An absolute gem up in Crookes, Novel began as a pop-up bookshop with a few shelves in a coffee shop. In 2024 grew into its own permanent home, complete with a coffee shop, monthly book club, and a programme of occasional writer talks and special events.
Curation is key here, with owners Kate and Joe selecting new books each month, mainly contemporary fiction. They live by the simple motto that they "have to have read it all and enjoyed it." Their recommendations make for a shopping experience that’s that bit more personal and friendly.
The duo often take books out to happy customers in other parts of town, at markets and stalls everywhere from Woodseats to Park Hill. And Kate says they've found a friendly home among the city's bookshops. "The nice thing is they all offer something different and have their own personalities. It's just a lovely community.”