Bookstore Soft Opening: The Secret Lantern

I've been hunting for the first volume of Yuki Tabata's Black Clover for far too long. But that's because I had a rule: I'd only buy it from an actual bookstore. After all, while I've grown to be a Kindle girlie at heart, there's something about holding that first volume that feels special. Supporting local shops makes it feel even better.

So, when I walked into The Secret Lantern, and there it was waiting on the shelf (and it was the only one, mind you), it felt like fate. Like the universe finally handed me the grimoire I'd been dreaming of.

Now, onto the actual purpose of this blog!

The Secret Lantern is unlike anywhere else in Cedar Park, Texas. It's inside a remodeled bank, and they kept the vault, turning it into a fully decked-out game room that's as cool as it sounds. There are a couple of other spaces specifically for playing games, too, which just adds to the atmosphere. The owners, Dianna and Dan, have been extremely active on social media since getting started with their journey, asking what people wanted from the space—and wow, they delivered.

I attended the soft opening with my sister, and we were pleasantly surprised to be the second-to-last party to snag some swag. (It was out of 25 parties, so perhaps my lucky number is 24?) Needless to say, this past weekend was incredible all around.

What they've created is a real community hub for book lovers and gamers. They carry a mix of novels, manga, board games, and gifts, infusing everything with a true appreciation for nerd culture. It's the kind of place where you can browse for hours, which I definitely would've if it hadn't been as insanely packed as it was. One girl in line joked-but-not-really-joked that she was in trouble because, even while waiting to check out, she kept finding more stuff she wanted.

It's honestly so refreshing to have The Secret Lantern making its home in the suburbs. Usually, you have to drive into Austin to find something like this, but they prove that Cedar Park is ready for a little geeky magic, too. Judging by the turnout, people have been jonesing for quite a while.

I know I'm already looking forward to going back. And next time, my credit card will be prepared to take some real damage.

If you're in the Greater Austin area, you have to swing by The Secret Lantern Books & Games to see what two video game industry veterans have brought to life. To find out more about this indie bookstore, just click this link!