By Chance Books Second Quarterly Short Story Contest
We’re seeking compelling short stories about the unexplained—the moments when the familiar world suddenly feels strange. A ghostly encounter. A premonition that comes true. Missing time. An impossible coincidence. A glimpse of something that shouldn’t be there. A strange creature in the woods. A glitch in the fabric of reality. An unsolved mystery, a supernatural phenomenon, or an experience that defies explanation.
Submissions may be fiction or nonfiction, in any genre, and can be frightening, mysterious, thought-provoking, humorous, or even hopeful. We’re interested in the full range of stories that live somewhere between what we think we know and what we can’t explain. What matters is the inexplicable element at the heart of the story—how the unexplained disrupts, transforms, or simply leaves us questioning what we thought we understood about the world.
Every entry will receive thoughtful, professional feedback from a real reader. Ten winning stories will be selected for publication in a professionally edited anthology under the By Chance Books imprint. Each winner will also receive five complimentary copies to share with family and friends.
This is a contest designed to support and elevate great work, foster connections between emerging authors and industry professionals, and build a vibrant writing community. Come tell us about the things that haunt us, puzzle us, surprise us—and sometimes make us wonder if there’s more to this world than we can see.
Why Enter?
- Every story is read by a real person.
No algorithms and no automated filtering.
- Professional feedback for every entrant.
You’ll receive thoughtful, professional insight to help strengthen your work.
- Opportunity for publication
Ten winning stories will be professionally edited and published in a By Chance Books
anthology, and winners receive five free copies to share.
- Meaningful exposure
Your work will be featured in a professional produced book made available in paperback
and digital (eBook) editions.
- Build your writing community
Connect with other writers and engage with a growing network of emerging
authors.
- Access to industry insight
Connect with experienced publishing professionals who can help you take
your work to the next level.
How It Works
Submit your story
Send us your short story exploring the inexplicable—the moments when the familiar world suddenly feels strange.
Submissions may be fiction or nonfiction, in any genre.
Every entry is carefully read
All submissions are reviewed by a real person. No algorithms, no automated
filtering.
Receive professional feedback
Every entrant receives written feedback with clear, constructive insight to
help strengthen their work.
Selection process
Our editorial team evaluates each story based on:
- Originality and strength of concept
- The role of chance as a central element
- Quality of writing and voice
- Emotional or intellectual impact
Winners
Ten winning stories will be selected for publication. Each will be
professionally edited and included in a By Chance Books anthology,
with five complimentary copies provided to each winner.
Additional copies can be purchased by winners at half price.
From submission to publication
- After selection, winners work with our editorial team through the editing
process. The final anthology will be professionally produced and made
available in paperback and digital (eBook) editions.
Timeline
- Entry Deadline: October 31, 2026
- Results Announcement: December 1, 2026