The Burning Ember
About US
We're Opening!
The Burning Ember is coming to life on Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz. After years of quiet dreaming, notebook scribbles, and building from the ground up, we're ready to open our doors. We're kicking things off with a soft opening mid October ahead of our Grand Opening on October 30th. Come wander the shelves, catch the smell of salt air through the doorway, and find a seat in the very beginning of our story.
Meet Charese
I'm Charese—a romance reader, beach town dreamer, and believer in the magic of stories.
Long before this space had physical walls, I was the kid curled up in the library corner, completely lost in another world. I was fascinated by the way a book could make you feel so deeply understood, and how sharing a favorite story could make a total stranger feel like an instant friend.
I always thought I'd spend my life surrounded by books. Instead, life led me down a different path into mental health, where I built a clinical practice and spent years walking alongside people through their rawest, most vulnerable moments. That work taught me just how deeply human beings crave real connection, comfort, and spaces where they can simply be.
The Burning Ember is my second chapter. It is a physical manifestation of that craving. It's a sanctuary built for the pure love of reading and the quiet, powerful way stories bring us together. It's my own happily-ever-after in the making, built with moonlight, magic, stack upon stack of romance, and the constant support of my real-life book boyfriend (my husband).
What You'll Find Here
Romance in all its glorious, unfiltered forms..,steamy, swoony, magical, messy, hilarious, and deeply healing.
When you step inside, you'll find warm candlelight, cozy reading nooks, and a place to slow down. It's a quiet haven where you can lose yourself in a chapter, and a space designed to celebrate the emotional journey every great story takes us on.
Building Community Together
More than a bookstore, this is a home for readers and a gathering place for our town. We believe that reading isn't just a solo escape. It's a bridge to finding your people.
We are deeply committed to partnering with local Santa Cruz makers, artisans, and small businesses to build a vibrant, supportive ecosystem where we all lift each other up. Together, we're creating an inclusive and judgment-free circle where you can share the books that moved you, connect with kindred spirits, and feel a true sense of belonging.
Whether you've been a lifelong romance enthusiast or are picking up your first book in years, you have a place at The Burning Ember.
Come on in. Stay a while. Let the stories bring us together. Because dreams really do come true and sometimes, they come with a touch of witchy sparkle and a community to share it with.
Recent Updates
As Of September 1st 2026
The Founders Circle is Open: Our pre-launch founding memberships are officially live! If you want your name listed on our wall tapestry and wish to unlock lifetime discounts, exclusive keepsakes, or invites to our Founders' Tea or Dinner, claim your spot in the circle here.
Soft Opening Coming Soon: We are getting ready to welcome our very first visitors through the door for our soft opening ahead of our official Grand Opening on October 30th. Soft opening dates will be announced exclusively on social media first. Make sure to follow us on Instagram or TikTok, so you don't miss the reveal!
