Submitting to Kiya

“I’m looking for compelling fiction and narrative non-fiction which is commercial, literary, or something that feels like the best of both. Above all, I’m drawn to strong voices, honest, memorable writing, and books which confidently explore interesting, universal dynamics and experiences. I love a book that makes me cry or swoon (or both!).

Kiya would love to see… a fresh take on the classic love story, a horror or mystery steeped in gothic tones or dark academia, and queer stories in all their forms.

For fiction, Kiya is looking for: fantasy and romantasy which centres underrepresented voices, commercial and upmarket fiction featuring romance (with a particular interest in the sweeping or magical), plot-driven book club novels, and smart thrillers/psychological fiction in the vein of Gillian Flynn or Jessica Knoll. She is not opposed to magical realism or speculative twists when driven by a strong hook, and is particularly on the lookout for a fantastical or gothic dark academic mystery. She would love to find a contemporary horror in the vein of Carmen Maria Machado, Julia Armfield, or Plain Bad Heroines.

For non-fiction, Kiya is looking for: Narrative non-fiction that explores culture/modern society, and popular history.

Her favourite novels include: Babel, A Deadly Education, The Secret History, Fingersmith, Our Wives Under the Sea, Alias Grace, We Have Always Lived in the Castle, Vladimir, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, I Kissed Shara Wheeler, and everything Gillian Flynn has ever written. On the non-fiction side, she loves Educated, The Five, Conversations on Love, In the Dream House, and Crying in H Mart.

For Kiya’s most recent submissions wishlist, check out her blog post.