Dark Fantasy and Psychological Thriller -- A SmokeLong Themed Call for Submissions

Beginning May 11th, SmokeLong will be searching for prose that is troubling, that explores our darkest fears. We're not quite sure we're ready for this to be honest, but that's part of the appeal. We are looking for literary prose. We do not want to weather gratuitous violence or cruelty, but we do--or at least we think we do--want to feel fright, unease, a racing heart. If you are a writer of stories that do this, this call is for you. Think Shirley Jackson.

Our usual guidelines apply. 

-- Submissions must be 1000 words or fewer, excluding the title. 

-- You must be 18 years of age or older.

-- Submissions should be in English or in any other language accompanied by an English translation, but we do consider French and German narratives through their respective forms. Please indicate that your submission is for the Dark Fantasy and Psychological thriller submissions call. 

-- Your submission should be double spaced, 12pt Times New Roman, and dark. Please no light fonts. 

-- You must remove ALL identifying information from your story document. Your name should appear ONLY in the cover letter. Our submissions editors read anonymously. They have no access to cover letters or messages.

-- Simultaneous submissions considered, but please keep in mind that we tend to respond quickly. 

-- Multiple submissions are considered through our Multiple Submissions form for a small fee. Simply indicate that your submissions are for the Dark Fantasy and Psychological Thriller Call.

-- If you need to make changes to your submissions, you'll need to withdraw it and resubmit it. We cannot consider edits submitted through the messages on Submittable. 

-- Deadline: August 15, 2025 

Payment: 

This special call for submissions pays $300 for each accepted story.