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For all things fantasy, horror, and speculative fiction
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FAQs
What do you mean by fantasy?
Our definition of “fantasy” is very loose, ranging from epic fantasy to science fiction and horror. Any stories that have an element of the fantastic or speculative will generally be included in our remit.
Do I have to be in the UK / British to join?
No, you can be from anywhere in the world. Our members come from many different countries as well as the UK. Their common interest is the British fantasy scene and its stories, and you don’t have to be from here to enjoy them! In fact, access to this community for people from countries outside the UK is a great benefit to both them for contacts, networking and news, and the BFS for diversity, knowledge, and communication across the world.
Is the BFS only for writers?
Not at all! We have members who are writers, of course, but also readers and fans, publishers, editors, agents… in fact, anyone who enjoys British fantastical works will be welcomed as part of this friendly community.
How can I submit my work for consideration in the British Fantasy Awards?
The longlist for the British Fantasy Awards is generated from a members’ vote. You cannot “submit” your work, however if you have an eligible piece, it may be added to our suggestions list and the community will consider it alongside others. Keep an eye on our blog and social media for when this list is open to add suggestions. You do not need to be a member to add a suggestion, but only BFS and Fantasycon convention attendees for that year and the previous may vote, and you may not vote for your own work. The works with the highest votes will then be passed to a jury as a shortlist for winner selection.
Do I have to be a member to submit my book for review?
No, you do not have to be a member to submit your book review. However, there is no guarantee that a submitted work or a request will result in a review. We also do not accept self-published books for review.
I submitted my book for review, but it didn’t get reviewed. Where is it? Or, I submitted a review of a book, but it didn’t get published. Why not?
Chances are if it hasn’t been published within a reasonable time frame (a few months), we couldn’t get it completed to our standards. Best to move on.
Can I become a reviewer for the BFS?
Yes. First tell us your idea for a review and we will be in touch with guidance on how we go about things. See the form “Pitch a review” on this page.
Do I have to be a member to submit a guest post?
Yes. Please please pitch your blog idea here. Please check your latest newsletter to ensure your BFS membership is still active to avoid any issues.
How can I be featured in BFS member profiles?
Either email us at online@britishfantasysociety.org or fill in the member profiles request form here. The online content officer will take it from there. Be sure to let us know if there’s a date coming up that you’d like to coincide with publication. Please check your latest newsletter to make sure you’re still a current member to avoid any issues.
Do you do any in-person events near me?
Our members-only Discord server is a handy way to find out about local events, some of which are run by BFS members, such as meetups, book events, and so on. For BFS-organised events, always check our events calendar. Don’t forget there is also Fantasycon, an annual convention organised for the community by different volunteer groups and organisations.
What’s the difference between eMembership and paper?
A paper membership means you wish to receive a physical copy of our publications posted to your address. The rate is slightly higher to cover print and postage. Those who choose “eMembership” receive a link to download digital versions the same publications (in PDF file format).
I’m a member and would like to volunteer. Who do I contact?
Go to our Volunteer page for more information
What is / how do I join the BFS Discord server?
Discord is a kind of forum software, you can access either via your web browser or the official app. There you can see multiple different forums or “servers” and chat online to your community there. The BFS’ Discord server is only for members and by invitation. You can join the server after you have received your membership. An invitation is issued in your monthly email newsletter. Once you have clicked it, you can go through and set up an account. You will then find “channels” (like forum subsections) about different BFS topics, and help guides on how to use it, rules of expected conduct, and so on.