Privacy Policy

Last updated: 29/07/2026

Who I am

My name is Maxine Beech. I am the writer and researcher behind this project.

If you have any questions about this policy or how your information is used, you can contact me at:

Email: figsandstones@gmail.com

What information I collect

If you submit a story, I may collect:

your name (you can provide your real name or a pseudonym)
your email address
your phone number (if you provide it)
your nationality, country of residence, and age
your relationship status at the time
your story
any personal information you choose to include in your submission

You are under no obligation to include identifying details in your story.

Why I collect your information

I collect your information so that I can:

read and review submissions
contact you for further interview if you story is selected for possible publication
protect contributors' anonymity where requested
manage the book project

I will never sell your personal information.

How your story may be used

Submitting a story does not guarantee publication.

Some submissions will be considered for publication. Those selected will be followed up by interview (telephone, video call, or in person) to establish consistency, richness, and further details in line with the project aims.

If your story is selected for follow up, I will contact you using the email address you provide. The subject heading and initial content of this email will be discreet and will not obviously disclose the nature of your submission.

Where possible, identifying details may be removed or changed to protect your privacy and the privacy of others.

I may edit your story as necessary for length, clarity or anonymity before publication, whilst maintaining the authenticity of your story. You will be consulted on the final draft before publication.

Who can access your information

Only I, and any trusted professional directly involved in producing the book (such as a literary agent, editor or publisher if the project progresses), will have access to identifiable submissions.

If the project is later published through a publishing house, I will ensure your information continues to be handled appropriately.

How long I keep your information

I will keep your submission only for as long as it is reasonably necessary to develop, edit and publish this project, or to comply with legal obligations.

Your rights

You can contact me at any time to:

request a copy of the personal information I hold about you
correct inaccurate information
ask me to delete your information where appropriate
withdraw your submission before publication, subject to the editorial stage of the project

Data security

I take reasonable steps to keep your information secure and limit access to those who genuinely need it.

Changes to this policy

I may occasionally update this Privacy Policy.

The latest version will always be available on this website.