Updated January 2019 – They have not been open to direct submissions for over a year and their web page is down. I do not think they are going to re-open to direct submissions at this point.
Alibi is Random House’s digital first imprint that focuses on publishing mysteries and thrillers. This is a great opportunity for writers without an agent to be published by one of “The Big 5” publishing houses.
All Alibi books are initially published as eBooks, but if they do well, a print version will also be published.
Alibi books has a marketing team devoted to them. They stress that:
“Our program (Alibi) is managed with the same attention given all of our other imprints within the Penguin-Random House Publishing Group. Every book will be assigned to an accomplished Random House editor and a dedicated marketer and publicist. Not only do our authors benefit from working with the finest cover designers to ensure irresistibly eye-catching books, but they are also offered the unique advantage of social media tools and training that will allow them to connect directly with their readers.”
You will be expected to help with promoting the book but the book will be promoted by the assigned publicist as well, and you will be give be given guidance and training in terms of promoting your book.
It is important to note that their contract was initially very controversial, and was modified. There are still points of contention, but there are fewer. You can learn more about all of that here.
They are interested in full-length works, so your work must be 40,000 words or more. They also accept submissions of previously published or self published work as long as you currently control all electronic and print publishing rights.
All queries must be made by filling out their easy to use submission form. You must also attach a sample excerpt that is under 1,500 words in length.
To learn more or to submit, visit their website here.
