eReading is clearly taking hold, as evidenced by the soaring demand for Barnes & Noble Nook. Publisher’s are taking notice, and today, Harlequin announced the launch of Carina Press, a digital-only publishing house. This stand alone entity will be selling eBooks direct to consumers through their website and through other third party vendors.
As Harlequin is the world leader in romance novels, with their distinctive, bodice ripping identity, you can expect women’s fiction at Carina Press. They are actively seeking submissions in the genres of romance, erotica, science fiction, mystery, family sagas, and more.
Donna Hayes, CEO and Publisher of Harlequin hopes the new arm of the business will allow the discovery of new authors and unique voices that may not be able to find homes in traditional publishing houses. Hayes notes that "It definitely gives us greater flexibility in the type of editorial we can accept from authors and offer to readers. As well, we hope to reach a new group of readers with niche editorial."
Carina Press plans to launch in summer 2010 and will release new titles on a weekly basis.
Those submitting to Carina Press should be aware that no advances are being offered and more troubling, there will be no DRM protection.
One website reports that due to the lack of advances, it is not clear whether Harlequin will remain on the RWA (Romance Writers of America) Approved Publisher’s List or whether this will move into the vanity press category.
What is clear is that publisher’s are taking note of the eBook revolution and looking for new ways to reach readers.