I have been dying to come to The Ripped Bodice for so long and my husband had a random weekend off and decided he would take me. We are coming from San Diego so it was only a 2ish hour drive, we found parking right away which was really nice and I was so so excited to check it out. As soon as you step in you're greeted by such a whimsical display of books and I was instantly obsessed. The bookstore is really large and has so many great options for romance books, ya and some children's books plus tons of bookish merch. It was really hard to choose which book to get, but I ended up getting a paperback of Eldritch by Keri Lake, a magnetic book marker and a tote bag, thank you to my husband for that. I love the little Ripped Bodice tote, instead of a paper bag, they offered a reusable tote for I think $2-5? Which was a fun little souvenier! Also super dog friendly everyone was so sweet to our little Kodi! read more

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I came here for a book signing my first ever author event. Wanda Hellmund was here featuring her debut album. Parking: there is street parking however they only allow an 1-2 hours depending on the spot, across the street from the bookstore you will see a white and green sign that says parking, it's in a very narrow alley, you enter there until you reach the end of the alley and a parking structure is on the left side. It's $7 to park Come early , there will be a line for author signing. Service: ripped bodice does events so nicely, be patient because they move their store around for the q&a and then the signing. The reason this is 4 stars and not 5 is, They have a section for signed author books, I bought two books but ended up exchanging one, while I was at the register the cashier with brown hair, bangs and glasses attended me, right in front of me speaking to her coworker mentioned in a sarcastic tone "yeah exchanges I lovveee these" at least wait until I'm not within ear shot. I felt so bad, I didn't realize exchanges meant you had to climb mountains with 20 lbs in each hand. So just beware they do not like exchanges. Don't be indecisive like me. :( read more

The Ripped Bodice - Wanda Hellmund q&a - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

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I cannot say enough great things about this romance-focused independent bookstore. But here is a valiant attempt: 1. Expertise -- If you are new to the contemporary romance publishing scene, walk in here and be amazed. There are sooooooo many romance titles under every conceivable subgenre, and the choices are almost endless. But maybe you're looking to expand your list of favorite authors or dipping your toes into romance for the first time, and you feel overwhelmed. Fear not! Walk right up to the friendly staff and just throw out ideas. My friend asked for recommendations of romance that involves: (a) career women who takes care of everyone and needs to prioritize herself; (b) older women with life experience looking for love; (c) romance by black women about black women, just to name a few. The lovely staff member said, "I got you!" and proceeded to walk us around the store to show us her recommendations and share why she loves them. Her passion is infectious! My friend found a stack of books she's excited to read. 2. Creativity -- from the moment you walk in the door, the fanciful and whimsical decor catches your attention and exudes joy and wonder. But don't just admire the flying books all the way to the ceiling or the pink skeleton in a Ripped Bodice t-shirt. You must check out the "water closet" before you go. Trust me on this one. 3. Inclusion -- The Ripped Bodice doesn't just do romance, they do sex-positive, inclusive representation. You'll find curated selections on romance with disability and LGBTQ+ representation, romance by BIPOC authors, non-fiction books about women's sexual health and pleasure, menopause, polyamory, trans bodies, etc. and a gigantic LGBTQ+ rainbow flag made of romance covers. And have I mentioned their monthly stand-up comedy show, which features different comedians who have relatable and funny materials without the mysogynistic cringe. This place is a safe space for people of all genders and sexual orientations. 4. Community -- The spirit of community is everywhere in this amazing bookshop. You see pictures of the sisters who started and own the shop and their family (including kids) on the wall. They have book clubs for fans of historical, fantasy/paranormal, LGBTQ+ romance and more. They have a writing club that reads a book together and discusses what works and what could be better. They have book launches and author talks, including a ton of local authors as well as national phenoms. They attract people from all over and are ultra-local at the same time. And you feel like you belong, no matter who you are. Bonus: the store is in the heart of Culver City. Farmer's market, fancy ice cream, movie theatre, and a cafe that plays soccer all the time... they're all right here. 'Nuf said. Go check them out!! read more

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*** No Cash Establishment *** The Ripped Bodice is a woman and queer owned bookstore devoted exclusively to the romance genre (opened in March 2016). This independent bookstore started as a Kickstarter campaign and is believed to be America's first bookstore dedicated exclusively to romance novels. The bookstore was even featured as one of questions on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? The Ripped Bodice opened a second location in Brooklyn, NY in August 2023. [Parking]: Most of parking structures in Downtown Culver City (ABM Parking at The Culver Steps or Cardiff Parking Garage) offer free parking for the 1st hour. No parking validation from The Ripped Bodice so no additional free parking beyond the 1st hour. [Atmosphere]: You can tell that every corner of the store has been curated and decorated with thought and care. Before entering the bookstore, there is a vending machine selling pins. Near the front entrance, there is a small stage with chairs where the bookstore hosting book signing events. [Selection]: The bookstore specializes in but is not limited to the following genres: romance novels, LGBTQ, sexual health & wellness, fantasy/paranormal, erotica, historical romance, etc. The bookstore also sells merchandise like romance-themed stickers, notebooks, tote bags, and other romance-related items. There is also a bookshelf featuring books autographed by their authors and a bookshelf dedicated to the Heated Rivalry series. [Conclusion]: A really unique and cute bookstore that is an absolute must-visit for romance book lovers. read more

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This is one of my favorite bookstores! The window staging is beautiful and they change it seasonally. Indoors it's cozy and well-decorated. Staff is friendly and they hold book signing events. They have a wide selection of books and other products like bookmarks, greeting cards, and scented candles. Make sure to visit the restroom and write a fun message! read more

The Ripped Bodice - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

I love lots of literary genres, but I think it's really cool that The Ripped Bodice gives so much love and respect to romance novels. They stock a ton of books, and display them in lots of different categories. I purchased a book that was wrapped that just had a description, and plan to bring it to my book club gift exchange in a few months. I didn't ask for help when I went last week, but when I went a few years ago I was very impressed by the expertise of the people who worked there. They asked a few questions about what I liked and didn't like in a book and steered me to one I really enjoyed. This is a fun store! read more

The Ripped Bodice - Wouldn't this be a perfect chair to curl up in with a good romance novel? - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

A lovely bookstore in the heart of downtown Culver City. The Ripped Bodice is a dedicated and curated selection of romantasy books! I love how organized everything was and the staff truly got every niche interest too! HAHA! I love their fun events, I'll have to be back to explore more. How fun! read more

The Ripped Bodice - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

Best name ever!!! Such a cool concept and vibe. The shop is small and mighty. There was one very long line. They also have the cutest merch. A lot of stickers and bags too. The vibe was very friendly and open. There was a great selection of romance in different sub sections. There is limited metered parking on the street. read more

The Ripped Bodice - Sign - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

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Cute bookshop in Culver City area. Very nice decor, friendly customer service, great books selection, supporting LA based indie authors. Big points with me! I wish you could pay cash here. Love options. Parking is a tad hard, but you can conquer. I don't come often in this neck of the woods, so it was a nice discovery! read more

Great bookstore that specializes in romance books! It's also in a central location, close to downtown Culver. They also host events! And staff were super helpful. read more

What a cool lil bookstore! A romantic bookstore to be exact! I had heard about this pink bookshop and needed to go in search of it! I am so glad I did! So many fun goodies in there! Cool merch from sweaters and tshirts, to baggus and book sleeves and stickers and bookmarks! But the book selection is where it's at! So many great authors and titles! So much fun to meander through and find a good one that's been on your list for a while. When I walked in I was greeted and was left to my devices to roam, which I appreciated. Once I was at the register everyone was super friendly asking if I found what I was looking for and chit chatting about my selections! I would highly recommend this lil gem of a bookshop! They even have a vending machine outside, which wasn't complete when I was there but how fun is that! read more

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Such a pretty bookstore! Lots of pink everywhere and decorative pieces. I have yet to buy books from here because romance books are not my type of thing, but the options are limitless for those who do like romance reads. They also have merch and lots of cute pins/bookmarks, which I have bought. Very friendly service and an overall welcoming environment! read more

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The Ripped Bodice is a cute independent book store. The store has very cozy vibes. It is specialized in Romance genres. They also carry a varieties of historical romance,fantasy romance and other subgenre. The staff were very friendly and professional. They shared with me their love of many books they read. I liked the cute tote that came with my purchase. They also gave me a lovely sticker for book lovers. My goal is to support small and independent businesses. I will be back for more books read more

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Great selection of romance books! Contemporary, fantasy, young adult, etc. Helpful staff provide recommendations upon request. Dog-friendly store with well-behaved pets welcome. If street parking (likely metered) is unavailable, there is a nearby garage at the Culver Steps. read more

This is a fun stop if you are in Culver City, especially if you like reading romances. My friend is dipping her toe in this genre, so it was a must visit. The store is feminine. Reflective of both the genre and its most female fanbase and female ownership. They have a good selection with a variety of genres. The staff person who helped my friend seemed really knowledgeable and made several good recommendations, in addition to books, they have some great tchotchkes like crazy stickers, bookmarks, cards, and candles. They also had a small stage for book signings. The space has a relaxed, friendly vibe. The Ripped Bodice is centrally located on a corner in a shopping, dining area. There is metered parking just outside and a parking garage about a block away. Go find a new read and stroll down the block to grab a drink or nosh while you delve in. Recommended. read more

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Since I was in LA for the Festival of Books and the Ripped Bodice booth was insane with long lines, what better idea than to go to the actual bookstore. That is exactly what I did and I could not be much happier than I was that day. I am a huge fan of romance novels and because this is what the store specializes, so many books were featured throughout the store. i wanted everything. They have a great selection on different sub-genres of romance novels which is a plus because you can find what you are interested in by browsing the store. Upon walking in, I noticed the beauty of the store. The decor is amazing and so romantic. You are transported to the pages on your favorite romance novel by Lucy Score, Ana Huang, Emily Henry, Sarah J.Maas, or Abby Jimenez. The walls are adorned with wall art that include pages of a book and floral designs. There is a huge selection of merch, too. You can buy tote bags, bookmarks, pens, pins, hats, t-shirts, and of course, BOOKS. My favorite items are the Blind Date with a Book. The book is wrapped up and given little information on the theme of the book and you get to choose which one is your favorite. Highly recommend because you get to be introduced to authors you may not know. Prices are pretty typical and normal than any other store. Plus, if you are a true reader, prices don't scare you and if you are like me, you would spend your last dollar on a book. Staff was amazing too and noticed I had come from the festival so I was able to chat with them about that which I thought was really cool. I didn't get to browse as much as I wanted since I was hungry, so I will def be back for more and to possibly attend the next event. Plus, the store is so cute so would love to take more photos when I am there. read more

The Ripped Bodice is such a delightful bookstore! It's fun, spicy, and full of charm--exactly what you'd hope for from a shop dedicated to romance. The staff curate the selection so well, with everything from lighthearted rom-coms to sensual, steamy reads. It feels like a safe, welcoming space where romance is celebrated unapologetically. It's also a great spot for gals (and anyone who loves a good love story!) to find new favorites and discover diverse authors and voices in the genre. The vibe is warm, inviting, and just a little bit cheeky, which makes browsing the shelves an experience in itself. If you're a romance reader--or even romance-curious--you'll have so much fun here. Highly recommend! read more

I am a huge romance book lover. TikTok and Instagram convinced me that I needed to go to this bookstore because it is curated for readers like me. Because I am a big yelper, i saw nothing but good reviews. I was very excited to finally get a chance to visit this location. The selection is immense. There were so many books I have never seen or heard of before. The pricing is very standard, not too expensive for a book. There are many available signed copies of books available. There are also bookmarks and stickers, which I was a lot of. Though this bookstore looks like a romantic book lovers dream, I do not think I will come back. When I walked in, my boyfriend and I were not acknowledged. The workers didn't even say excuse me when they were walking by me nor asked if I needed any help. They only conversation I had with them was when I was leaving to pay and then I didn't even have get a thank you. I was very disappointed. read more

The Ripped Bodice - Outside sign - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

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Amazing selection of books, found a great heated rivalry inspired hat that I just HAD to take home :) Lots of cute stickers and accessories and goodies inside, definitely stop by! It's worth the visit :) read more

I love bringing my wife and daughter. They love to read and there is something for everyone to enjoy here. The book store is beautiful and the focus on romance genres is nice. read more

The Ripped Bodice - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

This was such a cutie little bookstore. A lot of really unique and cute trinkets to take home. The interior decor was very creative and filled the space well. Would totes come back for the vibes read more

I'm a huge fan of the Ripped Bodice and have gone in person a couple of times. Everyone that I have spoken with that works there has been so kind and helpful. I had the opportunity to attend the Rachel Reid event this coming weekend, and a family emergency popped up. According to Eventbrite, where I bought the ticket, I would be entitled to the book that I had purchased, and I was not requesting a refund of any kind. I wrote before the 48 hour period that would void getting the book. I emailed and called and the person in charge was unwilling to work with me. Even though the site said that I would be entitled to my book, she would not hold it in the store nor let me pay to have it mailed to my home. I was told that this event would be the exception to the rule, and it was her call to make. I feel like this was super unprofessional, and since it was stated on the actual website, I should be entitled to the book, especially since I did not ask for a refund initially. She tried to make it right by offering a refund, which I accepted. I'm just super disappointed and would hope that they list their policy clearly moving forward, or if you decide to attend an event, you proceed with caution. Sometimes life happens and I would have loved to be at that event, and was more than willing to be flexible. It saddens me that this is the experience I had. read more

The Ripped Bodice - Screenshot from Eventbrite for this event. - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

i saw alex aster here and i can die happy. also missed my chance to see kate golden but the ripped bodice crew is so lovely and straight forward. adore the fact that they hold onto your copy full of goodies for when you're ready to pick up in person! read more

The Ripped Bodice - yes i drove all the way to culver city from la habra for this - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

I love supporting small businesses and this is the spot! I actually ended up coming here for a unique bachelorette scavenger hunt (had tons of fun!). As you walk in, quickly to your left is a small decorated stage with a giant book and chair; perfect for a photo opp! Staff was super friendly and offered to take some photos for us. The store has wonderful trinkets and gifts, along with tons of amazing books of course! The book selection is geared more towards romance. The book prices are decent too! I love that they have a selection of books from an author that is local and the books are signed (such a nice touch!). This store is worth a visit! read more

I love love love independent bookstores! Don't get me started on ROMANCE indie bookstores, it's a double win!! The layout is incredibly cute and creative. It's perfect for those who adore romance books like me. They have most of whatever romance you may be looking for. The only tricky thing about going here is the parking. It can be a hit or miss, but that's just what LA is unfortunately. Luckily the times I've been here, I found metered street parking. The workers are incredibly kind and helpful. I wish I can buy so much more merch (stickers, bookmarks, and of course the tote bags). I can't wait to go back again. read more

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Ooo do I love this bookstore! An inclusive in every sense of the word bookstore that focuses on the romance genre. This is an excellent place for gifts particularly for the bookworm in your life. I particularly love their book clubs. Haven't been in a hot minute but I definitely want to come back. They are free to attend and you can sign up for them on their website. One of their book clubs actually made me excited about attending future book clubs because of how entertaining the discussions were. read more

The Ripped Bodice - Nice quote in front right when you enter - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

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I recently went on a book crawl and The Ripped Bodice was one of the stops. I have been hearing about this place so I was happy to finally stop in. This is an independent bookstore that specializes in romance novels. It's very cutesy and such fun to browse and walk through. You can easily get lost browsing through all the colorful books and looking the fun decor and other merchandise. I typically don't read a lot of romance novels but it's hard to not buy something when you're there! I ended up buying one book and the girls working at the counter were very nice and knowledgable about the author. Definitely stop by The Ripped Bodice the next time you're in that part of Culver City. There are lots of places to eat or get coffee/tea nearby and pick up your next favorite read. read more

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I discovered The Ripped Bodice at The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. Really cute Merch and great setup. So I decided to Pre-Order The Heart You Kept by TL Swan from there because they had an incentive (small gift). I thought, this is perfect, they're local to me so I can pick the book up and avoid shipping charges. When the book was released I was not notified that my order was ready. So I called them 5 days later and they said I could pick it up the next day. A day later I pick it up but there was no incentive. I was told the publisher didn't send enough for all the books. I am unsure of the logistics between publisher and bookstore but you would think when a Pre-Order is based on an incentive you would make sure there are enough for all the books (Some mention while supplies last). I understand mistakes happen, it's just disappointing it happened on my order when it's my first time visiting the store. The staff did inform me that whoever manages orders will reach out with an alternative to compensate for the missing item. read more

The Ripped Bodice - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

Great space! Lovely employees. Wide selection of books. I'll definitely be back! This is the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing and buying books read more

As an avid romance reader, I frequently shop and attend events at this shop and have always had a good experience. This review is to show appreciation for how they handled a situation that happened at the line up during a recent event. A belligerent man was in line ahead of me and started saying very vulgar and racist things. I texted my husband to call the store and notify them. Within minutes, two booksellers were "checking tickets" and when they asked the man to stepped out of line because he did not have a ticket to the event, he just stepped to the side but wasn't leaving the area. They then took care to "crowd control" the line and escort the line away from him and lead him away from the event. Thank you for handling the situation in a respectful way for everyone! read more

This cozy little bookstore seems to specialize in romance novels, which gives it a really fun and niche vibe. Beyond the books, they offer a delightful selection of gifts like stickers, postcards, and other cute finds. One of my favorite touches was the "blind date with a book" display--such a creative and fun idea! Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area. read more

The Ripped Bodice - Blind date with books - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

LOVE LOVE LOVE I've been here twice for their last two midnight release parties and I can guarantee I'll be at every one in the future. This adorable romantic indie woman forward bookstore is truly one of a kind and I'm so happy it's near me! The decor is cozy but magical. They have every book you could dream of. The employees are so sweet and have the best recommendations. And the parties and events they put together are so lovely and diverse that brings people together. Thank you for helping me find my community! read more

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Such a cute store geared towards romance books. I love the decor with the books and book pages suspended in the air and i wish the whole store was covered. The place transports u to ur imagination. I love the concept of the blind date with a book. Friends have been egging me on to put myself out there and so i took a chance on going on a blind date with a book! I love how the books for the blind date are covered with a sticker introducing each one. So u can get a glimpse of what the book is about but still be surprised. Such a unique way to get people interested in buying and reading the books. They also sell merch. Everyone was super nice. Parking hard to come by. Metered parking upto 2 hrs or park across the street and pay. read more

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If you enjoy a cozy book to read with a little romance this store is for you. They do have a small selection of other genre but this place does cater more in Rom-Com category. Sadly I didn't purchase anything but definitely coming back to get a few things. read more

The Ripped Bodice - The entry - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

Wow. What a cute bookshop!!! This is THE destination to be at for all romance loving book nerds! They have books that are sweet love stories to spicy romance! They have a great selection of romance books and a small section of regular fiction. There's also a tiny used books section and an autographed section. The store has some cute stickers, keychains, hats, etc.! Books are regularly priced based on their sticker price for the most part. I was super intrigued by their special sprayed edge books in the glass shelves! Anyways, LOVED visiting this store. SO. CUTE. read more

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I spontaneously stumbled across The Ripped Bodice during a walk and was sold once I discovered it was a quaint, women-owned, and romance novel-obsessed bookstore. It's painted pink outside with a wooden sign, and once you open the door, you're immersed into a wonderful world of all types of stories that bring out the hopeless romantic in you. The friend group working at the counter are super bubbly and cheery together. They made the atmosphere a lot more vibrant as you browse the shelves. Books are priced pretty comparably to those of typical bookstores, usually $15-$20 or $17 on average. You really may find yourself getting lost here with all the incredible stories. And who knows? You might just fall in love with the many glorious characters in these books! read more

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This is such a cute bookstore! I came here while waiting for my appointment for the Museum of Jurassic Technology nearby. This store's selection spans from romances in period pieces, fantasy, lgbtq+, poc focused, and so on. Their staff are so friendly and it's fun to hear how much they love the books they have in stock. This store feels so inclusive and female friendly! It's hard finding space where you feel so cozy and safe while also aesthetically so cute and pink! I highly recommend anyone to check this place out and help support small businesses . read more

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Cute shop with a great curation of books! Brought my wife here as a surprise and she enjoyed perusing! I saw they have book clubs and readings--the shelves have little recommendations by staff which is so cute. read more

The Ripped Bodice - Bookstores Near Me - Culver City, California

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This bookstore is GORGEOUS, so much fun, and has such a kind and helpful staff! It's full of light, arranged with care, and could have any romance book you're possibly looking for. It was very eclectic, and also had a wide range of stickers, keychains, reading accessories, and merchandise. I loved visiting and can't wait to go again! read more

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I absolutely LOVED checking out this bookstore dedicated to the genre of romance! So many genres within this genre, it was so fun browsing and of course shopping. Staff were so helpful and welcoming. There's truly something for everyone here. I bought 5 books and closed my eyes while I paid. I had a little too much fun shopping here! Can't wait till my next visit. Highly recommend! read more

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