Book Signing at Chapters & Chai

Shop independent and shop local, honestly, it’s the easiest way to give yourself the warm-and-fuzzies without even needing a hot chocolate with extra cream (although Chapters & Chai do an excellent one if you are that way inclined).

I had such a cracking time at my book signing on Saturday, held in the gorgeous Chapters & Chai coffee shop in Stockton centre. It’s one of those places that feels like it gives you a hug the moment you walk in: proper cosy, shelves full of temptation, and the smell of coffee that could probably put a smile on the grinchiest of faces.

As part of the Book Dragon, I’m lucky enough to have my entire collection of books on sale there. I love seeing them lined up looking all professional and whatnot. But it’s not just me: they’ve got an amazing selection of books by brilliant local authors, plus (and this is important) an entire menagerie of plush dragons. Yes, dragons. Soft, adorable, adoptable dragons. Because why wouldn’t you want to take home a fictional world and a mythical beast?

And if that wasn’t enough, there’s an escape room under the café. I know. Books, brews, buns, and the chance to be locked in a room for fun - truly something for everyone. Not me of course with my claustrophobia.

The staff are genuinely lovely too, and their cakes and scones could tempt a saint off the straight and narrow. Do yourself a favour: pop along. Support a local gem. And who knows, you might just stumble across your next favourite author… or at the very least leave with chocolate on your chin and no regrets.