Year of Queer Lit

This moment has been a long time coming.

Across the Threshold is the first-ever publication from Year of Queer Lit Press, and it is stepping into the world exactly how we dreamed it would. Queer. Speculative. Purposeful. And rooted in community.

This is a queer speculative charity anthology featuring 13 stories centered on thresholds, transitions, transformations, and the moments that change everything. The step you hesitate before taking. The doorway you never expected to open. The instant where the world tilts and you are not the same afterward.

If your stories live in the in-between, we want them.

What We’re Looking For

Across the Threshold welcomes speculative work across a wide, strange, luminous spectrum:

Fantasy
Sci-Fi
Horror
Paranormal
Magical Realism
Weird

Stories should explore moments of crossing. Physical, emotional, magical, cosmic, or quietly internal. Thresholds can be literal or symbolic, gentle or catastrophic, chosen or forced.

Word Count: 1,500–7,500 words

Please note: AI-generated or AI-assisted writing will not be considered.

Important Editorial Notes

This anthology is designed to support writers with finished, polished stories.

Submissions should be fully drafted and structurally complete. We will provide line editing and proofreading only. We will not be offering developmental edits, major restructuring, or concept shaping for this project.

If your story needs polishing rather than rebuilding, you are in the right place.

A Doorway for New Voices

One of the core goals of Year of Queer Lit Press is to create real, accessible entry points into publishing.

Across the Threshold is absolutely open to first-time and previously unpublished authors. If you have been waiting for a chance to dip your toes into publication, especially in a supportive, values-driven space, this is that invitation.

We believe emerging voices belong on the shelf alongside established ones.

Why This Anthology Matters

This is not just a book. It is a beginning.

Across the Threshold marks the official launch of YoQL Press, something we have been dreaming toward for a long time. A press built around queer stories, ethical practices, transparency, and care for both creators and community.

And it is a charity anthology.
100% of proceeds will benefit Rainbow Railroad, supporting LGBTQIA+ people around the world who are facing persecution and violence.

Your stories will help open doors for others.

Key Details at a Glance

• Submissions open now
• Deadline: February 28, 2026
• 13 selected stories
• Queer speculative focus
• Charity anthology benefiting Rainbow Railroad

If you have a story about crossing, becoming, surviving, or transforming, we hope you’ll step forward.

The door is open.

Submit Stories Here