Why does S3 focus on novellas?
Many reasons, not the least of which being that the editor enjoys reading and writing them. This neglected format deserves more attention. Also, novellas are a great length for showcasing writers (long enough to allow a rich story to develop, but short enough to include multiple authors in each issue).
Is S3 self-publishing?
No. We produce the digest using print-on-demand (POD) services, but all of our contributors are pulled from the slush pile. Novellas are selected for S3 based on merit, nothing else. Writers do not pay to appear in the digest, and friends and family of the editor are not eligible for inclusion.
Does S3 pay well?
No. Twenty bucks and a free copy.
Where can S3 be purchased?
The digest is available from the POD service used to produce a particular issue.
Do you accept simultaneous submissions?
Absolutely.
My book is a 20,000-word stream-of-consciousness dream sequence written without periods or paragraphs. Would S3 be interested?
Fuck no. We want snappy, commercial fiction. Kick our teeth in or don't bother.
What about novel excerpts or the first volume in a four-part series?
S3 only publishes complete, standalone stories, so no excerpts or series, please.
If my novella is rejected, can I resubmit it?
No.
What if I write a really eloquent email explaining why you made a mistake and why you should reconsider? Seriously, my book is incredible and you'd have to be insane not to put it in S3.
Still no.
What kind of cover letters do you like with submissions?
Short and factual. A one- or two-sentence description of the story, and a brief mention of your publishing credits will suffice. Let the quality of the submission speak for itself.
Is S3 a good market for first-time authors?
Um...maybe? Here's the thing: We love the idea of giving a talented new writer his/her first publishing credit, but you need to be realistic about your own writing. It's unlikely the first time you put "pen to paper" you're going to generate genius. Oh sure, you might, but probably not. So if you're a rank novice, we'd suggest writing three novellas then sending in your favorite. The point is, most "first-time" authors have actually been writing for a long time before they get their first break. It's not a rule, or anything, just the way it usually works out. Don't let us discourage you, though. If this is your very first work of fiction and you believe in it wholeheartedly, send in the first thousand words and we'll see.
Why don't you have a snail mail address?
We do, we just don't make it public. S3 is based in Nova Scotia. If we like your sample, and we like subsequent chapters, we may eventually invite you to mail a hard copy of your complete novella. Our location isn't top secret, we just don't want to be flooded with oversized envelopes or uninvited visitors.
A hotmail account, a blogspot home page and POD publication. Are you guys cheap, or what?
Yes. We try to keep our costs as close to zero as possible.
You rejected my story. Who died and made you the experts?
If you're serious about pursuing a career in writing, come to terms with rejection. A lot of subjectivity goes into selecting stories for publication. If we say no, someone else may say yes, or you can always self-publish. And yes, it's possible your novella is terrific and we just didn't see it. (It's also possible it isn't great, and the sooner you recognize the flaws in your writing, the sooner you can correct them.)
