Harlequin Offers Publishing Contract as Prize in Writing Contest

NEW YORK, LONDON and TORONTO, Nov. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Harlequin (www.Harlequin.com), one of the world's leading publishers of books for women, is offering aspiring authors the opportunity to win a publishing contract as a prize as part of  its second annual online So You Think You Can Write conference, which takes place November 7 – 11, 2011.  The contest is open to eligible entrants between November 7th and December 15th, 2011.*

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So You Think You Can Write allows hopeful romance novelists to spend an entire working week with more than 50 Harlequin editors through social media tools such as podcasts, videos, webinars, blog posts, community discussions and Twitter. Aspiring authors have the opportunity to learn valuable insider tips and have their writing samples critiqued by professional editors.  Harlequin editors believe that by engaging unpublished writers, explaining the tremendous appeal of the romance genre and offering expert insights into crafting the perfect story, they can help promising young novelists hone their skills and get started on the path to publication.  

In addition to interactive "face time" with editors, one talented, aspiring author will win a publishing contract to write a series romance novel for Harlequin.  Harlequin editors will review eligible manuscripts and announce the winner on March 1, 2012.

"Aside from being a celebration of romance, So You Think You Can Write is primarily a search for new writers and fresh voices," said Loriana Sacilotto, Executive Vice President, Global Editorial.  "Talented writers bring with them an exciting new perspective and contribute to the evolution of the genre.  So You Think You Can Write is a wonderful opportunity for aspiring authors and Harlequin editors because you never know where you might find the next Nora Roberts, Susan Mallery, Brenda Jackson or Maya Banks."

Throughout the online conference, daily writing assignments set by Harlequin's editors will allow participants to receive daily feedback from actual acquiring editors. Harlequin editors will ask for writers' opening pages, gripping scenes, synopses and query letters, and will respond online the next morning to a selection of submissions. The editor will also be online to answer questions. This is a unique, interactive feature not offered by any other publisher.

About Harlequin

Harlequin is one of the world's leading publishers of books for women, with titles issued worldwide in 31 languages and sold in 111 international markets. The company produces more than 110 titles monthly and publishes more than 1,200 authors from around the world. Harlequin Enterprises Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Torstar Corporation, a broadly based media company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TS.B). Harlequin's website is located at Harlequin.com. Harlequin has offices in 19 countries, including offices in Toronto, New York and London. For more information please visit www.Harlequin.com.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Opens on November 7, 2011, at 12:01 EST and closes on December 15, 2011, at 11:59 EST. Enter online at www.soyouthinkyoucanwrite.com by submitting an eligible manuscript. Open to legal residents of U.K., U.S., Canada (excluding Quebec), Republic of Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa who have reached the age of majority at time of entry. Professional authors are not eligible.  See Official Rules for details.  Void where prohibited by law. One (1) Grand Prize available to be won, consisting of editorial consultation with a Harlequin® series editor regarding the possible publication of the winner's manuscript.  Official Rules available online at www.soyouthinkyoucanwrite.com.  Sponsor: Harlequin Enterprises Limited.

SOURCE Harlequin