A number of indie publishers like Torquere Press and Dreamspinner Press often accept online submissions. They might focus on specific genres or have particular guidelines you need to follow.
Typically, publishers look for originality. A unique take on horror that stands out from the common tropes. For example, a new spin on the haunted house concept. They also consider the writing quality. Good grammar, engaging prose, and a strong narrative voice are important. Like, if the story can hook the reader from the start.
One challenge is the large volume of submissions. There are so many writers trying to get their science fiction stories published, and it can be time - consuming to sort through them all.
Some well - known publishers that often seek historical fiction might include Penguin Random House. They have a wide range of imprints and are constantly on the lookout for engaging historical fiction works. Another could be HarperCollins, which has a long history of publishing great books in this genre. Simon & Schuster is also likely to be among them as they have a diverse portfolio and are interested in quality historical fiction.
Publishers are often on the lookout for novels that offer fresh and unique storylines. Novels that break the mold and offer new perspectives tend to catch their attention.
They are often looking for a strong sense of time and place. For example, if it's a story set in ancient Rome, accurate details about the architecture, social hierarchy, and daily life are crucial. Also, well - developed characters that are believable within the historical context. Publishers like historical fictions that can bring history to life in an engaging way, perhaps through a unique perspective or a little - known event in history.
They might be seeking STEM stories to meet the growing demand for educational and inspiring content. STEM topics are important in today's world, and by including them in picture books, publishers can attract parents and educators who want to introduce these concepts to young children early.
Well, publishers seeking unagented crime novels might start by scouring self - publishing platforms. There are often great crime novels there that haven't been picked up by agents yet. They could also look into small, independent writing magazines that feature crime fiction from new authors. Social media is another avenue. By using relevant hashtags like #unagentedcrimefiction, they can discover new voices. And don't forget about referrals. If they know established crime authors, they can ask for referrals to new, unagented writers in the genre.
These 14 agents are likely looking for unique ideas. In science fiction, there are a lot of common tropes, but they want something that breaks the mold. For example, a new way of imagining alien life forms or a fresh take on space exploration. Also, they expect submissions to fit within the market trends to some extent. If dystopian science fiction is hot right now, having elements of that in your story might be beneficial. However, it still has to be original. They also want to see that the author has a passion for the genre and a clear vision for their story.
One way is to collaborate with established science fiction agents. These agents already have a network of science fiction writers. They know the market trends and can recommend suitable manuscripts to publishers. Additionally, publishers can look into self - published science fiction works. Sometimes, there are great stories that just need a bit more exposure through a traditional publisher. By scouting self - published works, they might find the next big science fiction hit.