About Us

Who We Are

A moody online book boutique for readers with darker shelves. We curate gothic classics, dark romance, horror, dark academia, mystery, shadow-touched fantasy and more. We hand-pick every title, wrap it in black, and finish it with bookish extras to make your reading a ritual.

What We Do

• Curate by vibe. You choose genre (and can note literary elements/tropes/spice/hard limits). We match you with a book, sometimes beloved, sometimes a deep cut—always chosen with intent.

• Wrap like a secret. Heavy paper, wax seal, quiet details. The reveal is part of the story.

• Currently Offering Three Tiers:

  • Starter: our blind date with a budget box with all the goodies to get you started.
    

  • Original: the core experience, loaded with reader treasures and treats.

  • Deluxe: everything in the Original Box plus mug, tote, notebook, scent, cozy touches, luxe self-care and more.

Our Curation

• Gothic & romantic tradition: Think Brontë, Shelley, Stoker, Le Fanu—foundations that still bite.

• Modern obsessions: morally gray lovers, haunted houses, academic sins, eerie folklore, smart smut.

• Your notes matter: share your Goodreads link, tell us literary elements you're looking for, spice level, favorite tropes, and absolute “no’s” at checkout, we listen.

Small Business, Big Intention

The Dark Chapter is an independent, woman/Latina-owned shop in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It’s just us sourcing, packing, handwriting notes, troubleshooting, and celebrating your unboxings. When you order from us, you fund a craft, not a corporation.

• Low-waste packing. Paper-first materials, reusable mugs/totes, and right-sized boxes.

• Responsible sourcing. We source our inventory from official wholesalers and don't support Amazon, as well as work with indie artisans and creators for our accessories.

• Tested products. We try every add-on (pens, tabs, mugs, candles/incense) for function and vibe before it enters a box.

Why “Blind Date with a Book”?

Because discovery is delicious. Algorithms serve what's trending, we serve surprise guided by the taste you share. Keeping the mystery until you break the seal.

What to Expect

• The build: You pick Essential or Deluxe, preloved/paperback/hardcover/special edition.

• The match: We choose a title aligned to your taste and notes. Duplicate-safe: if you already own the exact book, email us and we’ll make it right.

• The reveal: Unwrap slow. Enjoy the experience. Tag @darkchapterbooks on TikTok and Instagram.

The Founder’s Note

I built The Dark Chapter for the readers who dog-ear in the dark and annotate like it’s evidence. I believe in craft over speed, books that linger, and packages that feel like keepsakes. Thank you for letting a small studio make your shelves a little more dangerous in the best way.

— Mona, Founder & Curator