Publishing with Vanitas Press

Currently in development, the Vanitas Press imprint will be deliberately modest in scale, publishing a small number of carefully selected titles each year. We will be opening for submissions during 2027: full submission information will follow in due course.

When we open, we will welcome submissions from writers at any career stage, whether experienced authors, those without representation or those earlier in their writing life, provided the work has a genuine gothic sensibility. If you are preparing a manuscript and are looking for a publisher who truly understands the gothic, we may be a good fit.

Five Tips To Build Your Writing Confidence

  1. Make writing a daily habit, even if it is only a few lines some days
  2. Write a 'terrible first draft' and work on careful polishing later
  3. Join a local writers' group for camaraderie and mutual support
  4. Read widely: notice how other writers handle characterisation, plot and place 
  5. Find your own voice: authenticity will come more naturally than imitation

Whatever stage you are at, the resources and organisations writers are worth knowing about: 

  • Monkeys with Typewriters

    There are many different creative writing guides out there but this one by Scarlett Thomas on writing fiction is well regarded and includes plenty of practical advice.

  •  Writers' & Artists' Yearbook 

    An annual directory with useful listings for UK agents, publishers and other services, as well as articles about the writing process and getting published

  •  National Centre for Writing 

    Events, mentoring and resources for UK writers at all levels

  • The Society of Authors 

    The UK trade union for professional writers, offering advice, lobbying, and providing grants and prizes

  •  Horror Writers Association 

    The professional organisation for horror and dark fiction writers worldwide and home of the Bram Stoker Awards®

  •  Shirley Jackson Awards 

    Annual literature awards for horror, the dark fantastic and psychological suspense
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