Local, independent bookstores have never been more important. With fair access to literature under political attack, bookstores are a bulwark against censorship and an asset to the communities they serve.

Each week we profile an independent bookstore, discovering what makes each one special and getting their expert book recommendations.

This week we have The Romance Era Bookshop in Vancouver, Washington!

An inside look at Romance Era Bookshop

Love is in the air and on the shelves at The Romance Era Bookshop, a haven for literary enthusiasts not just looking to find hidden treasures but also a celebration of diversity, warmth, and the magic of romance novels.

Check out: USA TODAY's weekly Best-selling Booklist

Black and queer owned with a cozy living room vibe, The Romance Era Bookshop stands out as a beacon of representation in the literary world. Owner Gwendolyn Rice’s vision is clear: create a space that not only embraces the romance genre but also champions sex positivity, inclusion, safety, and accessibility.

Every book on the shelves has a story of its own, having been discovered second hand or donated by the vibrant community of customers. “The space is cozy and doesn't have strong 'this is a retail store' energy," says Rice. "I am known for trying to cater to as many aspects of the romance genre that I can and always having something fun playing on the in-shop TV.”

Adding an element of fun to the browsing experience is a claw machine stocked with capsules containing enticing book quotes. For 25 cents, customers can try their luck, grab a capsule, and unveil a snippet of a romance novel. It's a playful way to discover new books, enticing readers to take a chance on a story they might not have encountered otherwise.

Check out these books Rice highly recommends:

• "Silver Under Nightfall" by Rin Chupeco
• "Court of Wanderers" by Rin Chupeco 
• Any book written by Katee Robert