Grand Gesture Books — Local services in Portland

My first experience with Grand Gesture was one of their author events! We went for A.J. Braun, to talk about their book Of Blood and Stone and it was a great experience! Masks were event required and if you didn’t have one they were provided. There was seating and a very cozy area for the author and moderator to talk.

For a smaller space and business, I was very impressed with the whole event! There were introductions and guided questions for the author to speak on their book. The people talking had mics, so there were no issues with sound. I loved hearing the author speak on their book and what their journey was creating the characters and world. After that there was a Q&A with audience members, then a book signing. The book was available to purchase on site for the signing, which was great. I did RSVP so I knew I was getting one, but it looked like there were extras for people who might not have done that.

After the event, we were encouraged to browse the other books available to purchase. I liked how everything was categorized, and I felt like it was easy to find books I might be interested in. Since there was an event, the shop wasn’t in its typical layout, so I’m not sure if there were more books not out for spacing purposes. The owner was super nice and I’d definitely come back to visit on a normal day, as well as for another...

Grand Gestures is an adorable bookstore. The staff are all very friendly and helpful without being overbearing. Katherine, the store owner, is very helpful and knowledgeable about an impressive amount of romance varieties. I am new to reading romance and she had a short conversation about what I look for in stories and made several suggestions that all piqued my interest. I haven’t read them all yet but what I have read of her suggestions have been spot on for what I find compelling in a romance. Her suggestions were also a variety of different kinds of stories. This store really has the best qualities that independent stores can offer. The suggestions don’t feel like easy stereotypes like at chains it feels like a friend giving a recommendation that they actually enjoyed. I also appreciate that you can tell the employees have a positive relationship and experience working here. It’s difficult to have a small business and create an environment that is fair and kind to the workers. If you like romance and want to support a black, queer woman owned business that treats its employees with respect please support Grand Gestures. We need more...

I found this place on tik tok and decided to give it a try. I absolutely love reading and romance is one of my favorite genres.

This shop is cute and inviting but it still feels like it’s under construction. There were a couple of decorative items sitting in boxes and on the floor against the wall. They did just open a few weeks ago so I’m sure they’re still setting up.

There’s a great selection of books and you could easily spend an hour browsing. I can’t wait to come back next time I’m in Portland to see how this place has grown!

Update: I originally visited in November of 2024 and this place was still getting off the ground. I came back in April 2025 and this place is amazing!! The place is more fully decorated and the shelves are filled. They also are hosting a number of events for the community, which is a major plus. I wish I lived closer so I could...