MASKS OF SANITY
Stories of Secret Psychopaths
Wicked Shadow Press invites fiction submissions for publication in its anthology "Masks of Sanity" (Expected release: April 2024). The submission deadline is March 5, 2024
THEME: Secret Psychopaths
The theme "Secret Psychopaths" explores the unsettling truth that the most dangerous people might hide behind a facade of normalcy. It's an invitation to take a deep dive into the complexities of human psychology, where the line between ordinary and sinister blurs. This theme challenges to see beyond appearances, acknowledging that true malevolence can wear a familiar face and walk among us unnoticed. It's a reminder to question what lies beneath the surface, revealing the impact of those who blend into society while harboring dark intentions.
Feel free to use an idea of your own or take inspiration from one of our writing prompts below:
=> On a utopian planet where emotions are regulated by government-mandated implants invented a millennium ago, a glitch in the system allows a common individual to rise as a psychopathic leader by manipulating the public's emotion to their will.
=> A group of friends on a remote camping trip in the woods finds an old mask buried beneath the ground. One by one, they are drawn to wear the mask, each revealing their darkest desires and twisted tendencies.
=> In the lavish courts of Renaissance Italy, a charismatic nobleman uses his charm to climb the social ladder, secretly employing ruthless tactics and eliminating anyone in his way.
=> In a bustling metropolitan hospital, a highly respected surgeon with a flawless record harbors a dark secret. Behind their mask of professionalism, they orchestrate accidents to create more 'opportunities' for their surgical brilliance.
=> Amidst a sacred rebellion, a follower stumbles across the truth that their charismatic revolutionary leader uses the chaos to mask their own bloodlust, executing enemies and allies alike under the guise of justice.
=> In the high-stakes world of corporate espionage, a skilled operative falls for their target, a CEO with the mask of a charmer. As the spy delves deeper into their assignment, they uncover a ruthless psychopath willing to destroy anyone to protect their empire.
All subgenres are invited, with the theme being 'Secret Psychopath'.
WE ARE ACCEPTING
Short Stories: (between 1500-8000 words) Please send no more than ONE fiction
Flash Fiction: (between 50-1500 words) Please send no more than TWO flash fictions
We are considering TRANSLATED WORKS as well. Submission of translated works must be accompanied by a statement declaring that the translator has obtained the author’s permission and their publisher’s, if required.
Simultaneous Submissions are welcome but the author must inform us by e-mail as soon as the submitted piece is accepted elsewhere. Pieces cannot be withdrawn once Wicked Shadow Press informs the author of its acceptance for publication.
We consider reprints but generally do not publish them unless they are exceptional. Please mention in the mail body in case your submission is a reprint.
At present, we are unable to pay our contributors. Each contributor shall receive a COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL COPY of the anthology as soon as it publishes.
Manuscripts should directly be sent to WickedAnthology@gmail.com. Please write Submission for MASKS OF SANITY in the subject line of your submission email.
Please submit your files in the following formats: .doc /.docx /.txt. DO NOT submit PDFs.
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Wicked Shadow Press uses non exclusive rights to publish in its anthologies. Authors are free to republish their work anywhere else once it has been published.
Please submit only original pieces. Wicked Shadow Press or the editor/s of the anthology shall not be responsible for any disputes arising due to plagiarism or copyright infringement.
Each piece MUST be attached with a short bio of the author, preferably within 100 words, and if possible, a photograph of the author to go along with publication.
NOTE: We typically reply within a month after receiving submissions. However, replies can be delayed under unforeseen circumstances.