Every story begins with a blank page.
At Pilcrow Publishing, we believe the right story, paired with the right publishing partnership, can become something extraordinary.
We’re interested in working with authors who have a story to tell and are serious about bringing that story into the world. Whether you’ve spent years shaping a manuscript or have recently discovered the courage to put your words on the page, we invite you to introduce us to your work.
We read submissions carefully and consider each project on its own merits.
What We’re Looking For
Pilcrow Publishing is interested in distinctive voices, compelling stories, and manuscripts that have something meaningful to say.
We are particularly interested in:
- Literary and commercial fiction
- Mystery and suspense
- Historical fiction
- Romance
- Women’s fiction
- Memoir and narrative nonfiction
- Inspirational and faith-based nonfiction
- Personal and professional development
- Children’s and middle-grade literature
- Select young adult projects
- Coffee table books and visually driven nonfiction
- Photography and art books
- Illustrated works and art-centered projects
- Specialty and collectible book projects
We are especially drawn to manuscripts with strong storytelling, authentic voices, memorable characters, and a clear sense of purpose. We are not simply looking for books to publish—we’re looking for authors with whom we can build a meaningful publishing partnership.
Before You Submit
Please make sure your manuscript is as polished as possible before submitting it.
While Pilcrow’s publishing process may include professional editing and developmental guidance, authors should submit work that has already undergone thoughtful revision.
We recommend that you:
- Complete your manuscript before submitting, unless you are submitting a nonfiction proposal.
- Carefully proofread and revise your work.
- Ensure your manuscript follows standard manuscript formatting.
- Prepare a concise synopsis of your project.
- Be prepared to tell us why your book matters and who will want to read it.
Please do not submit a first draft. We want to see the strongest version of your work.
Submission Guidelines
To help us give your manuscript proper consideration, please submit the following:
1. Query Letter
Tell us about your book and yourself as an author.
Your query should include:
- Book title
- Genre
- Approximate word count
- A brief description of the book
- Intended audience
- A short author biography
- Any relevant publishing history or credentials
2. Manuscript Synopsis
Please provide a brief synopsis of your manuscript, including the major characters, central conflict, and resolution where applicable.
For nonfiction, please provide an overview of the book’s central premise, purpose, and intended audience.
3. Manuscript Sample
Please submit the 4 chapters of your manuscript.
For nonfiction, you may submit the proposal and sample chapters if the full manuscript is not yet complete.
4. Author Information
Please include:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Mailing address
- Website and/or social media links, if applicable
- Previous publishing experience, if applicable
Submission Format
Please submit your materials electronically.
Preferred file formats: PDF or Microsoft Word (.doc/.docx)
Please combine your submission materials into one document when possible and clearly label your file with your name and manuscript title.
Suggested file name:
LastName_Title_Submission
Please use the following subject line when submitting by email:
Manuscript Submission – [Book Title] – [Author Name]
Where to Send Your Manuscript
Please send your completed submission materials to:
submissions@pilcrowpub.com
We ask that you submit your manuscript only once. Please do not send the same submission to multiple Pilcrow email addresses.
You will receive confirmation when your submission has been received.
What Happens After You Submit?
Every manuscript is reviewed with care, but because we receive submissions alongside the work we are already doing for our authors, please allow 2–4 weeks for a response.
If we believe your project may be a good fit for Pilcrow, we will contact you to discuss the manuscript and potential next steps.
If your project isn’t the right fit for our publishing list, we may decline the submission. A decision not to publish does not necessarily reflect the quality or value of your work, it simply means the project may not be the right fit for Pilcrow at this time.
Please note that submitting a manuscript does not guarantee an offer of publication.
A Note About Pilcrow
Pilcrow Publishing operates as a hybrid publisher, which means our publishing relationships differ from those of a traditional publishing house.
Authors accepted for publication work collaboratively with Pilcrow through our publishing process, which may include editorial services, design, formatting, production, distribution, marketing support, and other professional publishing services.
If your manuscript is selected for further consideration, we will provide additional information about our publishing model, services, costs, contractual terms, and author responsibilities before you make any commitment.
We believe authors deserve to understand exactly how their publishing relationship works.
There are no surprises. There is no pressure. Just a clear path forward.
Ready to Tell Us Your Story?
We’d love to meet the work you’ve poured yourself into.
If you’ve revised it, refined it, and believe it’s ready to make its way into the world, we invite you to send it our way.
Manuscript Submissions
Your story has already begun.
Perhaps its next chapter begins with Pilcrow.