Submitting your short horror stories requires more than just a chilling tale; it demands strategic targeting of publications that align with your style and offer the best chance of acceptance. This guide, informed by years of experience in the horror fiction landscape, will illuminate the path to getting your work published and read by a wider audience.
Understanding the Horror Market
Before diving into specific venues, it’s crucial to understand the diverse landscape of the horror market. From traditional print magazines to online literary journals, podcasts, and anthologies, the options are vast. Each outlet caters to a specific niche, aesthetic, and reader base. Identifying your target audience and finding the publication that resonates with your story’s unique voice is paramount.
Defining Your Style
What kind of horror do you write? Is it literary horror, focused on psychological torment and nuanced character development? Or is it splatterpunk, pushing the boundaries of gore and visceral terror? Maybe it’s supernatural horror, with ghosts, demons, and unexplained phenomena, or cosmic horror, exploring the insignificance of humanity in the face of unknowable entities. Understanding your niche will significantly narrow your search for suitable submission venues.
Research is Key
Don’t blindly submit your story to the first magazine you find. Thorough research is absolutely essential. Read the publication. Study its tone, preferred themes, and general aesthetic. Many publications have submission guidelines specifying word count, formatting requirements, and even specific types of horror they’re not looking for. Ignoring these guidelines is a surefire way to get your story rejected without even being read.
Top Venues for Short Horror
This is not an exhaustive list, but it represents a diverse selection of reputable and popular venues for short horror stories. Remember to always check submission guidelines before sending your work.
Online Magazines and Journals
- Nightmare Magazine: Edited by Wendy N. Wagner, Nightmare focuses on dark fantasy and horror, often publishing stories with complex themes and strong character development. They pay professional rates.
- The Dark Magazine: Specializes in dark fantasy and horror, prioritizing quality writing and compelling narratives. They offer a professional, author-friendly experience.
- PseudoPod: A leading horror fiction podcast, PseudoPod accepts short stories for audio narration. This offers a unique opportunity to reach a different audience.
- Apex Magazine: Though not exclusively horror, Apex publishes dark science fiction and horror, often with experimental or avant-garde themes.
- The NoSleep Podcast: While primarily featuring stories from the popular Reddit community, The NoSleep Podcast does accept submissions for original horror fiction.
Print Magazines
- Cemetery Dance: A respected print magazine specializing in horror and dark suspense. Known for its quality writing and stunning artwork.
- Black Static: A British print magazine featuring dark fantasy and horror. Black Static is known for its sophisticated and literary approach to the genre.
Anthologies
- Recurring Anthologies: Keep an eye out for recurring anthologies like The Best Horror of the Year (edited by Ellen Datlow) or collections from specific publishers like Cemetery Dance. These offer high visibility and prestige.
- Themed Anthologies: Regularly check submission calls for themed anthologies. These anthologies focus on specific subgenres of horror, allowing you to target your story to a specific audience. Sites like Duotrope and Submittable are excellent resources for finding open calls for submissions.
Crafting a Successful Submission
Even a perfectly targeted story needs to be presented professionally. Pay attention to the details:
Formatting Matters
Follow the publication’s formatting guidelines meticulously. Typically, this involves using standard manuscript format: double-spaced, Times New Roman 12pt font, 1-inch margins, and a header with your last name and page number.
The Cover Letter
Your cover letter should be brief, professional, and engaging. Introduce yourself, mention the title of your story, and briefly summarize it. If you have any relevant publishing credits, mention them. Avoid overselling your story or being overly boastful.
Proofread Meticulously
Typos, grammatical errors, and formatting inconsistencies can be detrimental to your submission. Proofread your story carefully before submitting it. Consider asking a friend or fellow writer to proofread it as well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that can help guide you further:
H3 1. What are “simultaneous submissions,” and are they acceptable?
Simultaneous submissions refer to submitting the same story to multiple publications at the same time. Many publications allow this, but always check their guidelines first. If accepted elsewhere, immediately withdraw your story from all other publications to avoid ethical complications.
H3 2. How long should I wait to hear back before considering it a rejection?
This varies greatly depending on the publication. Many specify a response time in their guidelines. If not, waiting 3-6 months is generally acceptable before politely querying the editor about the status of your submission.
H3 3. What should I do if my story gets rejected?
Don’t be discouraged! Rejection is a common part of the writing process. Use it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Review your story, consider feedback (if any was provided), and resubmit it to another publication.
H3 4. Do I need an agent to submit short stories?
No, an agent is not typically required for short story submissions. Most publications accept unagented submissions.
H3 5. What are typical payment rates for short horror stories?
Payment rates vary widely, from contributor copies to professional rates (SFWA minimum rate). Research the publication’s payment structure before submitting. Exposure is valuable, but consider your worth as a writer.
H3 6. How do I protect my copyright when submitting my story?
Copyright automatically belongs to the author upon creation of the work. However, registering your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office provides additional legal protection. Ensure you understand the rights you’re granting to the publication when you submit.
H3 7. Should I include trigger warnings in my cover letter?
This depends on the publication’s guidelines and the nature of your story. If your story contains potentially triggering content (e.g., graphic violence, sexual assault), it’s generally advisable to include a trigger warning in your cover letter.
H3 8. What is “slush pile” and how do I avoid being lost in it?
The slush pile refers to the overwhelming number of unsolicited submissions a publication receives. To avoid getting lost, follow submission guidelines meticulously, write a compelling story, and present it professionally. A strong cover letter can also help.
H3 9. How important is it to have a polished and professional online presence?
While not always essential, a professional online presence (website, social media) can be beneficial. It demonstrates your commitment to your craft and makes it easier for editors to learn more about you and your work.
H3 10. What is the difference between a “query” and a “submission?”
A submission is the actual story you are sending for consideration. A query is a letter sent to an editor, often to inquire about the possibility of submitting a story or to follow up on a previous submission.
H3 11. Should I submit a previously published story?
Generally, no. Most publications require first North American serial rights, meaning they want to be the first to publish the story. However, some publications may consider reprints. Always check their guidelines.
H3 12. What resources are available to help me find submission calls?
Several online resources can help you find open calls for submissions. Duotrope, Submittable, ChillSubs, and Horror Tree are all excellent options.
The Path to Publication
Submitting your short horror stories can be a challenging but rewarding process. By understanding the market, targeting your submissions strategically, and presenting your work professionally, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to persevere, embrace rejection as a learning opportunity, and continue honing your craft. The world needs more chilling tales, and yours could be next to terrify and enthrall readers. Good luck!