Shutterstock / Ariya J©If you’re not having much success with your story submissions, help is at hand.
Answering Fiction Ed Lucy’s five quick questions could help explain why your stories may not be hitting the mark.
Are Your Stories Written With Our Reader In Mind?
Here at ‘The People’s Friend’, our readers trust us to publish the sort of stories they’re comfortable with.
That trust has been built up over 155 years, and we’d never knowingly let our readers down. It matters to us that we get it right for them.
‘Friend’ readers want to be entertained; comforted; encouraged. They’re looking for a mix of themes and genres.
They don’t want to be shocked, disgusted, frightened, or saddened.
A happy ending and feel-good tone are preferable – but as long as the ending is hopeful, we can take grittier themes.
‘Friend’ readers want a good entertaining read which reflects their values. Is your story ‘Friend’-suitable?
Is The Plot Moved Along By Dialogue?
Dialogue is essential for moving your story forward.
No dialogue means the story is ‘told, not shown’ – so it could be a nice piece of prose, but isn’t a ‘Friend’ story.
We also get to know the characters through the dialogue.
Is The Plot Interesting?
Something interesting has to happen – or a problem must arise, and then be resolved.
Look at your own favourite books or films. What happens in the storyline? What problem is resolved?
Do Your Characters Feel Realistic?
Our readers are interested in believable characters – strong women with strong values.
Are You Submitting Genres We Don’t Publish?
Our readers enjoy stories with a romantic theme.
They also like general contemporary stories, family themes, historical tales, cosy crime and occasionally ‘ghostly’ themes.
Sci-fi and fantasy stories are not their cup of tea – so please don’t send these.
Seasonal stories remain welcome.
Lucy Crichton Better known as “Fiction Editor Lucy”, I am always on the look-out for the very best short stories, poems and pocket novels. As well as sourcing enjoyable content, I enjoy working with our established contributors, encouraging new talent, and celebrating 155 years of “Friend” fiction!
