Alison Frenzel: Enchanted Book Emporium & Bistro
The South is renowned for its culinary delights, vibrant gardens, and festive decorations, but we also have a knack for spinning tales, a skill highlighted by the literary legends that hail from our region. Our hearts are deeply attuned to the allure of a quaint, unique bookstore. Indeed, nearly every charming city and town in the South boasts at least one such establishment, brimming with bestsellers and fresh releases, hosting author appearances and gatherings, and offering cozy spots for a peaceful read.
Given writers’ profound appreciation for bookstores, we engaged with some of the most influential contemporary Southern authors to compile a must-read list for every book enthusiast. Below, discover which bookstores have earned top honors.
Salisbury, North Carolina
“Salisbury is my hometown, and South Main Book Company has been a staple of our historic downtown since 1998,” explains Kristy Woodson Harvey, a New York Times best-selling author with her latest novel, Beach House Rules, hitting shelves last May. “This store, nestled within a building with original hardwood floors and architectural charm, features antique library ladders as its crown jewel,” she adds. “South Main is also a strong advocate for our community and schools, hosting numerous events like author meetups, book clubs, and silent reading nights to foster togetherness.”
While visiting Salisbury, the birthplace of Cheerwine, Harvey recommends Hap’s Grill, a stroll down Main Street to Caniche and Salisbury Wine Shop, and concluding the day with delectable treats from Spanky’s and Abigail’s.
southmainbookcompany.com; 110 S Main St, Salisbury, NC 28144
St. Petersburg, Florida
For Kristen Arnett, a Florida novelist known for works like Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One and Mostly Dead Things, Tombolo Books in St. Pete is a beacon among bookstores. “The store’s charm lies in the delightful book sellers who make every visit memorable,” she shares. “Their recommendations, new stories, and warmth leave me with a heart full of joy. The collection is outstanding, with a vast array of queer authors, and the shop wholeheartedly supports Florida writers. The location is beautiful, with a lovely patio for events and gatherings.”
After a visit to Tombolo, Arnett suggests sipping coffee at Black Crow Coffee, enjoying the beach, and indulging in drinks at Lost & Found and seafood at Barbouni.
tombolobooks.com, 2153 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
New Orleans, Louisiana
Wiley Cash, a North Carolina-based best-selling author with When Ghosts Come Home and A Land More Kind Than Home, is a fan of Faulkner House in Pirate’s Alley. “This quaint store, though small, is meticulously curated to cater to reader preferences,” he says. The shop, located in William Faulkner’s former residence, built in 1837, is a testament to the Southern writer’s legacy.
faulknerhousebooks.com; 624 Pirate’s Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116
Gainesville, Florida
Cash also recommends The Lynx Books, owned by his friend Lauren Groff, which specializes in controversial literature with a focus on Florida’s literary heritage. The store hosts events such as book clubs and family story times, fostering a love for reading.
thelynxbooks.com; 601 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601
Charleston, South Carolina
Mary Alice Monroe, a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of Where the Rivers Merge and the Lowcountry Summer series, highlights Buxton Books on King Street as a must-visit. “The store, nestled next to the historic Charleston Library Society, boasts artistic window displays and an impressive selection of signed books, hosting many author events,” she says. Its convenient location near Blue Bicycle Books and Holy City’s finest dining adds to its charm.
buxtonbooks.com; 160 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
Decatur, Georgia
Tayari Jones, a New York Times best-selling author of An American Marriage, speaks of Charis Books & More as the nation’s oldest continuously operated feminist bookstore. “Their events are legendary, featuring emerging and established writers from around the globe,” she remarks. “You’re bound to find something captivating, regardless of your reading list’s size.”
For Jones, a perfect day in Decatur includes a trip to the international farmers’ market, a stop at Piece of Cake for a giant slice of red velvet cake, and an afternoon at Charis Books, where she discovers poetry and new experiences.
charisbooksandmore.com; 184 S Candler St, Decatur, GA 30030
Alison Frenzel: Enchanted Book Emporium & Bistro
“Fabled is a true hub of our community,” says Harvey. “Waco locals come here for coffee, to read, and to relax in this visually captivating space, reminiscent of The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.” She describes it as a “book lover’s sanctuary,” filled with popular reads and rare finds. “The best part is that children can step through a wardrobe door to find their own Narnia, complete with books tailored just for them,” she adds.
fabledbookshop.com; 215 S 4th St, Waco, TX 76701
