On the right Ortac

Ortac Press is a new independent publisher, primarily of non-fiction.

‘Ortac will publish a range of books, but we aim to specialise in non-fiction writing on the arts, pop culture and social science,’ said publisher Henry Rowley. ‘We’re particularly interested in writing that blends these things together. We love books that help us to understand more about ourselves and how we live our lives. As well as the non-fiction, we will publish some novels and a few things that exist in the blurry boundaries. We don’t want to rule out anything to be honest.’

Ortac was established at the end of 2020. We signed our first contract in spring 2021 – exciting news coming soon,’ said Henry. ‘I worked in children’s publishing before establishing the press, mainly on the publicity side of things. I’d wanted to set up an indie press for a long time, but I wasn’t expecting to begin work on it quite as soon as I did. Covid-19 shook everything up, and before I knew it I was making the first moves towards establishing Ortac Press. The moment felt ripe.’

Ortac Press will publish two titles in 2022, and aims to publish three the following year.

‘We want to see writing that is intelligent and thought-provoking but not overly academic in tone,’ said Henry. ‘It should be captivating and accessible. Right now we are focused on non-fiction submissions. Writing on music, film and pop culture is of particular interest; especially writing that blends art and social science. Something engaging and entertaining, but also thought-provoking.’

Henry’s feet are firmly in the indie press camp with Ortac Press. ‘We want to establish ourselves in the thriving and supportive indie press community, and gain a reputation for publishing books that are fascinating and engaging.’

Prospective authors should send fifty pages of your manuscript along with a synopsis, or a detailed book proposal by email. ‘Please include details of the target audience for your book and information about any previously published work.’

Ortac Press will publish in paperback and ebook, and pays advacnes and royalites.

Details: email: hello@ortacpress.com; website: www.ortacpress. com/