Oak Tree Press is an independent publisher that celebrates
writers and is dedicated to providing publishing opportunities to all
writers, especially first-time authors. We believe that books from independent presses offer the reading
public the chance to opt for quality and diversity that is all-too-often
missing in the celebrity-driven lists of the major houses.
We consider novels and non-fiction in a wide variety of
genres and subject matters with a special emphasis on mysteries and crime
fiction. We do not consider science
fiction, fantasy, or horror. Our target length is 70-90,000 words. Queries can be sent
via email, or regular post to any of the addresses below.
We prefer a one-page letter that recaps the book project, details any
suggested marketing connections and provides some brief biographical
information on the author.
We do not read long synopses, nor do we surf to internet sites to read synopses or
first chapters. Response
to queries usually comes within thirty days. We do not consider any material which is
over-loaded with obscenities, racist, inflammatory or depicts
gratuitous violence, especially against women, children or animals.
If a full manuscript is requested, allow two-four months for response.
Include SASE for response and, if return of a paper manuscript is
desired, include postage or cost of postage plus self-addressed mailer.
Manuscripts not returned will be recycled.
Since we sponsor three annual writing contests, we do not
consider “over the transom” manuscripts in those genres while the contest is
open for entries…generally January through July each year.
Details on the contest guidelines and previous winners can be found
elsewhere on this web site.
Before You
Submit....
...Think carefully about your own
personal feelings about book promotion.
Since Oak Tree Press is a small, indie publishing
house, we consider authors our partners in promoting their books. We do not
ask authors to contribute financially to the production costs needed to
bring out the book, and therefore we operate with razor-thin margins...so
much so that many promotional choices are simply beyond our reach. To
off-set this, we want to connect with authors who have a collaborative
attitude and willingness to go that extra mile in getting the word out about
their book, who will eagerly plan a book launch party where the book is for
sale, who are enthusiastic about contacting bookshops to set up a signing
event or give book talks at club meetings or conferences.
Expertise is definitely NOT required...if fact, we
prefer an enthusiastic newbie to a reluctant marketing pro...just bring your
can-do attitude and willingness to roll up your sleeves and work with us.
In short, we want to connect with authors who will
take a proactive role in promotion. If this is NOT part of your vision of
yourself as a published author, kindly rethink submitting to Oak Tree.
Submit to:
Acquisitions Editor
Oak Tree Press
140 E. Palmer St.
Taylorville, IL 62568
Email: Query@OakTreeBooks.com
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