StoryForge Official Guide

StoryForge is a themed short story contest hosted by TrendSetters Press. Each challenge invites writers to create an original story based on a defined genre, sub-genre, and set of tropes within a fixed timeframe.

Selected entries will be published in a curated anthology.

• • • Word count: 3,500–4,000 words
    • Must follow assigned genre, sub-genre, and tropes
    • Original, unpublished work only
    • One entry per participant (unless otherwise stated)

• • • Theme announcement: Day 0
    • Submission deadline: End of Day 14
    • Review period: 4–6 weeks
    • Winners announced: Following review completion

• • • Standard manuscript format:
      • 12 pt font (Times New Roman or similar)
      • Double spaced
      • 1-inch margins
    • Submit as .doc or .docx file
    • Include:
      • Story title
      • Author name
      • Email address

• • • Story originality and creativity
    • Use of required tropes
    • Character development
    • Plot structure and pacing
    • Emotional impact and reader engagement
    • Writing quality and clarity

• • • All submissions are reviewed by the TrendSetters Press team
    • Top 10–15 stories are selected for publication
    • Selected authors will be contacted via email

• • • Selected stories will be included in a TrendSetters Press anthology
    • Authors will receive credit and publication recognition
    • Additional details regarding rights and compensation will be provided upon selection

• • • Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted
    • Failure to follow guidelines may result in disqualification
    • Decisions of the editorial team are final

StoryForge is more than a contest—it’s an opportunity to step into the world of published authors.

Bring your best story.