Jelso Publications Jelso Publications Quality & Creativity

Jelso Publications is an exciting new independent press with a clear commitment to powerful storytelling and to bringing compelling historical narratives to a wider readership. I look forward to working with them in the future - Damien Lewis (SAS the Great Train Raid, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare)

Please note: Jelso Publications is currently closed for submissions.

UK-based independent publisher

Jelso Publications: Publishing Northern Voices — Historical & Contemporary Fiction

Jelso Publications specialises in historical fiction and contemporary thrillers, championing distinctive voices that bring past conflicts — and the people who lived through them — into sharp human focus.

We are particularly committed to writers from the North of England, whose stories and perspectives we believe deserve far greater representation within the UK publishing industry.

Explore our list Submit a proposal

About Jelso Publications

Based in Manchester, United Kingdom, Jelso Publications is devoted to publishing carefully crafted fiction for readers who value narrative drive, compelling plots, and fully realised characters.

Author-centred

We work collaboratively with our writers from proposal to publication — and beyond — shaping manuscripts and positioning each book for its ideal readership.

Historically grounded

Jelso Publications accepts a limited number of titles each year in order to give each book careful editorial attention.

Selected titles

A snapshot of the kind of work we champion at Jelso Publications.

These indicative titles reflect the genres and tone we prioritise. For current and forthcoming books, please contact us directly.

Our Publishing Approach

At Jelso Publications, every manuscript we accept is treated with care, professionalism, and respect. Each book is the result of close editorial collaboration between publisher and author.

Jelso Publications believes publishing works best as a collaborative partnership between author and publisher. We aim to offer transparent terms and fair royalty arrangements.

Option One: Author Services — £999.00

Two payments of £499.50

Under this option, the author purchases a complete professional publishing services package. The package includes:

  • Manuscript editing by award-winning author
  • Professional proofreading
  • Formatting for digital and print publication
  • Professional cover design
  • Press release at publication
  • Listing on the Jelso Publications website

Key points

  • The author retains 100% of royalties from book sales.
  • The author retains full copyright ownership of the work.
  • Jelso Publications provides professional editorial and production services.
  • This option is suitable for authors who wish to maintain full control over their publishing income.

Option Two: Publishing Partnership

Please note: only a limited number of manuscripts are accepted under this option each year.

Under this arrangement, Jelso Publications invests in the production and publication of the book. All editorial, design, and production work is provided at no upfront cost to the author.

Royalty structure

Royalties received from retailers are shared. Unlike many traditional and independent publishers, where royalty rates may range from 10% to 25%, Jelso Publications offers a fairer share:

  • 50% to the author
  • 50% to Jelso Publications

Royalty statements are issued at least twice per year, and payments are made once funds are received from the retailer.

Copyright

Copyright remains with the author. Jelso Publications is granted the right to publish and promote the work during the contract period.

Contract length

The standard term of the agreement is five years from publication, after which rights revert to the author unless the agreement is renewed.

What’s included

Under the Publishing Partnership, Jelso Publications provides:

Editorial Excellence

Your manuscript will be edited and proofread by an experienced, award-winning author — never by AI. We believe great fiction deserves thoughtful human attention, constructive guidance, and a genuinely collaborative editorial process.

Professional Production

All formatting for digital and print editions is handled in-house to ensure a polished finish that meets industry standards.

Cover Design & Publication Planning

Cover design is a collaborative process. Final artwork and publication dates are agreed jointly, ensuring your book launches with clarity and confidence.

Launch & Publicity

A press release is issued at the time of publication to support your book’s introduction to readers and relevant media outlets.

Publishing Format

Titles are released in:

  • Kindle edition
  • Print-on-demand paperback

This ensures your book reaches readers efficiently while remaining permanently available.

Why Publish with Jelso?

  • Collaborative editing
  • Human editing (not AI)
  • Fair royalties (50%)
  • Northern voices focus
  • Limited number of titles

Submission Guidelines

Jelso Publications welcomes submissions from new and established writers. Our list focuses on distinctive fiction with strong storytelling, compelling characters, and a clear sense of place. We are particularly interested in voices from the North of England, though submissions from writers in all regions are welcome.

Genres We Are Currently Seeking

We are actively looking for:

Historical Fiction

  • Character‑led historical novels
  • Stories set during major conflicts from the eighteenth century onwards
  • Narratives that explore the human experience of war, political upheaval, or social change

Contemporary Thrillers

  • Fast‑paced, character‑driven thrillers
  • Stories with a northern connection (author, setting, or subject matter)

What We Look For

When considering submissions, we look for:

  • Strong narrative voice
  • Well‑developed characters
  • Clear sense of place and atmosphere
  • Engaging plots that sustain reader interest

We are less concerned with literary trends and more interested in authentic storytelling and distinctive perspectives.

What to Send

Please submit the following by email:

  • A short email introducing yourself and your project
  • A brief author biography
  • A synopsis of the work (1–2 pages)
  • The first three chapters or approximately 5,000 words

Please send submissions as Word or PDF attachments and state which Publishing Option you are interested in.

Where to Send Your Submission

Email submissions to
info@jelsopublications.com

Please include "Submission" and the title of your work in the subject line.

Response Times

We aim to respond to all serious submissions. However, response times may vary depending on submission volume.

Although we will endeavour to respond to all submissions, if you have not received a response after six weeks, you may assume we are unable to pursue the project at this time.

Contact

For rights enquiries, submissions, events or general questions, please contact Jelso Publications via email.

Email
info@jelsopublications.com

Web
jelsopublications.com

Jelso Publications is a UK-based publisher. For press enquiries and review copies, please get in touch via email in the first instance.

Stay in touch

If you would like to receive occasional news about forthcoming titles and events, please send a brief email with the subject line “Mailing list” to info@jelsopublications.com.