Mission Statement
Between The Sheets Bookshop exists to create the kind of place people don't realize they're missing until they walk through the door—a place where stories spark conversations, strangers become friends, and everyone is welcomed like they belong. We believe books have the power to connect people, and we're here to build a community where kindness, curiosity, and shared stories matter just as much as what's on the shelves.
About Us
If you had asked me a few years ago what I wanted to do with my life, opening a bookstore probably wouldn't have been my answer.
I've been married to my husband for nearly ten years, and together we're raising our three wonderful children—George, Ophelia, and Edward. In 2019 my husband and I spent two years living in Virginia while he was on active duty. While I was grateful for the adventure, it was also one of the loneliest seasons of my life. Making genuine friendships as an adult felt harder than I ever expected, and it opened my eyes to something I think so many of us quietly experience: we're more connected than ever, yet so many people are still longing for true community.
Looking back, though, I think this dream began long before that.
Growing up, home wasn't always a place where I felt safe. Books became my refuge—the place where I could breathe, imagine, hope, and step into worlds where courage, friendship, and love always seemed possible. They reminded me that life could be bigger than my circumstances, and they gave me comfort when I needed it most.
Years later, after much prayer, I felt called to step away from the security of my career without knowing what would come next. It was one of the most intimidating decisions I've ever made, but as this bookstore slowly became the dream placed on my heart, one thought continued to return:
What if a bookstore could be more than a bookstore?
What if it became a place where people felt like they belonged?
I've experienced how deeply people can be shaped by feeling unseen, misunderstood, or like they have to earn acceptance. Because of that, my greatest hope isn't simply to sell you your next favorite book—it's to create a place where you feel genuinely welcome from the moment you walk through the door.
Whether you're a lifelong reader, picking up your very first fantasy novel, celebrating a midnight release, or simply looking for a cozy corner to spend an afternoon, I hope you leave feeling seen, valued, and excited to come back. Kindness isn't just something we hope to offer—it's the foundation of everything we do.
One of the moments that confirmed this dream happened almost by accident. On a whim, I attended a midnight release for Iron Flame. I expected to leave with a book. Instead, I left with lasting friendships.
For one evening, this group of strangers laughed together, theorized together, counted down the final seconds together, and celebrated a story they all loved. It wasn't really about the book anymore—it was about the people standing beside you who understood exactly why this moment mattered.
I drove home that night thinking, I want to help create more of this.
That's the feeling I hope you'll find here.
I want midnight release parties where the excitement is contagious. Themed events that make you feel like you've stepped into another world for an evening. Book clubs where conversations continue long after the final page. Cozy corners where strangers become friends over a recommendation that starts with, "You have to read this one." Beautifully wrapped books that feel like opening a gift. Shelves that invite you to linger just a little longer because you never know which story is about to find you.
Because sometimes the best part of reading isn't escaping into another world—it's finding your people in this one.
Whether you're an avid reader, someone rediscovering your love of books, or simply searching for a place to slow down for a while, I hope Between The Sheets Bookshop feels like somewhere you can exhale.
A place where stories are celebrated.
Where conversations come easily.
Where kindness is freely given.
Where everyone belongs.
The books may be why you visit. The community is why I hope you'll stay.
Welcome to Between The Sheets Bookshop.
I'm so glad you're here.
- Carli
