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About the press

Veliz Books is an independent literary press based in El Paso, Texas, founded in 2014 by poet and translator Iliana Rocha. The press emerged from a desire to publish innovative poetry, fiction, and translation, with a particular emphasis on voices from the U.S.-Mexico border region and Latin America. Its catalog reflects a commitment to literary risk-taking and cross-cultural exchange, often featuring works that challenge conventional narratives and forms. At its core, Veliz Books operates as a labor of love, prioritizing artistic merit over market trends. The press has gained recognition for its beautifully designed editions and for championing underrepresented writers, including emerging poets and translators. Its curated list is small but carefully considered, embodying a belief in the power of literature to foster empathy and understanding across borders.

Publishing focus

Taking inspiration from the idea of the veliz , in 2015 Veliz Books began crossing literary borders and championing work that transcends time and trends. Veliz Books is an independent literary press dedicated to discovering, publishing, and promoting work from emerging and established authors writing poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as books in translation. Veliz Books helps literature travel and fosters a community of readers and writers passionate about words and language, regardless of where they may live.

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionTranslationNovellaShort Story CollectionsNovelMemoirPoetry Collections

Selected authors
Lauren Shapiro, Kathleen March, Amanda Berenguer/Kristin Dykstra, Adriana Riva/Denise Kripper, Anthony Sutton, Tina Cane, Allison Wyss, Naomi Washer, Sehba Sarwar, Mark Pleiss, Trent Hudley, Maureen Thorson, Jessica Smith, Chus Pato/Erin Moure, Selva Casal/Jeanne Pitas, Sergio Espinosa/Kelsi Vanada

Calls & opportunities

3 listed

Manuscript submissions

Reading periodMar 5 to May 5
Reading feeYes
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Veliz Books accepts submissions during open reading periods, typically announced on their website and social media. They seek poetry, fiction, and literary translation that demonstrates originality, emotional resonance, and a distinctive voice. Before submitting, familiarize yourself with their catalog to ensure your work aligns with their aesthetic. Manuscripts should be polished and accompanied by a brief cover letter. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but notify them promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Given their small staff, response times can be lengthy; patience is appreciated. They value translations, especially from Spanish, and are particularly interested in works that engage with border issues, identity, and cross-cultural experiences.

Veliz Books is dedicated to discovering, publishing, and promoting work from emerging and established authors. We seek quality and original literature written in English or Spanish. Veliz Books is also committed to publishing translations into English from Spanish, Portuguese, Galician, or Portuñol.

Read official guidelines