There’s something extra special about visiting a brand new independent bookstore — especially when it’s in my OH’s hometown.
This weekend I finally popped into The Spicy Librarian in Leamington Spa… and oh my goodness.
It. Is. Stunning.
The shop has just opened and is already being talked about as Europe’s largest independent romance-only bookshop — shelves dedicated entirely to love stories, dark romances, fantasy spice, and everything in between. And you can feel that energy the second you walk in.
It was absolutely packed. There was even a doorman on the door welcoming people in (10/10 vibes), and the owner herself was on the till serving customers, which made it feel so personal and community-driven.
It’s cosy but bold. Feminine but powerful. Curated chaos in the best way.
And yes… I wanted everything.
So many books. Not enough money in my bank account.
Which obviously means I’ll be going back. 😌
🛍️ The Damage (My Haul)
This photo makes me so happy. The logo tote bag. The fanned covers. The chaos range of tropes. Zero regrets.
Here’s what came home with me:
📖 Where’s Molly – H.D. Carlton
I devoured the Cat & Mouse series, so naturally I had to try the next spinoff. If it even remotely matches that intensity, I’m in.
📖 Birthday Girl – Penelope Douglas
This one is already a five-star read for me (ebook + audiobook veteran here 🙋🏻♀️).
This copy? Pure trophy purchase. Some books just deserve shelf space.
📖 Credence – Penelope Douglas
I’ve heard so many positive reviews about this one. After loving Birthday Girl, I’m fairly confident this is right up my trope alley.
📖 Morning Glory Milking Farm – C.M. Nascosta
We are a judgement-free zone here.
Curiosity absolutely took over. Bookstagram made me do it.
📖 Tourist Season – Brynne Weaver
I devoured the Ruinous Love trilogy.
I still haven’t forgiven the ice cream scene. I still cannot eat ice cream without thinking about it.
So a new series? Yes please. I’m ready to be emotionally inconvenienced again.
📖 Caught Up – Navessa Allen
I loved Lights Out, so I’m really hoping this sequel keeps the same addictive energy.
📖 Five Brothers – Penelope Douglas
Another Penelope Douglas pick because apparently I’m in my PD era.
The reviews are strong and the tropes sound dangerously aligned with my taste.
💭 Final Thoughts
This felt like more than just book shopping.
It felt like being in a space built specifically for readers who love romance in all its forms — sweet, dark, spicy, chaotic.
If you’re anywhere near Leamington Spa and romance is your genre, The Spicy Librarian is absolutely worth the visit.
I’ll definitely be going back (with a slightly healthier book budget… maybe).
Now tell me — which one should I read first? 👀
And what’s the last book you bought purely because Bookstagram peer pressured you?
Let’s chat. 💌✨
Between the Pages & Pixels 