From New York to Newport - get those conference questions ready!

The questions of the conferences are really good. Thanks for the post. They should be prepared with their best questions.
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Here are some answers for you - thanks again for your questions, they were really interesting.

1) Besides the shorter word count (70-75k vs 80k+),what are the distinguishing characteristics of a H/M&B Historical when compared to a single-title historical romance?   I never cease to marvel at our authors’ ability to write emotional, beautifully layered, fully satisfying historical romances where the depth of characterisation brings each hero and heroine to vivid life.  Although the word count is shorter than most other publishers’, by an author having to keep the story taut and the action flowing swiftly, they create a pacy read which holds the reader from first to last page.  The focus is on the developing relationship between the central protagonists set against an authentic historical background. There is definitely scope for exploring sub plots and secondary characters, but the keen focus on the romance is one difference between us and other publishers.  

2) With the simultaneous release of Harlequin Historical and M&B Historical beginning next spring, will we see a decline in the number of available slots for each month?   Both Harlequin Historical and M&B Historical will continue to publish six books each month, just that now it will be the same six books.  Composition of line expected to remain the same: 1 Western, 3-4 Regencies (includes late Georgian/early Victorian), 1-2 Other (e.g. Viking, Restoration). 

3) Is the change in royalty rates across the board, or just with HQN North America? Does Harlequin acquire World English rights for e-books, or are they sold separately to each territory? I’m afraid we can’t discuss contract terms except with our authors on an individual basis  

4) How much and what kind of promotion does H/M&B expect its authors to do? With the dramatic growth of the readership in the digital market, it’s becoming more and more important to have a presence through author website, Twitter, Facebook, blogs on other sites, etc.  The more readers can come across an author’s name and be intrigued by her books, the more potential there is for sales of both front and back list. Harlequin also takes the time to train those authors who are coming new to social media, as this is such an important profile-raising tool.  

5) Is it true M&B is hosting another "Romance Is Not Dead" writing competition? If so, is the contest open to 2010 participants, or is M&B looking for a new set of fresh voices? It is indeed! The new competition starts mid-September, and it is open to everyone. We can’t wait to read your submissions! .   

6) Do you see anything new or fresh on the horizon for historical romance? Are paranormals hotter than ever?   Paranormals have been published in Historical Undone! and have been well received.  If the right story came in at a full length we’d seriously consider it for Harlequin Historical/Mills & Boon Historical.   Some of the HM&B editors have recently met with Harlequin’s Overseas editors and it was great to hear that all their historical programmes are performing extremely well.  We acquire books for the global market and Regencies remain ever-popular.  Also popular are Medieval settings and the Overseas editors are excited at our venturing into less usual time periods such as Tang Dynasty China.  It’s one of our strengths that we have always encouraged variety in the historical line.   Westerns are tops in North America and we have a keen fan base in the UK as well.   We are always happy to consider any time period – what remains a constant requirement is the emotional tension between the hero and heroine as their intense romance develops against an authentic historical backdrop.  

I hope that helps - let us know if you'd like some more clarification on anything and best of luck with your submissions!

It's all go back in the office! We've passed on your questions to our Historical team, who will get back to us with some details tomorrow. If I could therefore ask you to hang on for one more day, we'll have some answers on Tuesday.

Hoping all is well with you,

Anna

I can't wait to read the answers, and I'm learning a lot from the Q&As on this page!

I think one of the nicer parts of the RNA conference is the student flat arrangement. It means you can sit up with a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine) after the proceedings and discuss things.  This is slightly different than the RWA where everyone is in a hotel (or several hotels) and you have to go to the bar. It makes for a slightly different atmosphere.

Anyway it sounds like you have some great flat mates in India, Nina and Natalie. I am sure you all are having a great time.

MIchelle S

By asking for Modern characters, what are you really asking for.  Can a gal still live in the country but be modern?  And for the hero, is Alpha still the target or are the Alpha's getting a little kinder and gentler?

Any scenerios you do NOT want to see?  Thank you so much!

I'm not sure how many men writers you have but wonder how much promotion a writer can do with a pen name especially when a male assumes a female pen name. How is this aspect usually handled?

I plan to write under the name of Jean Ward. The Jean is John in French but is pronounced Shawn. The Ward is my middle name. This way I will actually be using my name but offer the allusion of a female author. What are your thoughts on this selection?

I love the Presents line and have submitted. Hopefully I will hear soon that you like it -- fingers crossed.