Guidelines for Assure Press Publishing and Iris Literary Journal
At Assure Press Publishing, we are committed to amplifying authentic voices and bringing exceptional creative works to readers. We publish poetry, fiction, nonfiction, drama, and visual art, creating a platform for stories and ideas that inspire, challenge, and captivate. As an independent publisher, we strive to elevate emerging and established creators through high-quality publications, including our flagship, Iris Literary Journal.
Genres We Publish
Poetry
Full-length collections and chapbooks.
Includes music and lyrics.
Fiction
Subgenres: Science fiction, Western, Romance, Thriller, Mystery, Detective, Dystopia, Young Adult, Gothic, Horror, etc.
Nonfiction (and Creative Nonfiction)
Subgenres: Memoir, Biography, Satire, Fantasy, and Educational works (e.g., Textbooks, Wellness, Faith, Self-help, etc.).
Drama
Includes stage plays, screenplays, and one-act plays. Submissions should include a synopsis and character list.
Visual Art & Photography
Innovative works that push creative boundaries.
Submission Details
Language: While we primarily focus on works in English, submissions in other languages are welcome. Including an English translation is encouraged to aid the editorial process.
Reading Period: January 1 to December 31. Submissions are accepted year-round, but review time may vary based on volume.
Response Time: Typically 6–9 months. Please be patient as we thoroughly review each submission.
Simultaneous Submissions: Encouraged across all genres. Notify us promptly if accepted elsewhere.
Previously Published Work: Manuscripts may include works previously self-published or shared on blogs, message boards, or social media. For clarity, this includes platforms like Wattpad or Substack. Proper acknowledgment of prior publication will appear if accepted.
Titles Published Per Year: 6–10 titles selected from submissions.
Reading Fee: $10 per submission to cover editorial and administrative costs, including staff time and technology resources.
Publishing Model
At Assure Press, we use a traditional publishing model, accepting submissions directly from authors without requiring an agent. Learn more about traditional publishing in Writer’s Digest.
What We Offer
Editorial & Artistic Excellence: A collaborative process to help your work achieve its fullest potential.
Stunning Design & Production: Award-winning cover designs, thoughtful layouts, and eco-friendly practices.
Author & Artist Support: Personalized marketing, platform development guidance, fair royalties, and transparent collaboration.
Innovation in Publishing: Print, eBook, and audiobook formats for literary works. High-quality reproductions for art and photography. Opportunities for multimedia storytelling blending multiple art forms.
Publishing Terms:
Accepted authors will receive a publishing contract with royalties and a set number of author copies (no cost). Details will be provided upon acceptance.
Distributors
Assure Press works with industry-leading distributors to ensure wide availability in print, electronic, and audiobook formats:
Lightning Source
IngramSpark
Amazon and audible
About Iris Literary Journal
Iris Literary Journal, published by Assure Press, celebrates creativity in all forms. Each issue showcases poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, drama, visual art, and photography, offering a space for authentic voices to connect with a global audience.
Acceptable Submissions: Poetry, Fiction, Nonfiction, Drama, Visual Art & Photography, Experimental Works.
Submission Fee: $3 per entry.
Length: Varies by genre. Refer to detailed guidelines on the submission portal.
Response Times:
We respond to submissions via submittable within two weeks to three months.
Rights and Compensation:
Contributors receive one print and one electronic copy of the journal and an author discount for additional copies.
Iris acquires first-time North American rights and the right to reprint in anthologies. All other rights revert to the author after publication, provided appropriate acknowledgment is given to Iris Literary Journal.
Join Us in Celebrating Creativity
Ready to share your creative vision? Assure Press and Iris Literary Journal accept submissions from poets, writers, visual artists, and photographers year-round.
