“We are actively working to acquire more traditionally underrepresented and diverse voices. “We’re committed to publishing diverse and inclusive voices so that readers see themselves reflected in the stories we publish,” said Loriana Sacilotto, Harlequin’s Executive Vice President. The first phase of this program is offered to writers living in North America and may be followed by additional opportunities in other regions. This opportunity is open to unpublished or self-published writers from underrepresented communities who have a strong desire to write romance fiction for adult readers and want to add their diverse voices and own voices to the romance genre.
#HARLEQUIN ROMANCE NOVELS SUBMISSION SERIES#
The aim is for the selected writer to develop a manuscript during the mentorship that Harlequin can publish in one of its 12 series romance lines or Carina Press. Harlequin is accepting submissions starting September 1 to select a recipient living in North America for a 12-month mentorship with a romance editor who will provide editorial guidance during the writing process and share firsthand insights and knowledge on the romance market and the publishing industry. The Romance Includes You Mentorship is part of Harlequin’s active efforts to find new talent and bring more stories representing diverse and own voices to romance readers.
Today, Harlequin launched a mentorship initiative that offers aspiring romance writers from underrepresented communities the chance to work one-on-one with a Harlequin editor for a year on writing a romance novel and includes an offer to publish their book and $5,000 (US) to support their writing. Mentorship opportunity aims to find new talent and bring more stories representing diverse and own voices to romance readers