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Literary Wanderlust

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Independent publishing3 open opportunities listed

About the press

Literary Wanderlust is an independent literary organization dedicated to publishing and promoting work that explores themes of travel, place, and cultural encounter. Founded in 2015, it emerged from a desire to create a space for writing that moves beyond conventional travelogue, embracing fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that interrogate the meaning of journey and displacement. The organization operates with a lean, editor-driven ethos, prioritizing literary quality and diverse perspectives over commercial trends. Its core mission is to foster a global community of readers and writers through its annual anthology, online journal, and writing contests, offering a platform for both emerging and established voices.

Publishing focus

Literary Wanderlust is a coalition of professional editors publishing books they love.

FictionNovel

Selected authors
Sue Hinkin, Lina Hansen, Ali Ives, Joy Jarrett, Jeffrey Speight

Calls & opportunities

3 listed

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodJan 2 to Nov 20
Reading feeNo
Response timeLess than 3 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Writers should approach Literary Wanderlust with a clear understanding of its focus on nuanced, literary treatments of travel and place. Avoid postcard descriptions or exoticizing narratives; instead, submit work that engages critically with themes of movement, identity, and belonging. For contests, adhere strictly to genre and word count guidelines, and proofread meticulously. The editors appreciate submissions that demonstrate a strong sense of voice and a willingness to experiment with form. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but notify promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Response times vary, so patience is advised.

Thoughtfully include a full synopsis of your work with your submission. The synopsis can be short or long but should include the character arc(s) and full plot, which includes the ending.

Read official guidelines