Romance Book Publishers Accepting Unagented Manuscripts

Dec 31, 2010
Margi Desmond

Unagented Romance Novel Writers Enjoy Success - Photo by Matt Baume

Numerous publishers of hardback, paperback, and electronic books accept romance novel manuscripts from writers without agent representation.

A multitude of options exist for writers who want to submit their romance manuscript directly to publishers. The key is to properly research each publisher's submission guidelines and target the appropriate romance publisher, line, and acquisitions editor.

Format the Manuscript According to Publisher Guidelines

As a general rule, manuscripts should be double-spaced in either Courier or Times New Roman 12-point font with a 1 1/2-inch margin on all sides of the page. In the left-hand corner of the title page include your name, address, phone number, and email address. Type the manuscript's word count in the upper right-hand corner of the title page. Double-space twice, then type your title, centered, in all caps. Double-space and type "by". Double-space and type your name. Double-space twice and then start your manuscript. All paragraphs should be indented. Do not bind or staple the manuscript.

Write an Effective Query Letter

Most publishers will request a query letter before they want to see the manuscript. The query should be single-spaced and limited to one page. Start with a strong opening that grabs the editor's attention. Include a brief description of the novel and its word-count. Include your experience and any links to articles or books you've written.

Write an Engaging Synopsis

In addition to a query letter, the publisher may ask for a synopsis. The synopsis is a summary of the novel from beginning to end that includes main characters, plot points, and the ending. Check with individual publishers regarding synopsis length. Some request a short 1-2 page synopsis, while others want a 25-page synopsis.

Submit to the Appropriate Romance Sub-Category

Before submitting a romance novel to a publisher, the manuscript should be sub-categorized according to their specific submission guidelines. Each sub-category focuses on a specific topic and has guidelines and an acquisitions editor specific to that line. The language, sexual content, plot, setting, and length of the novel are all aspects to consider to ensure the correct acquisitions editor receives the query. The following are a few examples of sub-categories:

American Romance - 55,000 to 60,000-word stories about love, marriage, and family in America.
Historical Romance - 90,000 to 100,000-word love stories set in Great Britain prior to 1900.
Contemporary Romance - 90,000 to 100,000-word stories of emotional complexity including humor, drama, and romantic suspense.
Paranormal Romance - 90,000 to 100,000-word contemporary or historical stories with vampires, werewolves, ghosts, witches, etc.
African-American Romance - 90,000 to 100,000-word stories featuring African American characters
Inspire - 60,000 to 90,000-word inspirational romances featuring Christian values and beliefs.
Medical Romance - 50,000 to 55,000-word romances with medical drama that brings the hero and heroine together.
Spice - 90,000 to 120,000-word erotic fiction for women seeking a sensual reading experience.
Teen Romance - 50,000 to 100,000-word contemporary, paranormal, historical, or fantasy stories that capture the teenage audience.