While chain bookstores dwindle, community-focused independent bookstores stores are finding a niche among bibliophiles by offering both a retail and social experience. Such is the case with Steamy Lit, part of a collective of romance-centric bookstores founded in 2021 by Navy veteran Melissa Saavedra. During the pandemic, she launched The Steam Box, a quarterly romance book subscription service. Steamy Lit has since expanded to locations in Tampa and Miami Springs, along with a store relocated from Deerfield Beach to the Thrive District in Fort Lauderdale. Steamy Lit is known for promoting sexual empowerment while highlighting underrepresented voices. On the shelves, you'll find books by romance authors of color as well as nonbinary and genderqueer writers. Categories include Morally Gray Dark Romance, Libros en Español, If You Got Dragged Here, Black Authors, Debí Leer Más Libros Book Club Picks, Otherworldly, Special Editions, Autographed Books, and more. I personally enjoy a historical romance novel every now and then. They even have a fun section where you can go on a mystery date with a book. Although the title is hidden, they provide the price and a few hints about the plot. They also sell stickers, clothing, accessories, and novelties. The store features inviting seating where you can curl up with a book, and they frequently host book clubs, craft nights, author meet-and-greets, signing events, meetups, and other social gatherings. If you're a romance reader, book lover, or simply someone looking for a unique experience, Steamy Lit is worth a visit. They do more than just sell books. By putting the spotlight on romance novels, they are building community while fostering inclusion. read more

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BRING. BACK. SMALL. BOOKSTORES! Steamy Lit is a breath of fresh air. I first went to the store at a yelp event, and I couldn't wait to come back on a normal day. The staff are always so nice and helpful with suggestions, and it is just a good vibe to chill and hang out at the store. And as I've said, we love a Latina owned business! read more

Steamy Lit - Bookstores Near Me - Fort Lauderdale, Florida

I was in town for my 30th birthday, and we made it a point to make a stop at Steamy Lit! While I wouldn't consider myself a romance/romantasy reader, this place's selection had me wanting to explore the genre more than I have thus far. They get extra points for having a healthy selection of queer and AAPI authors, and for the amazing staff! 100 percent need one of these in Virginia. Bravo! read more

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This was my first time in the Fort Lauderdale location and I was really impressed. The staff was so nice and helpful and they have so many great upcoming events. They have an awesome selection of books and other cute and fun items. I will definitely be returning. read more

Steamy Lit is a beautiful new bookstore located in the new Thrive Art District in Fort Lauderdale. It is also nestled conveniently next to Alma Matcha, which is where I went when I saw Steamy Lit right next door. Bonus. Stopped by here after getting my matcha. Sasha was the nice bookstore extraordinaire who welcomed me and also gave me a quick guide to the store and let me know if I needed any help to give her a shout. The store has books ranging from romance, romantasy, dark fantasy and LGBTQ+ genres. They also offer monthly Steamy Lit Bookclubs and events listed on their menu board as you walk in. Tons of cool book lover gift ideas including stickers, tote bags, apparel and more. A cute idea they have is the mystery date with a book which is also called a blind book that is wrapped with clues of what to expect with that surprise book. Lovely new book store in the community. Must check it out if you're in the neighborhood. Perfectly nestled next to a matcha spot too. Couldn't ask for anything more. Plenty of free parking. Follow their social media for upcoming events! Support your local bookstore! The prices are fair and totally reasonable. read more

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What a great concept!! I love the idea of a romance bookstore. There's definitely an audience for that. The place is cute and nicely decorated. Spacious enough for book clubs. Staff were friendly and helpful. I didn't know where to start and they gave me options. I like how they have an online website to purchase your supplies too! Can't wait to go back and get more books. read more

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WHOA!!! RATED PG-13 Interesting little romantically based bookstore in the Thrive Art District. The Deerfield Beach store recently closed and this Fort Lauderdale location had it's Grand Opening a few days ago. I lean more toward fiction and apocalyptic genre than romance, but had to take a peek. Brilliantly wedged between a kava bar and a matcha latte shop with plenty of FREE parking surrounding the business. The comfy couches allow customers to relax with their cold Matcha and just take in the zen ambiance. Was not sure what to expect but I guess the name says it all. The romance novels are all new editions and organized on the shelves for simple navigation. There is a little metal box next to the customer service counter that says, "Free Little Library". With a turn of the key, I opened the door slowly which revealed several books to take for free with an optional customer book replenish system - this was a nice touch and added to the originality and mystique of the bookstore. read more

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So excited to have a book store like Steamy Lit close to home! I had been following their move on Instagram and once they were open in Fort Lauderdale, I made it over there to check them out. Parking is available in front of stores as well as across in a small parking lot. They are located in the building with the butterflies across the top of the store front. When you walk in the store is divided into 2 main sections - contemporary on the right and fantasy on the left. I was actually shopping for a friend's birthday, as well as, for myself. I found my book right away in the Morally Grey section lol. I had already finished the first book in this particular series, so I automatically grabbed Book 2. From my friend I headed over to contemporary and picked out an easy breezy, summery hardcover romance. The store also has merch like hats, kindle covers, stickers, etc...The rest of the plaza is great too. There's an amazing matcha place right next door and an vintage boutique on the back side. I will definitely be stopping by again and again:) read more

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If you're looking for a new book to read come to Steamy Lit! This new bookstore is a lovely boutique style shop with a curated selection of romance novels from contemporary, young adult, fantasy, sci-fi and more. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. They took their time helping my friend choose her next read. They even have a section where you can have a "blind date" with a mystery book. They've got lots of monthly events. You can follow them on social media for the latest updates. The inside is so cozy and the walls are beautifully decorated with literary art. I love it. Overall, I love this store and their selection of books. I will keep it in mind to support them versus the other big retailer. read more

Steamy Lit - Bookstores Near Me - Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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Came here on a Sunday morning. Was immediately greeted by a friendly bookseller and felt very welcome and comfortable. This shop specializes in romance books and has a range of genres within romance. I loved the special edition books and signed book collection. They also have "mystery date with a book" where you try a new book based on description alone. Lots of cute merchandise, from tshirts, hats, totes, and e-reader covers. There are comfy couches and you can take your time and look around. Very happy to see a local bookshop opening up, they've done a wonderful job and I'm sure it will be a positive space in the book community. Free parking but parking can fill up depending on when you are going. The location is perfect for walking around, getting some coffee, checking out art murals and relaxing. Can't wait to see more of what this unique, indie bookshop has in store! read more

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Beautiful set up and felt the sexy romance vibe as soon as I walked through the door. Took my hubby here today to search for a few novels. Fun discussion with the owner Melissa who was very chill and definitely by the placement of the novels on the bookshelves she is very organized too. Decent selection of romance books all in one place at good prices. Steamy Lit will be having a collaboration soon with a Pilates company in the courtyard of the Art Thrive District which is a fun idea. read more

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The cutest and coziest book store! The owner and staff are really friendly and gave great recommendations. They also host a monthly book club. read more

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Love this cute little gem! They host a ton of author events and craft events and I enjoyed their book selection, lots of diverse titles