Press Release: Two New Poetry Chapbooks Coming Soon! About to Publish with Moonstone Press and Finishing Line Press

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESan Francisco, CA — August 24, 2025

I’m thrilled to announce that two new poetry chapbooks of mine are forthcoming — one with Moonstone Press, and another with Finishing Line Press. Both partnerships mark meaningful milestones in my poetic journey.

Highlights of the journey so far:

• Finalist in Moonstone Arts Center’s 2024 Chapbook Contest, securing a publication opportunity with Moonstone Press.

• Semifinalist for the Wheeler Prize, reflecting national recognition of my poetic voice.

• Semifinalist at Saturnalia Books, affirming my standing in contemporary poetry circles.

• Pushcart Prize nomination, a cherished acknowledgment of my work’s impact.

About Moonstone Press

Moonstone Press is known for its devotion to chapbook arts: customizing covers and interiors in close consultation with authors, offering free production support upon acceptance moonstoneartscenter.com. Their annual contest includes a $500 award, publication, 25 author copies, online promotion, and a reading in Philadelphia (or virtual) moonstoneartscenter.submittable.comPalette Poetry. I’m honored to be part of their upcoming catalog.

About Finishing Line Press

Founded in 1998 and recognized by the Community of Literary Magazines & Presses, Finishing Line Press champions diverse voices — especially women and other underrepresented writers CLMP. They publish through multiple avenues, notably including the New Women's Voices Chapbook Competition, which awards a $1,500 prize, a royalty contract, and publication to the winner (with additional finalists included in a celebrated chapbook series) finishinglinepress.submittable.com. My forthcoming chapbook under their banner is a reflection of their commitment to nurturing bold, new poetic voices.

What’s Next

Both chapbooks are currently in production. I'll be sharing publication timelines, launch updates, and behind-the-scenes glimpses right here on karololesiak.com, so stay tuned for release details and pre-order info to come!

Thank You

I’m deeply grateful to Moonstone Press and Finishing Line Press for believing in this work. A heartfelt thanks to the Moonstone Arts Center judges, the editorial teams at both presses, and everyone who has read and championed my poetry.