Cancel

Open app

Search

Monarch Books

5.0 (34 reviews)
Closed 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Monarch Books Photos

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - Monarch Books

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Children's section out back
Joe S.

Very cute, classy, and charming bookstore nestled in the heart of this community. I'm so glad I made a stop. There was a very nice lady who was so helpful to me with picking a book for my daughter. She was so knowledgeable and patient, we ended chatting for a bit about the town. This was such a great find!

4/10/25 - Great kids section ... so diverse! "The Midnight Panther"
Gail O.

Cute little bookshop with great gifts for the bookworm in your life, or to get kids excited about reading!

Stacey R.

This is a charming little bookstore in the heart of Arroyo grande. The bookstore is small, but they have a wonderful selection of books for everyone on your list. They carry all sorts of genres and if they don't have it, they can definitely get it for you. The children's section is located in the back of the store and is super sweet and charming. They carefully curate the books to not only the popular titles that everybody knows and loves, but other books that you may not have heard of before. Over the holidays they had a book tree in their store to help support teachers. Educators in the area could choose books that they would love for their classroom and these book wishes were placed on the tree. Customers coming in and out were able to look at the tree and choose a teachers book to donate to them. It was such a kind and thoughtful thing to do I love a bookstore that helps support educators in their endeavors to support their students and encourage students love for reading and learning. You're such a fun bookstore, whether you're going to browse or to buy and help support this local business. We will definitely be back.

Outside sign
Lisa V.

Very well curated adult and children's sections. Half the store is children's books. I felt like I wanted to purchase practically every book in the store! The staff was pleasant and knew about the books we bought.

Michael N.

I've loved small(ish), independent bookstores as long as I can remember. Always seeking them out, particularly if I'm actually looking for an honest opinion of a book, often poetry, counting on the judgement of people who actually read the books they sell. The kind of place you "follow your nose" to the book(s) you buy, rather than grab them from a typical "Best Seller" pile. Walking down E. Branch St. (the main drag) in Old Town Arroyo Grande the other day, it was like I was someone tickled my ear and said "look up dummy, look at this place". Not kidding. I was at the entrance to Monarch Books, and couldn't help myself. All three of us walked in and were pretty amazed at what we saw/felt/experienced. The vibe is so easy, friendly, well thought out, artful, full of the little special vignette collections of "Neighborhood Writers", specialized children's books, in fact at least a third of Monarch Books is dedicated to the little ones. It's even to their scale. We started a dialogue with Taneesha Regez, the owner/creator of Monarch, which reminds me of Moby Dickens Bookshop on Bent Street in Taos, NM. Not as big or as old and there isn't a cat watching over the cash register. There still isn't a "patina" yet but there will be. I have no doubt that it will be there for a long time. The intention is so clear, as is the point of view. And, it's lovely, designed by Taneesha who also designed the unique pendant light in the entry area, which is covered in antique printed pages of old books and told me a lot about why Monarch Books is special. Her hands touch everything. Besides an incredible selection of reading material, there are also gifts galore, gorgeous handmade greeting cards made by a local artist, PEEPERS reading glasses, (my favorite kind). We will return and likely be regular customers. NOTE: MB also hosts book readings in their delightful, sunny space, several were posted. I think there's even a special Christmas one. So happy to have found it, so happy to share it.

Cute little reading nook
Jessica C.

I love this book store! One day I was walking in old town arroyo grande and stumbled upon this cute little book store. It has a fun back room filled with children's books. I love the reading nook, perfect spot to check out the latest books or read to my niece and nephew. I love the book decor on the back of the cash register area, great idea and the book pages light! This place is full of magic, special little touches and fun for readers old and young!!! I've found some awesome new authors based on the owners reviews. She's so knowledgeable and very friendly. I've been sending all my bookworms to this perfect little book store. Go check it out!!!

See all

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Brian I.
1550
967
2733

25 days ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Gail O.
24
82
207

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of S B.
0
66
0

11 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Beautiful shop with a very knowledgeable staff. A wonderful addition to the Village of Arroyo Grande, I highly recommend it.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Rich H.
10
47
1

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Wonderful selection of books and book-related gifts. Cute bookmarks and great puzzle options.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

We have a tradition with our grandkids - when they visit, we all visit Monarch Books. We are so lucky to have them in the Village!

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Super cute bookstore. The owner was running the shop when we were there and she is so kind and friendly. We will be going back!!

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of C R.
0
7
0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Ask the Community - Monarch Books

Review Highlights - Monarch Books

Taneesha goes above and beyond to find special request books and order them for you.

Mentioned in 4 reviews

Read more highlights

You might also consider

Nan’s Books & Crystals - Picture book section for the kids and the teachers

Nan’s Books & Crystals

4.7(53 reviews)
2.1 mi
$

Beautiful bookstore with cats, books, and a cozy atmosphere!!…read more They have so many books that are expertly and carefully organized into easily browsable sections. I saw so many great, used books in the classic literature section I wanted, but I currently have way too many books I need to read and so little time, I didn't purchase any during this visit. But I am definitely coming back in the future to stock up on good reads! The kitties that roam the bookstore are also so freaking adorable. There are three: and orange tabby, a fluffy calico-looking kitty, and a grey and white kitty. The grey and white one greeted us instantly when we walked in, and s/he definitely made us feel welcome and at home. The other kitties were so adorable and friendly too! They weren't as affectionate as the grey and white one, but they let us pet them and looked so content in the bookstore. Rest assured I'll be buying my future books from Nan's, and I encourage anyone who finds themselves in Grover beach or the 5 cities to stop by and pay this magical bookstore a visit.

I love this bookstore. I am a teacher and And buying books for the classroom library can get very…read morecostly. Coming here and buying books that have been previously loved by others is great. The prices are amazing and the staff is very kind. I love that it's run by family and friends. There's also a fuzzy little cat that likes to roam around the bookstore. Have a seat open a book and cuddle up with a cute little kitty. Not only can I buy previously loved books but you can bring your books to the store to trade in for store credit. They have a variety of books from children's, young adult, mystery's, love stories, sports books and more. Definitely a place to check out if you're looking for a goo

Photos
Nan’s Books & Crystals - Always come out with a hall of books for my classroom library

Always come out with a hall of books for my classroom library

Nan’s Books & Crystals
Nan’s Books & Crystals - One of the cutie bookstore cats!

See all

One of the cutie bookstore cats!

The Book Loft - 11/25/25

The Book Loft

4.4(145 reviews)
44.2 mi
$$

This bookstore is amazing. From outside it looks small but it's technically 3 floors and includes…read morethe free (donation) the Hans Christian Andersen museum. They have a large selection of new, used books, and laminated guides along with book items. I bought two non-fiction books and a sticker. My sister bought a few guides and a puzzle table. The first floor consists of new books, guides , and items. While the second floor is used collectible books. The 2.5th floor has the museum. We really enjoyed not only shopping but learning about Hans Andersen. The prices depended on items. Most used books were collectibles and on the higher end pricing. Staff was nice, they held our items in the front while we visited the upstairs.

I'm a sucker for a great little book store and The Book Loft in Solvang was a no brainer stop for…read moreus while visiting over the weekend. The Book Loft had a wonderful mix of new and older books of all different genres! I wanted to buy some many, but I composed myself and ended up only buying 1 book for my daughter as well as a Harry Potter Loteria game for a friend of mine. They had a great selection of so many games as well. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum is upstairs (highly recommend checking out) so they had a lot of his books displayed which I enjoyed seeing! Every book I checked out was priced fairly and I didn't think they were trying to take advantage of their tourists which was nice. Staff were also very friendly! I would definitely stop into The Book Loft again next time we are visiting Solvang! Check them out!

Photos
The Book Loft
The Book Loft - 11/20/23

11/20/23

The Book Loft

See all

Spare Time - Ain't that the truth!

Spare Time

4.8(37 reviews)
35.3 mi

This is not my tale to tell…read more... -But I'm going to give you MY version of the story- And just like a Fantasy Romance Novel.... There will be a little spice, a touch of word play, some intense trope enemy-to-lover conflict, a dash of magic and of course.... A Happy Ending! So, Where do I begin? It all began about a year and a half ago when my wife started back up reading, but this time around..... She picked up her 1st Fantasy-Romance Novel, never put it down and now, the rest is all history. The Backstory: Let me break it down for you.... But first, let's meet the Main Characters: The Ladies... Feyre, Nesta & Elain Archeron & The Gentlemen... Rhysand, Tamlin, Lucien, & Cassian ---(Just to name a few)--- And suddenly, ACOTAR has entered the chat! Yeah, I'm talking about A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas; maybe you've heard of it? ;) So during g a road trip in late 2024, my wife was super excited about her new book series she had started reading and was like, "Can I tell you about it?" In my head I was like, sure, we've got 5 hours to kill... give it your best shot. And just like an Audiobook, she basically gave me the run down, the play by play, the almost word for word enactment of how ACOTAR was going down as was playing out thus far... I could immediately tell: She Absolutely Loved it! Fast forward to present day.... Her love for reading these Adult Romantasy books is more than just a hobby... It's a way of life! Book clubs, late night reading sessions, and a 6ft tall book shelf in our bedroom that's already filled from top to bottom with F.R. Novels. Let's just say, in our bedroom.... Tamlin is Out, you can Call me Rhys and my wife is the High Lady of the Night Court! But those books on her bookshelf are not just any 'ol books with those plain, old boring edges... Oh No, No, No... They are Fantasy Romance Novels, highly sought after literature with Beautiful, Stunning and even Mystical Painted Edges that are now her prized possessions. Yeah, it's come to the point that whatever town, city, or place we visit... She's already mapped out the local bookstore to visit. And in November 2025, Spare Time Books in Paso Robles met their match! The match: My Wife! Yeah, like a kid in a candy store, she was in her happy place. And while I perused the Classics.... You know: Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Dickens, Tolstoy & Twain... My wife was on the hunt for First Editions, Special Versions and of course those cool looking painted edges by... Maas, Yarros, Armentrout, Palphreyman, and Sarah A. Parker. Yes, this quaint, cute little bookstore has a charm that only Bibliophiles, Book Dragons, & Ink Drinkers will appreciate. So, if you too are a book lover.... I dare you to you to step into this enchanted library of stories, tales, fables and literary magic at Spare Time books where the message on their front window says it best.... "So Many Books So Little Time"

Super cute local bookstore with lots of comfy seating for browsing. Used and new books here, as…read morewell as cute accessories made by local artists like metal bookmarks and a cool little tool you can use to hold a book open more easily with one hand. Reasonable prices and the secondhand books are in good shape. If only we lived closer, I'd be coming here all the time.

Photos
Spare Time - Pick a book, ANY book!

Pick a book, ANY book!

Spare Time - Another angle of the front counter area (so cozy!)

Another angle of the front counter area (so cozy!)

Spare Time - Book arch, fantasy table, sci-fi table, new books table, and fiction wall

See all

Book arch, fantasy table, sci-fi table, new books table, and fiction wall

Barnes & Noble - Upstairs and down

Barnes & Noble

3.9(103 reviews)
11.8 mi
$$

I absolutely love going to Barnes and Noble to peruse new titles, look at the beautiful journals,…read morecheck out the games, and more. You can find local interest items as well. There is a great variety in prices, so if you are looking for a gift or something for a set price, this is an easy source to utilize. The only downside is the customer service at Barnes and Noble. It may be that I always visit when they are busy, but the staff never go out of their way to help, don't seek to care if you find what you are looking for, I have stood at the "customer service" desk several times and had the person at the desk completely ignore me. They didn't even offer an, "I'll be right with you." One even walked away to do something while I was standing there. Wow. All in all, I will still visit for my book needs, but I never expect good servic

I've been to Book Stores ALL my life. Naturally born book worm. Ive frequented SO many B & Ns I…read moreshould get compensation. jk but I really wanted to say SLO Barnes & Noble? Is where it's at!! Nestled in the beautiful heart of downtown SLO only a stones throw from other thriving businesses, beautiful architecture, great restaurants/eateries and right there next to ALL of the awesomeness? Barnes & Noble SLO. Love this bookstore! Feels like stepping into an exclusive hidden world of awesome stationary, music, books, and just about anything you can imagine for the wee ones. Should you be traveling? & need to grab some slime, or a lego kit, cards to play. Something for everyone here. Including the book worm sig other who mayn't be that into just books. Love this little nook of magic!

Photos
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble - Seaglass Hunters dream (guide for literally ANYTHING you find)

Seaglass Hunters dream (guide for literally ANYTHING you find)

Barnes & Noble - SeaGlass Hunters Guide (1 of 4 recent purchases)

See all

SeaGlass Hunters Guide (1 of 4 recent purchases)

Monarch Books - bookstores - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...