We read everything we ask for.
Strathdon Press considers unsolicited submissions in history, memoir, literary fiction, and regional reference — no agent required. Here’s everything you need before you send anything.
What we publish
Four categories, one editorial standard. If your manuscript doesn’t fit one of these, it’s likely not right for us — we’d rather tell you that up front than after twelve weeks.
History
Regional and social history with a clear subject and a general reader in mind — not academic monographs.
Memoir
Personal narrative with a strong voice and a reason the story needs telling now.
Literary fiction
Character-driven novels and short story collections. No genre fiction — no crime, romance, or fantasy lists at this time.
Regional reference
Field guides, gazetteers, and reference works tied to Aberdeenshire, the wider North East, and South Africa.
What to send
One email, four attachments. Nothing more is needed at this stage.
- 01A one-page synopsis — what the book is, and who it’s for.
- 02The first three chapters, or up to 10,000 words for non-fiction.
- 03A short author bio — previous publications, if any, aren’t required.
- 04Standard manuscript format — 12pt serif, double-spaced, as a single .docx or .pdf.
- 05We reply to every submission within twelve weeks.
Email your synopsis, sample, and bio as a single message. Use your manuscript’s title as the subject line.
What happens next
The same process, every time — whether you’re a first-time author or a Group title.
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01
Acknowledgement
You’ll get a short reply confirming your submission has been received and logged.
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02
Read & decide
Every submission is read in full. We reply either way within twelve weeks.
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03
Offer & contract
If it’s a yes, we’ll talk terms and send a contract before any editorial work begins.
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04
Editorial to publication
Editing, design, and production are handled in-house, through to distribution.
Frequently asked
Do you accept agented submissions?
Yes — agented and unagented submissions go through the same process and the same twelve-week response window.
Are simultaneous submissions to other publishers okay?
Yes. Just let us know in your covering note, and tell us straightaway if you accept an offer elsewhere.
Will you consider a previously self-published book?
Sometimes — tell us the sales history and what would change for a traditionally published edition.
Can I follow up if I haven’t heard back?
Please wait the full twelve weeks first — every submission is read, and a follow-up before then won’t speed things up.