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Apple in the Dark (Gold Star Program) Gold Star

About the Journal

Apple in the Dark is an online publication focusing on works of fiction and creative nonfiction no longer than 1,500 words apiece. Typically, we offer two issues a year: summer/fall and winter/spring.

Payment

We cannot pay you (unless it's for a contest) as of now, but we will promote you via the site and social media. And it’s free to submit!

Eventually we’d like to be able to pay authors and upgrade our WordPress, etc., in order to offer a better journal/site. If there’s any chance you’re able to donate to help us reach these goals, please donate any amount via PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/appleinthedark. Any help would be very much appreciated.

Rights

AITD asks for first publication rights. You may publish your work featured on the site elsewhere following initial publication, but please credit AITD with first publication.

Thank you for your support. We can’t wait to see whatever delightful work comes our way.

Quick Links to Open Calls:

2025 Flash Fiction Contest Fee: usd $6.00

Open

Apple in the Dark is reading for its 2025 flash fiction contest. $6 entry fee. $150 first-place prize. Winner and potentially some finalists will be published in 2025. Documents must not have identifying information. Word limit: 1,500. Multiple entries are welcome, though you'll need to submit a new entry and pay the fee for each piece. Submission window: October 30 to January 15. Final judge: Abby Frucht.

Submit

Winter 2024 Free Tip Jar Option

Open
Closes on Sunday, December 15, 2024 11:59 PM CST (in 4 days, 20 hours).

Apple in the Dark is reading for our Winter 2024 issue.

Guidelines: Up to 1,500 words per piece of flash fiction or nonfiction. No more than three pieces in a single file.

Submit