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Open & Past Calls

SUBMISSION CALLS

October Issue 2026

Closed

Novels & Nightmares is looking for your darkest work for the October Issue!

Each issue gathers fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and art from the darker corners of the small press, printed in a hand-sized edition.

Word Count3500
GenresHorror, grimdark/dark fantasy, thriller, suspense
File Types.doc, .docx, or PDF
Deadline9/30/2026

Submission Guidelines

  • •Short fiction and creative nonfiction up to 3,500 words; poetry up to two pages.
  • •Original works only. AI-generated content is not allowed.
  • •Send .doc, .docx, or PDF, neatly formatted for easy review.
  • •Up to five pieces per reading period, each in its own document.

Reprint Policy

Work already published in print or eBook isn't accepted. Audio-only is welcome.

Payment

We can't pay in cash yet. Every contributor receives a copy of the issue they appear in.

Note on Submission Caps

We accept a limited number of submissions each month. If this call is closed, check back next month.

This call is closed.

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SUBMISSIONS CLOSED

We aren't taking submissions right now. Check back when the next issue opens.

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