Literary Fiction Submissions in India
An independent Indian publisher reading novels, novellas, and short story collections — with attention and respect for every manuscript that arrives.
Publishing literary fiction in India
Literary fiction in India is having a moment — Indian voices in English are being read across the world, and readers at home are hungry for stories rooted in the lives, landscapes, and languages around them. But the doors of large commercial publishers can be narrow, and many serious writers find their manuscripts falling through the gap between what sells fast and what lasts.
Parchment Publications was founded for that gap. We are a small, independent house that publishes literary fiction from Indian writers — debut and established — and we read submissions directly from authors, without requiring a literary agent.
What we look for
We don't follow a formula. We follow a feeling. Novels with a distinct voice, short story collections that hold together with intent, novellas that don't apologise for their length. We are open across historical, contemporary, cross-genre and quietly experimental work — provided the writing has authenticity and something to say.
How to submit
Email hello.parchment@gmail.com with:
- •A brief author bio
- •A one to two page synopsis
- •Three sample chapters (or three stories, for collections)
We do not charge reading fees or publication fees. If your work fits our list, we invest in editing, design, marketing, and distribution.
Frequently asked questions
Who publishes literary fiction in India?
A small number of independent Indian publishers actively acquire literary fiction — work driven by voice, character, and craft rather than commercial formula. Parchment Publications is one of them. We read submissions from debut and established authors writing in English across India.
How do I submit a literary fiction manuscript to an Indian publisher?
Send a brief author bio, a one to two page synopsis, and three sample chapters to hello.parchment@gmail.com. We prefer polished drafts, but the manuscript does not need to be professionally edited before submission.
Do I need a literary agent to submit in India?
No. Parchment accepts direct submissions from authors. Most Indian literary publishers are open to unagented manuscripts, which is different from the US and UK markets.
How long does it take to hear back?
We read every submission personally. Due to volume, we only respond to manuscripts we wish to pursue. If you have not heard back within twelve weeks, please assume the work was not a fit for our list — this is not a reflection of its merit.
What kind of literary fiction are you looking for?
We look for authenticity of voice, depth of thought, and stories that stay with a reader. We are open to novels, novellas, and short story collections. We publish across genres — historical, contemporary, literary, and cross-genre work — provided the writing has soul.
Do you charge fees to publish?
No. Parchment is a traditional publisher. We do not charge reading fees, editing fees, or publication fees. If we take on your manuscript, we invest in editorial, design, marketing, and distribution.