Books by writers of the quiet hours
The Moonlit Bookshelf
Memoirs, novels, poems and stories, many of them written late at night or before dawn, by writers in and around our community.
Free to submit, always. We never charge for a listing or a note, and we only share what authors send us with their permission.
On the shelf
Notes from James
Now and then I write a short personal note about a book from the shelf: what stayed with me, who I think would love it, and a line or two I can't stop thinking about. I'm a writer, not a critic, so these are notes from one reader at the desk to another.
- Honest, always. I only write notes about books I can genuinely recommend.
- Kind, always. If a book isn't for me, I'll say so privately, and it stays on the shelf. No one gets a bad public review here.
- Open about free copies. If an author sends me a book, the note says so.
- A few a month. Reading takes time, so I choose one or two books each month from those submitted.
Submit your book
Self-published, small press or traditionally published, finished or coming soon: all are welcome. Memoirs and family stories especially.
Tell us about your book
Thank you. We'll write to you personally about your book.
Questions people ask
Does it cost anything?
No. Listings and notes are free, and they always will be. We never accept payment for a review.
Do I need to be a Moonlit Scribes member?
No, though members come first when the shelf is busy. Joining is free, and the Discord is a lovely place to celebrate a book.
Will every book be listed?
We list books that suit our community and are right for adult readers. If yours isn't a fit, we'll tell you kindly.
What if James doesn't love my book?
Then he'll say so privately, and your book stays on the shelf. Notes are only ever positive recommendations; there are no bad reviews here.
Should I send a copy of my book?
Only if James asks to read it for a note. If he does, the note will say the author sent a copy.
Can I remove my listing?
Yes, anytime. Email [email protected] and we'll take it down.