History Through Fiction is proud to announce its fourth annual short story contest. We’re opening submissions on June 15, 2026, and they’ll close on August 15, 2026. We invite writers to send in their historical fiction short stories. Each story will be reviewed by our editors, including one volunteer judge who will provide direct feedback. On September 15, we’ll announce the longlist. Then, on October 15, we’ll reveal the shortlist. All shortlisted stories will be published in a paperback anthology, and each author will get $75. The big announcement for the runner-up and grand prize winners will be on November 15. The runner-up receives a $150 cash prize, and the grand prize winner takes home $250. Look for the anthology’s release on March 2, 2027.
Submission Period
June 15, 2026 – August 15, 2026
Submission Guidelines
Word Limit = 5,000
Time Period = Must take place prior to the year 2000
Historical Setting = Any
Publication Status = All submissions must be previously unpublished
Multiple Submissions = Accepted
We will accept any subgenre of historical fiction.
Submission Requirements and Details
Submissions will be accepted through our Duosuma Submission Manager and Submittable.
$20 Early Bird Submission Fee. Fee increases to $30 on July 15, 2026.
All submitters will be subscribed to the History Through Fiction newsletter. Submitters may unsubscribe at any time, but all contest announcements will be made through the HTF newsletter.
Stories must be in a PDF, .doc, or .docx format
Please remove all personally identifying information from your short story manuscript, including your name and any other details that could reveal your identity.
If our editors believe you submission does not meet the criteria, or is deemed inappropriate in any way, we reserve the right to disqualify your submission. Submission fees are non-refundable.
Judges
Click here to meet your judges
Judging Criteria
Your story feedback will be delivered on September 15, 2026. Your feedback form will include:
Strengths and Constructive Criticisms
Historical Relevance of the Story
Quality of character, plot, and setting
Quality of voice and point of view
Overall Impact and Quality
There will no longer be a point scale. Rather, editors will review all stories while also relying on the recommendations of the judges.
