This is the sign of a publishing industry in trouble Alana. Only first-time and previously unpublished authors could possibly fall for the tricks they are using. If your manuscript has potential Harlequin would publish it free of charge. The fact you have to pay is proof Harlequin don't see it as a potential seller.
Another leading publisher has also adopted a Vanity press arm under the guise of self publishing. I self published my first book in 2000 when I still lived in England. I own the ISBN number, the copyright and the books. Self publishing is time consuming and requires money but you have creative control and ownership.
My last three books have all been accepted and published by a regular publisher. No fees involved.
This new trend by certain publishers is alarming. Could it result in all first-time authors having to pay for publication?