A new romance bookstore, Finney’s Books, is set to open in East Austin, Texas, with a grand opening scheduled for December 13, 2023. Located at 3823 Airport Blvd., #D, the store aims to celebrate the romance genre, which has seen a surge in popularity. According to consumer research company Circana, romance sales have doubled since 2021 and continue to dominate fiction bestsellers lists.
Cameron Lagrone, the owner, believes in creating a space that is inclusive and welcoming for all romance readers. The bookstore will offer a diverse selection of titles, from “sweet contemporary romances with a hint of spice” to edgy adult narratives that delve into dramatic themes. Lagrone emphasizes the importance of embracing genre tropes, inviting readers to explore the narratives without hesitation.
As a queer woman, Lagrone has been particularly inspired by the growing availability of queer love stories in romance literature. She shares on the store’s website, “In the last couple of years, like so many folks around me, I discovered the absolute JOY to be found in romance books. What I once thought of as outdated regressive stories have instead been a place where I’ve found stories that celebrate love and pleasure in all their forms.”
Grand Opening Celebration Details
The grand opening will take place on Saturday from 11:00 to 18:00. Attendees can enjoy coffee from Please Stay Coffee and baked goods from The AniCakes Co., alongside other refreshments. The first 25 guests will receive a complimentary branded tote bag, while those who purchase a book will enter a giveaway featuring signed books and “bookish merch bundles.” Additionally, visitors will receive a bookmark while supplies last.
Finney’s Books is conveniently situated at the intersection of Airport Boulevard and 38th 1/2, with onsite parking available, as well as street parking along 38th 1/2 and Anchor Lane. The store aims to be more than just a place to buy books; it seeks to cultivate a community of romance enthusiasts who feel represented and valued.
As romance novels continue to capture the hearts of readers worldwide, Finney’s Books stands poised to play an important role in this literary landscape, providing a dedicated venue for those who cherish the genre.
