The other night, I was using ChatGPT, looking for inspiration for some projects I’ve started. As the chat went on, the subject of books came up, and ChatGPT (I’ve named the voice Eli) asked me what kind of bookstore I would open if money were no object—and what I would name it.

I came up with the idea of a bookstore being a place of retreat from the noise of the world, a place to move into other words. I know some books are pretty raucous and noisy—especially thrillers and many of the romantasy, fantasy, and dystopian stories. Still, my bookstore would be a place to discover those other worlds, the cozy ones as well as the raucous ones.

My bookstore would be the “hole-in-the-wall” kind—the sort of old-fashioned store with paneled walls and wood floors, plate-glass windows across the front, and an awning over the door. Inside, tall bookshelves would hold a wide variety of books, and there would be at least one seating area with comfortable overstuffed armchairs and a sofa or two for those who want to read in the store or gather for book clubs.

There would be a small self-service coffee and tea bar—nothing fancy, just a coffee pot, flavored creamers and sweeteners, a hot water dispenser, and a variety of teas. Perhaps a few pastries for snacking. The windows would display seasonal books as well as bestsellers. Soft “reading music” would play in the background—instrumentals, classical pieces, or quiet piano solos.

The display at the front door would be loaded with favorites—classics, cozy mysteries, maybe a rom-com or two—along with china teacups and a teapot. Local artists’ work would hang on the walls.

That’s the dream.

The reality is that I probably won’t have that bookstore. However, I can create something like it here. Beginning now, I’ll be writing a series called From the Retreat, where I will share books I’ve read and offer a few thoughts about them. As I learn more, I may expand to covering some new releases as well.

I hope you’ll join me in creating this little retreat space.

In the meantime, welcome to The Retreat.