What's Happening?
Julia Quinn, the author behind the popular 'Bridgerton' series, has launched a new subscription service called JQ Editions. This service aims to revitalize interest in historical romance novels by offering curated book boxes featuring special editions of Quinn's favorite historical romance novels. The initiative comes as the romance genre thrives, but historical romance struggles to maintain the same momentum. The subscription service will initially feature three books: 'The Last Lady B' by Eloisa James, 'An Extraordinary Union' by Alyssa Cole, and 'Lord of Scoundrels' by Loretta Chase. These books will be available through memberships on Kickstarter, with the first boxes shipping in July.
Why It's Important?
The launch of JQ Editions highlights a strategic effort
to rejuvenate the historical romance genre, which has not seen the same growth as other romance sub-genres. By leveraging her popularity from the 'Bridgerton' series, Quinn aims to introduce readers to a broader range of historical romance works, potentially increasing sales and visibility for authors in this niche. This initiative could also inspire other authors and publishers to explore similar subscription models, thereby diversifying the ways in which books are marketed and consumed.
What's Next?
JQ Editions plans to release six titles in 2027, featuring works by authors such as Julie Anne Long and Tessa Dare. The titles for 2028 will be announced in mid-2026. This ongoing release schedule suggests a long-term commitment to supporting the historical romance genre. The success of this initiative could lead to more authors and publishers adopting similar models, potentially reshaping the landscape of book marketing and distribution.
