Horrific Scribes

(an online archive of the provocative, scary, and strange)

L. Andrew Cooper, editor

Horrific Scribes is an expanding online archive of dark short fiction (and some poetry) by various authors who share the Horrific Scribblings imprint’s dedication to the provocative, scary, and strange. Read more to learn what the imprint is about.

Like the imprint’s books, all stories and poems in Horrific Scribes have elements of horror, ranging from bloodless slow burns to raucous extreme romps, but related genres–dark fantasy, dark sci-fi, surrealist and other experimental writing with dark tendencies–are included. Ordinary, formulaic fiction conceived to please the masses has its place, but it is not here. If it’s here, it offers a challenge. If it’s here, the author deserves your attention.

Archive entries will be tagged with keywords and rated according to their extremity, from

relatively trigger-free

to

all the triggers.

Don’t complain. We warned you.

Based on these tags, ratings, and other factors, Horrific Scribes will assemble pieces from the archive as “Exhibits,” like focused anthologies or special issues of magazines… but on this website and free.

Want to contribute? See our submission guidelines. Submissions closed March 31, 2025 but should reopen May 2025.

Enjoy your time in the dark.

Yours truly,

Silas the Scribble Man

Assistant to the Editor

Horrific Scribes is intended for mature readers only and may not be suitable for sensitive readers. By entering, you certify that you are of appropriate age and that you access content at your own risk.

OUR FIRST EXHIBIT IS HERE! STEP INSIDE!