Literary Journal

Broad River Review

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About the magazine

Broad River Review is the literary and arts journal of Gardner-Webb University, founded in 1972 and based in Boiling Springs, North Carolina. Named for the Broad River that flows through the region, the journal has maintained a continuous commitment to publishing poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and visual art from both emerging and established voices. Its mission is rooted in the belief that literature should be accessible, resonant, and attentive to the human experience, with a particular openness to work that explores faith, doubt, and the complexities of contemporary life without being doctrinaire. Over five decades, it has provided a platform for writers who value craft and emotional clarity, often bridging the academic and broader literary communities.

Editorial focus

Broad River Review publishes fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. It also encourages visual artists to submit possible cover art. In addition, the magazine sponsors two contests, the Rash Awards, with $500 first prizes in fiction and poetry.

PoetryFictionCreative Nonfiction

Submitting your work

Reading periodFeb 1 to Apr 1

Reading feeNo

PaymentContributor copies only

Response time3 to 6 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

Broad River Review accepts submissions through its website, typically during reading periods announced on its submission page. Writers should submit polished work that demonstrates a clear command of language and a genuine emotional or intellectual stake. The editors appreciate poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction that balance accessibility with depth; experimental work is considered but should have a discernible human core. Visual artists may submit reproductions of paintings, photography, and mixed media. Simultaneous submissions are generally permitted with prompt notification of acceptance elsewhere. Reading fees may apply for certain categories, and contributors can expect a modest honorarium or copies upon publication. Response times vary, often within three to six months, so patience is advised. Familiarity with recent issues is recommended to gauge tone and scope.

In general, we do not publish genre work. Please follow the suggested length and submission requirements. Our annual issue is released in late fall.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

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