Grand Gesture Books, founded by Katherine Morgan, is a new romance-focused bookstore that aims to open a physical storefront in Portland, Oregon. Morgan, who works part-time as a bookseller at Powell's City of Books and in customer service for Bookshop.org, decided to create her own business after becoming a fan of romance novels in 2020. The name 'Grand Gesture' was inspired by a rom-com movie scene. The store will feature romance novels as well as books on memoir and relationship advice. Morgan believes that romance is diversifying and attracting readers from historically marginalized identities. She plans to create a central hub with a storefront and event space that is accessible and on a major bus line. The bookstore will prioritize inclusivity and the belief that everyone deserves a happy ending. [a785d1da]