‘Lost in the Reads’ brings books, brownies, and calm to Kingswood

A new independent bookshop and local hub is opening its doors – designed as a sanctuary for readers and dreamers alike.

Kingswood’s high street is about to get a new chapter. Lost in the Reads, a brand-new independent bookshop and community hub, is opening soon in the Kings Chase Shopping Centre, offering locals a place to read, retreat, and reconnect.

Part bookshop, part sanctuary, the space will also feature a small co-working area and serve coffee and brownies. The aim? To make the high street “a little brighter, kinder, and more imaginative.”

“I’ve always believed that bookshops are more than retail spaces; they’re sanctuaries,” says founder Antoinette Forbes. “After years of helping other small businesses grow, I wanted to create something that gave back to my own community in a tangible way.”

When Kings Chase began revitalising its high street units, Antoinette saw the perfect moment to create a literary haven that encourages people to shop locally rather than online.

Books and belonging
Lost in the Reads will stock a wide range of titles from fantasy adventures and children’s favourites to thought-provoking fiction and inspiring non-fiction.

The whole ethos of the shop is to show that reading is something everyone can enjoy. Whatever you’re into, there’s a book for you. There will be a dedicated children’s section as well as a romantasy section for those who are fans of this increasingly popular genre.

But local creativity is at the heart of it all. The shop is partnering with Bristol authors, small makers, and independent publishers. There’ll also be themed book clubs, creative events, and a Community Bookshelf, a pay-it-forward shelf where anyone can take home a book for free, funded by donations.

“If you’re a local author, artist, or creative, we’d love to collaborate. This is a space built for and by the community.”

A soft place to land
Whether you drop in for a quick browse, spend an afternoon reading, or work upstairs, Lost in the Reads has been designed to feel calm, safe, and inclusive. Research* demonstrates that there is a tangible need for spaces like this in society, especially as more people work from home. Not only can bookshops be a vital part of the high street, bringing people together, but the act of reading has proven cognitive benefits, including reducing the symptoms of depression.

“I want people to leave feeling calm, seen, and inspired – like they’ve had a small exhale in the middle of their day,”

The team is also planning author readings, creative workshops, and partnerships with local schools.

“Events will be a big part of what we do. We want this shop to grow with the community, so if there’s a book, genre, or event you’d love to see here, let us know. We’re always happy to order titles on request or shape our shelves around what our readers actually want. After all, this isn’t just our bookshop, it’s yours too.”

Charity Support

As part of its mission to make reading accessible and meaningful for everyone, Lost in the Reads is proud to announce its ongoing commitment to giving back to the community. They will proudly support Book Aid International, helping to provide books and learning materials to those who need them most around the world. In addition, Lost in the Reads is launching a crowdfunding initiative dedicated to supporting local care workers by offering them free books and access to tranquil, cozy spaces within the shop where they can unwind, rest, and recharge.

The team looks forward to welcoming you through the doors on the 1st December 2025.