A Big Step for Hart Books: Indie Fables
There are moments when a dream starts to feel… real.
Not just something you talk about or plan behind the scenes—but something you actively step into. And for me, this week was one of those moments.
I officially filled out the Expression of Interest form to be considered as a stall holder at Indie Fables—Australia’s first indoor permanent bookish market and café.
And honestly? I’m equal parts excited, hopeful, and slightly terrified (in the best way).
What is Indie Fables?
Indie Fables is shaping up to be something really special—a permanent indoor space dedicated entirely to books, readers, and bookish businesses.
Think:
A cosy café where you can sit and read for hours
Shelves filled with stories waiting to be discovered
A collective of small, passionate bookish brands
A space built for community, connection, and creativity
And the best part?
It’s planned to be right here in Melbourne.
As someone building Hart Books as both a bookstore and a community, this feels so aligned with everything I’ve been dreaming about.
Why This Matters for Hart Books
From the very beginning, Hart Books was never just about selling books.
It’s about:
Creating a space for romance readers to belong
Supporting independent and Australian authors
Building a community that feels warm, welcoming, and a little bit magical
Turning the idea of a bookstore café into something real
Indie Fables feels like a glimpse of that future.
A place where Hart Books could exist not just online-but physically, in the world.
Where I could meet you in person, talk books, recommend your next favourite read, and share that bookish joy face-to-face.
What Do You Think?
This is still early days—Indie Fables doesn’t even have a confirmed location yet (just somewhere in Melbourne with good transport and parking), but I love the vision.
And I’d genuinely love to know:
Would you visit a permanent bookish market like this?
What would you want to see in a space like Indie Fables?
And if Hart Books had a stall there… what would you hope to find?
To everyone who’s been following along as I build Hart Books—thank you.
Every comment, every like, every message… it all adds up.
It’s what gives me the confidence to take steps like this.
This might just be one form submission…
But it feels like the beginning of something really big.
Kathryn
Founder, Hart Books
PS if you want more news about how things are progressing make sure you follow indie.fables and Hart Books