By Sarah Frame
In the quaint town of Stewarton, East Ayrshire, Scotland, a woman named Sarah Frame has not only found a new love but also a new purpose in life. Her bookstore, The Book Nook, has become a haven for book lovers, and its story is one of love, literature, and resilience. Sarah’s journey began with a prediction from her daughter that she might find love in her bookstore. Though she never expected it to happen, Sarah’s life took a dramatic turn when she met Douglas Skelton, a crime author, at a book festival in her shop. Their whirlwind romance blossomed, and they decided to tie the knot in the very same shop where they first met. One of the most unique aspects of The Book Nook is its founder’s personal story. Sarah, who previously worked as a company director, had to make a drastic change in her life after experiencing a loss in her immediate family. Her desire to combine her love of books with her desire to make a positive impact on her local community led her to open The Book Nook. The Book Nook was born out of Sarah’s need to find a new sense of purpose after losing her younger son in 2019. She wanted to find a way to cope with the grief and to make a difference in the lives of others. The shop became a symbol of hope and healing for Sarah, and she hoped that it would have a positive impact on her own well-being. As the shop opened its doors in December 2020, Sarah faced the challenge of keeping her business alive during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she persevered and continued to host online orders, delivering books herself around town. The shop’s success was palpable, and it quickly became a familiar name in Stewarton. In 2022, Sarah began planning her most ambitious event yet – a mini book festival – and it was during this event that she met Douglas Skelton. The book festival was a huge success, and Sarah’s friend, author Gordon J. Brown, brought Douglas along to do a talk. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their relationship blossomed from there. The Book Nook has become a hub for book lovers, and its success has been recognized nationally. Sarah and Douglas were married in December 2024, in a small and intimate ceremony at The Book Nook, surrounded by their loved ones. Their love story is a testament to the power of literature and the idea that love can find you in the most unexpected places. The Book Nook is more than just a bookstore – it’s a symbol of hope, healing, and the transformative power of love. **Awards and Recognition**
* Independent Bookshop of the Year (2024 and 2025) at the British Book Awards

“I want people to feel part of something. Douglas and I have both found a new love and fresh joy later in life.