Broom Book & Candle Will Open in Denver This November

A new bookstore, cafe, and wine bar focused on horror creators will debut at 482 S. Broadway.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Openings & Closings

A stack of dark leather-bound books with brass clasps on a wooden bookstore shelf, conveying a specialized horror literature theme.
Broom Book & Candle, a new bookstore, cafe, and wine bar focused on horror works by women and marginalized creators, will open in Denver this November. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe specialized independent shops improve the character of your local community?

Broom Book & Candle, a new 2,400-square-foot hybrid bookstore, cafe, and wine bar, will open its doors in Denver in early November 2026. The shop aims to serve as a specialized space dedicated to horror works by women and marginalized creators.

Why it matters

The owners intend to create a supportive hub for horror literature, providing a physical space to amplify the visibility of marginalized authors and artists within the genre.

The new retail shop occupies 2,400 square feet at 482 S. Broadway. The business will operate as a multifaceted bookstore, cafe, and wine bar, with service phases rolling out following the initial November opening.

The players

Amanda Shafer

She is a co-owner of the new Broom Book & Candle shop.

KJ Brantley

She is a co-owner of the shop and the founder of the Women in Horror Arts and Media Association.

Scott Hildebrandt

He is the creator of the interactive game experience being installed within the bookstore.

The details

Customers can engage with an interactive game built by Scott Hildebrandt that uses wands to find Easter eggs and clues throughout the store. The business plans to roll out its offerings via a phased schedule, with coffee services starting a few weeks after the bookstore opens.

Timeline

  1. Broom Book & Candle will begin its phased opening in early November 2026.

Market Landscape

This business expansion reflects the broader trend of independent bookstores diversifying their revenue streams through integrated hospitality and experiential elements. By combining retail with cafe and bar services, the shop positions itself to compete for local community engagement against traditional brick-and-mortar retail.

Local residents and horror enthusiasts can expect a new interactive venue for browsing literature, drinking coffee, and social gatherings. The shop will offer a unique, community-focused environment specifically curated for underrepresented voices in the horror genre.

The takeaway

Niche bookstores that incorporate gamification and hospitality can create deeper engagement with local literary communities. Visitors should look for phased service updates as the shop expands its operations from a bookstore into a full cafe and wine bar.

Further reading

Learn more about the latest business developments in the area in our Denver Openings & Closings.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Axios.

Live Poll

Do you believe specialized independent shops improve the character of your local community?