New York’s First All-Romance Bookstore
Credit: Racked
Brooklyn is embracing love. It’s all happening at The Ripped Bodice, an innovative all-romance bookstore making its second debut in New York’s Park Slope. The original shop in Culver City, California, set a new trend as the nation’s first dedicated romance bookstore when it opened in 2016 according to The Observer.
A Dreamy Space for Romance Lovers
Founded by the visionary sisters Bea and Leah Koch, this enchanting shop stands out with its feminine pink-and-white decor, an interior inspired by Pinterest fantasies. From rows of romance novels to custom merchandise and a dedicated events space, it’s a hub for all things romantic.
The store’s provocative name, rooted in a controversial romance sub-genre, has become a symbol of reclaiming a title that once created debate among book lovers. The sisters chose to embrace it.
From Guilty Pleasure to a Social Norm
When The Ripped Bodice first opened its doors, romance novels were considered somewhat of a guilty pleasure. But things have changed drastically since the early days of romance reading, especially after the acceptance of titles like “50 Shades of Grey.”
Today, the store is a vibrant space that caters to all types of romance readers, from novices to seasoned fans, showcasing every genre from romantic comedies to Regency.
Leah Koch, co-owner of The Ripped Bodice, points to a greater societal awareness of sexism and misogyny as reasons behind the shift in attitude toward romance novels. The once hidden-away romance sections of big bookstores are no more. Now, romance is everywhere.
The Impact of TikTok
The explosion in romance’s popularity can be seen in places like TikTok, where young influencers discuss their favorite titles. The younger generation has breathed fresh life into the genre, as Gen Z has embraced romance, helping to elevate it to the forefront of bookstores.
The evolving tastes of readers have led to noticeable changes in the covers and content of romance novels. Gone are the typical shirtless male models; now, cheerful illustrations prevail. Yet, the changes go deeper. A strong push towards inclusivity is happening, although Leah admits there’s still progress to be made.
Diversity and Unusual Erotica
Leah and Bea are champions of diversity in romance. They warn that readers today expect inclusivity, and the genre must reflect the real world to maintain its appeal.
Interestingly, “off-the-wall erotica,” featuring unconventional characters like gargoyles and Kraken, has also gained traction. Leah appreciates the tongue-in-cheek nature of these reads, which often exceed expectations in their writing quality.
Tailoring to Individual Needs
The Ripped Bodice staff is skilled in guiding customers to their perfect reads. Recommendations are tailored through a series of personalized questions. For newcomers, the recommendations are strategic; Leah knows she often has only one chance to convert a reader.
More Than a Bookstore
But this unique shop offers more than just books. A robust calendar of events, including author talks and writing workshops, is planned for the fall season in New York. Whether you’re seeking Kraken erotica, emotional novels, or memoirs, The Ripped Bodice has the right story for every romance lover.
The Ripped Bodice is not just a bookstore but a celebration of romance in all its forms. Reflecting societal shifts and the influence of platforms like TikTok, it’s a testament to how romance has evolved, broken stigmas, and grown to be a genre inclusive of all love stories.