Romance bookstores offer a unique and enchanting experience for book lovers who revel in tales of love, passion, and happily-ever-afters. Unlike general bookstores, these specialty shops focus either primarily or entirely on romance novels, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere where readers can lose themselves in heartwarming stories.
One of the biggest draws of romance bookstores is their carefully curated selection. No longer relegated to one tiny shelf in the back corner, these stores put romance front and centre. From classic love stories to contemporary rom-coms and steamy bestsellers, these stores cater to every type of romance reader. Whether you're a fan of historical romance, LGBTQ+ love stories, or fantasy-infused passion, there's a perfect book waiting for you. Some are more focused on specific subgenres like fantasy, etc.
Community spaces
Beyond selling books, many romance bookstores pride themselves on being an inclusive and welcoming space for readers. Many host book clubs, author signings, and themed events where readers can connect, discuss their latest reads, and discover new authors. This welcoming environment makes these stores more than just a place to shop—they become community gathering spaces.
For example, The Romance Era Bookshop:
The Romance Era Bookshop is my love letter to a genre that started with Scholastic Book Fairs and fanfiction and has grown tenfold. It is my way of giving back to people who help others with their words. It's a space meant to feel like a cozy room at your friends house. There are events and opportunities for authors and other small creators to come hang out and use the shop to host events to uplift their work. Since I am not a writer myself, I wanted the space to be more than just making money selling books. I wanted it to foster community.
Owner
Many independent romance bookstores highlight self-published and lesser-known authors, providing a platform for diverse voices in the genre. These stores champion stories that may not always get the spotlight in mainstream bookshops, ensuring that readers have access to fresh and inclusive narratives.
The Romance Era is an inclusive, sex/body/pleasure positive safe space for people of all types to explore without judgement.
foster a sense of community. Many host book clubs, author signings, and themed events where readers can connect, discuss their favorite tropes, and discover new authors. This welcoming environment makes these stores more than just a place to shop—they become gathering spaces for those who appreciate the power of love stories.
There have been several news articles about the growth of romance bookstores recently
https://www.instagram.com/p/DGxEnWIxDiD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Generally romance bookstores are very pretty and visually appealing and Instagrammable. Beautiful and stylish decor, often embrace a warm, whimsical aesthetic, with soft lighting, cozy reading nooks, and shelves bursting with pastel-colored covers. Some even offer tea or coffee, more recently some offer wine! encouraging visitors to linger and savor the experience.
Numbers
I recently compiled a list of romance bookstores for a directory for romance readers. According to my data, the number of romance bookstores is even greater than most news stories to date have reported
By the end of 2024, there were 52 romance bookstores in the United States. Two months into 2025 and another eight have already opened, with another eight scheduled to open over the next few months (see table below).
If we include online and pop-up romance bookstores, there are XXX.
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- Romance Bookstores Are Booming, Dishing ‘All the Hot Stuff You Can Imagine’
(The New York Times – July 7, 2024)
- Romance Bookstores Are Booming, Dishing ‘All the Hot Stuff You Can Imagine’
(New York Times – July 7, 2024)