HarperCollins UK has launched Wildlit, a new publishing imprint dedicated to New Adult fiction, marking a fresh step in the publisher’s efforts to connect with a growing readership seeking emotionally engaging, contemporary stories.

Led by publisher Lindsey Heaven and publishing director Sarah Levison, Wildlit will bring together bold, commercial and page-turning fiction across genres, with romance serving as the common thread. The imprint aims to offer stories that capture the intensity, uncertainty and excitement of early adulthood while giving readers compelling characters and immersive fictional worlds to return to.

For HarperCollins, the launch reflects an opportunity to serve readers who want stories that combine emotional depth with fast-paced, engaging narratives. The imprint will also work to introduce new authors, develop emerging talent and build a distinctive publishing list for the New Adult audience.

A Strong Line-up of Debut Titles

Wildlit has already announced an ambitious publishing programme, with its first titles set to begin arriving in June 2027.

The opening title will be The Emberquell Academy by Aimee Lynn, a romantasy quartet that was previously self-published. The first book will launch in June 2027, followed by The Entwined Oath, the opening novel in a fantasy duology by Victoria J Price, who writes under the pen name Rebecca Sorrill, in July 2027.

In September 2027, readers can expect The Falls by ES McLeod, the first instalment in the dark romantasy duology The Angelic Libraries. The list will continue to expand in 2028 with Starshadow by Lyndall Clipstone, a fantasy romance centred on celestial themes and forbidden desire.

The initial acquisitions span fantasy, romance and romantasy, signalling Wildlit’s intention to combine genre-driven storytelling with the emotional intensity associated with New Adult fiction.

Building a New Home for New Adult Readers

Commenting on the launch, Lindsey Heaven said that establishing Wildlit had been a long-held ambition for the team. She described the imprint as a home for bold, commercial and addictive stories that reflect the intensity of New Adulthood, adding that an exciting group of authors was already in place as the team began its wider acquisition programme.

Sarah Levison also highlighted the opportunity to develop new writing careers and deliver books that respond to the interests and expectations of engaged readers.

Cally Poplak, managing director of HarperCollins Children’s Books and Farshore, welcomed Wildlit as an ambitious addition to the publisher’s portfolio. She pointed to the editorial experience and commercial vision of its leadership team as important strengths in building distinctive authors and books.

What the Launch Means for Publishing

Wildlit’s arrival highlights the publishing industry's continued interest in readers who want stories that blend romance, fantasy, emotional conflict and the challenges of growing into adulthood. By bringing these elements together under a dedicated imprint, HarperCollins UK is positioning Wildlit to develop a recognisable identity in a competitive fiction market.

With its first releases planned for 2027 and further acquisitions underway, Wildlit will be one to watch as the publisher builds its list and develops its relationship with New Adult readers.