Book Submissions
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long are submissions open?
For one month, November 1 through December 1, 2026.
Are you open to reading all genres?
Yes, I am.
Do I need to have an agent?
No, I am accepting both agented and unagented submissions.
Can I submit the full book for consideration?
No, each writer should submit only the first 5,000 words (about 20 pages) and a short synopsis for consideration. If I’m interested in reading the full manuscript, I will request it from you.
Does my book need to be complete?
No. Unfinished manuscripts are welcome. My editorial process is often extensive and collaborative, so I don't mind if a project is still evolving.
Is there a fee to submit?
No, book submissions are free.
Can I submit more than one book for consideration?
No, send me your favorite.
Can I submit a book I wrote using help from artificial intelligence?
No, you may not.
Are there a team of readers going through submissions?
No, the only person reading submissions is Rose Books publisher Chelsea Hodson.
When can I expect to hear back?
Every submitter will receive a response by March 1, 2027.
Historically, what are your acceptance rates?
Over the first three years of Rose Books, approximately one percent of manuscripts submitted or solicited have been accepted for publication.
Why are acceptance rates so low?
Rose Books publishes only two books each year. A rejection shouldn't be interpreted as a judgment about the quality of your manuscript, just that I don’t think I’m the best editor for you.
Disclaimers
By submitting your work, you understand and acknowledge the following:
Publisher Chelsea Hodson will personally read and assess every submission but cannot offer editorial feedback or explanations for rejections. Decisions will be guided by instinct, intuition, and an immediate connection with the writing.
Rose Books adheres to a house style cover design. Books accepted for publication will receive a cover consistent with this visual identity.
Rose Books publishes paperback editions rather than hardcovers.
Rose Books does not distribute on Amazon, nor do we currently do ebooks. Our books are distributed internationally via Asterism.