indie bookstore round-up: knoxville, tennessee

Hey, y’all,

I traveled through Knoxville, Tennessee over the weekend and had the pleasure of visiting three bookstores, two of which were new to me:

• The Unkind Raven in Dandridge, TN — This was my second visit, and I HAD to go back. Located in the second-oldest town in Tennessee, in the old Hyde House (ca 1845), it’s gorgeous, comes with a spectacular porch, and is haunted.

  P.S. There are two signed copies of The Miniaturist’s Assistant in the Local Author section right now, so be sure to grab yours!

• The Hive in Knoxville, TN — Located on Kingston Pike, they just opened in April 2026 and are already going strong. I can tell their community adores them! Great selection, friendly and knowledgeable booksellers, and the best reading nooks I’ve seen.

• Good Girl Books in Knoxville, TN — Best vibe ever: sparkly, inclusive, with cute dogs on all the bookstore swag. The place was packed with all kinds of folks when I was there, and I got the best book recs from the bookseller. Plus, there’s a flower shop next door.

• I took photos and videos in each bookshop, and posted on Instagram, so be sure to check those out so you can see more of these great bookstores.

If you are traveling to Knoxville, through Knoxville, or need a respite from Highway 40 any time this summer (or heck, any time), check out these fabulous independent bookstores. They are gems in their communities: places of rest, respite, and imagination, and I promise—you will leave feeling good (and with a good book).