Submissions

We are happy to consider submissions across all genres, provided the manuscript is written in English.

A cover letter is not required. A clear synopsis is sufficient.

If there is any additional information you would like us to know, such as relevant writing experience, previous publication history, an existing readership or promotional opportunities, please include this as a separate paragraph at the end of your synopsis.

Your manuscript should be typed and easy to read. We prefer manuscripts to be submitted in Microsoft Word format, using 12pt Times New Roman where possible.

We are unable to accept handwritten submissions.

We aim to review submissions within 4–6 weeks. We respond to all authors, regardless of the outcome.

Yes. We can consider resubmissions after six months from the original review.

This allows authors time to revise and develop their manuscript before submitting it again for consideration.

For poetry submissions, we usually recommend a collection of around 20 poems.

For other genres, we generally look for manuscripts that would produce a finished book of at least 28 pages.

We can review up to two submissions at the same time.

Once your manuscript is received, our submissions team will carry out an initial review to ensure we have everything required. If suitable, your work may then be passed to our Editorial Board for further consideration.

The Editorial Board assesses each manuscript carefully, considering factors such as writing quality, originality, genre, target audience, market potential and suitability for our publishing list.

Where appropriate, we may offer a traditional publishing contract. In other cases, if we believe a manuscript has strong potential but is not suitable for a traditional contract, we may offer a shared-cost publishing contract. Under this route, the author contributes towards the initial cost of publication, while Pegasus supports the production, publicity, marketing and distribution of the book.

If we are unable to offer publication, we will let you know.

Yes. You do not need to live in the UK to submit your work to us. We welcome submissions from authors around the world.

No. If you already have illustrations you would like us to consider, please send three sample images with your submission.

If your book requires illustrations and you do not have your own, please let us know. We can consider this as part of the review and publication process.

Yes. You retain copyright of your work. Any rights granted to Pegasus will be set out clearly in your publishing contract.

The time required to produce a book can vary depending on the length and complexity of the manuscript, as well as factors such as editing, proofreading, illustrations, cover design and author revisions.

Some books may be completed in as little as three months, while others may take longer. Your dedicated production coordinator will remain in contact with you throughout the process and keep you updated on progress.

Once your contract is signed, your manuscript will enter the production stage. This usually begins with house styling, where your manuscript is prepared in line with our internal book formats, styles and layouts.

Your manuscript will then be proofread, with spelling, grammar, punctuation and consistency carefully reviewed. Any agreed amendments will be incorporated before the book moves into formatting and layout.

At the same time, our design team will work with you and your production coordinator on the cover design and, where relevant, illustrations. Once all elements are complete, you will be asked to review and sign off your book before it is finalised for publication and publicity.

During the publishing process, we will discuss the most suitable format for your book. This may include paperback, hardback, or both, depending on the book and the publishing contract offered.

We also publish our titles as eBooks and Audiobooks.

During production, it is helpful to begin thinking about how you can support the publicity and marketing of your book.

You may wish to prepare a list of local media contacts, bookshops, libraries, community groups, organisations, bloggers, reviewers or podcasts that may be relevant to your book. It can also be useful to build or update your author social media pages and begin engaging with potential readers.

If you know people who may be interested in receiving an advance review copy, you can also make a note of these contacts to discuss with your publicist at the appropriate stage.

Your book will be made available through a range of online retailers and book trade channels internationally.

For UK authors, this may include the Pegasus website, Amazon, Waterstones, Blackwell’s, Foyles, Bookshop.org and many independent bookshop websites.

For international authors, availability may also extend to retailers such as Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Indigo/Chapters, Booktopia, Exclusive Books and other relevant platforms, depending on territory and distribution arrangements.

We are continually working to build relationships with retailers and explore new opportunities to help our books reach readers.

One of our publicity goals is to encourage bookshops to consider stocking your book. Initially, most titles are made available online and through book trade ordering systems, meaning bookshops can order copies on request.

Physical bookshop placement is usually at the discretion of individual retailers, but we will work to support opportunities where appropriate.

We usually begin by looking at the most relevant audiences and opportunities for your book. This may include your local area, the subject matter of the book, its genre, target readership, and any personal or professional connections that may help support publicity.

Our aim is to build a focused promotional foundation and then explore wider opportunities where suitable. Through digital marketing, online publicity and author engagement, books can reach readers in the UK and internationally.

We strongly encourage authors to be actively involved in promoting their books. Author involvement can make a real difference, especially through local contacts, social media, events, reviews and personal networks.

As your publisher, we will support you with guidance, suggestions and publicity activity where appropriate. Your publicist will be available to help you understand the process and explore suitable opportunities throughout your publishing journey.