Hydra Publications is proud to announce a new partnership with two-time Bram Stoker Award–winning editor and author Michael Knost, who will serve as publisher of Lawless Trails Press, a new imprint devoted to the Western genre.
Knost brings decades of publishing experience to the role. A respected voice in the horror, science fiction, and fantasy communities, he is a two-time Bram Stoker Award winner for Writers Workshop of Horror and Writers Workshop of Horror 2. He also reached Amazon #1 bestseller status with Writers Workshop of Science Fiction & Fantasy.
Lawless Trails Press debuted last November with Knost’s first Western novel, Trail of Madness, which marked his return to his storytelling roots and set the stage for the classic and contemporary Westerns the imprint will champion. His next novel, One-Armed Bandit, a traditional Western thriller, will be released this November.
“We are thrilled to have Michael Knost at the helm of Lawless Trails Press,” said Tony Acree, owner of Hydra Publications. “His passion for storytelling and deep understanding of genre fiction make him the perfect person to lead this new venture. We believe Lawless Trails Press will become a premier destination for Western authors and readers.”
Knost shared his enthusiasm for the role:
“I’m honored to partner with Hydra Publications. The Western genre has always been close to my heart, and I’m eager to help bring new, compelling stories to life through this press.”
He added:
“After Tony and I came to an agreement for Lawless Trails Press to publish my next novel (One-Armed Bandit), I spoke of my passion to see the Western genre restored to its place of honor. Tony, being Tony, called my hand—telling me I could do just that with greater impact as publisher of the imprint.”
Submissions Open Soon
Lawless Trails Press will begin accepting novel submissions for Western fiction on November 1, 2025. Submission guidelines will be posted later this fall.
About Hydra Publications
Hydra Publications, based in Goshen, Kentucky, is a small press specializing in speculative fiction, including science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Founded and operated by writers, the press prides itself on a personalized approach to publishing. Hydra Publications, winner of the Jason Sizemore Award for Outstanding Small-Press Publisher, publishes both bestselling and emerging authors and manages several imprints across genres, including Western, faith-based, and children’s books.
About Michael Knost
Michael Knost is a two-time Bram Stoker Award–winning editor and author. His body of work includes novels, short fiction, and nonfiction. His upcoming novel, One-Armed Bandit, will be the second release from Lawless Trails Press.
