The next issue of Popshot will be on the theme of…“Haunting.”

We have just finished putting together the Joy Issue (thank you to all who submitted), allowing us to open the doors for new submissions.

Our next theme is ‘Haunting’ and we are interested in writing that looks broadly at what it means to be haunted in some way.

Writers might want to consider the different meanings of haunting; from the repeated appearance of a ghost, to an obsession or memory that haunts someone, through to an evocative sound or keening, or, in its simplest form, a person or thing that turns up again and again at the same location. Although we love spooky tales and this issue will be on newsstands over Halloween, we’re not only looking for classic ghost stories. We want to know about times when you’ve felt haunted or been the person doing the haunting. Feel free to take us somewhere funny and lighthearted; or go very dark indeed.

Successful submissions must display excellent writing, creative flair and originality. We are looking for a mixture of humour, social commentary, honesty and thrilling storytelling. We welcome all genres and writing styles so long as they follow our guidelines for submission (for more on which, click here).

Submissions for the Autumn 2022 issue are open until 9am (UK time) on Wednesday, 1 June 2022.

The Haunting Issue will be published in August 2022.

Guidelines for submission are here.

Three entries maximum. Entries over the word count will not be considered. We’re very sorry but due to volume we cannot reply to submissions unless they are successful, so if you haven’t heard from us by the end of July 2022 please take it as a pass.

To discover more about Popshot, pick up a copy from WHSmiths or another reputable newsagent (here are a few other ways you can safely find it). You can subscribe to either hard copy or digital editions. Four issues are published per year showcasing the best emerging fiction writers.

To see your writing published and illustrated, head to our submit page for the full guidelines. Include the issue and form of your work in the subject line (i.e. Haunting – Poetry). We are open to original contributions from anyone, anywhere in the world.

At Popshot towers we have just wrapped up the Joy Issue, which will be on sale from 5th May 2022.

Got a question? Drop us a line at hello@popshotpopshot.com

To ensure that you never miss a future issue of the print magazine, subscribe from just £24 for 4 issues.