A Look Ahead: The Rest of 2026 at AQ-BOOKS™

By Jim Castelize III, COO

One of the most exciting parts of building an independent publishing company is watching an idea evolve into something larger than originally imagined.

What began as a small collection of stories has grown into a publishing brand with a clear mission, a growing readership, and an expanding catalog of titles that challenge assumptions, celebrate authenticity, and encourage meaningful conversations.

As we move through the second half of 2026, I wanted to take a moment to share what readers can expect from AQ-BOOKS™ over the coming months.

Building on Momentum

The year is already off to a strong start with the release of Zack, Not Kelly: Second Edition and our recent appearances at community events throughout New Jersey, including Pride celebrations where we had the opportunity to meet readers both new and returning.

The response has been incredible.

From longtime supporters who have followed August Quinn's work from the beginning to readers discovering AQ-BOOKS™ for the first time, the enthusiasm surrounding our titles continues to reinforce why independent publishing matters.

Stories matter.

Representation matters.

And authentic voices matter.

June 15: Unmasked — The Unapologetic Version

The next release on our calendar is Unmasked: The Unapologetic Version.

As the title suggests, this updated edition revisits the book that introduced readers to August Quinn while offering a more direct and uncompromising presentation of its themes.

The original release played a significant role in establishing the AQ-BOOKS™ brand and remains one of the most important titles in our catalog. Releasing this expanded edition during Pride Month feels especially appropriate given its focus on authenticity, identity, and the courage required to live openly.

July 4: The Rules We Break Continues

Readers of The One Who Was Supposed to Be Straight won't have to wait much longer for the next chapter.

The One Who Wasn't Supposed to Be Seen arrives on July 4, continuing the story while expanding the world and relationships introduced in the first book.

The Rules We Break series has quickly become one of our most popular fiction properties, and we're excited to see readers reconnect with these characters as their journey continues.

August: Surprise, You're Human

One of the most unique projects on our schedule is Surprise, You're Human: Unfortunately, There's No User Manual.

At its core, this book asks a question that feels increasingly relevant in today's world:

Why are we so determined to reduce one another to categories?

Blending observation, reflection, and commentary, the book explores the ways people define themselves and others while challenging readers to embrace complexity rather than simplicity.

It is a project that aligns closely with the broader AQ-BOOKS™ mission of encouraging thoughtful conversations and challenging conventional assumptions.

September: A Return to New Jersey

September brings the launch of an entirely new series with The Rules Jersey Broke: Book One — No Son of Mine (Except Obviously You're Still My Son).

Set firmly in New Jersey, this series explores family, identity, culture, and belonging through a distinctly Garden State lens.

As a New Jersey-based company, we're excited to showcase stories that feel deeply connected to the communities and experiences that helped shape AQ-BOOKS™ from the beginning.

More Than Books

While new releases are always exciting, AQ-BOOKS™ continues to focus on something larger than publication dates.

Our goal is to create stories that start conversations.

Stories that challenge assumptions.

Stories that remind readers that every person is more than a label, more than a category, and more than the expectations placed upon them.

As we continue to grow, we remain grateful for every reader, reviewer, event organizer, bookseller, and supporter who has helped make this journey possible.

The second half of 2026 is shaping up to be our most ambitious season yet, and we're excited to share it with all of you.

Thank you for being part of the AQ-BOOKS™ community.

Still Loud. Still Queer. Still Here.

Jim Castelize III

Chief Operating Officer

AQ-BOOKS™