May 1st, 2024
Submissions Call:
Samhain Secrets: The Witching Hour
Call for Submissions: Urban Fantasy and Horror Anthology
Submission Deadline: July 31, 2024
Blackwarren Books is thrilled to announce the open call for submissions for our annual Halloween anthology, Samhain Secrets: The Witching Hour. This anthology will feature stories set in the eerie and enchanting world of The Argent City, specifically occurring on Halloween night from midnight to 2am, known as "The Witching Hour."
For more information on submitting your own short story for the anthology, visit our Submissions page for Samhain Secrets: The Witching Hour!
March 15th, 2024
Blackwarren Books Announces Temporary Closure of Submissions Window Due to High Volume of Manuscripts
Blackwarren Books, a leading independent publisher dedicated to showcasing diverse voices and compelling storytelling, is pleased to announce the temporary closure of its submissions window due to an overwhelming number of manuscripts received. The surge in submissions reflects the growing recognition and popularity of Blackwarren Books among authors seeking publication for their genre fiction works.
"We're thrilled to see such a high level of interest in Blackwarren Books from authors worldwide," says Tim Bristol-Sigg, Managing Editor at Blackwarren Books. "The quality and diversity of the submissions we've received are a testament to the wealth of talent within the writing community."
As a result of the increased workload, Blackwarren Books is currently unable to accept new submissions, except for projects that were previously solicited or have been in the pipeline. However, the publisher remains committed to fostering new voices and expanding its catalog of genre fiction.
"We're exploring the possibility of bringing on another editor in the future to accommodate the growing number of submissions," adds Bristol-Sigg. "This expansion will allow us to continue providing opportunities for emerging authors and ensuring the highest quality standards for our publications."
In addition to its commitment to supporting emerging authors, Blackwarren Books is proud to serve as a platform for LGBTQIAP+ genre fiction. The publisher has actively sought out and published works from LGBTQIAP+ authors, showcasing a wide range of genres beyond romance, memoir, and drama.
"We believe in the importance of representing diverse voices and perspectives in genre fiction," says Bristol-Sigg. "The success of LGBTQIAP+ authors within our catalog demonstrates that there is a demand for genre fiction that reflects the full spectrum of human experiences, and we're honored to play a part in amplifying these voices."
Blackwarren Books looks forward to continuing its mission of championing diverse voices and providing readers with compelling genre fiction that reflects the richness and complexity of the world we live in.
For more information about Blackwarren Books and updates on submissions, visit www.BlackwarrenBooks.com.
March 13th, 2024
Blackwarren Books Signs Author M.J. Baerman for "The Ember Bloods" Series, Steampunk Sci-Fi/Fantasy Adventure
Blackwarren Books is thrilled to announce the signing of author M.J. Baerman for her captivating Steampunk sci-fi/fantasy series, The Ember Bloods. The series kicks off with the first volume, The Ember Bloods, which is currently in the editing process under the skilled guidance of editor Renard De Fleureaux.
Set in the year 1893, The Ember Bloods transports readers to a world where technology is booming, yet mystic creatures and their human liaisons, the Ember Bloods, are becoming scarce. With the decline of these creatures, mankind finds itself without the guidance of the ancient dragons and their greater beast cousins, whose wisdom has been relied upon for millennia.
Against this backdrop of uncertainty, a powerful Panamanian Ember sets out under Queen Victoria's orders to forge a new dragon bond, accompanied by two loyal comrades. Their journey is funded by the brilliant proprietor of Britain's largest pharmaceutical and mechanical prosthetics company, who seeks to unravel the mysteries of Ember bonds through science.
However, their quest is far from straightforward. Joined by a wily French Prowessor and a self-proclaimed philanthropic thief, the group finds themselves aboard an airship run by an outlaw captain fiercely protective of ship and crew. Their journey is fraught with peril, from encounters with sky pirates to the discovery of half-feral dragons.
The Ember Bloods promises readers an exhilarating blend of adventure, mystery, and steampunk flair. With its richly imagined world and diverse cast of characters, the series invites readers to embark on a thrilling journey filled with danger, discovery, and unexpected alliances.
The back-of-book flavor text sets the stage for an epic adventure: "The year is 1893. Technology is booming, but mystic creatures and their human liaisons, the Ember Bloods are becoming scarce. With this decline, the wisdom of the dragons and their greater beast cousins is fading away, leaving mankind without the guidance they depended on for thousands of years..."
For more information about M.J. Baerman's "The Ember Bloods" series and other releases from Blackwarren Books, visit www.blackwarrernbooks.com.
About Blackwarren Books:
Blackwarren Books is a leading independent publisher dedicated to bringing diverse voices and compelling stories to readers worldwide. With a focus on quality storytelling across various genres, Blackwarren Books aims to inspire, entertain, and engage readers with each publication.
March 5th, 2024
Blackwarren Books Announces Signing of Non-Binary Author C.C. Schulz and Their Debut Fantasy Novel The Black Mages of Marka
Blackwarren Books is thrilled to announce the signing of non-binary author C.C. Schulz for their debut fantasy novel, The Black Mages of Marka. The book is set to be the first installment in an exciting new series and will be edited by esteemed editor Kezz McDonald.
The Black Mages of Marka follows the journey of two 20-year-old friends, Firth and Leira, who discover they possess unique abilities and identities in a world embroiled in conflict. Set against the backdrop of a kingdom-wide struggle between a religious order and a magic-using underground society, the novel delves into themes of self-discovery, identity, and resilience.
In describing the book, author C.C. Schulz shares, "At its core, The Black Mages of Marka is about respecting one's true self in the face of adversity. Firth and Leira's journey highlights the challenges of embracing one's identity in a world that may not readily accept it."
The back-of-book summary sets the stage for a gripping tale of discovery and intrigue: "Firth, a 20-year-old hunter from the village of Shripry, discovers that he has the ability to see auras--but it comes with a horrible revelation: he and his best friend Leira have auras different from everybody else in their village. As soon as the word gets out, the two young adults find themselves wrapped up in a national conflict involving a magic-using cult, a crusading army bent on gaining political power, and even the kingdom's Crown Prince Aturio."
The Black Mages of Marka promises readers an immersive fantasy experience filled with magic, adventure, and the quest for self-acceptance. Stay tuned for updates on the release date and pre-order information.
For more information about Blackwarren Books and their upcoming releases, visit www.blackwarrenbooks.com.
About Blackwarren Books:
Blackwarren Books is a leading independent publisher dedicated to bringing diverse voices and compelling stories to readers worldwide. With a focus on quality storytelling across various genres, Blackwarren Books aims to inspire, entertain, and engage readers with each publication.
February 20th, 2024
Blackwarren Books Announces Signing of Shame - A Furry Speculative Fiction Novel by A. Kita and Aldous Husky
Blackwarren Books is excited to announce the signing of Shame, a captivating Furry speculative fiction novel by authors A. Kita and Aldous Husky. Set in a future Earth where climate change has been reversed and the world is at peace, "Shame" offers a thought-provoking exploration of identity, dreams, and the impact of technology on society.
In Shame, readers are transported to a world where people's dreams are being stolen and posted on Nu-Tube, a futuristic version of the internet. When the world's most idolized dream artist, the snow leopard Shan, discovers one of their personal dreams posted online, they enlist the help of a crack private investigator to unravel the mystery.
Enter Robb, a German Shepherd and ex-police dog, whose expertise in handling difficult cases leads him to uncover shocking truths. As Shan and Robb delve deeper into the tangled web of intrigue, they confront questions about the future of humanity and the complexities of our shared dreams.
Described as a blend of sci-fi, mystery, and futurism with anthropomorphic characters, "Shame" promises readers an immersive and thought-provoking reading experience. With themes that resonate with the Furry fandom, the novel aims to portray the community in a positive light while offering a glimpse into the possibilities of our collective future.
The back-of-book summary sets the stage for a thrilling adventure: "On our future Earth, where climate change has been reversed and the world is at peace, people’s dreams are being stolen and posted on Nu-Tube. But it’s not until the world’s most idolized dream artist, the snow leopard Shan, finds one of their personal dreams posted online that they hire a crack private eye to get to the bottom of the mess. And while the private investigator—Robb, a German Shepherd and ex-police dog—is an expert at handling difficult cats like Shan, it's when he finds one of his dreams posted on Nu-Tube that a chain of events begins to unfold that leads him and his client to a shocking discovery."
Shame invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery and introspection, offering a fresh perspective on the potential of our species and the enduring spirit of the Furry community.
For more information about Shame and other releases from Blackwarren Books, visit www.BlackwarrenBooks.com.
About Blackwarren Books: Blackwarren Books is a leading independent publisher committed to showcasing diverse voices and compelling storytelling across various genres. With a focus on fostering creativity and imagination, Blackwarren Books aims to inspire and engage readers worldwide.
April 4, 2023
New Blog Post: The French Connection: Queering History
This week's blog by Blackwarren Books Editor Renard De Fleuraux explores how much of French history is also #LGBTQIA+ history. Here’s what you might not know about some famous historical queers from La Belle France!
March 21, 2023
New Blog Post: For Nights of Deep Telling: How Rachel Pollack Inspired Blackwarren Books
When Blackwarren Books founder Vaughn R. Demont asked Rachel Pollack, “I want to write urban fantasy. Do you know what that is?” the answer changed the course of his life. Read on in today’s Blog post.
March 14, 20023
New blog: Rachel Pollack: Trailblazing Queer Writer
Blackwarren Books' blog post today is a short tribute to Rachel Pollack: Trailblazing Queer Writer. We’ve recently learned that the amazing Rachel Pollack, who was diagnosed with Lymphoma in 2015, is expected to pass away very soon. Our hearts are with Pollack, her family and friends, and her countless fans and admirers around the world.
March 3, 2023
Recorded Friday, March 3, 2023 now available on Allora Public Radio:
Shout out to all the Goblins out there!
Join Nick Blackwarren, Goblin thief, for one last heist: the home of the Fae Prince. With lives, souls, and the Fae Kingdom on the line, Nick will face dragons, a determined Knocker security expert, a Sidhe's private army, and the blades of a Goblin assassin. Can a lowly Goblin stand strong in the face of the highest authority? Can he stop the machinations of a Prince, and maintain a zero body count? Will Nick EVER get his sandwich?
Advisory: This episode contains vulgar language, LGBTQ+ characters, violence, and physical trauma.
Cast:
Vaughn R. Demont: Nick Blackwarren, Ganimard
Renard DeFleuraux: Rhys Llewellyn, Thomas Canmore, Prince Hadryn Summersword
Dave DeMar: Vincenzo Giansiracusa, David Aidoneus, Salondine the Red, Misc. Voices
Kezz McDonald: Rose Carpenter
Ally DeMar: Constance "Connie" Volpe-Blackwarren, Mrs. Siobahn O'Hare
Grab Settle the Score to read along!
March 3, 2023
Blackwarren Reads: Join us live at 8 PM EST on our Discord server to hear the exciting conclusion (for real) of “Settle the Score”, by Vaughn R. DeMont
Time is running out for Nick Blackwarren, Goblin thief, as Prince Hadryn's deadline grows ever closer. Can Nick break into a Royal residence guarded by Sidhe, Trolls, Dragons, and a Knocker security expert? Will he save Rhys, or be forced to fight him to the death? Will a "sewer rat" survive a battle with the Prince of the Fae? Can a Redcap find victory with a zero body count? Will Nick ever get his sandwich? Find out Friday night!
Want an invite?
February 28, 2023
New Blog: Lost in Translation: Cultural Differences in Horror - Whether it’s between straight and queer audiences or those from different countries, cultural differences in the presentation of horror are all too real.
February 24, 2023
Blackwarren Reads: Missed an episode of “Settle the Score” by Vaughn R. Demont?
Fear not!
Our podcasts are now available on anchor.fm, Google Podcasts and live on our Discord server. Join us.
Shout out to all the Goblins out there!
We continue Blackwarren Reads with a resumption of a live reading of Vaughn R. Demont's urban fantasy, Settle the Score with chapters 25-28. After a dangerous meeting with Prince Hadryn, Nick's in the hospital, Rhys is gone, and all seems lost.
Advisory: This episode contains vulgar language, LGBTQ+ characters, and adult situations.
Cast:
Vaughn R. Demont: Nick Blackwarren, Prince Hadryn Summersword
Renard DeFleuraux: Rhys Llewellyn, Thomas Canmore, Darren of Athens
Skye Sisk: Cora Blackwarren, Lady Amelia
Dave DeMar: Vincenzo Giansiracuse, Vael of Corinth
Chris Shaffer: Damon Blackwarren
Ally DeMar: Constance "Connie" Volpe-Blackwarren
Want to follow along? Like what you’re hearing? Pick up a copy of “Settle the Score”
Blackwarren Books (epub format)
Follow us on social media! Twitter Facebook Instagram Pinterest
February 23, 2023
TODAY @ 3PM EST! Join us for a special edition of Allora Public Radio where we'll discuss LGBTQIA+ Horror Literature with esteemed guests Alison Cybe, Bitter Karella, HD Ingham & Gretchen Felker-Martin!
December 1, 2022
Beginning Friday, December 9th, Blackwarren Books will host a reading of its newest release, “Settle the Score”, by Vaughn Demont, read by the author and staff, on the official Discord server. Use the hotlink at the top of the page to join our Discord and get updates and sneak-peeks at material not available anywhere else!
November 11, 2022
Release Day: Settle the Score
Release Day for Settle the Score: Blackwarren Heists, Part 2!
"What? I told ya this wasn't that kinda story. But I ain't ever said the story's over..."
In The Argent City, just beyond the gaze of humanity, dwell dragons, lycanthropes, vampires, sorcerers, gods, and the Noble Fae holding court amongst them all. Dwarves work their wonders, Sluagh gather lore of the arcane, Brownies serve with unwavering loyalty, Trolls protect with exalted courage, Phouka tell their stories that make mortals into legend. Above them are the Sidhe, who rule over all as examples and bastions of grace, art, music, intelligence, and awe-inspiring beauty beyond the ken of mortal minds. All Fae serve as exemplars of what humanity can only dream of achieving.
And then there's the Goblins...
Breaking up is hard to do. Breaking up three times with the same person is even harder. Breaking up three times with the Prince of the Phouka is nigh impossible, but that's life for Nick Blackwarren, a Goblin Thief drawn into the Redcaps, a clan of murderers and assassins. Keeping his blades clean is difficult enough with a blood-hungry magical sword, but it's made more difficult when Nick is hired to track down the killer of a young artist and retrieve her final work, a symphonic magnum opus.
To finish the job, Nick needs a team. Fortunately, he has a fast-talking Gremlin hacker, a Kitsune with her finger on the pulse, his ex-boyfriend who hasn't taken the hint yet, and the last partner he ever wanted any connection to: an elite assassin with ties to the Royal Family of the Fae. Doesn't help that he's pretty easy on the eyes, either. The investigation will lead through chases on the highway, fleeing from dragons, tracking killers, and the greatest heist of a Goblin's life: the Royal Vault.
Sometimes it just takes a thief. Other times it involves jumping off a building.
Advisory: This is a work of urban fantasy with some romantic elements featuring a homoromatic demisexual male lead. This story is written in character voice, and as a result contains numerous instances of profanity. Does not contain explicit sexual content between two male characters, 'cause this ain't that kinda story. This story also contains scenes of physical violence. Please adjust expectations accordingly.
October 31, 2022
Blackwarren Books is currently taking submissions for manuscripts! See the submissions page to check out our guidelines! We’ll close at 100 submissions, so act fast!
Blackwarren Books is seeking a new LGBTQIA+ editor to join our staff to aid in selecting manuscripts for acquisition, editing and preparing for publication, staying in contact with authors, and attending weekly online meetings with other editors.
BIPOC applicants preferred.
Send applications to vaughn@blackwarrenbooks.com with subject line “Editor Application”