Submission Guidelines

About the Process

Understand how our submissions process works, explore our standard contracts, and learn what to expect once you submit your manuscript to Row House here.

Are We a Good Match?

Is your book a Row House book? Are you a Row House author? Discover if we’re the right publishing partner for you here.

How to Submit Your Manuscript

Follow these three steps to prepare and submit your manuscript. All submission guidelines are outlined in this section.

Submissions Update: Row House is currently considering proposals for our 2026 and 2027 catalogs. We are open to the following categories: Adult Nonfiction, Adult Fiction (Romance, Fantasy, Upmarket, Literary), Young Adult Fiction (Romance, Fantasy, Horror, Contemporary), Children’s Picture Books (Fiction and Nonfiction). These terms exclude participants of the Blocked 2 Book community, for whom all genres are open.

Note on Accessibility: We at Row House believe that every person—no matter their background, identity, or disability—should have an equal opportunity to tell their story. Therefore, if any of our submission guidelines do not meet your access needs or you have other questions about the process, please email us here or use the chat feature on this page to let us know how we can assist you in submitting your proposal.

About Row House’s Submissions Process

  • Row House and our imprints accept proposals from both agents and unagented authors on a continuous basis.

    The submission process is designed to be fair and equitable, giving no preferential treatment to agented authors.

    Exclusivity: Row House accepts proposals from agented authors on an exclusive basis only, which means that we do not accept proposals sent to other publishers for consideration. However, authors without representation can submit their proposal on a non-exclusive basis.

  • Please allow 60 days for our team to review your submission and respond via email. Submissions are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, with no preference given to agented authors.

    Kindly refrain from requesting updates on your proposal before the 60-day review period has passed.

    Note that we do not offer editorial notes or feedback on submissions.

  • All of our authors receive advances. Row House advances are a flat $40,000, while advances for our other imprints range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the genre, book format, and imprint.

    An advance is an upfront payment made to an author against their future royalties. It provides financial support during the writing and production process, allowing authors to focus on their work. Advances are paid out in installments and are recouped through book sales before additional royalties are earned.

  • Row House’s standard contracts are available for your review here. These can help you in deciding whether Row House’s financial and rights models are the right fit for your book.

    Our contracts include an eleven-page Book Launch Success Plan, a proprietary document that offers a step-by-step framework and timeline to help our authors effectively promote and market their books using accessible tools and methods.

  • Download an example of a proposal for a nonfiction self-help book, You Have 4 Minutes to Change Your Life by Rebekah Borucki, here.

is your book a row House book?

We at Row House are on a mission to raise the volume on voices that matter by publishing beautiful, groundbreaking, and provocative books by authors who are also advocates, activists, thought leaders, and masterful storytellers. Row House books are as unique as their authors, yet they share several distinctive traits. Our books...

  • Row House books speak through a social justice lens, center those pushed into the margins, and challenge the status quo with courage, creativity, and critical thinking. (e.g., The Antiracist Business Book by Trudi Lebrón and The Day God Saw Me as Black by D. Danyelle Thomas)

  • They start new conversations, introduce novel concepts, and shed light on culturally significant but overlooked movements. (e.g., Are We Free Yet? by Tina Strawn)

    Expand discussions by replacing false narratives with truth, especially those regarding identity, culture, and history. (e.g., The Humanity Archive by Jermaine Fowler and Brown Enough by Christopher Rivas)

  • Our books exemplify a “for us, by us” model, but also serve readers outside of the author’s immediate community or who might not share the author’s identity or experiences. (e.g., All the Black Girls Are Activists by EbonyJanice Moore and We Alive, Beloved by Frederick Joseph)

  • Row House titles align with the core themes and values of the company and its existing catalog, facilitating a cohesive conversation among various works. (e.g., Hood Wellness by Tamela Julia Gordon)

  • And most importantly, our books contribute to collective liberation, center joy, and acknowledge the beauty inherent in our diverse intersecting identities. (e.g., Adventurous Adeline by Mary Fashik and Someplace Generous, an inclusive romance anthology)

ARE YOU A ROW HOUSE AUTHOR?

At Row House Publishing, we believe that no one is self-made. Success is a collective effort, built on the support, wisdom, and contributions of those around us. Our publishing house follows many traditional models, but in one fundamental way, we are different: we center community in everything we do. We see our authors not just as individual storytellers but as part of a larger movement—one that thrives on interdependence, shared success, and mutual uplift.

As a Row House author, you are not just signing a book deal; you are joining a creative and activist community that believes in the power of stories to change the world. We ask that all our authors embody the following commitments in enthusiastic spirit and practice:

  • Row House is a house in the truest sense—a home for writers who care about something bigger than themselves. As such, we expect our authors to:

    • Engage with and uplift fellow Row House authors in ways that feel authentic to you.

    • Participate in celebrating each other’s successes, whether through sharing a post, attending an event, or offering a word of encouragement.

    • Approach this community with a spirit of generosity, knowing that what we pour into it strengthens us all.

  • Our books challenge the status quo, uplift the voices of those pushed into the margins, and contribute to collective liberation. As an author in our house, we ask that you:

    • Recognize that our shared values unite us, even if the ways we express them differ.

    • Represent Row House with pride, understanding that our work is part of a broader cultural conversation.

    • Avoid extractive behaviors—this is a space of reciprocity, not one-sided gain.

  • Row House is not just a publisher; we are your collaborators, advocates, and partners in bringing your book into the world. This means:

    • We work with you, not just for you. Your success is our success, and vice versa.

    • Marketing and outreach are shared efforts. We’ll provide resources and support, but your active engagement matters.

    • Transparency and communication are key. If you need something, let’s talk.

  • Row House is committed to doing publishing differently—with care, intention, and justice at the center. We ask that our authors:

    • Move through this space with respect and consideration for all members of our community.

    • Understand that this is a shared ecosystem. Supporting the house strengthens every author within it.

    • Stay accountable to the values that brought you to Row House in the first place.

Submit your book proposal to row house

We’re so pleased you’re considering Row House as a potential home for your book! To get started, please follow Steps 1–3 below for detailed instructions on how to submit your proposal for consideration.

STEP 1: Choose the best imprint for your book.

  • Row House® publishes socially impactful and culturally relevant titles on a limited basis, typically releasing one title per season. We welcome nonfiction proposals in social sciences, politics, culture, religion, memoir, and history, with a focus on works rooted in social justice, liberation, and equity.

  • Brick & Bloom™ is a digital-first romance publishing imprint seeking fresh, diverse love stories featuring characters of all genders, races, sizes, and abilities. We welcome manuscripts under 100,000 words across sub-genres like contemporary rom-coms, fantasy, and thrillers, as well as unique retellings and genre-blends. We prioritize Black and brown, queer, and disabled voices, publishing romance at any heat level (excluding erotica). Stories should inspire hope, celebrate resilience, and explore love in all its forms. While we focus first on publishing new stories in ebook and audiobook formats, titles are also considered for special print editions.

  • 100 Block by Row House welcomes proposals for nonfiction and fiction books, decks, graphic novels, and illustrated works in mental and general wellness, cooking, lifestyle, politics, fantasy, humor, and pop culture—authored by voices that matter.

  • 100 Block Futures is Row House’s young adult imprint, welcoming proposals for nonfiction and fiction books, decks, graphic novels, comics, and illustrated works in humor, politics, lifestyle, fantasy, contemporary, horror and thrillers, and romance.

    We’re especially interested in:

    • Queer-focused, campy YA horror—think jump scares, dark humor, and characters with a touch of nihilism who warm up as they find their chosen family.

    • Folklore, mythology, and fairy tale-inspired stories—whether retellings or original works rooted in these traditions.

    • Clean teen romance—where relationships help characters discover themselves, find acceptance, and rediscover joy. Give us all the meet-cutes!

    • Magical realism and urban fantasy—stories that blend everyday life with adventure and a touch of magic.

    We’re currently less interested in:

    • Heavy sci-fi—unless it explores utopian themes or presents an empowering relationship with technology.

    • Strictly historical fiction—but we’d love historical YA that incorporates self-acceptance, love, magic, paranormal elements, or fresh retellings.

  • Wheat Penny Press, the children’s imprint of Row House, welcomes proposals for board books, picture books, early readers, and middle-grade fiction and nonfiction.

    We are especially interested in stories that explore:

    • Health and wellness

    • Diversity and social justice

    • Mythology, food, and culture

    • “Non-traditional” families

    • Adventure and fantasy

    Please note: Wheat Penny Press does not publish books centered on non-human characters.

  • At Row House Publishing, our commitment to social justice, equity, and community guides everything we do, including the work we publish through small. This new small business imprint in partnership with Silver Lining publishes books using both a traditional and hybrid model.

    We believe that small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and as such, we aim to support ventures that align with our mission to:

    • Disrupt outdated models

    • Champion inclusivity

    • Foster mutual uplift

    • and Change the world one small business at a time

    What We’re Excited to Publish:

    1. Entrepreneurial Stories Rooted in Diversity:
      While we welcome books that tell the stories of entrepreneurs from all communities, we are excited to publish books by Black, Brown, Indigenous, LGBTQIA+, disabled, and other underrepresented businesses owners. These stories should reflect how these entrepreneurs are working to create change within their industries, challenge the status quo, and build inclusive, ethical, and sustainable businesses.

    2. Business Resources for Social Impact:
      We are committed to publishing works that offer tools, guidance, and actionable advice for small business owners who seek to build enterprises with integrity and social impact at the forefront. This includes topics like ethical business practices, community-driven entrepreneurship, and leadership models that emphasize care and justice.

    3. Books That Center Community:
      Just as Row House Publishing and Silver Lining thrive on interdependence and shared success, we seek books that center the importance of community in business practices. Whether it's building diverse teams, fostering inclusivity in the workplace, or supporting local economies, we want to amplify work that encourages collaboration over competition and collective success over individual gain.

    4. Memoirs and Narratives of Resilience:
      We believe in the power of personal stories to drive change. We will publish memoirs and autobiographies of small business owners who have overcome systemic barriers or adversities—stories that not only inspire but also offer actionable insights for others looking to create meaningful change in their industries.

    5. Works That Uplift, Not Exploit:
      Books published under this imprint must contribute positively to the business community and reflect a commitment to fair and equitable practices. We are looking for works that honor the dignity of workers, advocate for fair wages, and address critical issues like labor rights, environmental sustainability, and economic justice.

    What We Won’t Consider for Publication:

    1. Exploitative Business Models:
      We will not publish works that promote business models that exploit workers, disenfranchise communities, or contribute to environmental degradation. Books that celebrate practices that harm vulnerable populations, encourage systemic inequality, or prioritize profit over people will not align with our values.

    2. Harmful or Exclusionary Content:
      We will not publish works that perpetuate harmful stereotypes or discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other marginalized identity. We are committed to fostering a safe and inclusive space for all, and any content that undermines these principles will be rejected.

    3. Exclusively Profit-Driven Ventures:
      Books focused solely on maximizing profits without regard for the ethical implications or social impact will not be considered. We prioritize works that seek to make a meaningful difference, not just financial gain. Our imprint is about fostering business practices that contribute to the common good.

    4. Disrespect for Community:
      We are not interested in books that promote isolation, hoarding of knowledge, or extractive practices. Works that do not engage with or contribute positively to the communities they serve will not be in line with our commitment to collective growth and empowerment.

    Hybrid Publishing with Integrity

    While we also operate as a hybrid publisher, we uphold the same core values in our acquisitions process as we do with our traditional publishing model. This means that we carefully evaluate all submissions to ensure they align with our mission of supporting all voices and fostering social and economic change. We are committed to a transparent, equitable process, and we believe that all authors, regardless of the path they choose (hybrid or traditional), should have access to the same level of support, resources, and care.

    Just like our traditional acquisitions, we will consider hybrid submissions that demonstrate a commitment to equity, community, and a desire to challenge harmful narratives and practices in the small business space. Our approach ensures that whether you are seeking a traditional publishing deal or pursuing hybrid publishing, the values that drive Row House Publishing and Silver Lining will remain at the heart of every project we undertake.

STEP 2: Prepare your proposal.

  • To submit your nonfiction manuscript for consideration, please email us with the following:

    1. A one-page cover letter
      Introduce yourself, your book, and your intended audience. Tell us why this book matters now and why you’re the person to write it.

    2. A full book proposal (30–40 pages total)
      Your proposal should include:

      • Overview (3–5 pages): What is your book about? What will it include? Who is it for? Why are you uniquely positioned to write it?

      • Marketing (3–5 pages): Your professional bio, audience and platform details, marketing ideas, and a list of 4–5 comparable titles (with Amazon links).

      • Chapter Summary (10–15 pages): A 1–2 paragraph summary for each chapter, including any exercises, tools, or resources featured.

      • Sample Chapters (10–15 pages): Two chapters that best showcase your content, tone, and what you hope your book will accomplish.

  • Please include a one-page cover letter in your submission email, introducing yourself, your book, and your target audience. Additionally, attach a book proposal that includes the following:

    1. An overview describing your book, what it will contain, why you are the person to write it, and a description of your audience or community (3-5 pages)

    2. A marketing section to include your bio, platform insights and statistics, marketing plan, and a list of 4-5 comparative titles with links to their Amazon sales pages (3-5 pages)

    3. The completed manuscript.

    4. Sample illustrations (only if you are the project's illustrator or currently working in partnership with an illustrator).

  • To help us get to know you and your project, please email your submission with the following materials:

    1. A one-page cover letter
      Introduce yourself, your project, and your intended audience. Tell us what inspired the work and what you hope it will offer to readers.

    2. A book proposal (3–5 pages each for the following sections):

      • Overview: Describe your project, what it will include, and why you're the person to create it. Share a snapshot of the audience or community you're reaching.

      • Marketing: Include your bio, platform stats (social media, newsletter, etc.), marketing ideas or plans, and a list of 4–5 comparable titles—with links to their Amazon sales pages.

    3. Writing samples
      Include samples of card descriptions and any accompanying guidebook content that shows your voice and tone.

    4. Sample illustrations
      If you are the illustrator—or collaborating with one—please share sample artwork that reflects the visual direction of your project.

  • We are currently only accepting submissions for our hybrid publishing services. Please check back soon for announcements about when general submissions will reopen.

    Our small. hybrid publishing model is designed for mission-driven professionals ready to invest in their story and amplify their impact.

    While hybrid authors contribute to the financial costs of production, every project must still move through our submissions process. This ensures that every title in our catalog aligns with the values and vision of small. and Row House Publishing.

    We’ve made the process simple and straightforward:

    To submit your book for consideration, please email us at hello@small.press with the following materials:

    1. A one-page cover letter
      Introduce yourself, your book, and your intended audience. Let us know why this book matters—and why now.

    2. Your current bio
      Include both personal and professional details, along with relevant website and social media links.

    3. A chapter summary
      Share 1–2 paragraphs per chapter, outlining the content and any exercises, activities, or resources your book will include.

    4. Two sample chapters
      Select the chapters that best represent your writing style, content, and the impact you hope your book will make.

STEP 3: Finalize and send your proposal.

  • Your proposal materials—overview, bio, marketing plan, and more—help our editorial team evaluate how you plan to promote and position your book for readers and booksellers.

    Please follow these formatting guidelines:

    • Use 12-point standard font (e.g., Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, Calibri, Times New Roman)

    • Double-space all content

    • Submit as a single, numbered PDF file

    Be sure to include your name, phone number, and email address on both your cover letter and in the body of your submission email.

    Only complete submissions will be reviewed.

  • Email your proposal to Row House Submissions using this format for the subject line: Book Proposal Submission for [imprint name] - [author name] - [book title] - [genre]