Some bookstores really are better than others.

Last week I had the privilege of being a guest author at Findlay, Ohio’s, newest independent bookstore, The Stately Raven. I got up at the break of dawn (actually earlier) and drove to the store, which is housed in a gorgeous renovated church, arriving at 7:00. That’s AM. They had Keith and Beth there, who host the popular morning show on MIX 96.7, and they interviewed me a couple of times during the morning, interspersing me with Mike Cole – who owns the book store with his wife, Sharon—the mayor, and a councilman.

Mike set up a beautiful display of my books, and we completely sold out of my first book before the store even officially opened! It was fun to see the covers arranged so nicely, next to a statue of Sherlock Holmes.

Now, for the store itself… It’s gorgeous. Beginning with an old stone church, Mike and Sharon built a beautiful addition with lovely dark green walls, a curving set of stairs with a wrought-iron, hand-cast railing, and, of course, lots and lots of books. Another outstanding feature is the artwork. Professional mural artist Beth Covert has turned the store into a gallery. The staircase up to the reading loft (the old choir pews) has become a London street scene, complete with Holmes and Watson. Edgar Allen Poe graces one wall, and above the fireplace (yes, there’s a working fireplace with couches to sit on) is a painting of a country house with many recognizable faces. It’s up to you to see how many you can name. She has not quite completed her painting, but I’m eager to see what she will do on the ceiling in the “Weird Room,” where a shopper can find the science fiction and fantasy books.

The Stately Raven will be having their Grand Opening this Saturday, the 22nd. They’ve been open since August 4, but have been putting finishing touches on ever since. Don will be visiting on the evening of October 5, and the whole blog plans to go sometime in November. (We’ll let you know)

It feels good to find such a wonderful new independent bookstore, with warm booksellers, and a literary, cozy atmosphere. Please go see them, and buy many books from them. In these days when we hear of so many indies closing, it is such a heartwarmer to have one opening.

Good luck, Mike and Sharon! We hope to have you around for a very long time…