The guide covers prices, publication times, specific sub-genres of fantasy and science to expect, general website offerings, submission information, and advertising opportunities for 25 of the most popular Science Fiction and Fantasy Magazines.
I did not include all science fiction and fantasy magazine submissions information for every magazine choosing instead to highlight information about the style and subject matter of submissions rather than formatting and technical guidelines. Readers may also of course find the given submission guidelines useful as they give an idea as to what one may find in the magazine. I will also post this to the “Resources” page.
Abyss & Apex: This online magazine has been publishing science fiction and fantasy since 2003.
https://www.abyssapexzine.com/
Published quarterly. Free to read; accepts donations. Quarterly newsletter. On the website: Archives since 2003; Categories of offerings: editorial, fiction, flash fiction, past(archives), poetry, small press book reviews
Submission Information: https://www.abyssapexzine.com/ submissions/ For Stories: “ . . . there is very little we will not look at, although we have a severe allergy to zombies, elves, retold fairy tales, sports, westerns, werewolves, vampires, and gratuitous sex and violence. We also are not interested in severely political stories, whether slanted left or right. No politics.” and, “We will consider dark speculative fiction, but we do not publish horror. We won’t publish extremely graphic violent or sexual content or over-the-top gore either; we are turned off by gratuitous foul language. In other words, if the primary purpose of a story is to scare us or make us queasy, we won’t buy it.”
For Poetry Submissions: “. . . we do not publish horror,” and “Chopped-up prose, forced rhymes, and work with no rhythm has little chance for acceptance. Humor is fine, but the piece should still have literary merit (in both length and literary depth). Clever, cutesy poems will have to offer much more to be published.”
Also reviews small press books, “We especially like to review collections or anthologies of short fiction.”
Apex Magazine: Tagline, “Shocking. Surreal. Strange. Beautiful.”
From Apex Magazine’s About section: “We publish in two forms: an every-other-month eBook issue and a gradual release of an entire issue online over a two month period. Along with the genre short fiction, there are interviews with authors and nonfiction essays about current issues. Additionally, we produce a monthly podcast of narrated original short fiction.” The website also offers a blog, podcast, store (with a few merch items), archives (back to 2009), some blogposts for writers. Current Issue Price = $4.99; Past Issue Price = $.99; One-Year Recurring Subscription = $27.00 Free to read issues as they are made available online. Weekly Newsletter
Submission Information: https://apex-magazine.com/submissions/ Does not say explicitly what want or not. As a hint, under the flash fiction submission guidelines, “We continue to keep our focus on literary genre fiction: horror, science fiction, and fantasy.” From the site’s media kit, “We publish short stories filled with marrow and passion, works that are twisted, strange, and beautiful. Creations where secret places and dreams are put on display.” Offers advertisers space on publications and podcast: https://apex-magazine.com/advertising/
Asimov’s Science Fiction: This award-winning magazine has been publishing science fiction since 1977 and is known for its emphasis on hard science fiction and stories that explore the implications of scientific advancements.
Published Bi-monthly/6 per year. Print and online versions. One-year print version = $47.97. Digital Subscription: $40.92/yr; $3.41/mo; $6.82/issue. Website also offers author podcasts; a blog – From Earth to the Stars; Science Fiction Conventions Calendar; Archives. Story excerpts available, conclusions in paid versions of the magazine.
Submission Information: https://www.asimovs.com/contact-us/writers-guidelines “SF dominates the fiction published in the magazine, but we also publish borderline fantasy, slipstream, and surreal fiction. No sword & Sorcery, please. Neither are we interested in explicit sex or violence.”
Sells advertising space: https://www.asimovs.com/contact-us/advertising/
Beneath Ceaseless Skies: This online magazine has been publishing science fiction and fantasy since 2008 and is known for its focus on stories set in secondary worlds.
https://www.beneath-ceaseless-skies.com/
Published monthly. Website also offers archives, podcasts, company news, and art. Free to read; takes donations, Patreon, and e-book subscriptions (The 12-month subscription has 26 issues and costs $23.99).
Submission Information: “Beneath Ceaseless Skies publishes “literary adventure fantasy”: stories with a secondary-world setting and some fantasy feel, but written with a literary approach.” “We are NOT interested in urban fantasy or other types of stories set in our modern, contemporary “real world,” even if they contain fantasy elements, or in stories that move between the real world and a fantasy world.” “We are unlikely to enjoy stories featuring elements we have seen repeatedly, such as elves or barbarian swordsmen or an opening scene in a fantasy tavern, unless the story presents that element in a unique new way.” “We prefer that graphic sex and violence not escalate beyond the level of an R-rated movie. We also insist that sex and sadistic violence not be acted upon children.” “A story with a traditional fairy tale-type or fable-type narrative voice probably isn’t right for us.” “We aren’t interested in urban fantasy or other types of stories set in the “real world,” even if they contain fantasy elements. It’s just not what we prefer to read. Any story with a modern or contemporary setting, more recent than approximately 1930s Earth, isn’t right for us.” “Stories that feature famous people from Earth history or Earth legends or myth (Abraham Lincoln, King Arthur, Zeus) rarely feel fully stand-alone to us unless the story’s take on that famous person is unusual and different (Jack London living on the moon). A story featuring a traditional take on a famous personage probably isn’t right for us.” “We aren’t interested in science fiction;” “In addition to classic settings of pre-tech fantasy, we also enjoy stories set in other types of secondary world that likewise don’t have modern technology, including steampunk, Weird West, etc. Feel free to send us anything that you think might fit.” “We don’t mind humorous stories, but we have a very dry sense of humor. We love wry satire, but we rarely enjoy slapstick or puns. We haven’t published much humor, but if you have a dry satire that hits us just right….”
Do not publish poetry. Buy some/few artworks per year.
Clarkesworld Magazine is an online science fiction and fantasy publication known for its high-quality, award-winning stories and distinctive voice in the genre. It is one of the leading magazines in the field and has been publishing regularly since 2006.
https://clarkesworldmagazine.com/
From the About section: “Each issue contains interviews, thought-provoking articles, and between six and eight works of original fiction. Our fiction is also available in ebook editions/subscriptions, audio podcasts, print issues, and in our annual print/ebook anthologies.”
Subscriptions:
Amazon Kindle (ending 9/23) $2.99/mo/issue.
Barnes and Nobles Nook $35.88/year, $2.99/mo/issue, $3.49/current issue
Print: US = $10/month; Canada, Europe, Australia = $15/month
Print and Digital Clarkesworld (US Only) = $12.99/month
Print and Digital Clarkesworld (Canada & Europe) = $16.99/month
Free to read, older issues may have less articles; published monthly.
Submission Information: https://clarkesworldmagazine.com/ submissions/
Below are some items to consider, for a more complete list of things go to the link above:
Fiction guidelines: “Science fiction and fantasy. No horror, but dark SF/F is permitted.”
“Though no particular setting, theme, or plot is anathema to us, the following are likely hard sells:
zombies or zombie-wannabes (seriously, I’m not kidding)
sexy vampires, wanton werewolves, wicked witches, or demonic children
stories about rapists, murderers, child abusers, or cannibals
stories where the climax is dependent on the spilling of intestines
stories in which a milquetoast civilian government is depicted as the sole obstacle to either catching some depraved criminal or to an uncomplicated military victory
stories where the Republicans, or Democrats, or Libertarians, or . . . (insert any political party or religion here) take over the world and either save or ruin it
stories in which the words “thou” or “thine” appear
talking cats or swords
stories where FTL travel or time travel is as easy as is it on television shows or movies
stories about young kids playing in some field and discovering ANYTHING. (a body, an alien craft, Excalibur, ANYTHING).
stories about the stuff we all read in Scientific American three months ago
stories about your RPG character’s adventures
“funny” stories that depend on, or even include, puns
stories where the protagonist is either widely despised or widely admired simply because he or she is just so smart and/or strange
stories originally intended for someone’s upcoming theme anthology or issue (everyone is sending those out, wait a while)
your trunk stories
stories that try to include all of the above”
Some Non-fiction guidelines:
“. . . specifically not interested in receiving queries for. These are:
Reviews: there are plenty of places that publish such material, we don’t;
Literary Criticism: again no (especially if it is really just a review);
Interviews: we do publish interviews, but they are handled separately from the non-fiction articles and are generally commissioned. Please do not pitch interviews to us.
Reprints: every article we publish must be original to Clarkesworld. There is no point in sending us material that has already been published elsewhere, especially if it is elsewhere online.
We are not considering articles written, co-written, or assisted by AI at this time.”
Art submissions – a few things to look for:
“Color artwork is preferred”; “We prefer digital or traditional 2D paintings and illustrations”; “Landscape artwork is preferred but not required”; “We will not consider artwork that has been previously used for magazine or book covers.”
For complete list of guidelines check out submission link above.
Mailing list sign up: https://clarkesworldmagazine.com/ mailing-list/
“Advertising opportunities are open to the following genre-related organizations and businesses: Publishers (books, magazines, comics, ebooks, etc.); Conventions; TV and Movies; User Groups, Communities, Forums; Genre-related toys, replicas, and other products.”
https://www.clarkesworldmagazine.com/advertising/
Cosmic Roots and Eldritch Shores: This online magazine has been publishing science fiction and fantasy since 2016.
https://cosmicrootsandeldritchshores .com/
Free to read. Does not seem to be much of a regular publishing schedule.
Subscriptions price per year: $2 for students; $6 half price rate; $12 regular rate; $25 supporting subscriber rate. As rate goes up, so do some added perks – 10% off any books or audiobooks the magazine produces.
Website also offers science news and info; small art gallery of works found in the magazine; a small forums section. Fiction section broken into six subsections (under the “Main Terminal” menu option): Science Fiction; Fantasy; Myths, Legends, and Fairy Tales; Eldritch; Stories for young people from 4 to 400; The Story Telling Room.
Submission Information: https://cosmicrootsandeldritchshores .com/submissions/
“shorter pieces will be favored”
““Hard Sells” – vampires, werewolves, zombies, monsters in general, super-heroes, Lovecraftian stories, anthro, robots with feelings, gritty and despairing post-apocalyptic worlds.”
Do not accept: “horror, hate, blood & guts, explicit language, excessive violence, angst-ridden romance, fan fiction (check for their guidelines), sex, axe-grinding, or stories that leave readers feeling they’ve had the energy and joy sucked out of them. We don’t accept stories involving animal abuse, hunting, or eating of animals. Also, seems we have to say it, we don’t take work that makes fun of grief, suffering, and death, whether of real, imaginary, or religious/historical characters.”
Accepts fact-based articles, reviews, etc.
Artwork submissions – guidelines are similar as for fiction.
Daily Science Fiction
https://dailysciencefiction.com
Free daily stories in your email; free daily stories and archives on site as well as recent stories and news about the magazine. Under the “Fantasy” heading subcategories include: Fairy Tales; Parapsychology; High Fantasy; Medieval; Magic & Wizardry; Monsters; Other Worlds; Religious; Modern Fantasy; Fantasy. Also has a “Hither & Yon” section with a number of interesting subcategories.
Submission Information: https://dailysciencefiction.com/submit/story/guidelines
“ALERT: Please don’t submit stories longer than 1,500 words. Daily Science Fiction (DSF) is a market accepting speculative fiction stories from 100 to 1,500 words in length. By this we mean science fiction, fantasy, slipstream, etc. We will consider flash series–three or more flash tales built around a common theme.”
“We do not accept reprints. Unfortunately, if you have placed a story on your website, where it is open and available to the multiple billion people who have access to the internet, that constitutes publication. We’re sorry. No, we don’t accept self-published works.”
Under their “Not So Helpful Hints” some items:
“We need short short fiction, especially flash fiction. Among our featured stories, a shorter tale will get an extra nudge on the scale when weighed against a longer one”
“We may purchase dark fantasy, but try not to publish pure horror. We don’t mind feeling the flush of arousal, but will not publish erotica. Guns a-blazing might make our day, but we don’t suspect most military SF will win us over. Humor? We take it, It often works especially for short short fiction, but do keep in mind that one alien’s funny bone is located near another species’ sac of indifference. We’re likely not your best market for longer funny tales.”
“We don’t accept multiple or simultaneous submissions”
Sells advertising space: https://dailysciencefiction.com/ advertise
Diabolical Plots is a monthly science fiction and fantasy magazine that features short stories.
https://www.diabolicalplots.com/
The stories are available for free on their website. Takes donations thru PayPal and Patreon. Offers anthologies. Monthly newsletter “to get updates on our publishing projects and read the original fiction before it’s on the public site.”
Submission Information: https://www.diabolicalplots.com/ guidelines/
“Genres: science fiction, fantasy, horror (everything must have a speculative element, even horror).”
3500 words or less
=”Things that we tend to really like:
Weird fiction
Sense of wonder
Strong character and plot arcs
Strong worldbuilding, hinting at more to see around the edges of the story
Philosophical food-for-thought
Straightforward, easily readable style
Religion, where the story does not try to convert the reader, nor does the story demonize religion
Platonic friendship between men and women”
“AN INCOMPLETE LIST OF WHAT ARE WE NOT LOOKING FOR
No erotica or derivative works (aka fan-fiction)—there’s nothing wrong with either, but we’re not the market for them
No needless or graphic abuse or torture, especially against children.
Nothing that promotes or normalizes bigotry or targeted violence against marginalized people or communities
Serial killer stories aren’t strictly forbidden, but we are very tired of them and they tend to be very easy to put down
Stories where a person tries to murder their spouse because of minor annoyances. We don’t know why this particular trope seems to be so common, but it has gotten very old and we don’t really want to read any more of these”
Dreamforge Magazine is a science fiction and fantasy publication that features short stories, poems, and art from a variety of authors and artists. The magazine is published both in print and online.
https://dreamforgemagazine.com/
“. . . we welcome readers with a passion for positive fantasy and science fiction. Here you will find stories where characters endure, overcome, and embrace that spirit of wonder and discovery through which sentient beings invest the universe with meaning and purpose.”
“Our outlook is sanguine, faithful to those dreamers and makers who came before us to brave ages far darker than our own, supportive of present idealists who remain indomitable in the face our time’s apocalyptic fears, and hopeful that the principles of compassion, justice, and truth shall endure until the end of time.”
Monthly Newsletter signup. Art gallery of works used in past in past issues.
Stories appear to be free, some stories/articles in past issues may require a subscription or are for registered viewers. DreamForge Anvil annual subscription – $17.99 “While new stories at DreamForge Anvil are free online, your subscription entitles you to eBook downloads of all current & past issues, as well as access to all content in our Reader’s Portal. You can even opt-in to Space & Time Magazine.” Patreon $1.25/month lowest. Donations taken as well. Print versions on Amazon; anthologies available.
Submission Information: https://dreamforgemagazine.com/call-for-submissions/
“We’re open to all genres of science fiction and fantasy, as long as they are not focused on horror and/or dark outcomes. Positive stories demonstrating the triumph of the human spirit and the power of hope and humane values in overcoming the most daunting challenges.”
“We are interested in all SF and Fantasy genres, but horror is unlikely to find a home here.”
“No to Pollyannish and Utopian simplicity.
Yes to communities and teams working together to overcome dire challenges.
Yes to marginalized and under-represented characters as protagonists.
Yes to science and magic that solve problems, alleviate suffering, and boldly explore new possibilities.
No to corrupt, dystopian governments or evil corporations.
Tone down the violence, profanity, and sex. It’s only useful if the story demands it.”
Fantasy Magazine: “digital magazine focusing exclusively on the fantasy genre.” “all types of fantasy—dark fantasy, contemporary urban tales, surrealism, magical realism, science fantasy, high fantasy, folktales…and anything and everything in between”
https://www.fantasy-magazine.com/
Fiction archive 2005-2016.
“includes fiction podcasts, poetry, feature interviews, and Q&As with our authors”; “each month includes two original short stories and two pieces of flash fiction, along with a feature interview and an assortment of poetry. Each issue’s contents are serialized on our website throughout the month.”
“can read Fantasy for free online, or you can read and subscribe to our ebook editions” Billing: $11.94 (6 months), $23.88 (12 months), $47.76 (24 months), or $500 (Lifetime)
Formats: ePub, Mobi (Kindle-compatible), PDF
Delivery: Mobi version can be auto-sent directly to your Kindle/Kindle app every month.
Subcribe via weightless books: Billing: $11.94 (6 months) or $23.88 (12 months)
Formats: ePub, Mobi (Kindle-compatible), PDF
Delivery: Mobi version can be auto-sent directly to your Kindle/Kindle app every month. Also Individual issues available in ebook format; Patreon
Offerings via website: back issues, fiction and poetry, nonfiction of editorials, essays, interviews, spotlights; podcasts; three trade paperbacks available for purchase.
Offers advertising space: https://www.fantasy-magazine.com/about-fantasy/advertising/
Sister publications are Lightspeed magazine https://www.lightspeedmagazine.com/
and Nightmare magazine: https://www.nightmare-magazine.com/
Submission Information: https://adamant.moksha.io/publication/fantasy/guidelines
For fiction/short stories: “Fantasy is seeking original fantasy and dark fantasy stories. All types of fantasy and dark fantasy are welcome. No subject should be considered off-limits, and we encourage writers to take chances with their fiction and push the envelope. If you’re not sure whether your story is fantasy (vs. horror or science fiction) go ahead and submit and let the editors decide.”
Poetry: same as above. Plus: “We prefer shorter form poems with literary sensibilities which are evocative, emotionally resonant, and/or visually vibrant—in other words, poems which are viscerally impactful, and/or meaningful in some way. At the same time, we will not limit submissions to these parameters.” Nonfiction: “Essays in Fantasy are primarily by invite only, and all feature interviews are assigned in-house. If you wish to pitch an essay idea, email ed*****@fa**************.com with the subject line Essay Pitch. Essay pitches should be no more than a few lines, and should connect in some way to the theme of Fantasy, even if tenuously. Thought pieces which bring an interesting or unique perspective will be considered.”
Also:
“We welcome the submission of translations of work from other languages. Fiction, poetry, and nonfiction that has never before been published in the English language would be considered “original.””
Sexual themes and stories with strong sexual content are acceptable, but Fantasy is not a market for erotica. If in doubt, feel free to submit your story and let our editors decide.
Fantasy is not a market for media-based fiction (e.g., stories set in the A Game of Thrones or Buffy the Vampire Slayer universes, etc.), or any kind of fan fiction. (Note: We don’t have a problem with people reading or writing fan fiction or media-based fiction, we’re just not legally allowed to consider publishing it.)
If you’re not sure if your story is suitable, don’t query; please just submit it and let our editors decide.”
Fantasy Scroll Magazine: This online magazine published science fiction and fantasy 2014 – 2016.
https://iulianionescu.com/fantasy-scroll-magazine/
Readers can download the issues for free. An anthology is available on Amazon: Dragons, Droids, and Doom Year One
GigaNotoSaurus
“GigaNotoSaurus (the webzine, edited by LaShawn Wanak) publishes one longish fantasy or science fiction story monthly. Longish meaning longer than a short story, and shorter than a novel.”
Free to read, accepts donations via Paypal
Submission Information: https://giganotosaurus.org/ submission-guidelines/
“Please do not submit stories under 5000 words or over 25000 words. They will be automatically rejected.”
“We could wax eloquent describing the kinds of stories we like, but it wouldn’t be useful; there are dozens of things we don’t know we like until we try them.? Send us that story you really believe in–the one, maybe, that quickly ran out of places to submit it to because it’s so long. Don’t query to gauge our interest in a particular subgenre. Just submit the story.”
“We actively seek to include stories told from and by a diverse range of cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and genders. We are particularly interested in #ownvoices stories.”
Interzone: This UK-based magazine has been publishing science fiction and fantasy since 1982 and is known for its high-quality writing and attention to detail.
Interzone was published by TTA, their website is http://ttapress.com and is not secure, therefore I did not review this site.
A series of 13 books (past works/issues) can be bought for Kindle on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08NF5HNG8
The shop for TTA Press is secure at https://shop.ttapress.com/
Interzone is now published by MYY Press
The new sites are https://interzone.press/ and https://interzone.digital/ both are secure.
6-issue print subscription to Interzone fiction and nonfiction magazine delivered to home for 61 Euros = included taxes and free delivery world wide. Also: In addition to receiving print issues bimonthly, Interzone subscribers get access to exclusive stories on IZ Digital. After subscribing you will receive a password by email, along with an invitation to the private IZ Digital Discord server. Some of the offerings on the digital site are free, some require a membership = Three Euro/month.
Submission Information:
Interzone digital: https://interzone.digital/submissions/
“. . . original, unpublished fiction up to a maximum of 5000 words.”
“If your story has been rejected for the print edition of Interzone, don’t submit to IZ Digital – we will already have considered that option.”
Interzone Print Edition: https://interzone.press/submissions/
“If your story has been rejected for IZ Digital, don’t submit to Interzone“
“First of all, —Interzone is always open to unsolicited submissions of fantastika of between 2,000 and 17,500 words from everyone, whoever or wherever you are.”
“If you are not sure about what is included under the umbrella of fantastika, check out the excellent entry on The Encyclopedia of Science Fiction.”
“. . . strongly recommended that you read Interzone before submitting. Being familiar with what Interzone has published will improve your chances of acceptance. If you are unable to buy Interzone, but would like to review the stories Interzone has published, please email editors [at] interzone [dot] press and I will point you in the right direction.”
“. . . looking for original, unpublished stories. Please do not query about reprints.”
Kaleidotrope. From the Patreon page: Fred Coppersmith, the editor and publisher of Kaleidotrope. “It’s a weird mix of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and humor that allows for new and interesting voices to emerge, and my goal is always to share with readers strange visions of distant shores”
In addition to short fiction, Kaleidotrope also features poetry, book reviews, and interviews with authors and artists. First issue in 2006 was print, print thru 2011. Archives of digital offerings from 2012 forward. Weekly newsletter signup available, sign up site may not be secure. Digital issues are free – published quarterly.
Submission Information: https://kaleidotrope.net/guidelines/
“Kaleidotrope publishes predominantly speculative fiction and poetry—science fiction, fantasy, and horror, but also compelling work that blurs the lines between these and falls outside of neat genre categories. Man does not live on space ships, elves, and ghostly ax murderers alone, after all. We’d suggest looking through the archives to familiarize yourself with the zine, and/or checking out other work by our past contributors, to get a sense of what we’re looking for and what we like.
We are also interested in publishing diverse writers. Kaleidotrope welcome writers of color and other groups, as well as work that represents the diversity of characters we want to see more of.”
“Fiction
We have no minimum or maximum word count but strongly prefer stories over 250 words and under 10,000.
Poetry
We consider all forms. However, individual haiku, or other very short poems, may be a tougher sell.
Artwork
We are looking for primarily full-color illustrations to serve as cover art. We currently do not commission new cover artwork or pieces to appear with individual stories and poems. The best way to submit artwork is to email a link to your online portfolio or gallery, though you may also send individual pieces for consideration.
Reprints
Kaleidotrope does not consider fiction or poetry reprints. This includes work that has appeared on your personal website or in public online forums. We do, however, consider artwork that has appeared in online galleries or elsewhere, provided you own the copyright to the piece and any characters depicted therein. (Sorry, no fan-art.)”
Lightspeed Magazine: “Lightspeed is a digital science fiction and fantasy magazine. In its pages, you will find science fiction: from near-future, sociological soft SF, to far-future, star-spanning hard SF—and fantasy: from epic fantasy, sword-and-sorcery, and contemporary urban tales, to magical realism, science-fantasy, and folktales.”
https://www.lightspeedmagazine.com
Website offers: Fiction, Nonfiction : editorials, book reviews, interviews, author spotlights, articles, media reviews, cover galleries, back issues, podcasts. “A 12 month subscription to Lightspeed includes more than 100 stories (around 700,000 words of fiction). In each issue, you will find eight pieces of short fiction (a mix of short stories and novelettes)”
“You can read Lightspeed for free online, or you can read and subscribe to our ebook editions. Our ebook issues publish on the first of every month and are available for sale via our ebookstore (in Mobi, ePub, and PDF format) and are also available in other formats such as Kindle and Nook. You can also subscribe to our ebook edition in a variety of formats; visit our Subscribe page for more details. Subscribing to Lightspeed saves you $1 off the cover price of each issue (savings of 25% on each issue)”
Ebook 6-month subscription $17.94; 12-month = $35.88; 24 month = $71.76; Lifetime = $500; kindle $2/mo; offers ebook bundles of past years; some special issues in paperback; also Patreon.
Submission Information: https://adamant.moksha.io/ publication/lightspeed and: https://adamant.moksha.io/ publication/lightspeed/guidelines
“Lightspeed is seeking original science fiction and fantasy stories. All types of science fiction and fantasy are welcome. No subject should be considered off-limits, and we encourage writers to take chances with their fiction and push the envelope. We do not accept simultaneous submissions or multiple submissions. You may submit one story at any given time; you must wait until seven days after our reply to submit another story.”
“We welcome the submission of translations of stories from other languages. Stories that have never before been published in the English language would be considered “original.”
“Sexual themes and stories with strong sexual content are acceptable, but Lightspeed is not a market for erotica. If in doubt, feel free to send your story in and let our editors decide.”
“Lightspeed is not a market for media-based fiction (i.e., stories set in the Star Wars or Star Trek universes, etc.), or any kind of fan fiction. (Note: We don’t have a problem with people reading or writing fan fiction or media-based fiction, we’re just not legally allowed to consider publishing it.)”
“Lightspeed is not a market for poetry (though our sister-magazines Fantasy and Nightmare both publish poetry).”
“If you’re not sure if your story is suitable, don’t query; please just go ahead and submit it and let our editors decide.”
“Review Copies: If you would like information about how to submit books for review, you may send review copies to editor John Joseph Adams at the mailing address your publicity department likely already has on file (either for Lightspeed, Nightmare, or The Geek’s Guide to the Galaxy); email re*********@li****************.com for more information.”
“Art: If you wish to have your art considered for Lightspeed Magazine (either science fiction or fantasy), please send an inquiry, along with a link to an online gallery (if possible), to ar*@li****************.com. Please note that we only use 12 covers per year. We are presently commissioning original art for all of our covers. If you submit your gallery, we will review it and get in touch if we want to commission something. However, we do have a core team of artists we work with already and assign most of our covers among them.”
“Reprints: All of our reprints are currently solicited. We are not open to submissions or queries in this area.”
“Nonfiction: All of our nonfiction is currently assigned in-house. We are not open to submissions or queries in this area.”
Offers advertising space on the site: https://www.lightspeedmagazine.com/about/advertising/
Nightmare Magazine: “Nightmare is a horror and dark fantasy magazine. In Nightmare’s pages, you will find all kinds of horror fiction, from zombie stories and haunted house tales to visceral psychological horror. We believe that horror is for everyone, and we aim to publish the widest possible variety of the most delicious, spine-tingling tales.”
https://www.nightmare-magazine.com
“Edited by writer and editor Wendy N. Wagner, every month Nightmare brings you all-original content, with a mix of short stories, flash fiction, and poetry, and featuring a variety of authors—from the bestsellers and award-winners you already know to the best new voices you haven’t heard of yet. When you read Nightmare, it is our hope that you’ll see where horror comes from, where it is now, and where it’s going.”
“Nightmare also includes fiction podcasts, nonfiction articles, book and media reviews, feature interviews, and Q&As with our authors that go behind-the-scenes of their stories. Our current publication schedule each month includes two pieces of original short fiction and two shorter works (including poetry, flash fiction, and creative nonfiction), along with a feature interview or review and our monthly column about horror, “The H Word.” Each issue’s contents are serialized on our website throughout the month, with new features publishing on the first four Wednesdays of every month.”
Back issues to 10/2012; fiction & poetry, nonfiction – editorials, creative nonfiction, author spotlights, reviews, cover gallery, artist showcase, featured interviews, podcasts.
“You can read Nightmare for free online, or you can read and subscribe to our ebook editions. Our ebook issues publish on the first of every month and are available for sale via our ebookstore (in Mobi, ePub, and PDF format) and are also available in other formats such as Kindle and Nook. You can also subscribe to our ebook edition in a variety of formats; visit our Subscribe page for more details.”
6 mo ebook = $11.94; 12 mo ebook = $23.88; 24 mo ebook $47.76; lifetime sub = $500. Bundles of a year’s worth of issues, years 1 – 5, bundles for each year, $24.99; paperbacks = 3 special issues; kindle $1.99/mo; Patreon.
Submission Information: https://adamant.moksha.io/publication/nightmare/ – includes short stories, flash fiction, and poetry; https://adamant.moksha.io/publication/nightmare/guidelines
“Nightmare is a horror & dark fantasy magazine edited by Wendy N. Wagner. We feature works spanning the broad spectrum of dark fiction, with an emphasis on fascinating characters and delicious prose. Our motto? Horror is for everyone!”
Under Short Fiction: “Nightmare is seeking original horror and dark fantasy stories. All types of horror and dark fantasy are welcome. No subject should be considered off-limits, and we encourage writers to take chances with their fiction and push the envelope. We are not currently seeking reprints.”
Under The Horror Lab: ““The Horror Lab” is where Nightmare puts a spotlight on experimental horror. It’s a place to explore the boundaries of form, trope, and genre—a playground for writers and readers alike. We’re looking for poetry (all styles and forms, but due to the limitations of ebooks generally and Kindle Periodicals specifically our typographical options are limited to LEFT ALIGNED ONLY, WITH NO USE OF TABS), flash fiction, and creative non-fiction. (And yes, dark fantasy is fine!)”
Under Nonfiction: “All nonfiction outside of “The Horror Lab” submissions are by invitation only, and all feature interviews are assigned in-house. If you wish to pitch an idea for an “H Word” essay, email su*********@ni****************.com with the subject line “H Word Essay Pitch.” Essay pitches should be no more than a few lines, and should connect in some way to the theme of horror. Thought pieces which bring an interesting or unique perspective will be considered.”
Also: “Sexual themes and stories with strong sexual content are acceptable, but Nightmare is not a market for erotica. If in doubt, feel free to submit your story and let our editors decide.”
“Nightmare is not a market for media-based fiction (e.g., stories set in the A Game of Thrones or Buffy the Vampire Slayer universes, etc.), or any kind of fan fiction. (Note: We love fan fiction or media-based fiction as much as you do, but we’re not legally allowed to consider publishing it.)”
“If you’re not sure if your story is suitable, don’t query; please just submit it and let our editors decide!”
This magazine offers/sells advertising space: https://www.nightmare-magazine.com/about/advertising/
Realms of Fantasy: This magazine was published from 1994 to 2011 and was a popular source for science fiction and fantasy fans, featuring a mix of short stories, articles, and reviews. 13 viewable files 1994-2001 in pdf format can be found at: https://archive.org/details/RealmsOfFantasy199510/Realms%20of%20Fantasy%201994%2010/page/n39/mode/2up
Shimmer:
“Speculative fiction for a miscreant world. We publish contemporary fantasy short stories, with a few ventures into science fiction or horror.”
“We look for unusual and beautifully-written speculative fiction stories with full plots and strong characters. We’re most drawn to contemporary fantasy, and seek out stories with a strong emotional core. We like unusual stories with a fluid and distinctive voice, with specific and original images.”
“We’re less likely to be interested in sword and sorcery, hard SF, space opera, paranormal romance, slasher horror, and other familiar genre types, but we’ll read anything.”
Published work from 2014-2018 – back issues, yearly collections, available in paperback or ebook. Some of the last issue is available on the website for free; to purchase all of the final issue = $4.99
Prices on yearly printed collections vary; Kindle a bit as well
2014: pb 172 pages = 14.99; k = 7.99
2015: pb 320 pages =14.99; k =7.99
2016: pb 312 pages = 14.99; k = 7.99
2017: 5.72 for both, pb 328 pages
2018: pb 374 pages = 7.46, k = 7.89
Blog – last post 8/6/2020
Silver Blade Magazine
Now/becoming a biannual magazine – January and July. Silver Blade is published both in print and online. In addition to fiction and poetry the site also features articles and interviews. Only two back issues are available: Issue 8, Fall 2010; Issue 21, Winter 2014 – under “Portable Issues”. The current issue is the first page of the website.
Free to read, accepts donations. “Silver Blade Magazine is an all-volunteer publication of Silver Pen, which is a IRS 501(c)3 recognized charity.”
Submission Information: https://www.silverblade.net/submissions-2/
“The following are “hard sells” here:
Stories possessing several of the cliché elements listed here.
Fan Fiction or erotica
Anthropomorphism (talking cats, foxes, toasters or whatever)
Sloppy work–significant typographical, spelling, or grammatical errors (please proofread before you submit)
Publicly available items (seriously, why would we pay to publish something being given away on a blog, forum, social media, etc?)”
Flash: 250 to 1,000 words Submit Now; Short Stories: 1,000 to 7,500 words Submit Now; Novellas: 7,500 to 20,000 words Submit Now
“Writers of cutting edge Science Fiction, Slipstream, Classic and Modern Fantasy are invited to submit their works here. Romance might be accepted, provided it has a strong fantasy element to it. Wow us. We are looking for stories beyond great, we want amazing stories. We want fantastic creatures and impossible worlds. We want characters and stories readers will remember long afterward. Submit only one (1) story per file, and upload only one file at a time.”
“We publish literary poetry with speculative elements. We prefer free verse poetry between 10-100 lines with a keen eye on line breaks, prose poems (Robert Bly school) or flash poetry under 500 words, but all of which should strive for impeccable rhythm. However, we will consider a limited amount of traditional form poetry (like sestinas, Pantoums, villanelles, sonnets, including all subverted variations), experimental poetry, found poetry (with proper citations and any accompanying word-art) and a constellation of themed Haiku (or titled linked Haiku) consisting of three or more pieces, as well as bilingual submissions (including, but not limited to speculative poetry in translation*).”
“Before submitting, it is highly recommended you read several recent issues and comments on our editorial focus (see the 2018 article “Hearing the Literary Voice in Speculative Poetry,” 2014 interview in Poetry Pacific, 2011 interview in Six Questions For… ).”
“* We always seek previously unpublished English translations of literary quality poems with speculative elements that have been previously published in any language except English. We prefer original works from poets other than the translator (but in some cases we will consider poems written and translated by a single author).”
Strange Horizons: “Strange Horizons is a weekly magazine of and about speculative fiction. We publish fiction, poetry, reviews, essays, interviews, and art.”
http://strangehorizons.com – as the site uses http instead of https it came up as not secure and so I did not review the site.
The Dark: “Each month The Dark brings you the best in dark fantasy and horror . . . “
https://www.thedarkmagazine.com
Published monthly; free to read. Podcasts – which also can be read; art gallery of past covers
Subscriptions to ebooks – Kindle 1.99;apple 2.99; Barnes & Noble 2.99; Kobo 2.99; weightless books 2.99.
Back issues can also be read for free or bought.
Financial support thru subscriptions; Patreon; direct donation thru Paypal; ebooks.
Submission Information: https://www.thedarkmagazine.com/submission-guidelines/
Horror & Dark Fantasy. “Don’t be afraid to experiment or to deviate from the ordinary; be different—try us with fiction that may fall out of “regular” categories. However, it is also important to understand that despite the name, The Dark is not a market for graphic, violent horror.”
Does not accept art submissions at this time
The Dark also sells advertising space: https://www.thedarkmagazine.com/advertise/
The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction
https://www.sfsite.com/fsf/ – older site, only goes up to Nov/December 2020.
New site: http://www.fandfs.com/ – is not secure as uses http instead of https therefore did not review the new site.
Facebook page has current posts – https://www.facebook.com/ fantasyandsf/
From Facebook page “The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction (http://www.fandsf.com) founded in 1949, is an award-winning SF magazine published bimonthly, bringing readers the very best in cutting edge fantasy and science fiction.”
Tor.com: “Tor.com is an online magazine and community site that covers science fiction, fantasy, and all the many related subjects that interest us as readers.”
“We regularly publish new original short fiction from voices both new and legendary (and on very special occasions, both at once), as well as daily commentary on science fiction, fantasy, and related subjects from a wide range of writers from all corners of the field. Our aim is to explore, encourage, and enable interesting and rewarding conversations with and between readers.”
“Tor.com debuted online on July 20, 2008.”
Fiction – original, comics, poetry, reprints, excerpts; series; offers ebooks and print; newsletter published weekly
Free to read stories, poetry, blog posts, etc. The website is very much a blog with various articles and reviews and industry news.
Submission Information:
For non-fiction = https://www.tor.com/submissions-guidelines/
For fiction: https://www.tor.com/fiction-submissions-guidelines/
“As of January 7, Tor.com is closed to unsolicited short fiction submissions on an indefinite basis. Please check here for more information.”
Tordotcom Publishing Novella Submissions
“Tordotcom Publishing submissions are currently closed.”
“In addition to reviewing the guidelines, we also encourage you to take a look at our existing list to get a sense of the work our current authors are producing and Tordotcom Publishing’s vision and tastes. Good luck—we look forward to reading your work.”
“WHAT WE’RE NOT LOOKING FOR:
Tordotcom does not accept works that have been previously published elsewhere, in any venue. This includes all forms of digital self-publishing.We do not accept works that are not identifiable as fantasy or science fiction, or do not fit the genre we are currently soliciting. This includes, but is not limited to, non-science-fictional thrillers, and all kinds of non-fiction and memoirs.
We are not currently interested in tie-in fiction. This includes fiction that exists within worlds established in previously published novels, or that relies upon a knowledge of previously published novels.”
Tor.com sells advertising space. https://www.tor.com/advertise/
Weird Tales: “Prophetic tales of dark fantasy, cosmic horror, supernatural revenge, and the sorcery of terror. · Since 1923.” Not consistently since then.
Print magazine that gets sent to your address. Latest issue $14.00 + S & H
The store had the 4 most current issues: 366 – 363 ; prices 14.00, 12.99, 12.99, sale of 10.90.
Under the Fiction section had three free stories.
Blog – articles about company news, artist, authors. Latest entry 11/6/21.
Submission Information: https://www.weirdtales.com/submissions – Currently not taking any; no other info given.
Uncanny Magazine: “….Uncanny Magazine is an online Science Fiction and Fantasy magazine featuring passionate SF/F fiction and poetry, gorgeous prose, provocative nonfiction, and a deep investment in the diverse SF/F culture. Each issue contains intricate, experimental stories and poems with verve and imagination that elicit strong emotions and challenge beliefs, from writers of every conceivable background. Uncanny believes there’s still plenty of room in the genre for tales that make you feel.”
https://www.uncannymagazine.com
Offers fiction; nonfiction – essays, interviews; poetry; podcast; back issues free to read.
Free newsletter sent once or twice a month; blog.
“Uncanny issues are published as eBooks (mobi, pdf, epub) bimonthly on the first Tuesday of each month through all of the major online eBook stores. Every issue contains 5-6 new short stories, 1 reprinted story, 4 poems, 4 nonfiction essays, and 2 interviews, at minimum.”
“Subscribers and those purchasing single issues get each issue in its entirety up front.“
“You can subscribe to Uncanny Magazine through Weightless Books. You can also subscribe through Amazon in order to get Uncanny Magazine sent directly to your Kindle.”
“Those reading online for free will be able to read the first half of the issue online when the eBook is released, but will have to wait a month for the second half to appear on the first Tuesday of the next month at https://www.uncannymagazine.com/.”
“We also produce a monthly podcast featuring a story, a poem, and an interview that is likewise released on the first Tuesday of each month.”
“You can subscribe to Uncanny Magazine through Weightless Books! For only $23.88 per year, you will receive all of the content on the day of the release rather than waiting a month for the second half of the issue. Weightless Books offers subscriptions in PDF, EPUB, and MOBI formats. Weightless Books even has a way to directly email your eBooks to your reading device!”
“You can also support Uncanny Magazine on Patreon“
Submission Information: https://www.uncannymagazine.com/ submissions/
“We want intricate, experimental stories and poems with gorgeous prose, verve, and imagination that elicit strong emotions and challenge beliefs.”
“Fiction Guidelines
Uncanny is looking for original, unpublished speculative fiction stories between 750-10,000 words
Poetry Guidelines
Uncanny is looking for original, unpublished speculative poetry of any length.
Novella Guidelines
Uncanny is looking for original, unpublished speculative fiction novellas between 17,500 to 40,000 words.”
Also accepts nonfiction and artwork submissions.
The magazine also sells advertising space: https://www.uncannymagazine.com/advertising/
