Del Rey Books
Judy-Lynn del Rey and her husband Lester established Del Rey Books in 1977. The couple took over the science fiction line from Ballantine Books to create a dedicated imprint for genre fiction. Their first new novel was Terry Brooks' The Sword of Shannara, released that same year. This decision marked a shift away from general publishing toward specialized fantasy and science fiction markets. Judy-Lynn served as editor until her death in 2008, shaping the early identity of the house.
The imprint focuses on four core categories: science fiction, fantasy, horror, and fantasy romance. This strategy distinguishes it from larger trade publishers who treat these genres as secondary lines. Del Rey built its reputation by consistently releasing high-quality work within these specific boundaries. The company does not publish literary fiction or mainstream non-fiction under this name. Instead, it curates a catalog where speculative elements drive every title.
Del Rey published Star Wars novels under the Lucasbooks sub-imprint starting in the 1990s. These books were licensed directly from Lucasfilm, which is now part of The Walt Disney Company. The line included many titles written by various authors before shifting to Random House Worlds. Other franchises like Halo, Robotech, and Batman received similar treatment through specialized imprints. This approach allowed the publisher to tap into existing fanbases while maintaining editorial control over the prose.
Recent releases include Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao and At the Bottom of the Garden by Camilla Bruce in January 2025. February brings Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales by Heather Fawcaw and Cursebound by Saara El-Arifi. May features The Seventh Veil of Salome by Silvia Moreno-Garcia alongside Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid. July includes Candle & Crow by Kevin Hearne and Arcana Academy by Elise Kova. These titles reflect ongoing investment in fantasy and horror genres with strong female leads and complex worldbuilding.
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Common questions
When was Del Rey Books established and by whom?
Judy-Lynn del Rey and her husband Lester established Del Rey Books in 1977. The couple took over the science fiction line from Ballantine Books to create a dedicated imprint for genre fiction.
What genres does Del Rey Books publish today?
The imprint focuses on four core categories: science fiction, fantasy, horror, and fantasy romance. The company does not publish literary fiction or mainstream non-fiction under this name.
Who were the earliest major contributors to the Del Rey Books list?
Isaac Asimov and Anne McCaffrey were among the earliest major contributors to the list. Robert A. Heinlein and Philip K. Dick also appeared frequently in their catalogs during the late twentieth century.
Did Del Rey Books publish Star Wars novels and when did that start?
Del Rey published Star Wars novels under the Lucasbooks sub-imprint starting in the 1990s. These books were licensed directly from Lucasfilm, which is now part of The Walt Disney Company.
What new titles are scheduled for release by Del Rey Books in early 2025?
Recent releases include Water Moon by Samantha Sotto Yambao and At the Bottom of the Garden by Camilla Bruce in January 2025. February brings Emily Wilde's Compendium of Lost Tales by Heather Fawcaw and Cursebound by Saara El-Arifi.