Harlequin Publishing
The History of Category Romance and Harlequin: A Legacy of Love
Few publishers have shaped the romance genre like Harlequin. With its humble beginnings, Harlequin grew into a powerhouse, synonymous with category romance—short, addictive, and highly specific stories tailored to meet readers’ desires. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of category romance, highlight some of Harlequin’s iconic lines and authors, and share must-read books that every romance fan should have on their shelf.
What is Category Romance?
Category romance, also known as series romance, refers to books published in specific lines, each with its unique themes, lengths, and formulas. Unlike single-title romances, category romances are shorter (usually 50,000–75,000 words) and released on a monthly schedule, often tied to a publisher’s brand.
The Birth of Harlequin and Category Romance
Founded in 1949, Harlequin Enterprises began as a general publisher in Winnipeg, Canada. In 1957, Harlequin partnered with UK-based Mills & Boon, a leading romance publisher. This partnership allowed Harlequin to distribute Mills & Boon’s category romances in North America. By the 1970s, Harlequin had transitioned to focusing exclusively on romance, setting the standard for the genre.
Harlequin’s marketing was revolutionary. They targeted grocery stores and drugstores, ensuring romance novels were accessible to women during routine errands. This strategy catapulted Harlequin to global success, with millions of copies sold annually.
Harlequin’s Iconic Lines
Over the decades, Harlequin has introduced a variety of lines catering to diverse reader tastes. Here are some of the most iconic:
- Harlequin Presents (1973): Known for its glamorous, escapist stories featuring alpha heroes and exotic settings.
- Harlequin Romance (1949): Sweet, traditional love stories focusing on emotional connections.
- Harlequin Desire (1982): High-stakes passion and sizzling chemistry, often featuring billionaires and dramatic conflicts.
- Harlequin Intrigue (1984): Romantic suspense with edge-of-your-seat thrills.
- Harlequin Medical Romance (1980s): Love stories set in the world of healthcare, from hospitals to emergency rescues.
- Harlequin Historical (1977): Romance set in historical eras, from Regency England to the American West.
- Love Inspired (1997): Inspirational romances with faith-based themes.
Top Authors and Books from Harlequin
Harlequin has been a launching pad for many beloved authors. Here are some notable names and works:
Classic Authors
- Penny Jordan: A prolific writer of Harlequin Presents novels, known for The Sheikh’s Virgin Bride.
- Charlotte Lamb: One of Harlequin’s early stars, delivering emotionally intense stories.
- Anne Mather: Another stalwart of Harlequin Presents, with over 160 titles to her name.
- Janet Dailey: The first American author published by Harlequin, with her Americana Series being a standout.
Modern Standouts
- Maisey Yates: Known for her intense emotional stories, like The Rancher’s Baby.
- Susan Mallery: A Harlequin staple who transitioned into single-title romances with series like Fool’s Gold.
- Diana Palmer: Famous for her long-running cowboy romances, such as Lawman.
- Debbie Macomber: Started with Harlequin and went on to write bestselling series like Cedar Cove.
Current Must-Reads from Harlequin
If you’re looking to dive into contemporary Harlequin romances, here are some recent gems:
- The Heir’s Cinderella Bride by Donna Alward (Harlequin Romance): A heartwarming story of unexpected love.
- Colton 911: Temptation Undercover by Jennifer Morey (Harlequin Intrigue): Romantic suspense at its finest.
- The Rancher’s Redemption by Maisey Yates (Harlequin Desire): A modern cowboy romance filled with angst and passion.
- His Runaway Bride by Liz Fielding (Harlequin Romance): A delightful runaway bride story with emotional depth.
- Claiming His Virgin Princess by Annie West (Harlequin Presents): A royal romance with all the drama and glamour fans love.
The Legacy of Harlequin
Today, Harlequin publishes in over 100 countries and 30 languages, remaining a leader in the romance genre. The publisher continues to evolve, embracing diverse voices and inclusive stories while staying true to its roots in delivering captivating, emotionally satisfying reads.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Harlequin, the publisher’s vast catalog offers something for every romance lover. From timeless classics to modern tales, Harlequin has cemented its legacy as a cornerstone of the romance genre.
Some of my most Favorites from this publishing house:
The Montana Mavericks Series: A Harlequin Classic
The Montana Mavericks series is a beloved staple in Harlequin’s lineup, bringing readers heartwarming tales of love, family, and community in the rugged landscapes of Montana. Introduced as a multi-author continuity series, Montana Mavericks features interconnected stories set in the fictional towns of Montana, often revolving around family legacies, small-town charm, and cowboy romance. These books capture the essence of category romance—short, addictive reads packed with emotional depth and sweeping romance. The series continues to captivate readers, offering fresh stories while maintaining its signature charm.
Brenda Jackson’s Westmoreland Family Saga
Brenda Jackson’s Westmoreland Family Saga is a groundbreaking series that has redefined modern category romance. Featuring a sprawling family with captivating love stories, this series blends drama, passion, and relatable characters. Beginning with Delaney’s Desert Sheikh in 2002, the saga introduces readers to the Westmorelands—an African American family with roots in Denver, Colorado. Over the years, Jackson has expanded the series to include cousins and extended family members, creating an interconnected universe of love stories. Known for her deft storytelling and rich characterization, Brenda Jackson’s Westmoreland Family Saga remains a must-read for fans of heartfelt romance and family-centered tales.
