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Writing Prompt Wednesdays: Tree Whisperer

Writing Prompt Wednesdays: Tree Whisperer

Welcome to “Writing Prompt Wednesdays,” a haven where your imagination can roam free in the realms of speculative fiction. As we embark on this weekly journey, it’s thrilling to think about the untold stories waiting to be penned in the domains of horror, science fiction, and fantasy. Whether you’re a seasoned author or a budding wordsmith, these prompts are your gateway to unexplored worlds and untapped potentials.

Every Wednesday, we’ll serve up a fresh, thought-provoking prompt designed to ignite your creative spark and challenge your storytelling prowess. Think of these prompts as a key, unlocking the doors to uncharted territories where your creativity is the only limit. From eerie, shadow-laden corridors of Gothic horror to the farthest reaches of interstellar space, and the mystical depths of high fantasy, our prompts are a kaleidoscope of possibilities.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to approach these prompts. They are mere stepping stones, guiding you towards the vast landscapes of your imagination. Use them to break free from writer’s block, to experiment with new ideas, or simply as a fun exercise to keep your writing skills sharp.

This week’s writing prompt:

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Bloomsbury Announce SFFH Imprint, Bloomsbury Archer

Bloomsbury Launches New SFFH Imprint: Bloomsbury Archer for Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror

Bloomsbury has announced a new imprint to launch in the UK this autumn and in the US next year. Bloomsbury Archer is specifically geared towards speculative fiction, which seems to cover a wide umbrella of subgenres, including science fiction, fantasy, speculative romance, horror, and alternate history. The new imprint takes its name from Bloomsbury’s logo, the archer Diana, and specifically mentions myth retellings as one of the subgenres they will be publishing.

The new imprint will incorporate certain authors already contracted with Bloomsbury, such as Alan Moore and Samantha Shannon, but is also building a new catalogue ready to be announced later this year. Bloomsbury Archer is headed up by Noa Wheeler – who has acquired such fantasy authors in the past as Leigh Bardugo and Kekla Magoon – and Erica Barmash in the US, and Vicky Leech Mateos in the UK. All editors have had a long career in media and acquisitions within Bloomsbury, and with other Big Four publishers.

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Taking Submissions: Short Story Substack April 2025 Window

Submission Window: April 1st – 30th, 2025
Payment: $100 for the chosen story + 50% of subscription revenue
Theme: Any genre, short story

Mission = Revive the art of the short story, support artists, and produce something wonderful.

Payout = Base Pay of $100 for the chosen story + 50% of subscription revenue to be sent by Paypal, Zelle, or check.

Wait, you mean if this substack gets thousands of subscribers, the winner would get thousands of dollars?

Yes! The New Yorker pays roughly $7,500 per story and I sincerely hope to go way past that.

What does the timeline look like?

Submit stories by the end of the month, winner to be announced on the 15th. There is ONE story that wins and receives the full payout.

Where do I send submissions?
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10 Must-Have Writing Gifts for Authors in Spring 2025

10 Best Gifts for Writers: Unique and Thoughtful Ideas for Spring 2025

As an author, receiving the perfect gift can provide inspiration, motivation, and even a renewed sense of creativity. In Spring 2025, the ideal writing gifts go beyond mere functionality—they become thoughtful expressions that enrich an author’s daily routine, elevate their workspace, and nurture their craft.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking to surprise the writer in your life, this curated selection of must-have gifts offers something uniquely meaningful. From beautifully designed journals that spark imagination to personalized accessories that celebrate literary achievements, these thoughtful gifts will help authors flourish creatively and make their writing experience even more rewarding.

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Taking Submissions: Samhain Screams!

Deadline: May 30th, 2025
Payment: $50 AUD and a contributors copy
Theme: Halloween

Edited by Greg Chapman and Cameron Trost

Halloween.

So much more than costumes and candy, it’s the time when the veil between our world and the other side is at its thinnest. The hour when dark forces come into the light in search of innocent souls. A time of blood and evil.

Australian Shadows Award-winning and multiple Bram Stoker Award-nominated author and artist Greg Chapman, and acclaimed author Cameron Trost, are seeking new original Halloween tales for this anthology, planned for release in October 2025.
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Taking Submissions: Fraidy Cat Quarterly Volume 6

Submission Window: April 1st – 7th, 2025. Extended window for LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and Palestinian authors: April 1, 2025 – April 14, 2025
Payment: Flash (400-1500 word) $10, Shorts (1,501-8,000) $20, Black and white Artwork: $10
Theme: Horror stories involving Growth

Fraidy Cat Press is proud to present Fraidy Cat Quarterly, published four times annually in print and ebook formats.

We are currently closed to submissions of flash fiction and short stories. We are always open to submissions of black and white art. Any fiction submissions sent outside of our open call period will be deleted unread.

Volume 6: Growth

  • General submissions: April 1,2025 – April 7, 2025
  • Extended window for LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and Palestinian authors: April 1, 2025 – April 14, 2025
  • Publishing in June 2025

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Indie Authors Rejoice: How E-Books & Audiobooks Are Shaping Publishing’s Bright Future

Riding the Digital Wave: The The Future Looks Great For Publishing!

The future of publishing is bright—and indie authors stand to benefit significantly.

According to a recent industry report by Fact.MR, the global book publishing market is expected to grow substantially, reaching $137.36 billion in 2024, with consistent growth at 5% annually until 2034. What’s driving this promising outlook? Digital formats like e-books and audiobooks are quickly reshaping how readers engage with content, opening exciting new avenues for authors and indie publishers.

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Writing About a Game of Wits? Poker Players to Draw Inspiration From for Your Next Horror Novel

Writing About a Game of Wits? Poker Players to Draw Inspiration From for Your Next Horror Novel

Writing a good horror story is often more complex than it seems. While the thrill of the chase is essential in building suspense in horror, a satisfying resolution is the cornerstone of ensuring your work leaves a lasting impression and provides readers with a sense of closure. 

To guide your readers towards this resolution, you’ll need appealing characters who can help move the narrative forward and keep your audience hooked. Seasoned writers know the importance of drawing inspiration from real life when building their characters. But if you’re looking for characters who are larger than life, you may want to focus on one demographic in particular: poker players. After all, poker and horror writing, while both distinct, are similar in several ways. 


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