The Rhiza Edge Short Story Competition for 2026 is now open!

HIDDEN CREATURES: Weird and wild stories featuring cryptids of all types!

Editors:  Rebecca Fraser and Bethany Loveridge

We’re looking for short stories with the theme of “Hidden Creatures”. We are open to stories of fantasy, horror, sci-fi, action, and crime. With a focus on cryptids/cryptozoology, we invite exciting stories that embrace folklore, mystery, speculation…and all the shadowy places in between.

Think Yetis and Big Foot, the Loch Ness Monster, Mothman, megalodons, mermaids, sea serpents, yowies, werewolves, and more. We’re looking for fresh and exciting spins on well-known cryptids, or feel free to plumb the depths of your creativity and invent a new ‘hidden creature’ – the only limits are your imagination.

Story setting can be as diverse as the theme. Contemporary or historical fiction or set in another world or planet – the choice is yours. While we welcome cryptids and mythology from all corners of the world, we ask you to be respectful and mindful of different cultures and cultural representation when crafting your stories.

Stories are aimed at readers aged 12+ so should be clean and suitable for school sales.

Chosen short stories will be edited and published as part of an anthology.

Submissions close 30 September 2026