Submissions

Stillwater Story House publishes original, character-driven fiction with voice, momentum, emotional impact, and a strong sense of place.
We’re especially interested in stories with a connection to Minnesota or the Upper Midwest—through setting, atmosphere, or author background.
We welcome commercial fiction that knows how to entertain,
surprise, and stay with the reader.

What We’re Looking For

Strong hooks
Memorable characters
Distinct voice
Emotional stakes
Sharp pacing
Commercial appeal
Fresh angles within familiar genres

Current Interests

Thriller / Suspense
Mystery / Crime
Romantic Comedy
Middle Grade
Upmarket Fiction
Smart, genre-blending fiction

Not a Fit (At This Time)

Poetry
Screenplays
Children’s picture books
Academic nonfiction
AI-created books

Submission Window

To ensure each project receives thoughtful consideration, submissions are open from the 1st through the 7th of each month only.

Submissions sent outside that window may not be reviewed.

What to Send

Please submit the following in a single email:

1. Query Letter

Include:

  • A high-concept logline (1 sentence)
  • Brief story description
  • Genre
  • Word count
  • Comparable titles (optional)
  • Short author bio and socials
  • Your Minnesota or regional connection (if applicable)

2. Sample Pages

Attach or paste the first three chapters of your manuscript.

Response Time

If your work feels like a fit, we aim to respond within 6–8 weeks.

Because we’re a small press, we may not be able to respond to every submission individually.

Where to Submit

Email: submissions@stillwaterstoryhouse.com

Subject Line: Submission – [Title] – [Author Name]