Harlequin Romance Novels

[gladragdoll]

I am looking to try my hand at writing a Harlequin-type romance novel. Has anyone done this or have any insight into the process? I've done the research and read the information online, but I was hoping someone may have some direct experience.

Thank You!

 

[sunandshadow]

Not specifically Harlequin, but I like single-title romances and writing fiction was one of my hobbies for a long time, though I mostly write non-fiction now. I've read lots of historical romances, futuristic romances, fantasy romances, and that sort of thing. I don't really have any experience with the realistic modern-setting ones though, not my cup of tea. There are some nice writing-specific forums and romance-specific forums out there where you might find more discussion.

 

[Scotsman69]

I know little about Harlequin...

but here in the UK the equivalent is Mills and Boon. Some time ago a friend contacted them, expressing interest in writing for them.

She was sent some formulae which they require stories to follow.

She didn't pursue it.

I am looking to try my hand at writing a Harlequin-type romance novel. Has anyone done this or have any insight into the process? I've done the research and read the information online, but I was hoping someone may have some direct experience.

Thank You!

 

[cornflakegirl78]

I did a creative writing certificate at U of Toronto - specializing in Romance writing (I have also done Humber College's School for Writers program and workshops). The only manuscript I submitted to Harlequin was to the Red Dress Ink imprint (more chick lit than romance) - it was rejected - I stopped writing for other reasons (time and a lack of follow through). I learnt through these classes I am more of an intuitive writer rather than someone who can follow a formula. For the most part we focused on a slightly tweeked version of Joseph Campbell's monomyth (Hero's Journey) which most well balanced stories follow anyway.
One of the keys for Harlequin is to read different imprints and see which one most suits your style.
Don't know if this helps at all (most of my old notes are packed away but if you read about the Hero's Journey and have questions about applying it to romance I might be able to help from memory).

 

[njlauren]

Prob the best way to figure it out is to read them. Harlequin are not what they once were, they have imprints for things like BD/SM stories these days, this isn't the land of fabio and bodice rippers, and the old style romances have been overshadowed by well written, so called adult romances , a lot of which are starting out self published and becoming monster sellers (I am not referring to 50 shades of green here, referring to the level of money it has made and the envy it generates. It ranges from mildly raunchy to holy shit.....

Go to goodreads and read the reviews of the books on there, sites like Smashwords have books you can read for free to see, it should give you a great idea of what is out there and what you would like to do.

 

[Monazwx]

but here in the UK the equivalent is Mills and Boon. Some time ago a friend contacted them, expressing interest in writing for them.

She was sent some formulae which they require stories to follow.

She didn't pursue it.

I wouldn't either. Formulae takes the joy out of the craft.