourteen years, she acquired and edited forty New York Times bestsellers by authors including Isabel Allende (The Japanese Lover), Colleen Hoover (It Ends with Us), Sharyn McCrumb (Prayers the Devil Answers) Rachael Ray (The Book of Burger), María Dueñas (The Time in Between), Rosanna Pansino (The Nerdy Nummies Cookbook), Laura Day (How to Rule the World from your Couch), Javier Sierra ( The Secret Supper), Laura Esquivel ( Malinche) and Theresa Caputo (There is More to Life Than This), as well as multiple national and international bestsellers, such as The German Girl by Armando Lucas Correa, Meat by Pat LaFrieda, and The Elizas by Sara Shepard.

What she is seeking: Commercial and literary fiction, inspirational memoirs and works of narrative nonfiction. Genres: Upmarket Commercial Fiction. Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction,Memoir, Inspirational Self-Help, Latinx Fiction and Nonfiction (adult & children), Literature in Translation, Narrative Nonfiction, and Cookbooks.

How to submit: Send a query letter and the first 25 pages of your manuscript to jcastillo@writershouse.com.

____________________

Peter Ryan of Stimola Literary Studio

Currently closed to queries

Peter Ryan is a lifelong reader of comic books and graphic novels.  His first comics were a big box of silver and golden age comics that were handed down from a friends older brother.  The comics were tattered, torn and in pieces but they were the best thing he had ever seen.  He has a broad background in business, and spent a few years working in the video game industry working on titles like Guitar Hero, Call of Duty some of the Marvel Universe.

What he is seeking: "I am looking for graphic novels of all kinds.  Everything from the classic adventure to the truly weird and wacky.  I am looking for graphic novels that range from Middle-Grade up to Adult.  I want to see stories of diversity, LGBTQ issues, coming of age and stories that elevate under-represented voices and talents. I am only accepting graphic novels.  Any other format will not be accepted."

How to submit: Use the submission form HERE.

36 LGBTQ Publishers Accepting Manuscripts - No agent required (Plus 30 paying journals)

Wikimedia Commons

Updated 4/3/24

If you write LGBTQ fiction or nonfiction, here are 35 publishers that are eager for your work, none of which require an agent. The majority of these are small publishers, which means most do not offer advances, however all pay royalties, provide editing and covers, and distribute books without any charge to authors.

Romance, including all of its subgenres, is the most sought after genre by LGBTQ publishers, but if you write poetry, biography, memoir, or scholarly work, you will find a home for your work on this list.

Scroll down the list for paying magazines that accept LGBTQ short work. Be sure to check Calls for Submissions for upcoming calls by magazines that specifically mention LGBTQ-themed issues. (There are 23 of them to date.) 

For more than 150 publishers accepting submissions directly from writers see: Publishers Accepting Unagented Manuscripts

While the list below is niche-specific, there are many mainstream publishers that accept LGBTQ fiction and nonfiction as part of their general lists. Most large houses require an agent. However, there is one exception: Random House (see below).

________________

Random House has opened its submission policy exclusively to LGBTQIA2S+ and BIPOC writers, as well as those from other traditionally underrepresented communities. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Affinity Rainbow Publishing publishes works of lesbian literature in electronic media (eBooks) and Print on demand. Affinity is wholly owned by authors and the content of works will reflect their collective writing vision. No simultaneous submissions. Manuscripts sent to multiple publishers will be rejected. The genre is unlimited. No pornographic material. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Arsenal Pulp Press is a book publisher in Vancouver, Canada with over 400 titles currently in print. They are considering manuscripts only in the following subject areas:

• Books by BIPOC authors
• LGBTQ fiction and non-fiction, including young adult and children's
• Literary fiction and non-fiction (no genre fiction, such as mysteries, thrillers, or romance)
• Political/sociological studies
• Cultural studies
• Regional non-fiction, in particular for British Columbia
• Graphic novels
• Youth culture and young adult literature
• Books for children, especially those that emphasize diversity
• Craft books. 

"We are interested in literature that engages and challenges readers, and which asks probing questions about the world around us." Read submission guidelines here.

Aunt Lute Books is a nonprofit multicultural women’s press based in San Francisco. For over thirty years, they have been publishing literature that voices the perspectives of women from a broad range of communities. They have published a number of well-known feminist and lesbian authors. They are seeking manuscripts, both fiction and nonfiction, by women from a variety of cultures, ethnic backgrounds and subcultures. Note: They publish very few books per year. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Bella Books is the largest lesbian-owned press devoted to the publication of books written for, by and about women-loving-women. Bella’s books reach worldwide audiences through print, eBooks, translations and distribution.  They now partner with a number of other publishers and independent authors to offer a range of reading choices on their website—BellaBooks.com. Read submission guidelines HERE. No simultaneous submissions.

BLF Press is open to various types of literary work. They are especially interested in work that centers women of color and same gender loving women. Their preferred genres are short fiction, literary fiction, memoir, and creative non-fiction. Prose (fiction and non-fiction) manuscripts should be from 40,000-80,000 words; poetry collections should be at least 50 pages.  If your work is under serious consideration elsewhere, please wait until you've received a decision before submitting it here. They ask for limited print and electronic rights. Read submission guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Blind Eye Books publishes science fiction, fantasy, mystery, and romance novels featuring LGBTQ protagonists. They do not publish short story collections, poetry, erotica, horror or non-fiction. Length: 70,000 to 150,000 words. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Bold Strokes Books offers a diverse collection of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer general and genre fiction. BSB genre fiction includes all romance sub-genres as well as action, adventure, crime, mystery/intrigue, and speculative fic (sci-fi/fantasy/horror). They will consider previously published works (including self-published works). Read submission guidelines HERE.  No simultaneous submissions.

Bywater Books is looking for well-written commercial fiction targeted to lesbian readers. They are especially interested the following fiction and non-fiction categories: Romance, Mystery, Action/Thriller, Science-fiction/Fantasy, Eco-fiction, Young Adult/New Adult, General Fiction, Cross-genre, Memoir, Essay, and Autobiography/Biography. They do not publish poetry or erotica. Read submission guidelines HERE. No simultaneous submissions.

Chelsea Station Editions publishes books of gay and lesbian interest. Their books are distributed by several wholesalers, including Ingram and Bella Distribution Services. "Our books are easily ordered by libraries and booksellers, both online and brick-and-mortar, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Powells, and TLA." Read submission guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Dagger Editions, an imprint of Caitlin Press, publishes literary fiction, non-fiction and poetry by and about queer women (those who identify as queer women, including trans women or trans men, or anyone who includes this in their personal history). Canadians only. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Deep Hearts YA is a publisher of LBGTQ+ fiction for young adults. They publish all genres and sub-genres, including aro and ace lead characters. While they are primarily a romance publisher, romance need not be the primary plot; submissions need to have some theme of self-empowerment, self-acceptance, or other related message. Given that the characters and target readers are underage, there is to be no erotic content. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Desert Palm Press welcomes fiction and nonfiction by lesbian authors. They are interested in fiction manuscripts where the main characters are lesbians. The story should be engaging, new and fresh. DPP prefers a HEA ending, or at least a happy ending for now, but will consider all well written stories. Non-fiction will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Desert Palm Press (DPP) produces e-books and print books that are available worldwide through Amazon, Smashwords, Bella Books, and CreateSpace. Read submission guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Dreamspinner Press publishes gay male romance stories in all genres. While works do not need to be graphic, they must contain a primary or strong secondary romance plotline and focus on the interaction between two or more male characters. The main characters of the story must end in a gay or gay polyamorous relationship. Other relationships (heterosexual, lesbian, mixed gender polyamory) are acceptable in secondary pairings or as part of the development of a main character. Accepts novellas. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Flashpoint (fornerly Regal Crest) is looking for LGBTQI novels with plots of action, adventure, drama, fantasy, mystery, thriller, romance and science fiction, or romance coupled with sub-plots of action, adventure, drama, fantasy, mystery, thriller, and science fiction.  They accept most genres, including non-fiction works. Manuscripts of 15,000 to 59,999 will be considered for eBook formats only, with the exception that manuscripts that fall between 50,000 and 59,999 words will be looked at on a case-by-case basis for print publication. Manuscripts with a minimum of 60,000 words and a maximum of 120,000 words will be considered for print and eBook publication. Longer works will need to be edited down in size or split into multiple volumes. Read submission guidelines HERE. No simultaneous submissions. Has submission periods.

Generous Press. "We want our queer, BIPOC, and sick/disabled communities to turn to Generous Press novels as a source of pleasure and abundant joy. Perhaps you're a poet, graphic novelist, or memoirist who moonlights as a romance novelist—or maybe you're just genre-curious. Or you've written in this genre for years, but love the idea of working with editors who will push your prose to be as musical as it is gripping. If these descriptions fit you, and if our mission lights you up, we want to read your book." Genre: Romance. Payment: $5000 advance plus 40% of royalties. (Generous indeed!) 

 

Harrington Park Press was previously the LGBTQ imprint of The Haworth Press (now part of Routledge/Taylor & Francis). The imprint is now relaunched by Haworth’s founding owner/publisher Bill Cohen as a specialized academic/scholarly print and e-book publisher devoted to emerging topics in LGBTQ diversity, equality, and inclusivity. "Our forthcoming books are intended for classroom adoption in advanced college courses and graduate and professional schools. They are primarily for LGBTQ faculty members teaching either from a disciplinary perspective, within the areas of psychology, sociology, social work, and health care, or cross-disciplinary topics significantly represented within the LGBTQ higher-education arena. We focus on books that are useful as required or recommended reading but also will interest book-reading members of the international LGBTQ community." Distributed by Columbia University Press. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Interlude Press focuses on LGBTQ-focused titles. They are looking for well-crafted original novels, novellas, and short stories of 10,000 to 90,000 words featuring diverse casts with lead characters from across the LGBTQ spectrum, and welcome and encourage manuscripts written by authors from all backgrounds. Read submission guidelines HERE. No simultaneous submissions.

JMS Books LLC is a small electronic press publishing gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender erotic romance, romance, and young adult romance. Length: Between 20,000 and 90,000 words. They do not pay advances. Authors earn 50% royalties on all electronic and print sales from their website and distributors. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Midnight Meadow Publishing's goal is to publish engaging and unique LGBTQ+ stories while elevating marginalized voices. They are interested in a wide variety of genres. Read submission guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Neon Hemlock publishes queer speculative fiction novellas and anthologies. They publish Baffling Magazine, and a yearly anthology, We’re Here: The Best Queer Speculative Fiction, for queer short fiction reprints. Read submission guidelines and calls for submissions HERE.

NineStar Press is seeking submissions of LGBTQA+ romance fiction and literary novels. Standalones, series & serials all considered across the board. Serials must have a defined ending in each installment. Previously published or self-published books are considered. Authors with orphaned books after the folding of a publishing company are encouraged to submit. You must own all rights to the story. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Painted Hearts Publishing welcomes submissions for all genres of LGBT+ romance from both new, unpublished authors and those already established in the field. Length: 15,000 words minimum. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Periculum Press publishes non-fiction works on the subjects of alternative spirituality, Paganism, witchcraft, LGBTQ+ spirituality, self-development, women’s empowerment, and LGBTQ+ issues. They currently are also accepting submissions of occult fiction. Read guidelines here.

Pride Publishing is an imprint of Totally Entwined, a romance publisher. Pride Publishing is actively acquiring empowering, enchanting and endearing storylines that are sure to capture readers’ imaginations from start to finish. We’re looking for stories with lead characters who identify as GLBTQI. 10,000 -100,000 word count per story. Series and serials will be also be considered. No advance, royalties unknown. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Rebel Satori Press’s Queer Mojo imprint publishes new and cutting edge LGBTQ+ books including poetry, fiction, and memoir. Their Queer Space imprint is looking for all subgenres of speculative fiction involving LGBTQ+ characters written by LGBTQ+ authors, including but not limited to: sci-fi, interstitial, slipstream, horror, and supernatural fictional manuscripts. Read submission guidelines HERE.

RedBone Press publishes work celebrating the cultures of black lesbians and gay men, and work that further promotes understanding between black gays and lesbians and the black mainstream. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Ride the Rainbow Books is looking for well-written lesbian fiction. If your book is under 55,000 words, it may be considered a novella or a short story. If this is the case, they may combine it with other works by you or by other authors in the same book. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Riptide Publishing accepts all genres of LGBTQ romantic, erotic, and literary fiction under the following three imprints: Riptide Publishing: primarily adult genre fiction with romantic or erotic focus; all heat levels from sweet romance to erotica are welcome; Triton Books: YA genre and literary fiction; Anglerfish Press: upmarket fiction (literary genre fiction) with little or no romantic or erotic focus; HEAs are not required here. You can find details about their publishing contract on the site under FAQs. Read submission guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Riverdale/Magnus is the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) imprint of Riverdale Avenue Books. They are actively looking for titles, both fiction and nonfiction, in a wide variety of areas, including popular culture, entertainment, biography/memoir, self-help, spirituality, and current affairs, among others. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Sapphire Books welcomes high-quality unsolicited manuscripts by lesbian authors. They are seeking specifically: romance, mystery/intrigue with romantic elements and young adult. Novel manuscripts must be a minimum of 50,000 words. Read submission guidelines HERE.

Tiny Ghost Press is looking for young adult novels written from a queer perspective. That is, stories featuring a queer protagonist or from a queer author. "We're interested in everything from contemporary romance, to dystopian adventures, and if your story dabbles in the spooky, the supernatural, or the paranormal, or has a speculative element even better! We're especially looking for stories featuring trans, BIPOC, and neurodivergent characters in lead roles written by authors from these communities." Read submission guidelines HERE.  

Ylva Publishing is looking for new, talented authors, who write about lesbian and bisexual heroines. Authors are not expected to contribute to the expenses involved in publishing and marketing their work; however, they are looking for authors who will actively participate in every step of the publishing process and in the marketing of their book. Length: Minimum word count 60,000. Read submission guidelines HERE. No simultaneous submissions.

Zero Street invites submissions of novels and short story collections, from LGBTQ+ authors new and established, that feature LGBTQ+ characters and/or themes. "We are particularly interested in BIPOC authors, trans authors, and queer authors over 50. Zero Street is committed to literary fiction with commercial potential, and to providing marginalized authors opportunities for a wide readership in the trade fiction market." Seeking: Literary fiction of all kinds, from stories of modern life to innovations on traditions of genre. The manuscript must be in English and should be between 60,000 and 100,000 words. Read submission guidelines HERE. Has submission periods.

Magazines

Anathema You must be a queer person of color/Indigenous/Aboriginal to submit to Anathema. Accepts fiction and nonfiction. Fiction: 1,500-6,000 words (soft min/max, but please within that general range). Original fiction only, no reprints. Must have some speculative content, however slight. No restriction on genre. Non-Fiction: 1,500-3,000 words (soft min/max, but please within that general range). Original content only, no reprints. Payment: $50 (CAD) for fiction and non-fiction, paid on publication. Has submission periods.

The Gay & Lesbian Review This magazine is targeted to “literate non-specialists,” i.e. well-educated readers who span a wide range of professions and interests. A high level of intellectual sophistication can be assumed; however, specialized jargon or highly academic language should be avoided. The G&LR publishes nonfiction and poetry—but not short fiction, personal memoirs, or journals. Payment: $100 for features and $50 for book reviews.

Plenitude Magazine "Plenitude Magazine aims to promote the growth and development of LGBTTQI literature through an online publication of literary fiction, nonfiction, poetry, graphic narrative, book reviews and short film by both emerging and established LGBTTQI writers. We define queer literature and arts as works created by LGBTTQI people, rather than works which feature queer content alone. We are seeking literary fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, reviews, interviews, and novel excerpts at this time. We are not interested in genre writing, political essays, or rants." Payment: $50 - $100. Has submission periods for non-Canadian writers.

Glittership Glittership podcast is looking for science fiction, fantasy, horror, interstitial, speculative, whatever. "Stories must contain some queer content. I believe in queer as a large umbrella term and specifically include trans, genderqueer, intersex, two-spirit, pan and ace/aro identities in addition to LGB. If your story includes an identity not listed here that you feel is queer, please don’t self-reject." Payment: 3 cents per word ($30 minimum). See submission periods.

The VIDA Review is a bi-monthly online literary magazine publishing original fiction, nonfiction, poetry, reviews, and interviews. They are exclusively interested in work by those often marginalized in literary spaces, including people of color; women, agender, gender non-conforming, genderqueer, non-binary, trans, and two-spirit people; LGBQIA people; people with disabilities; and people living at the intersections of these identities. Payment: Fiction, nonfiction, and poetry pays $15-$20 per author. See submission periods.

Fourteen Poems "We want to represent all that's thrilling about the new wave of LGBT+ poets. If you’re a poet, even if you’ve never been published before, we want to read your work. Every issue we publish 14 of the best queer poems we’ve found, and we want to include you! We publish 4 times a year, but take submissions all year round.  To be considered, email up to 5 poems, preferably in a pdf format, with a small paragraph about yourself to hello@14poems.com. Payment: £25 for each poem published.

Foglifter "Foglifter welcomes daring and thoughtful queer work, in all forms, and we are especially interested in cross-genre, intersectional, marginal, and transgressive work. We want the pieces that challenged you as a writer, what you poured yourself into and risked the most to make. But we also want your tenderest, gentlest work, what you hold closest to your heart. Whatever you’re working on now that’s keeping you alive and writing, Foglifter wants to read it." Payment: $25. See submission periods.

Baffling Magazine "We are looking for speculative stories that explore science fiction, fantasy, and horror with a queer bent. We want queer stories and we want trans stories and we want aro/ace stories. We want indefinable stories. We welcome weird, slipstream, and interstitial writing." Up to 1,200 words. Payment: 8 cents/word. 

Alpennia: Lesbian Historic Motif Podcast Fiction Series. Alpennia publishes short stories in the lesbian historic fiction genre, to be produced in audio format for the podcast, as well as published in text on the website. Payment: 8 cents/word. 

Speculatively Queer Speculatively Queer publishes speculative queer fiction. See their open calls for submissions. Payment: 8 cents/word. 

The Quiet Ones The Quiet Ones is a tri-annual queer-centered horror and dystopian fiction magazine dedicated to atmospheric terror and psychological frights for adults and young adults. "…and we’re not just about the scares. Here, we value inclusivity, respect, creativity, authenticity, and bravery, and the stories we publish reflect these core values. Our goal with every issue is to amplify queer and female voices through both the new and emerging authors we seek and the narratives that claw their way onto our pages. We have interviews and craft essays for you to enjoy as well!" Payment: $25. Has submission periods.

beestung Beestung is a quarterly online micro-magazine for non-binary and two-spirit writers and readers, with an emphasis on intracommunity sensibilities. beestung resists the canon and all forms of bigotry. Beestung considers poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, hybrids, and art, by creators who fall under the non-binary umbrella or who are two-spirit. Multilingual work and work in translation is welcome. Payment: $20. Has submission periods.

QT: Queer Toronto Literary Magazine QT accepts poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, book reviews, personal essays, reflections, memoirs, as well as artwork, drawings, comics, photographs, collages, and other visual media. "Here, queer literature is not limited to explicitly queer content, but rather works created by LGBTQ2SIA+ people. Individuals from underrepresented communities, especially women, trans people, and BIPOC artists and writers are encouraged to self-identify in their submission email. Creators based in, or content featuring Toronto will be given extra consideration, but QT welcomes all pieces and artists with a connection to Canada." Payment: Featured artists and authors will receive an honorarium of $15. Issue designers will receive an honorarium of $100.

clavmag is a digital literary magazine. "we publish creative writing by LGBTQIA+ people.
we created clavmag to fulfil our need to shout into the literary void, and as a platform for other people who feel the same way". Payment: £52. Has submission periods.

Orion's Beau. Genre: Gay fantasy: fiction, poetry, art. Payment: $3. See themes. Has submission periods.

Rough Cut Press. Restrictions: Open to LGBTQIA writers. Genre: Experimental fiction, nonfiction, art poetry. 650 words max. Payment: $25. See themes.

Fairy Tale Review. Genre: Queer fairy tales written by queer writers. Poetry, art, drama, and prose. Payment: $50. See deadlines.

just femme & dandy. Genre: Fashion for the LGBTQIA+ community. "We offer a space in the literary & arts world that has yet to exist, and hope to celebrate the queer, trans, non-binary, and intersex community, who have long since coded ourselves with how we adorn and dress our bodies when it has been dangerous to identify solely with words. Until recently, we could only find a handful of models within popular culture and the public imagination to inform our own aesthetic choices, and so the styles (and art) we don and make operate as a patchwork quilt, collaged together with vintage and thrift store finds, our sister or mother’s lipstick and gowns, our father’s neckties and waistcoats". Payment: 50 USD per text-based submission and 150 USD per multimedia submission (video, photography, image + text, fashion spread + interview, etc.). See themes.

Alocacia is a monthly mini journal of queer at-home nature writing. "We appreciate both traditional work, as well as the weird, erotic, explicit, anti-colonial, and whatever you can come up with. This is a journal about plants, gardening, and indoor horticulture. Please don’t send us work that isn’t about plants, gardening, or indoor horticulture." Payment: $10. Has submission periods.

A Velvet Giant is especially interested in work by genderqueer & LGBTQ+ people, women, people of color, global writers, people living with disability and/or chronic pain/illness, and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Payment: $20. Has submission periods.

Fifth Wheel Press is an independent community-focused publisher of art and writing by queer, trans, and gender non-conforming creatives. "We pay all contributors in the form of either royalties (for published editions) or contributor stipends (for anthologies, zines, and blog pitches). Blog features and interviews conducted by the press offer free submissions but are unpaid." Reprints accepted.

oteh nîkân publishes poetry, fiction, and non-fiction by LGBTQ2S+ Indigenous writers year-round. Word count: For prose, no longer than 3000 words (one piece per submission). For poems, no longer than 1000 words per poem (up to 5 pages of poems). Scholarly writing and criticism are welcome.  Payment: $200 CAD/per poem and $300 CAD/per prose piece, including scholarly writing and criticism.

Pride Magazine is looking for articles and poetry written by emerging and experienced queer writers in “Canada”. Pieces should relate with themes of returning to the community, reconnecting with queerness, ourselves and each other. This year's Pride season will be an opportunity to reconnect to our history, physical spaces and each other.  Payment: $75 per poem, 60 cents per word for articles.

Manyworlds. Restrictions: Open to those who identify with and as any of the following descriptors: trans, two-spirit, disabled, neurodivergent, Mad, queer, crip, nonbinary, genderqueer, intersex. Genre: All genres. Payment: $10. See submission periods.

Eavesdrop is a queer-focused multimedia magazine. Restrictions: Open to Canadians. Genre: Fiction, poetry, CNF, art, audio. Payment: $30 per poem, $70 per short fiction and CNF piece, $30 per comic. See theme.

My Galvanized Friend is published quarterly (starting April, 2024) and is focused on highlighting works from those identifying as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Genre: Fiction, nonfiction, and essays between 500 and 3,500 words as well as works of poetry and original works of art. Payment: $25 per fiction/nonfiction/essay and $10 per page of poetry. 

Tagg Magazine is a queer women’s publication. They accept personal essays, listicles, dating advice and fashion-related content. Length: 350-1,000 words. Payment: $75-$175.

Aurelia publishes the work of marginalised genders: women, non-binary people and trans men. The things you think and the way you feel must be at the centre of your piece. All article submissions MUST be written in the first-person (“I think, I feel, I want…”)! Aurelia is a publication dedicated to personal thoughts, feelings and experiences." Pitch: 200 - 250 words, Payment: £50 

Wussy focuses on QUEER art and pop culture. Payment: Not specified.