Book Adventures and An Interview with The Cloak & Dagger

Back in February, my Valentine's Day surprise was a visit to a few local bookstores that I had not yet been to (I still can't get over what a cute idea it was), and one of the stops was The Cloak & Dagger bookstore in Princeton, New Jersey.

For those of you who aren't familiar with it, The Cloak & Dagger is an independent bookstore near Princeton University which specializes in mystery books.  This was the first time I'd ever visited a store that was focused on one specific genre.  As someone who is used to buying online or shopping at the big-box stores, this was a really special experience!

The Cloak & Dagger is small, but they offer a huge selection of books - everything from Sherlock Holmes to Nancy Drew to new releases by local authors!

The store is also really cozy; it was the perfect spot to warm up while walking around on a cold February day.  While I was there, I picked up a few Nancy Drew books and my first Agatha Christie mystery!

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Because I loved The Cloak & Dagger so much, I reached out to the store after my visit, and I am super lucky, because Jerry,  one of the head "partners in crime," agreed to do an interview with me!

Here's what we talked about:

Describe your store in your own words and why it’s a can’t miss stop on a visit to Princeton:

The independent shop has an ambiance that reflects an English library, complete with a fireplace and comfy wing chair, so customers can peruse their intended selections. With over 10,000 titles that run the mystery gambit  from British Classics to Suspense/Thrillers including Police Procedures, Sherlockian, International, Noir/Hard-boiled and Cozies  - even kids’ mysteries - one is sure to find the perfect crime to solve.

A large selection of mystery puzzles, games, CD/DVDs  and unique artisan collectible mystery figurines are also available.

Free parking is located behind the shop. A local Jitney service (“Free-B”) connects to Palmer Square and the University. 

Perplexed on what mystery to read next? If you know what you want or haven’t got a clue, we’re here to help you discover your next case of foul play to uncover.

How did you decide to open a book store?

Aline, the original founder, dreamt of one day owning and operating a mystery bookshop. When the building came on the market, it presented a “now or never” opportunity to realize Aline’s dream.

Taking early retirement from Princeton University she, along with her “partner- in- crime” husband, Jerry, acquired, designed, and then renovated the historic building that houses the bookshop. Converting the old commercial space to a unique bookshop was a “busman’s” holiday, both being architects in their professional careers.

Why mystery?

As a young child, Aline devoured Nancy Drew and other children's mysteries. Soon she gravitated to Agatha Christie, whom she idolized for presenting cases to be solved that contained, as Aline describes, “polite murders."  Having to match wits with the author to uncover “who-dunnit” was a delightful challenge gleefully accepted. Using those “little grey cells” to solve a puzzle was a wonderful way to spend a relaxing few hours.

Favorite book and/or author?

British classic authors including Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers, Ngaio March. Contemporary writers including Fred Vargas, Donna Leon, Louise Penny, SJ Rozan and Jacqueline Winspear . Aline would note “Nine Tailors’ by Dorothy Sayers as an impeccably well written and clever mystery as her favorite book. Any title by the mentioned authors are also excellent reads.

Can you recommend a local author?

Two come to mind. Both are from Princeton- John Altman writes riveting espionage thrillers. His latest is “False Flag." Dick Belsky, a former newspaper journalist, writes fast paced crime fiction. His latest is “Blonde Ice."

What’s the best part of running a book store?

Fascinating people you meet everyday, each with a unique story to tell. We get many different viewpoints on the current mystery they are reading, almost like a rolling book review.

Helping someone find a good mystery book or introducing them to an author they may not otherwise read is quite gratifying.

The worst part?

Finding out that a customer’s title , the one missing link to completing a series they’re hooked on is out of stock “indefinitely," not even available online through used book purveyors. Usually we can check our network of indie mystery bookstores and find a copy. Sometimes we strike out. That’s the worst part.

Has anything mysterious ever happened in your store?

When we first started remodeling the building we found tucked away in the store’s basement a printed sign that read: “BEWARE- This Gun is Cocked and Loaded”. No skeletons were found or even evidence of foul play. Upon inquiry  we learned that the prior owner was an avid antique gun collector and would have periodic displays for other collectors. The sign was meant to dissuade inquisitive patrons from shoplifting.

What are your plans for the future for both you and your store?

Like the song: “Que sera, sera- the future’s not ours to see…”  Live life, stay positive and continue providing the best mystery reading experience to our customers.

Some future Goals for the Shop:

·         Expand our mystery community through enhanced Social Media connections and interactions.

·         Partner with other vendors to create entertaining and informative author events.

·         Initiate Crime & Croissants, periodic Saturday afternoon author “talks."

  

Anything you want to promote - events, new products, etc.?

·         Visit our website www.thecloakanddagger.com to stay current with mystery events in the region and at the bookshop.

·         Frequent our on-line store: https://thecloakanddagger.mybooksandmore.com/  - There's free shipping on everything!

    

·         “Like us” on Facebook: https:www.facebook.com/cloakanddaggermysteries

·         Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/canddmystery

Events in the planning stages:  Check website periodically for updates under “Events” tab.

November Author event in collaboration with NJ-Sisters in Crime Chapter

·       Mystery Book Club (Fall startup) Send email to: Jerry@thecloakanddagger.com  if interested in joining.

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The Cloak & Dagger is definitely worth a visit!  If you live in the area or are a fan of mystery books, I highly recommend you stop by!

Pictures were used with permission from Jerry at The Cloak & Dagger.