When Nocturne Books, a new horror-themed bookstore in Calgary, opened this month, co-owner Scott Ross-Molyneux had brought a book to read, anticipating some downtime on the opening day. However, he found himself busy with transactions and engaging with customers instead of reading. Ross-Molyneux, alongside his wife Allison Iriye, who is passionate about horror, established the store in Marda Loop.
Initially skeptical about the viability of independent bookstores and the availability of sufficient horror books, Ross-Molyneux was convinced otherwise as his wife brought home numerous books over time. Nocturne Books joins the trend of niche bookstores focusing on specific genres, such as Toronto’s Little Ghosts and Winnipeg’s Raven’s End Books.
Contrary to predictions of the demise of independent bookstores, Laura Carter from the Canadian Independent Booksellers Association stated that the sector is flourishing, attributing this to the “buy Canadian” movement and the enduring appeal of physical books. The association, comprising over 200 independent retailers, has observed a rise in genre-specific stores, providing enthusiasts with a more immersive experience and diverse book recommendations.
Inspired by a neighboring bookshop, Slow Burn Books, Nicola MacNaughton and her sister established Canada’s first brick-and-mortar romance bookshop in 2023. MacNaughton emphasized the allure of romance literature during challenging times, offering readers a comforting escape and the promise of a happy ending.
The sense of community and shared interests draw customers to these specialty bookstores, fostering a unique bond among like-minded individuals. Paula Russel, a horror aficionado, expressed her support for independent stores that cater to her preferences, highlighting the joy of connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
Despite initial uncertainties, Ross-Molyneux is optimistic about the market for stores like Nocturne Books, emphasizing the appeal of physical books in a digital-dominated world. The emergence of genre-specific bookstores in Calgary signifies a shift towards niche offerings, catering to diverse reader preferences and reinforcing the value of local bookshops.