Which Publishers Accept Romance Novel Model Submissions?

I've been writing romance novels for a while now, and I've found that some publishers are more open to submissions than others. Harlequin is a big name in the romance genre, and they have several imprints like Harlequin Desire, Harlequin Historical, and Harlequin Romantic Suspense that cater to different subgenres. They accept unagented submissions, which is great for new authors. Another publisher to consider is Entangled Publishing, which focuses heavily on romance and often accepts submissions directly from authors. They have a variety of imprints like Entangled Amara for contemporary romance and Entangled Scorched for paranormal and fantasy romance. Sourcebooks is another fantastic option, especially for authors who write sweet or inspirational romance. They have a strong reputation and are known for nurturing new talent. If you're into self-publishing, Kindle Direct Publishing is a solid choice, but traditional publishers like Avon and Berkley also have open submission periods, so keeping an eye on their guidelines is key.

Navigating the world of romance novel submissions can be overwhelming, but there are several publishers actively seeking fresh voices. Harlequin is a powerhouse in the industry, with imprints like Harlequin Heartwarming for sweet romances and Harlequin Blaze for steamier reads. They regularly update their submission guidelines, so checking their website is a must. Entangled Publishing is another favorite, especially for authors who love blending genres. Their imprints cover everything from YA romance to adult paranormal, and they’re known for their author-friendly approach.

For those who prefer smaller presses, Carina Press, the digital-first imprint of Harlequin, is a great option. They accept a wide range of romance subgenres and are particularly open to diverse stories. Sourcebooks Casablanca is perfect for historical romance lovers, while Berkley and Avon, both under Penguin Random House, often have open calls for submissions. They’re more selective but offer great visibility.

Self-publishing is also a viable route, with platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing and Draft2Digital making it easier than ever to reach readers. However, if you’re aiming for traditional publishing, researching each publisher’s specific requirements and tailoring your submission accordingly will give you the best shot.

As someone who’s submitted romance novels to various publishers, I can share some insights. Harlequin is a go-to for many romance writers because of their diverse imprints. Whether you write contemporary, historical, or suspense, they likely have a line for you. Entangled Publishing is another standout, especially for authors who want a more personal touch. They’re known for their transparency and support, which is rare in the industry.

Smaller presses like Carina Press and Sourcebooks are also worth considering. Carina focuses on digital-first releases, while Sourcebooks has a strong presence in both print and digital. For those who write erotic romance, Samhain Publishing used to be a top choice, but since their closure, authors have turned to publishers like Cleis Press or self-publishing.

If you’re targeting bigger names, Avon and Berkley are solid choices, though they often require agented submissions. Keeping an eye on their submission windows is crucial. Self-publishing is another route, with platforms like KDP and Smashwords offering flexibility. Each publisher has its own vibe, so researching their catalogs to see where your story fits is essential.