Are you an aspiring romance author from a community that’s been underrepresented in publishing? Then we want to see your stories!
The Romance Includes You Mentorship is officially open for submissions between now and October 15, 2019. Read on for an overview of what we’re looking for, but be sure to check out our official page for full details.
What is it? An opportunity to work one-on-one with a Harlequin editor for a year to develop a romance novel, which will also include an offer of publication and $5,000 (USD) to support your writing.
Who should apply? Aspiring writers of romance fiction who are from traditionally underrepresented communities, including (but not limited to) people of color, members of racial and ethnic minorities, Indigenous communities, LGBTQIA+ communities, people with disabilities, people who identify as neurodiverse, and other diverse and own voices. We are only accepting English-language submissions from writers in North America.
What do I submit? A story synopsis and first chapter, plus a short personal statement of your writing aspirations and how you hope your voice will broaden representation in the romance genre.
How do I submit? Through our Romance Includes You page on Submittable! We’re accepting entries from September 1 to October 15, 2019.
For more information and full details on eligibility, offerings, and submission requirements, please see our official page as well as our FAQs.
Still have questions? Post them to our editor Q&A’s this fall! There will be two chats held on the Harlequin Writing Community group on Facebook, which you can join in advance:
- September 5: 1-2 pm with Kerri Buckley, Senior Editor, Carina Press
- October 2: 1-2 pm with Charles Griemsman, Editor, Desire
We wish you the best of luck, and we can’t wait to see your submissions!
Comments ( 7 )
I spent the entire shutdown working. Had no time to wind down. I didn’t see my son much when school shutdown. My one co worker was told to stay home for 3 weeks so I picked up her hours. This year has been really crappy.
Ugh, Janell. Here’s hoping the rest of your summer is better.
Thanks for the info, Carol! Everyone is different in how they deal with the shutdown! I stay at home all the time since I don’t work so I haven’t been too effected but my shopping and errands sure have been effected!
Valri, I’ve been doing most of my shopping online. My local Target is still low on some items – mostly cleaning supplies. Grocery store is pretty much back to normal. Most of the dining in our town is outdoor. I can’t imagine have school-age kids!
Wow–getting your creative process on track must have been daunting–especially with “extra-large dog” glad to have you home. You don’t like coffee–I love coffee and have enjoyed my fortifying 2 cups in the morning even more than usual! How as COVID affected your story lines and characterizations? Best Wishes for all releases!
Interesting question, Virginia. You’ll have to tell me if the tone of my “COVID” books changed any! LOL
Life has changed so much! My dad passed Feb 2. The assisted living facility my folks were at went into hardcore lockdown the beginning of March. Mom couldn’t leave her apartment for 4 months! She was on the third floor, Will be 89 in two months & doesn’t use the phone. My husband and I remodeled the lower level completely and moved her in with us July 1. What a life change and difficult transition for the 3 of us! But we’re working thru it!