Frightreads Short story Anthology

We're trying something new in 2026! We're hosting an anthology of short stories, and selecting 15 amazing FRIGHTREADS authors! These are folks who are currently vending in 2026, or have vended in the past.

Each year for the festival, we plan to release a new collection with a different theme! The stories will fall into the genre the authors are most comfortable with, so you'll get a spread of horror, science fiction, thriller, mystery, whodunnit, paranormal romance and more!

The book, once published, will be available to all of the included authors to purchase copies to have at their tables for future events, but we'll have them available at the Frightreads Merch Booth as well!
(Consider purchasing from your favorite author, first)

WHAT IS ACCEPTABLE FOR SUBMISSION?

We are looking at the following:

- Microsoft Word (.docx) format

-12pt font, Times New Roman or other similar common Serif format

-Maximum 3000 word count (close enough is acceptable if you went over)

-Refrain from gratuitous sex, rape, or other unsavory topics for a general audience

All accepted submissions will be subject to a final edit from an editor for grammar, punctuation, and writing style (repetition, redundancy, etc)

A cover will be designed for the book by a cover designer.

One printed copy will be provided to the author by mail or at Frightreads Book Fest at no additional cost. Additional copies can be ordered via a link provided to the author (not a public link, as this will be author pricing for sales at your table)

If this interests you, please fill out this form below, and have your submission in no later than May 31st, 2026

(This does not mean wait until May 30th to submit. If there is a major issue with your story, but it seems like a good fit, we need time to correct it without delaying the editor or formatter.)

For full details, and submission, please click the button below:

ANTHOLOGY SUBMISSION LINK