Submitting to Kiya

“I’m looking for compelling fiction and narrative non-fiction which is commercial, literary, or something that feels like the best of both. Above all, I’m drawn to strong voices, honest, memorable writing, and books which confidently explore interesting, universal dynamics and experiences. I love a book that makes me cry or swoon (or both!).

Kiya would love to see… a fresh take on the classic love story, a horror or mystery steeped in gothic tones or dark academia, and queer stories in all their forms.

For fiction, Kiya is looking for: commercial and upmarket fiction in the romance (whether sweeping, speculative, or commercial), grounded SFF/romantasy, historical, book club, literary, and thriller/psychological fiction spaces. She is not opposed to magical realism or speculative twists when driven by a strong hook, and is particularly on the lookout for high-concept romance, or a gothic, dark academic mystery. She would love to find a feminist, contemporary horror, in the vein of Carmen Maria Machado or Julia Armfield, and is particularly searching for a romcom in the vein of Emily Henry or Beth O’Leary.

For non-fiction, Kiya is looking for: Narrative non-fiction that explores culture/modern society, and popular history.

Her favourite novels include: Alias Grace, We Have Always Lived in the Castle, Vladimir, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, Sorrow and Bliss, Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow, The Confessions of Frannie Langton, I Kissed Shara Wheeler, and everything Gillian Flynn and Casey McQuiston have ever written. On the non-fiction side, she loves Educated, The Five, Conversations on Love, In the Dream House, and Crying in H Mart.

For Kiya’s most recent submissions wishlist, check out her blog post.