Kismet is a new magazine of poetry, fiction, and essays that aims to offer “a fresh perspective on spirituality, religion, and mysticism for seekers and skeptics alike.” They accept writing by both emerging and established authors, and they aren’t connected with any specific religious tradition or spiritual perspective. Rather, their goal is, “to make space for diverging voices to pursue new ways of speaking to our longing for transcendence.” You can read Kismet online to get a sense of what they publish.
Kismet launched earlier this year, and since then, they’ve published three online issues, each with writing from around 15 contributors. Starting in 2026, Kismet plans to publish three print editions each year. Kismet is run by Nearness, an organization that fosters connection through small groups that explore life’s big questions.
Kismet accepts submissions on a rolling basis. Authors of prose (fiction or nonfiction) may submit one piece. For essays, Kismet prefers pieces that go beyond the personal and stay relevant beyond the current news cycle. Poets may submit up to five poems. Kismet publishes poetry portfolios rather than individual poems. Kismet also accepts translations.
Authors published in Kismet are paid for their writing, though the specific amount for payment isn’t noted in the journal’s submission guidelines.
Kismet also plans to publish one book review per week, and they’re now accepting pitches. Books should align with the journal’s mission and should be forthcoming with a two to three month lead time. Reviews should be 1,500-2,000 words, and authors of published reviews will receive $250.
Kismet accepts submissions via email, not online or by post. Although they aim to respond to all submissions, submitting authors who don’t receive a response should consider their submission declined.
Kismet only accepts submissions that follow the guidelines they’ve posted online. Please read these guidelines in full before submitting.
If you would like to learn more or submit to Kismet, please visit their website here.
Bio: Ella Peary is the pen name for an author, editor, creative writing mentor, and submission consultant. Over the past five years, she’s written hundreds of articles for Authors Publish, and she’s also served as a copywriter and copy editor for a wide range of organizations and individuals. She is the author of The Quick Start Guide to Flash Fiction. She occasionally teaches a course on flash fiction. You can contact her at ellapeary@gmail.com.
