Well, I can finally show you what I’ve been working on for…a very long time. Between crazy life circumstances and my own insecurities, it took me a while to finally get this project off the ground. But I’m so glad I did!
Long story short, I founded my own online literary journal called Purple Tomte Press!
What is Purple Tomte Press?
Back in my Rainier Writing Workshop days, I learned that some of my peers had set out to start their own literary journals where writers could submit their work to be published. I’d never thought about it before, but I immediately wanted to do something like that myself. But it sounded so difficult, complicated, and time-consuming. I decided that, for my outside experience during my second year at RWW, I would go to a cabin for a few days to write instead. And while I learned a lot from that experience, I never really got past how cool it would be if I started my own literary journal.
I knew for sure that, if I were to create my own journal, it would have to publish stories in the fantasy genre. So, I had the basics down. Easy! I patted myself on the back for the job well done and then shelved the idea for Future Rachel to figure out later (if ever).
It was meeting my friend Katrina that reignited the dream. We’re both writers who love dragons, magic, and all things fantasy. One day, I brought up my idea for a literary journal, and she said, “You should do it!” She agreed to help me when I got it started and held me accountable for actually starting.
Now, for the vulnerable part: In March of this year, I got laid off due to workforce reductions. A lot of friends and coworkers experienced the exact same depressing thing. One day, I had my dream job, and the next? Poof. My life changed drastically in a matter of hours. I found myself on uneven footing with no end in sight.
The bright side: I suddenly had a lot more time on my hands.
After weeks of research and procrastination, I decided that if I were ever to found a literary journal, now would be the time. Within one trip to Starbucks, I had a website and email set up. Not long after, all the web pages were written. I asked the ever-talented affable_arts on Instagram to make a logo, and I launched the site. All systems go!
What can I submit?
Purple Tomte Press is an online fantasy literary journal that publishes short stories, poetry, and flash fiction. If it has something to do with magic, castles, dragons, or fantasy of any sort, it’s welcome at Purple Tomte.
- Short stories: Up to 8,000 words.
- Poetry: Up to 3 poems per submission.
- Flash Fiction: Up to 500 words.
See Purple Tomte Press‘s submissions page for more details.
When is the deadline?
Purple Tomte is currently open for submissions until September 1, 2025. The plan is to publish two issues per year!
Submit to Purple Tomte Press!
I’m super excited about finally launching this journal and sharing it with the world. It’s been my dream for the past few years to create a place for fresh voices to get their stories published. So many talented writers out here deserve a great home for their fantasy tales, and I’m grateful to be able to provide that.
Check out the site and stand by for the first issue of Purple Tomte Press!
Rachel Sandell 