Which Publishers Accept Submissions For New Novels Romance?

Finding the right publisher for romance novels can feel overwhelming, but I've discovered some fantastic options through writer communities. Harlequin is practically the Disney of romance publishing with their various lines - I've been obsessed with their Special Edition books since college. Carina Press is their digital-first imprint that's more open to experimental stuff.

For contemporary romance, Avon and St. Martin's Griffin are dream publishers, though they're selective. I've heard great things about Entangled Publishing from writing friends - they're super responsive to submissions. Smaller presses like The Wild Rose Press and Soul Mate Publishing have caught my attention lately with their author-friendly terms.

What's exciting is how many publishers now embrace diverse romance. Interlude Press does amazing LGBTQ+ romances, while Kensington's Dafina imprint focuses on African American love stories. Don't forget about digital-only publishers like Totally Bound for steamier content. Always double-check submission guidelines as they change frequently in this industry.

I can share some insider knowledge about publishers actively seeking romance manuscripts. The traditional publishing route includes big names like Berkley Romance (Penguin Random House), which publishes authors like Nora Roberts, and St. Martin's Press with their popular Griffin imprint. These typically require agent representation, but their open submission periods are golden opportunities.

For direct submissions, Mills & Boon (Harlequin's UK arm) remains a romance powerhouse with clear submission guidelines. I've had friends successfully publish with them. In the digital-first space, Entangled Publishing stands out with their specialized imprints - I particularly admire their handling of diverse romance stories.

Don't overlook smaller presses like Crimson Romance (now with Adams Media) or indie publishers like City Owl Press. They often provide more author attention. Self-publishing platforms like Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing have become serious contenders too, especially for authors wanting creative control.

What many don't realize is that some publishers specialize in romance subgenres. For paranormal romance, look at Sourcebooks Casablanca or Samhain. For Christian romance, try Harlequin's Love Inspired line or Bethany House. Always check each publisher's current wishlist - many update their preferred tropes and heat levels seasonally.

Harlequin is the big name in romance publishing, with multiple imprints like Harlequin Romance, Harlequin Desire, and Carina Press that specialize in different subgenres. They're always open to submissions from new authors.

Another great option is Entangled Publishing, which focuses on romance and has several imprints like Brazen for steamy reads and Bliss for sweet romance. I've also heard good things about Avon Romance, an imprint of HarperCollins, though they sometimes require agented submissions. For indie-friendly options, look at The Wild Rose Press or Sourcebooks Casablanca.

Smaller presses like Samhain Publishing and Cleis Press are worth checking out too, especially if your romance has niche elements. Many of these publishers have detailed submission guidelines on their websites, so make sure to follow them carefully.