We are an independent publisher, based in Gloucester.

‘Publishing with an Edge’

We were established in 2018. Our aims are to produce a small number of quality, exciting, and at times, alternative literature in various genres.

‘Quality not Quantity’

* Coming up*

Wednesday 10th April 2024 - Doors 7.00pm - The John Sebastian Flagship in Bristol Docks….. Black Eyes in Conjunction with the Satellite of Love Poetry present The launch of Hannah M. Teasdale’s new collection, ‘Indelicate Sundays’, with support from Nick Lovell, Derek Dohren, Helen Sheppard, Melanie Branton, hosted by Josephine & Peter Lay.

Thursday 9th May 2024 - Doors TBC - Script Haven, Worcester…. Black Ryes presents in conjunction with Script Haven, a Hybrid Event, the launch of Sue Finch’s new collection, ‘Welcome to The Museum of a Life’, support TBA, Hosted by Josephine Lay.

Black Eyes are,

Peter Lay: Publisher. All the technical stuff involved in the production and publishing of ‘Black Eyes’ books, templates, layout, contracts, pricing, royalties, marketing etc. It is Peter’s job to ensure that all ‘Black Eyes’ books are available via all Amazon platforms, Worldwide, as well as, to order, from bookshops and other booksellers, Worldwide, via the major wholesalers. In 2020, some of our potential marketing developments, have been paused due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. However, as one door part closes another opens, with potential alternative marketing opportunities beginning to emerge.

Josephine Lay: Creative Writing Adviser & Editor. Josephine, as the Creative Writing Adviser for ‘Black Eyes’ has a major say in who we publish. We look for excellence, creativity and emerging talent. As Editor for ‘Black Eyes’, Josephine works with the author to maintain their voice throughout the editing process. ‘Black Eyes’ is very much a team, and Josephine has her say, as we all do, on most aspects of the production and publishing process.

Jason Conway: Jason of thedaydreamacademy.com is our go to person for cover design and cover completion. Every cover design at ‘Black Eyes’ is a four way dialogue between the Author, Josephine, Peter and Jason. Usually, one of us has an initial idea and then there is always an element of to and fro with the design, or even a re-think, until we are all happy with the concept. Then it’s up to Jason to finish bringing that concept into life as a ‘Black Eyes’ cover..

Please take a look at each of our Authors pages for details of their publications and artworks. Each publication is available to buy in Paperback format from Amazon or by order from your local bookshop. If you like any of the artworks displayed and would be interested in buying a fine art print, or commissioning one of our artists, please get in touch.

New publications are being added regularly. You can keep up to date with new titles by following our Facebook or Twitter accounts.