Lots of us write short stories. But when we think of making money from our writing, we tend to get hung up on the idea of publishing a novel—or, better yet, a series of novels.
Short stories are ways to explore new ideas and techniques and can serve as giveaways for our email newsletter readers, but they don’t pay the bills, right?
Not so fast.
For a long time, short stories were actually a fiction writer’s best way to break into paying work, and they can still form a strong part of your author career. Selling short fiction into paying markets nets you exposure, new readers, and, oh yeah, some cash!
The truth is you can find a short story publisher if you know where to look.
How to Get Paid to Write Short Stories
Most literary magazines and fiction markets don’t pay much for short stories, but it never hurts to add another tool to your kit, giving you another distribution channel and a way to bolster your professional career.
There are new literary magazines opening all the time, especially online, and so it’s impossible to come up with a definitive list of all the paying markets currently accepting submissions—especially when you realize that there are dozens of venues for every imaginable genre.
Writers who are really interested in focusing on the short fiction opportunities out there might want to subscribe to Duotrope, Poets & Writers, or Writer’s Market to get more ideas of where to submit.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at 22 of the best paying markets we’ve found for short fiction and what they’re paying for submissions right now.
Contemporary Literature
About: The literary magazine of Boston University, AGNI specializes in publishing emerging authors. It accepts poetry, short contemporary fiction, and some critical essays or other nonfiction. There are two print magazines per year and other fiction is published online biweekly.
You can submit between September and May every year.
Pay: $10 per printed page for fiction, $20 per page for poetry, plus a year’s subscription to the magazine and several copies of the issue.
About: Black Warrior Review is the graduate English department publication of the University of Alabama and is produced twice a year. This literary magazine seeks to embrace diversity and risky fiction; it welcomes both authors and stories with diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ, (dis)ability, and people of color. Although it prefers contemporary fiction to strict category genres, magical realism and futuristic stories are encouraged—anything that pushes boundaries and encourages deep thought is embraced.
Black Warrior Review also accepts graphic novels and visual narratives.
Pay: One-year subscription and a “nominal lump sum fee,” the amount of which isn’t made public.
About: Another longstanding, award-winning journal, Boulevard has been publishing contemporary short stories, poetry, and essays since 1985. It particularly encourages new writers to submit—authors who have already been published in another paying market are actually at a disadvantage here!
Boulevard doesn’t accept genre fiction, only contemporary literary fiction.
You can submit between October and May each year.
Pay: $100–$300 for prose, $25–$250 for poetry.
About: This literary ‘zine focuses on “honest fiction” published online, but also offers a print magazine that includes poetry, nonfiction, and illustrations. One unique feature is that the editors frequently respond to submissions with editorial critiques instead of just a rejection note.
Carve only publishes literary fiction, not genre fiction (so no horror, sci-fi, fantasy, romance, thrillers, etc.)
Pay: $100 per short story.
About: Part of the prestigious University of Iowa writing program, this journal has been around since 1970 and specializes in publishing fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction in a variety of styles. It publishes three times a year and accepts submissions in September, October, and November each year.
Pay: $0.80 per word for fiction, with a $100 minimum payment.
About: Another journal that welcomes contemporary fiction, poetry, and nonfiction essays, The Missouri Review has been around since 1978. It publishes four issues per year and frequently publishes new writers.
Pay: $40 per printed page.
About: Published three times a year as a high-quality paper journal, Ploughshares is one of the most respected literary journals in the world. They accept submissions during a particular window, usually from June through January each year. Contemporary literary fiction is preferred. There’s also an annual Emerging Writers Contest for previously unpublished or self-published writers.
Pay: Ploughshares pays $25 per page, with a minimum of $50 and a maximum of $250.
About: The Southern Review publishes contemporary fiction, poetry, and selected nonfiction including essays and book reviews. Submissions are accepted between September and December each year.
Pay: The Southern Review pays $25 per page, with a maximum of $200. It also provides two copies of the magazine and a year’s subscription.
About: Pitched as a “general literary publication,” Threepenny Review publishes contemporary literary fiction, poetry, and a wide array of essays and other nonfiction. It publishes four times a year, in print and online.
Pay: $400 per short story, $200 per poem.
Science Fiction and Fantasy
About: Analog publishes a wide range of science fiction, including welcoming hard science fiction. The technology, worldbuilding, and characters and plot must all be believable and seamlessly woven together—no tacking a plot on to a really cool world. New writers are encouraged to submit.
Pay: 8–10 cents per word.
About: Do you write edgy sci-fi, fantasy, or horror? Check out Apex! They actively seek boundary-pushing speculative fiction for their monthly online issues, which are available through a hybrid combo of free online access and paid eBook editions. Many now-famous writers got their start with Apex, which still regularly publishes new authors.
Pay: 6 cents per word.
About: One of the most prestigious science fiction magazines around, Asimov’s concentrates on character-driven, rather than technology-focused, science fiction. Stories should “examine or illuminate some aspect of human existence.”
Pay: 8–10 cents per word.
About: Clarkesworld has won just about every award out there, and stories published in its pages also regularly win awards. It publishes monthly issues and also publishes story collections through its book program.
Clarkesworld welcomes fantasy, sci-fi, and horror of many types, but they have a long list of themes that they see too often; check it out before you submit.
Pay: 8–10 cents per word.
About: Another longstanding, award-winning publication, Fantasy & Science Fiction accepts a broad range of speculative fiction, although stories should be focused more on characters than worldbuilding or technology. Science fiction and humor are particularly encouraged. The magazine publishes six issues per year.
Pay: 7–12 cents per word.
About: Giganotosaurus likes long short fiction—yes, kind of an oxymoron, but unlike many markets, they welcome submissions ranging all the way up to 25,000 words. All kinds of sci-fi and fantasy are accepted, and a single story is published online every month.
Pay: $100 flat fee.
About: Every week, Strange Horizons publishes a broad range of speculative fiction, including horror, sci-fi, and fantasy—if you can imagine it, they’re probably open to considering it. They also produce podcasts of published stories and accept poetry, media reviews, and some nonfiction.
Submissions regularly open and close, so be sure to check the website to make sure they’re currently reading for your preferred category.
Pay: 8 cents per word.
Romance
About: East of the Web publishes a huge array of short stories across all genres, including romance (crime, sci-fi, fantasy, and children’s stories are also welcome). It has an open submissions period for most genres.
Romance stories here should include a thriller or mystery element. Previously published stories will be considered.
Pay: 5 cents per word.
About: This quarterly print and digital magazine emphasizes diversity, including stories by and about people of color. It publishes short romance stories as well as tips and tricks about writing and motivational or inspirational nonfiction. Any genre of romance is acceptable, though erotica is not.
Query before submitting.
Pay: $25 flat fee.
Other Short Story Publishers
About: The shortest of short stories are welcomed at Flash Fiction Online, a digital publication. Pretty much any fiction story between 500–1,000 words will be considered, including science fiction, fantasy, romance, and literary fiction.
Pay: $60 flat fee.
About: Do you write flash fiction? Then The Vestal Review is the place for you! It’s the oldest established market for super-short fiction (they only take stories of 500 words or less). It accepts every genre except children’s lit and hard science fiction and publishes twice a year in print, with some stories also published online.
You can submit between February and May and again between August and November each year.
Pay: $25 flat fee per published story, plus one copy of the magazine.
There are many, many more paying short story venues out there—no matter what, there’s a home for your work. Or you could always consider self-publishing your stories. When creating your author career, there’s no wrong choices, only what’s right for you.
Short fiction can help you attract readers and increase your author income. See what strategy might be right for you!
For more on building your fiction writing career, read on:
- How Long Should My Book Be? Defining Short Stories, Novellas, and More
- How To Earn a Full-Time Income Writing Fiction Books
Kate Sullivan is an editor with experience in every aspect of the publishing industry, from editorial to marketing to cover and interior design.
In her career, Kate has edited millions of words and helped dozens of bestselling, award-winning authors grow their careers and do what they love!
I have a drama of 45 pages how much they can pay me?
Hello my name is Bryan Pickup
I have a few short stories to tell that I want some one to read. One is a story about two loners who meet up on a journey toward the Pilbara in Australia’s north west in the 1950’s. A “fair-dinkum” OZ story.
Hello my name is Cathy. I have written four books all of them erotic but only published one on Amazon. I haven’t sold one copy since its been on there. Also I entered it on a site called Inkitt and still no movement but however it has had some nice reviews good and bad. Is there anyone who can point me in the write direction of a publishing company that buys short erotic stories. I would really appreciate it.
There was no mention of erotic literature. Are you familiar with publishers who work with erotic, historical fiction short stories? I’m not having any luck finding them
Hi Judy, I don’t know any specific publications that publish erotic short stories, but I’m sure they’re out there. For books, they’re usually lumped in with romance publishers, so you can check out this list and see if any accept erotic stories.
Hi Good morning please I want to write a story please help me write after and I will p
I have written 2 books and I’m currently writing another to make it 3 but I don’t know how to go about it to make money. Please help me.
Hi Hula, thanks for your comment! Pre- and post-publication marketing is essential to your book’s success. We’ve got a lost of posts on book marketing that can help you sell more books. I would suggest starting with this book marketing plan :)
Hi, have you been able to find any, I’m looking for also.
Hi, Do any of the Sites work with real life stories?
i have a real life story based over 15 years that is “Strong”, i tried to go to magazine sites but they said “you have a strong story but it is too much for us”
The story involves the dangers of meeting online, moving to a new country (Brazil), abuse and many factors. It is very detailed and descriptive but as said a bit heavy for the regular magazines.
Any advice is appreciated
Kind Regards
Hi Darren, thanks for your question! You’ll have to check out each site’s guidelines, but in general, I think most allow real-life stories that are told in a narrative format.
Am interested
That’s great Miracle, best of luck with your submissions if you decide to send your work to any of these publications :)
Hi,
Do the magazines accept stories from international writers? I’m from Kenya.
Hi Raymond, I believe many do! Just check the guidelines of each, if they have restrictions, they’ll specify them there :)
Hi, can’t can’t find anything about submitting to the Heroes and Heartbreakers magazine on their website! How do I find out more information on how to do this?
Hi Bertha, thanks for your comment! It looks like they’re actually closed for submissions now. Sorry about that! I’ll update the post
Hi
Could you please tell me how these sites pay up to 1000$ for a story ? Are They make money from our story ? How ? Please tell me about it .
Hi Reza, thanks for your question. Most of the publications that pay are offered as subscriptions and people pay to read them, which I think is how they make money and are able to pay for stories.
Helpful listings. Thank you!
Here is one correction to make–from Glimmer Train:
Now, after nearly three decades, Glimmer Train is pulling out of the station for good as of December 15, 2019. We are grateful to all who have shared their stories with us and to our dedicated readers.
Thank you Mark, I’ve updated the post! :)
i would like to join please. i am a great story writer (i am not self proclaiming with all due respect). i will write contemporary literary fiction.
Hey Dominique, you can check out each of the links in the article to see where your stories will be a great fit :) Good luck on your writing journey!
Hi Kaelyn Barron, are these opportunities for anyone regardless of nationalities and country of origin. I am from the pacific and would love to write short stories, articles etc. and submit the here as well. In terms of payment, how do we get paid? Thanks
Hey Allen! Most of these accept submissions regardless of location and ethnicity. For payment, payment service providers such as PayPal or Wise are usually used. Good luck on your writing career :)
I would like to write short stories with African origin. How do I join?
Hi Medys, you can submit to any of the publications above. If you’re in another country, just double check any requirements for residence or citizenship.
Hey I would like to read story about my life lifestyle and make it a short story so I don’t know where can I start
Hey Julia! If you’re not sure where to start in writing your short story, our post here might help you out.
Like the article. Will look at Sci-fi recommendations.
It’s a pet peeve of mine, but articles, especially those with ‘data’ in them, should have dates when they were written so that a reader knows how old (stale?) the information may or may not be. I didn’t see a date on this one. I then have to ‘cheat’ and look at the latest comment section to guess.
Hi Bill, I’m glad you enjoyed the article. I’ll mention your suggestion to the team. This article was last updated October 2020.
hi i am from Sri Lanka . I need to sell my poems to the website which are active in July month . Could you send some links via my email address ( sites that are paid between $300 -$600
[email protected]
Good job
we hope you enjoyed the post! :)
Hi. Kaelyn I have stories and articles that I translated to english and I’d like to publish them in one of those sites that you mentioned, really I enterested in writing especially litraure, we have great literary works from the east, but I didn’t get it, what some publishers mean with flat fee, please explain it to me.
my respects.
“flat fee” means that’s how much they’ll pay you if they publish your work, so it’s not based on word count or royalties
Hello i have soo many Erotic stories to publish and i don’t know how to go about it can you help me out!?
Hey Andy, looking at publishers who accept erotica should get you started. We don’t have a list of them yet, but googling “erotica publishers” shows a few articles you can check out.
Hi kaelyn,
I really appreciate your article, and I wish to submit my stories to any of the listed sites, but it seems they have seasons when one can submit stories.
So, you can do well to let me know how to go about it.
Thanks.
Hi Viktor, thanks for your comment. I’m not sure of the deadlines for each, but I’m sure at least several are accepting submissions right now. I’ll work on updating the post with submission periods.
I want to be a writer on east of the web
Hi Henzy, that’s great! I would recommend contacting the site and asking if they accept submissions, and how you can submit your work.
how can i start this job? pls help me. help me to start this.
Hi Zainab, each of these publications has their own guidelines, so you’ll want to check out their websites and see what you need to do to submit your work :)
Do you get paid by mail? How old do you have to be?
Hi Taliyah, there’s no general age requirement, so you’ll have to check the guidelines for each individual website or publication (but I think most are open to anyone). Payment methods also vary.
Hi may i ask i have a many storys in my page,then i want my story publish here can anu body help,how
Hi Ellen, you can submit your work to these publications, or publish your stories directly on your own blog or website! :)
Hello
I’ll love the world to hear my story.
Hi Abu, you should definitely consider submitting your work to these publications or posting them on your blog :)
Good day. How do I write stories and get paid? Where and how do I submit my story online?
Hi I got you wrote me a book that I wrote It’s the action adventure and romance I want to know how can I set it for a good name for a nice change it’s a really good book and I need some
Hi Chukwuma, you can follow the links to the publications in this post to see their requirements and terms :)
Wow l think this is amazing and a great opportunity for those with passion in writing books
Definitely! and not just books, but short stories too :)
Hi Kaelyn,
I have a short story series (13 of them, currently working on number 14), that is action based, features two young main characters, and takes place in the early to mid 1990s. I am having trouble locating an outlet that might be interested in these. Each story averages 15,000 to 19,000 words. I could possibly combine them into longer stories (1 – 3 and 11 – 13 could work as lengthened books). The 23 year old characters might appeal to a younger audience, but the 1990s setting and violent action may not. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks.
Hi Mike, thanks for your comment! it’s possible (I’d say even likely) you would have better luck combining them into book-length works. As for your target audience, I wouldn’t worry about the 90s setting. Nostalgia for that period seems to be a trend right now. For example, Little Fires Everywhere was very successful in the last couple years as both a novel and Hulu series, and it was set in the 90s.
Thank you Kaelyn for the helpful response. I will get to work on blending them together and see about submitting them that way. You provide a great service by the way, keep up the good work!
Thanks Mike, I appreciate that! :) Let me know how it goes!
Hi Kaelyn,
Just a quick follow up question, I have combined my short stories into 6 different novels. I hired (paid) 4 beta readers to review them. They have all said the stories / characters get better as they go, with the 6th one to the point where 2 of the readers couldn’t put it down. Ironically, I spent the least amount of time / effort on that one. I need to somehow transfer the quality of novels 4, 5, and especially 6 to the first ones, but I’m too close to the process to see the differences. The only comment the beta readers have said is that the later ones “flow better”, but they can’t give me specifics.
Who should I hire to look at all of them, and help me correct this? A proofreader? Someone else?
I’m confident in the later works, but being it’s a series with a lot of callbacks to the earlier stories, I need the same consistency throughout. I probably don’t have a shot with publishers or literary agents until I get a handle on this.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Mike! Sounds like you need a developmental editor. Many editors can do developmental, copy, and proofreading, but you’ll definitely want to hire someone who has experience with developmental. They’re trained to help you with flow, identify spots that need more development, or just things that don’t quite work with the story in general. We have posts on developmental editing and how to hire an editor that you might find helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions! :)
i am a very talented writer i hope this organization can help me my books include ; me and u against the world, the teenage gunslinger, bloodlust, the telekinetic teen and many more
Hi Joshua, are you trying to publish your books?
OK THANK YOU VERY MUCH
Hello everyone am nompilo l can’t say am very talented but most people who read my books say am.so am hoping this organisation will help put my name out there
Hi Nompilo, thanks for introducing yourself! What kind of writing do you do?
Hi… can Asians also write to these websites?
Hi Aditya, you’ll want to double check the guidelines for each, but overall, I think most accept international submissions :)
I’m in and willing to put myself out there. My writing style can interchange between first and second person. I guess it depends on the story and how best to tell it so long as I don’t mix the two. I bet these publications get tens of thousands of stories every year. Worth a shot though. I’ll try and dazzle them in the first 3 paragraphs.
Hi CB, you should definitely give it a shot! We also have some posts on choosing the right point of view that might help :)
Kinda hard to write in the second person. Get your hands on a Harbrace Handbook. Learn about literary form!
I recorded as short stories and upload ed on YouTube.
https://youtu.be/g0k_uHalQuw
nice idea to share on youtube! thanks for sharing
I write stories but,but talents seems to be hiding.i want to really make something out of this talent.not just to write and keep at home.
Hi Midapaul, I would definitely recommend submitting your work to some of these publications :)
Hi my name is sandra and i wanna write stories and i saw this and i was hoping to make money out of it but i was afraid because this would be my first time making story
Hi Sandra, don’t be afraid! If you’re looking for some tips, you can check out our post on how to write a short story. But there’s no harm in trying, so if you love writing, I would try submitting your work to some of these publications :)
I can give you short story
Hi Lalu, we will be opening a short story contest in the coming months! Details will be posted soon
Greetings!
Umm, I have a question do these sites like do they also accept 1 or 45 min script.
kindly let me know
thank you
Hi Ayesha! I’m not sure about every single site, but I think in general they mostly accept short stories. Some might accept a script though.
Hi,
I write short and full length novels. I self published 1 full length novel, how ever I’m looking for a publishing company to pick my work up. Looking to make royalists. I have 12 romance books fully written. Can you point me to a few companies that are taken submissions ?
Hi Amelia, thanks for your comment! TCK is open for fiction submissions. You can find our submission guidelines here, or check out this list of more romance publishers :)
If I want to write casually, without a headline which websites would be the best?
Also, do you know which websites have the least competition, as it seems it is very easy to be rejected?
Thank you
sorry I forgot to mention I want to write fantasy stories
thanks
Thanks for your comment! I don’t really know of any specifically, but if you’ve tried the sites under the sci-fi/fantasy section of this post but haven’t had any luck, you could also consider starting a blog to post your stories – it’s one of the easiest, most accessible ways to publish your short stories, and you’ll get the credit :)
Hey there, asking for your help.
I am into hot and raunchy short short stories, where can I write them for $?
Hi Ally, as I shared with Leah below, it doesn’t look like any of these publications have specified, but I did find this list (https://darlagdenton.com/2014/09/17/a-list-of-28-publishers-for-erotica-and-romance/) of publishers. Hope that helps!
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
sorry I forgot to mention I want to write fantasy stories
thanks
sir I have been writing different articles for last 20 years
kindly send topic on my e mail its my earnings
sample short story here if you like please
STORY FOR CHILDREN
HIDDEN TREASURE
Comprising 3 Episodes
EPISODE NO 1
There were four friends who lived in the valley of Scotland, the valley was full of natural beauty, huge mountains and flowing beautiful small lakes as well brooks. During the days of summer when sun shined the water in lakes formed like a crystal ball.
These four friends were very intimate to one another and much often spent their time altogether.
There was a saying among elders that in this olden valley a treasure is buried, since the valley was big enough so no one tried to ferret out , some outsider came but they did not get through in their aim and returned
PLANNING OF FOUR FRIENDS
One day four friends were busy in gossip, it was a time of 2 pm, all of a sudden one of four gave an idea to effort for treasure , they all got agreed and determined to start the mission with enthusiasm and resoluteness. They knew if they mention at home no one would allow doing this adventurous task, it was a jeopardizing challenge.
The friends were ambitious and they began to think how to make a plan,
Firstly they decided to depict a map of ways through which they could reach the nearest point, but that was not a duck soup, nevertheless they took three days to prepare the map individually at home being isolated from one another.
The fourth day when they met they shared the maps but they were not agreed anyway, after arguments they all got united at one map to pursue it
Next day they set out for mission, it was a long route and requires a long walk up to 5 hours; they were with their complete belongings and storage of edibles
In fact they were not greedy, they just wanted to search out the treasure if the bruits are true and entrust the things to state government
When they all reached between the chains of valleys where every thing looked desolated and calm even no bird was there ,the slowest noise of flowing water in the lakes are striking with the ears . They decided to take breather for some while under the shadow of trees around. It was 7 pm and sun was saying good bye, dusk is appearing gradually.
They had brought two lantern, torches and (awning type tent) in their luggage
After taking some edibles they further thought to take sound sleep till dawn because the task could have been done in day light more properly and perfectly also
EPISODE 2
EARLY MORNING
They all woke up early in next morning, after having breakfast, they started to move in the direction as they had marked in map, almost There were 9 mountains around 7 valleys, they entered into a valley where mountains bent down with making many more blunt curves downward . There was complete silence and a sort of fear is occurring in the mind of four friends but they had strong determination. The way was rough and full of sand. The dry yellowish leaves were spread around; the way looked like a tunnel, no way of bright light so they were using the torches.
The mountainous valley ended after 2 hours no sign of any thing which could allure them to stop and initiate any digging work
Like wise they entered the other valley it was more horrid than previous one but it seemed that some one had visited here long before.
When they moved a little farther, they saw some clues of feet that was evident that either some one here or moved away. Lastly long marching caused hunger so they had some snacks there and again began to walk. The wrist watch was alarming them about the time so they decided to complete second valley before sun set
Next day they again reached according to plan ,near the 3rd valley ,it was so interesting and mysterious, no sand no dry leaves , only roughest way , when they were moving inside the valley they had never noticed that it might be endangering or amazing one also .
YEAR 1768 (SHIELD)
They had covered almost half way into the valley , all of a sudden they found a shield lying under the bunch of dry grass ,on which they hardly could read the year 1768 , it was an enigma for them , it could have been a sign of treasure, since it was a time of 4 pm ,they took a short rest and mean while they were thinking that they have to look into the shield first .
After some time they agreed and came on the location of shield for digging, it was proved that they will stay whole night here and then continue their journey afterwards
The dark inside valley was not allowing them to continue digging work so they stayed there and arranged to sleep.
In the mid of night they heard some voice, the voice was strange and like a female voice
When they woke they found nothing around, then they thought their obsession
Next morning every thing was new so they after breakfast and without wasting time began to dig, on the hope that they could find more antiques but as soon as they dug deeper, they found a window type door, now their curiosity increased and finally they dug as much as they could . A door appeared with a sealed lock
They were thinking that probably they have found desired treasure , but In real it was just an inception of mission , what type of more mysteries were impending to be disclosed no one knew
They broke the lock and entered in the window, when they entered they were taken aback with agape, there was a hall under the ground they moved forward but this hall was looking unending that was linked with others, this thing was very surprising and beyond their perception that confusion moved them back because they did not want to step forward against the plan or map , it could have been risky too ,
They came out in next 10 minutes and decided to carry on mission on next day
EPISODE 3
NEXT DAY
The rays of early morning were reminding them to complete the task so they had some breakfast and entered through window a wide hall that seemed having no end
They walked fast and reached in the other halls where they saw some broken mirrors and vase of olden times on which there was an engraved writings, but that were not understandable, some designed pictures of people, showing a rude and cruel king whipping victims, on other pictures a butcher type giant man cutting the body parts of women and children before king, King was laughing with broad opened mouth . What was it? Question arising!!!! The friends in amazement moved forward where they saw a box which was enshrouded with dust and cobweb. They opened the box in which a book was available but unfortunately the writing could not have been read by any one. What was the translation? They also saw another box it was heavy one they opened it, Oh God it was full of gold coins and gold knives.
The friends were astonished but the mysteries are still unresolved
They were unable to move the boxes from there anyway they decided to delve out more things ,so they kept on moving in other Halls They did not know that they have crossed two more valleys underground and their lives are coming much closer to danger
They were moving forward and keen to find something more but they neither availed anything nor any sign anyway the series of Halls looked to end, Suddenly one friend cried boomingly and scared to see a skeleton close to his feet
oh God !!! What is this!!! They all spoke in one voice; they pushed away with legs and observed, it looked like very olden around 100 years ago. Now the panic is increasing, they felt that there must be the presence of spirit also.
All friends were feeling tired and hungry, they wanted to go back
Alas! There was no way to return because they were entangled in puzzling or mazy kind of tracks . Perhaps they were out of mind due to weariness
They laid and slept sound,
Next day they woke but their astonishment level became enhanced to see the absence of skeleton. They were sure that some creature is here,
Since there was no more hall so they returned searching the ways, At last they reached in that hall where they had seen boxes and designed pictures.
Critical Moments
When they turned to window, oh there was no sign of widow, the out let was closed, my God all cried!!!
The time was running out and wrist watch usually giving warning of dusk, they decided to spend night there .
HORRIFIC NIGHT
They tried to sleep but due to hunger, sleep was too far, that was a time of 2 am,. Abruptly, horse wincing noise and movement both could have easily heard from outside
The four friends were now afraid and thinking that they are in great trouble, there is no protection except dying but they had courage and hid to themselves, whatever they saw they narrated
Horse man with sword and hanging hunter enters along with two giant fellows who were holding firmly the hair of two women, these women were moaning with pain. The king ordered to cut their hands, giant blew the sword two hands dropped on the ground with fast flowing blood, the scene was most shocking and hair raising later on women were killed brutally within no time. The friends showed a terrific sign of patience and silence.
After this event the King with all escorts as well victims disappeared, It was confirmed that the place was haunted and there must be having a tale behind it.
Now there was no way out except evasion from this dreadful place at any cost. They had forgot the idea of searching treasure and inclined to save their lives.
The day was ending and they did not want to take any risk so they reached near a big stone that was fixed in the wall ,they forcefully budged it and fortunately they succeeded in escaping from the hole. They were now out of the valleys and began to run amuck for the safe place.
Morale (LESSON )
This story tells us that any hidden treasure has a big tragedy behind it so the treasure of 200 years ago was related with the cruel kings, whose spirits still came there
If these friends had acquired the treasure then today they would not have been alive.
It was also said that in the year 1826 two young women tourists tried to ferret out the hidden treasure but they could not return from valley.
M uhammad Asif Ansari
Writer
Account No 000700050291-01
Foreign Exchange Branch
Karachi
Pakistan
Hello, thanks for your comment! we actually don’t publish short stories, but you can try submitting to some of the sites and publications listed in this post :)
Kaelyn, your responses indicate you have the patience of a saint!
:) I’m happy to help when I can!
Hey, so i usually write romance but i recently finished writing a book which i believe falls under the childrens section. It involves magic and mystery and a bunch of puzzles, which would be the best platform to publish this book on. And also to make some sort of profit and also experience.
Hi K.P., thanks for your comment! It really depends on what your goals are. If you’re interested in self-publishing, we’d recommend Amazon KDP. If you’d like to pursue a traditional publishing deal, you might want to start with this list of children’s book publishers. You can read more about the differences between traditional vs. self-publishing here.
Kaelyn, Are you related to Maureen Barron was my editor in the 70’s.
Hi Catherine, no, I don’t believe so. But funny coincidence! :)
Hi,my name is wumi from Nigeria. I’ve a lot of stories to write Including series,pls what are the steps to take?thanks
Hi Wumi, thanks for your comment! I would start by going through this list and select the publications that match your genre. Then, once your work is ready to go, you can start submitting your stories to them, making sure you follow all of their instructions very carefully.
Hi i m from India , i had written many inspirational short stories but all are in Hindi language, can u plz suggest me any platform where would i sell my stories plz.
This is Hoswarld from Uganda. I have a story of Life experiences. Thanks
Hi Samrin, I’m not sure about where to sell your work, but I did find this online short story publisher that publishes stories and poetry in Hindi.
My short story
It’s about the story of the lord or let’s say a man or a boy or just say someone male in character, or someone who can be called as the ultimate truth of the universe. He is the producer of all the material worlds. He is invincible but the reality of the god’s brain, the heaven of the universe has been altered due to not gaining peace in his mind. The god had lost his power due to his not being to control his will. The god is his brain or if you look simply ; a demntiac who is being treated . It’s the struggle of god to be religious and comming back to his ultimate power
Hi Kishor, sounds very interesting! You could try submitting it to one of the sites or publications in this post :)
I have many stories to share about two sisters that lost their parents and the older one works hard to save her sister from starving
I have many stories to share
I write amazing stories i have a talent of write a story i write lot of stories on my notebook now i want to share my talent i write long stories my stories is like a film
Hi Elaf, thanks for your comment! You should definitely try submitting your work to some of these publications, or you can start publishing them to a blog :)
I have written a novella and want to publish on magazine. Its word count is 20k. Is it possible for you to publish such fiction? The title is ” Girls in a dark well” based on a tragic story of a girl who was sold to a prostitute house and found and brought back by her lover. Its reveals a true fact of missed and kidnapped girls in Asian context.
Thanks for your comment! Unfortunately, we don’t publish novellas, and are currently closed to fiction submissions. However, your story might be a great fit for one of the publications on this list!
Hi, my name is Ed-Rutere Mutuanga from Kenya. I write, but have never made a coin out of it all. How do I go about it?
Hi Ed-Rutere, thanks for your comment! What kind of writing do you do?
Well, I’m into speculative fiction bent more on the characters than the plot. That and poetry well done. I’m willing to submit a sample, or direct you to some of my previously published works.
If you enjoy writing poetry, you can check out this post on how to make money selling poetry. If you have a fictional manuscript you’d like to get published, you can submit it to us for our review. We recently reopened our fiction submissions. You can read our guidelines here.
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I write NSFW short stories, is there any place I can sell those?
Hi Leah, I found this list of publishers for erotica / erotic romance. For short stories, you might also find this post helpful :)
What kind of stories you accept. Do you accept Adult stories ?
Hi, we actually don’t publish short stories, this was just a list of other publications that do. If by Adult you mean erotica/erotic romance, I don’t see any on this list that specify that, but there are some out there.
Hi Samrin, I can translate your stories into english. let me know if you’re interested.
hello I have a short story im sure you would get a kick out of , most people wouldnt share what I want to share.
Hi Donna, thanks for your comment! Unfortunately, we don’t currently publish short stories, but you might consider submitting your work to one of the publications above!
This is great. I have a huge binder filled with short stories just waiting to be shared. Thanks for the information. Really looking to make some money doing something I love.
I’m so glad you found it helpful, Laila! Best of luck with your writing :)
I would like to submit a 6 – story series suitable for 8-10-year-olds.
Each story will involve children discovering facts through everyday experiences.
This is then non-fiction within fiction.
Hi Joan, that sounds like a great idea! :) Are you thinking about publishing this as a series of books, or through a short story publication like the ones above?
uh hi! i want to know how i start or themes or genre do i write,im so clueless, please help me
Hi Maggie, thanks for your comment! You might want to start by familiarizing yourself with different genres, so you can figure out which styles you like and what kinds of stories you’re interested in writing. That should help guide you toward the types of themes that your work will deal with too – but that’s mostly your creative choice. If you’re not sure what to write about, you can try these writing prompts to find some inspiration. I hope this helps, please let me know if you have more questions or if there are any specific resources I can provide :)
Hello Kaelyn! Amazing work compiling these, I’m ever so grateful to you! Do most of these magazines and sites accept international submissions? Again, thank you so much!
Hi Rashi, thanks for your comment! I’m so glad you found it helpful :) You’ll definitely want to double check the specific publication’s guidelines before submitting, but overall I haven’t seen anything about restrictions against international submissions – I think in most cases it’s allowed. Hope that helps! :)
Thank you!
Alrighty, i am a great story wirter, how should i begin?
Hi Kevon, I would definitely start by choosing the publications that are looking for your genre/writing style. Then review their submission guidelines and follow them carefully. Also, if you haven’t already, build a portfolio of some of your best pieces so they can see more samples of your work (if they request). I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have more questions
This is good work since there are so many young writers who would like to make money online
Hi Kevin! Yep, especially right now lots of people are looking to make money online. Hope you found the post helpful!
Legitimate interesting facts provided right here
Hope you found the post helpful! :)
How can write my story
Hi Mark, you can check out this post on how to write a short story to get started. I hope this helps! :)
This site is my favorite
Hi Sharlet, we’re so happy to hear you love the site! We’re glad to have you :)
Hey I want to write story….how can i begin??
Hi Chaitali! If you’re new to writing, I would start by checking out this post on how to write a short story. If you’re ready to submit, you can review the guidelines for each of the publications above :)
Hi! I’ve been writing since 4th grade, I am now in college and I haven’t publish any of my works yet. Since the pandemic happened, I continued writing again. I want to publish my works, because we are currently struggling financially.
Hi Asher, you can definitely try submitting your work to these publications that often pay for short stories. You can also enter writing contests to win prize money. We are hosting one right now through August 31 :) you can find the details here.
Hello Kaelyn Barron. I am a mystery, detective, and horror story writer. What website would you suggest?
Regards,
Aram Melkonyan
Hi Aram, East of the Web might be a good fit! They do romance but also mystery/thrillers