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We’re looking for unique, true ghost stories – unfortunately, we get a lot of submissions where people have gathered their facts only from the internet… stories that may or may not be true, and are cut-and-pasted on every ghost website in the U.S. Each chapter in the book should feature a specific location, preferably one that is open to the public – an inn, restaurant, B&B, hotel, museum, cemetery, etc. It is to an author’s definite advantage to do this, since places such as this usually have gift shops, and will probably carry the book. The story of each haunting must be true. No fictional embellishment, no campfire ghost stories, and definitely no urban legends such as the Vanishing Hitchhiker, Bloody Mary, etc. (What is an urban legend? Click here for info) Ideally, the author should have visited each location to gather first-hand information and photographs. In cases where this is not possible, the author should have corresponded by email or conversed by phone with the owner/manager/etc. to get information. Keep in mind that some places do not want their ghost stories told – each place should know in advance that they are in your manuscript, or they may take legal action once they find out. Tell not only the ghost stories about a location, but also the history of the place and any interesting information to accompany each chapter. Photographs should accompany each chapter, although there can be exceptions. The author must own the copyright for (or have written permission to use) every photo submitted. The average reader of our books is 15 years of age and up, so the writing style and level should appeal to young adults all the way up to senior citizens. We literally have people in every age bracket that purchase our books. Also, the books are often carried in libraries, so offensive language should not be used. Overtly sexual topics should be avoided. No offensive language or topics that slander race, religion or gender will be tolerated. The finished manuscript should be approximately 65,000 words. Please note that writing the book is only a part of the job – you must also understand who the book will appeal to, where it should be sold, and what differentiates it from other books of the same type. We often here, "my book will be sold in Barnes & Noble stores and on Amazon." Please realize that there are thousands of books that are published, distributed, and then simply sit on the bookstore shelf. Without a reason for a person to pick it up and purchase it, the author and publisher will both be very disappointed in sales. If your manuscript fits with all the above conditions, then please query with a short synopsis of the book, an outline, three sample chapters, and a marketing plan. Email queries are preferred to: editor @ 23house.com (no spaces) PLEASE NOTE: 23 House Publishing never charges to read queries, consider manuscripts, or publish books. If you find a publisher asking an author to put up any money at all, RUN AWAY! Catalog   |   About Us   |   Guidelines   |   Contact Us   |   FAQ   |   Main Page © 1998-2009, 23 House Publishing. All rights reserved.