Since July 2023, prose reader Rachel Gonzalez has brought her thoughtful eye and passion for storytelling to the Black Fox submissions queue. Whether she’s championing fresh voices or noting the quiet power in a well-crafted scene, Rachel approaches each piece with care and curiosity. In this edition of Inside the Den, we’re excited to introduce you to one of the readers helping shape what makes it onto our pages.
Black Fox Literary Magazine: Hi Rachel, how did you become a reader for Black Fox?
Rachel Gonzalez: I’ve been following Black Fox for years; I even submitted some work once upon a time. I’d taken a break from writing and the world of publishing but really wanted to join a small press in some capacity. So, when I saw the call for readers I jumped at the chance.
BFLM: What kinds of stories or themes are you most drawn to?
RG: I love a story I can really sink into, regardless of genre. Whether it’s really sturdy world building or dialogue that just feels authentic, I want to be able to immerse myself in whatever story is being told. Tug on my heart strings, make me feel connected to your characters or your conflict. Make me laugh, make me mad, just make me feel something big.
BFLM: What’s your biggest pet peeve when it comes to reading a submission?
RG: I can’t stand clunky dialogue. That’s something I’ve really learned about myself as a reader. There’s nothing that takes me out of a story faster than bad dialogue.
BFLM: What makes a submission stand out (in a good way)?
RG: I think a lot of the stories I give the thumbs up to catch me right from the beginning and hold me there. I can warm up to a story, but a lot of the time if the hook is there and the rest of the story measures up that’s an easy yes for me. So just make sure you’ve got a strong opener and you’ve got my attention.
BFLM: What’s something you’ve learned from reading submissions that surprised you?
RG: There are so many brave and amazing voices out there! Submitting work in general takes a lot of guts—rejection and critique can be really challenging. But so many of the stories we get have unbelievable heart and are so honest and earnest. I love getting these glimpses into the rest of the world.
BFLM: Many thanks, Rachel, for giving us a peek into your reading process and perspective. We’re grateful for the time, energy, and insight you bring to the Black Fox team.
Stay tuned for more staff spotlights in upcoming editions of Inside the Den—because every page begins with a reader.
Rachel Gonzalez is a reader and writer from Arizona. She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing and a Masters in English Literature. She is a librarian who loves being outdoors, tattoos, her dogs, Tolkien, and a good sci-fi book. Some of her favorite authors are John Green, Becky Chambers, Jessica Johns, Alex Croucher, and TJ Klune.
