‘You're screwed', QBD's boss was told. Now he's on track to open 100th bookstore
The other great boon for the business has been the rise in the romantasy genre, a combination of romance and fantasy that has exploded in popularity thanks to social media influencers and the success of the wildly popular A Court of Thorns and Roses and Empyrean series. The author of the former, Sarah J. Maas, has sold more than 50 million copies worldwide.
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'It's been going on for a good 18 months now, but it's strong and a lot of my team members love it,' said Croydon. 'You go into that section, it will be perfectly merchandised because they love that section.'
The genre makes up 12 per cent of sales in the industry; at QBD, it's more than 20 per cent. Croydon said the love for the genre was so strong that QBD customers were buying duplicates of their favourite books – one to read, and one to display.
'It's almost like a collectible, which is great news for brick-and-mortar retailers like me,' said Croydon. 'The public are investing, still, in paper, which is great to see.'
Women in their early 20s represent one of QBD's biggest customer bases, many of whom have flocked to the new genre. The other key groups are young mothers and middle-aged men.
Prices at QBD are generally lower than other book retailers such as Dymocks and Harry Hartog, but Croydon steers clear of the 'discount store' label, as he wants the brand to be defined by the customer experience.
'It's not about the price. We make our pricing decisions, and our decision is to be competitive,' says Croydon. 'We want to surprise our customers … they come into a store like ours when they're expecting to get a decent price, but then they get the same if not better service than they would in a high-end store.'
According to IBISWorld, the biggest pressure point on book retailers such as QBD and Dymocks is 'persistent competition from external retailers, including discount department stores and online-only platforms,' which limits the market share brick-and-mortar chains can maintain by selling books at wholesale price.
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To maintain QBD's market position, the company has rolled out new training programs for staff in an attempt to encourage conversation and recommendations from booksellers to customers.
They've also recently invested in a customer tracking system through Kepler Analytics — which anonymously tracks customers' mobile phones to provide data on how many visitors are purchasing and time spent in store.
QBD was awarded book retailer of the year at this year's Australian Book Industry Awards.
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The Advertiser
6 days ago
- The Advertiser
Calls for content rating as violence, misogyny found in young adult fiction
Parents of young readers may be shocked to learn that many popular novels marketed to preteen girls contain graphic sexual assault and domestic violence themes. A child safeguarding expert has called for content warnings on young adult (YA) fiction to protect vulnerable kids and teens, as well as an industry-wide book rating classification system. Novels such as the Icebreaker series, A Court of Thorns and Roses, Once Upon a Broken Heart and Lore Olympus included violent or explicit storylines, new research has found. While some novels were not explicitly directed at preteens, they were popular with girls as young as 12 due to the influence of social media. Dr Emma Hussey, from the Australian Catholic University's (ACU) Institute of Child Protection Studies, said the books were often available in school and community libraries, and were easily accessible to children of all ages. "We looked at a range of fantasy, romance, paranormal, and general fiction novels that were being promoted to teenagers and compared the relationship dynamics to real-world warning signs of abuse," Dr Hussey said. "What we found was a pattern of emotional manipulation, jealousy and control being regularly framed as signs of love," the digital criminologist said. "That was really alarming because these are behaviours that we warn about in domestic violence education, but they're being normalised in fiction that young readers are picking up." ACU academics conducted a thematic analysis of 20 novels recommended by BookTok, a literature subcommunity on TikTok, which are popular among young readers. They found that each novel contained elements of domestic and family violence such as sexual assault, torture, grooming, power and control, including dominance and submission. They also found themes of sexual objectification and masculinity tropes, including powerful, dangerous, and handsome male love interests. "Extreme" sexually explicit content was found in 65 per cent of books analysed, and "moderate" sexual content was in a quarter of books. Graphic and extreme violence was also found in 65 per cent of books, according to the research. Dr Hussey described a scene in Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber where the protagonist is restrained by her love interest. The god-like male character's kiss is poisonous to the protagonist, who is in "constant threat" of death during their courtship, the child safeguarding expert said. The love interest denies the main character's autonomy and is able to speak through her body, Dr Hussey said. "If young readers consistently consume stories where love is tied to obsession, jealousy, possessiveness, or control, they may internalise these behaviours as normal - even desirable - in relationships," Dr Hussey said. "We are already facing a domestic violence epidemic. If girls grow up believing these themes are what they should be looking for in a relationship we run the risk of perpetuating this cycle," she said. Following the research by ACU, Dr Hussey is calling for content warnings to be included on book covers. She is also advocating for the adoption of an industry-wide classification system, similar to those seen in film and television, so parents are able to check if their child is reading developmentally inappropriate content. "A rating system is not about censorship. It is about transparency and ensuring books containing themes such as violence, explicit sexual content, and unhealthy relationship dynamics are classified appropriately," she said. READ MORE: Book ban overturned in rowdy council meeting Some publishers include an age rating in small print, others include content warnings, but some "prefer you to go in blind", the digital criminologist said. "The reality is that many parents have no idea what their children are reading," Dr Hussey said. "The time for action is now," she said. "Parents, schools, and policymakers must work together to implement structured guidance that protects young readers while still allowing them to explore and engage with stories in a way that is safe, educational, and developmentally appropriate." Penguin Books Australia and Bloomsbury Publishing were contacted for comment. Parents of young readers may be shocked to learn that many popular novels marketed to preteen girls contain graphic sexual assault and domestic violence themes. A child safeguarding expert has called for content warnings on young adult (YA) fiction to protect vulnerable kids and teens, as well as an industry-wide book rating classification system. Novels such as the Icebreaker series, A Court of Thorns and Roses, Once Upon a Broken Heart and Lore Olympus included violent or explicit storylines, new research has found. While some novels were not explicitly directed at preteens, they were popular with girls as young as 12 due to the influence of social media. Dr Emma Hussey, from the Australian Catholic University's (ACU) Institute of Child Protection Studies, said the books were often available in school and community libraries, and were easily accessible to children of all ages. "We looked at a range of fantasy, romance, paranormal, and general fiction novels that were being promoted to teenagers and compared the relationship dynamics to real-world warning signs of abuse," Dr Hussey said. "What we found was a pattern of emotional manipulation, jealousy and control being regularly framed as signs of love," the digital criminologist said. "That was really alarming because these are behaviours that we warn about in domestic violence education, but they're being normalised in fiction that young readers are picking up." ACU academics conducted a thematic analysis of 20 novels recommended by BookTok, a literature subcommunity on TikTok, which are popular among young readers. They found that each novel contained elements of domestic and family violence such as sexual assault, torture, grooming, power and control, including dominance and submission. They also found themes of sexual objectification and masculinity tropes, including powerful, dangerous, and handsome male love interests. "Extreme" sexually explicit content was found in 65 per cent of books analysed, and "moderate" sexual content was in a quarter of books. Graphic and extreme violence was also found in 65 per cent of books, according to the research. Dr Hussey described a scene in Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber where the protagonist is restrained by her love interest. The god-like male character's kiss is poisonous to the protagonist, who is in "constant threat" of death during their courtship, the child safeguarding expert said. The love interest denies the main character's autonomy and is able to speak through her body, Dr Hussey said. "If young readers consistently consume stories where love is tied to obsession, jealousy, possessiveness, or control, they may internalise these behaviours as normal - even desirable - in relationships," Dr Hussey said. "We are already facing a domestic violence epidemic. If girls grow up believing these themes are what they should be looking for in a relationship we run the risk of perpetuating this cycle," she said. Following the research by ACU, Dr Hussey is calling for content warnings to be included on book covers. She is also advocating for the adoption of an industry-wide classification system, similar to those seen in film and television, so parents are able to check if their child is reading developmentally inappropriate content. "A rating system is not about censorship. It is about transparency and ensuring books containing themes such as violence, explicit sexual content, and unhealthy relationship dynamics are classified appropriately," she said. READ MORE: Book ban overturned in rowdy council meeting Some publishers include an age rating in small print, others include content warnings, but some "prefer you to go in blind", the digital criminologist said. "The reality is that many parents have no idea what their children are reading," Dr Hussey said. "The time for action is now," she said. "Parents, schools, and policymakers must work together to implement structured guidance that protects young readers while still allowing them to explore and engage with stories in a way that is safe, educational, and developmentally appropriate." Penguin Books Australia and Bloomsbury Publishing were contacted for comment. Parents of young readers may be shocked to learn that many popular novels marketed to preteen girls contain graphic sexual assault and domestic violence themes. A child safeguarding expert has called for content warnings on young adult (YA) fiction to protect vulnerable kids and teens, as well as an industry-wide book rating classification system. Novels such as the Icebreaker series, A Court of Thorns and Roses, Once Upon a Broken Heart and Lore Olympus included violent or explicit storylines, new research has found. While some novels were not explicitly directed at preteens, they were popular with girls as young as 12 due to the influence of social media. Dr Emma Hussey, from the Australian Catholic University's (ACU) Institute of Child Protection Studies, said the books were often available in school and community libraries, and were easily accessible to children of all ages. "We looked at a range of fantasy, romance, paranormal, and general fiction novels that were being promoted to teenagers and compared the relationship dynamics to real-world warning signs of abuse," Dr Hussey said. "What we found was a pattern of emotional manipulation, jealousy and control being regularly framed as signs of love," the digital criminologist said. "That was really alarming because these are behaviours that we warn about in domestic violence education, but they're being normalised in fiction that young readers are picking up." ACU academics conducted a thematic analysis of 20 novels recommended by BookTok, a literature subcommunity on TikTok, which are popular among young readers. They found that each novel contained elements of domestic and family violence such as sexual assault, torture, grooming, power and control, including dominance and submission. They also found themes of sexual objectification and masculinity tropes, including powerful, dangerous, and handsome male love interests. "Extreme" sexually explicit content was found in 65 per cent of books analysed, and "moderate" sexual content was in a quarter of books. Graphic and extreme violence was also found in 65 per cent of books, according to the research. Dr Hussey described a scene in Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber where the protagonist is restrained by her love interest. The god-like male character's kiss is poisonous to the protagonist, who is in "constant threat" of death during their courtship, the child safeguarding expert said. The love interest denies the main character's autonomy and is able to speak through her body, Dr Hussey said. "If young readers consistently consume stories where love is tied to obsession, jealousy, possessiveness, or control, they may internalise these behaviours as normal - even desirable - in relationships," Dr Hussey said. "We are already facing a domestic violence epidemic. If girls grow up believing these themes are what they should be looking for in a relationship we run the risk of perpetuating this cycle," she said. Following the research by ACU, Dr Hussey is calling for content warnings to be included on book covers. She is also advocating for the adoption of an industry-wide classification system, similar to those seen in film and television, so parents are able to check if their child is reading developmentally inappropriate content. "A rating system is not about censorship. It is about transparency and ensuring books containing themes such as violence, explicit sexual content, and unhealthy relationship dynamics are classified appropriately," she said. READ MORE: Book ban overturned in rowdy council meeting Some publishers include an age rating in small print, others include content warnings, but some "prefer you to go in blind", the digital criminologist said. "The reality is that many parents have no idea what their children are reading," Dr Hussey said. "The time for action is now," she said. "Parents, schools, and policymakers must work together to implement structured guidance that protects young readers while still allowing them to explore and engage with stories in a way that is safe, educational, and developmentally appropriate." Penguin Books Australia and Bloomsbury Publishing were contacted for comment.
7NEWS
21-07-2025
- 7NEWS
Top 7 books of 2025 so far: Viral series to New York Times best-selling authors
Whether you're catching a flight to a European destination, or simply cosying up on the couch, there's no better feeling than delving into a new book. And if you're in the market for a newly released read to sink your teeth into, we've got you sorted. Here at Best Picks, we've rounded up 7 of the best new books so far in 2025, and there's plenty of different genres to choose from. Think fantasy triologies, personal memoirs or heart-racing thrillers, we've listed the best of the bunch. 1. A Different Kind of Power by Jacinda Ardern It's topped the charts for a reason. This personal memoir gives a behind-the-scenes look at leadership, parenting, and politics from the Former Prime Minister of New Zealand. It's surprisingly funny, deeply human and inspiring. $39 at Amazon Australia. 2. Onyx Storm: The Empyrean Bk 3 by Rebecca Yarros This romantic fantasy novel is the third book in the viral Empyrean series (think dragons, danger, and romance). A great read for fantasty-newbies, it delves into plenty of adventures, plot twists and spicy scenes. 3. Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins Set during the 50th annual Hunger Games, it's packed with twists and political drama. With over 60,000 reviews at Amazon Australia, this purple paperback is a hit with teens and adults alike. $15.97 at Amazon Australia. 4. The Catch by Yrsa Daley-Ward A debut novel from the award-winning British author, this beautiful book is set in London and centered around two twin sisters with a past that creeps up on them. Exploring heartbreak and self-discovery, it's the perfect holiday read. 5. Unfinished Business by Shankari Chandran Love a thriller? This one will tick all your boxes. From the Miles Franklin award-winning author, this fast-paced mystery involves corruption, law and power. $24.98 at Amazon Australia. 6. Cheesecake by Mark Kurlansky Determined to save his grandmother's cheesecake recipe, this light-hearted novel is more than just about food. Quirky and charming, it takes you back to New York in the 80s. 7. The House That Joy Built by Holly Ringland Upflighting and inspiring, this practical guide is all about finding creativity and courage in everyday life. Part memoir, part motivation, this book offers a 'jump-start for anyone whose desire to create is flattened by fear'.
Sydney Morning Herald
05-07-2025
- Sydney Morning Herald
No fairytale: How an online fantasy community sold out City Hall
Jess Felschow never felt she had a place where she truly belonged. That was before she found Celestial Events, a group that brings together people who love fantasy stories. They aren't alone. Fantasy fiction is exploding in popularity, and Jess is one of millions who have found comfort in series such as A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) by Sarah J. Maas. The books have sold more than 50 million copies worldwide, connecting an entire generation of readers. With Celestial Events, which boasts 10,000 online members, Jess could dress up and unapologetically embrace her interests, something she'd never experienced before. And now, along with her husband – and assistant dog Charlie – Jess has attended her first fantasy-themed ball, Starfall at Customs House by the Brisbane River. 'The people that go to these events are so kind and open-minded and accepting of everybody,' she says. Jess also walked the fashion runway at Queen Street Mall in her Starfall ball gown, a 'surreal' experience she says she would never have done before finding Celestial Events. Celestial Events came into being when another Brisbane local picked up an ACOTAR novel on a holiday. With a background in events, having run Brisbane Fashion Month, Carly Vidall-Wallace says she 'hadn't really read an enjoyable book since high school' and was enamoured. 'Trying to find people who are understanding and patient enough to want me involved in all aspects of events has been a big struggle.' Jess Felschow, Celestial Events member ' A Court of Thorns and Roses just ignited something in me.' She posted in a Sarah J. Maas Book Club Facebook group about interest in a ball modelled after the fantasy series, and Celestial Events was born. Overwhelmed by the response, Carly went into event-planning mode and within two weeks tickets for the first Starfall ball were on sale. 'I thought I might be the only one but when I saw that response I thought I'm not alone, I'm not a super geek and this could be really fun.' The first event sold 300 tickets in a minute. Carly scheduled a second ball the next evening to meet demand. That was 18 months ago. Now Carly has sold out City Hall, with 1000 Celestials in attendance and no plans to slow down. While this particular ball event is inspired by the acclaimed ACOTAR series, Carly has to be smart when it comes to copyright risk. Her events incorporate elements from a range of fantasy tales, including The Hunger Games, The Lord of the Rings and Fourth Wing. She has since been successful to obtain a trademark in Australia and New Zealand for Celestial Events Starfall Ball. Carly has also recently made it to the third round of the Telstra Business Awards in the community sector for her work with Celestial Events. With interstate and international interest, she has tapped into a huge market of fantasy-lovers who are seeking community, connection and friendship. 'Even though life is pretty hard, and the news is miserable at the moment, this is a space where that doesn't matter. You're going to be a fairy princess or you can be whoever you want to be. This is your night where you are the main character,' Carly said. The community strives to be an inclusive space where all are welcome and embraced. This has meant that naturally, the group has attracted many neurodiverse members. 'Escapism in the fantasy world has an interest in the neurodiverse community.' 'Even if you're super anxious when you put on a character you can be less shy because you're in persona'. Carly Vidall-Wallace, Celestial Events founder Coming from the fashion industry, Carly knows too well the feelings of inadequacy and comparison that she experienced in these spaces. 'I guess I felt that [the fashion industry] was a little bit VIP, you're either in or you're not. What are you wearing? What are they wearing? It was sometimes not a very positive space,' she said. For members of the neurodivergent community, finding a place of belonging isn't always an easy feat. Melbourne-based psychologist Susan Rodriguez-Manning said having a safe space was important to people who historically struggle to find community. 'Cosplaying allows you to dress up as the main character, the villain, or the hero, and be unapologetically that loud, excited, and talkative person without criticism,' she said. Cosplaying is the practice of dressing up as someone from a film, book or video game. It's a huge element of the fantasy book community. There's an added element of creativity as fans will often add their own interpretations to the words on the page to imagine how they see their favourite characters. '[Cosplaying] provides a safe way to explore the sides of yourself that you have felt the need to mask,' Susan said. Although the community has naturally attracted a large neurodivergent audience, it isn't exclusive and is open to anyone who loves fantasy stories. In a business sense, capitalising on the ever-growing 'BookTok' community was a smart move. 'Ironically, by dressing up as someone else, you get to fully be seen for your authentic self and celebrated for who you are'. Susan Rodriguez-Manning, psychologist With almost 60 million posts under #BookTok on TikTok and entire sections of book stores dedicated to stories highlighted online, it's quickly influencing the publishing world. Book-chain QBD Books recently opened their 100th store with the rise of romantasy genre, where series like ACOTAR sit, partly responsible for the business success. But like every online community, the BookTok world isn't immune to darker aspects.
