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Angry Robot: A Publisher for the Bold and the Bizarre

Updated: Mar 19

Angry Robot is a UK-based publisher known for its bold, unconventional approach to science fiction, fantasy, and genre-blurring speculative fiction. Since its launch in 2009, the imprint has carved out a niche for itself by championing innovative storytelling, diverse voices, and books that push the boundaries of speculative fiction.


 

A History of Innovation


Originally founded as an experimental imprint of HarperCollins, Angry Robot quickly gained recognition for its willingness to publish books that challenged genre conventions. In 2010, the publisher became independent under the ownership of Osprey Publishing before transitioning to Watkins Media Ltd. Despite these shifts, Angry Robot has remained dedicated to its mission: publishing high-quality speculative fiction with a distinct, sometimes quirky, perspective.


 

Genres and Notable Titles


Angry Robot specializes in science fiction, fantasy, and adjacent genres, including cyberpunk, steampunk, space opera, and urban fantasy. It has developed a reputation for taking chances on debut authors while also attracting established talent. Some of its most celebrated books include:


  • "The Lives of Tao" by Wesley Chu – A thrilling mix of science fiction and espionage that won the Alex Award and launched Chu's career.

  • "The Queen of All Crows" by Rod Duncan – A steampunk adventure with a strong female protagonist, blending alternate history with a detective noir vibe.

  • "The Broken Empire" series by Mark Lawrence – A dark, gritty fantasy that challenged traditional heroic narratives.

  • "The Outside" by Ada Hoffmann – A unique blend of cosmic horror, artificial intelligence, and hard sci-fi from an autistic author bringing much-needed neurodivergent representation to the genre.

Angry Robot has earned praise for publishing diverse and underrepresented voices, championing authors who bring fresh perspectives to speculative fiction.

 

Publishing Model and Advances


Unlike many independent publishers, Angry Robot is known to offer advances to most of its authors, though exact figures are rarely disclosed. Its publishing contracts typically include print, ebook, and audiobook rights, ensuring that books reach a wide audience across multiple formats.


 

Innovative Marketing and Community Engagement


Angry Robot has a reputation for engaging with its readers through creative marketing strategies and digital outreach. Early on, it experimented with DRM-free ebooks, unique branding, and interactive promotions, setting itself apart in an industry often hesitant to embrace digital trends.


The publisher also interacts closely with its audience through social media, book tours, and events, maintaining a dedicated fanbase that appreciates its commitment to boundary-pushing fiction.


 

How to Submit to Angry Robot


Angry Robot only accepts submissions via literary agents, except during occasional open submission windows when unagented authors can pitch their manuscripts directly. These open calls have been instrumental in discovering new talent, making the publisher an attractive option for emerging writers.





 

Conclusion


For writers and readers looking for science fiction and fantasy that dares to be different, Angry Robot is a standout publisher. With its commitment to bold storytelling, diverse authorship, and experimental marketing, the imprint continues to be a force in the speculative fiction world—one that embraces the weird, the wonderful, and the wildly imaginative.




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