In many small towns, access to books is still limited. But one woman from Louisiana decided to change that in a creative and heartwarming way. By turning her love for reading into a mobile bookstore, she is bringing stories, connection, and joy directly to people in her community.
From Small-Town Roots to Big Idea
Growing up in Edgard, Kelly Roussell always had access to a library, but never a local bookstore. That gap stayed with her for years.
In 2023, she decided to take a bold step. Instead of opening a traditional shop, she bought a trailer and launched her mobile romance bookstore called Lattes and Love Letters.
Her idea was simple—if people don’t have bookstores nearby, she would bring the bookstore to them.
A Passion Born During a Difficult Time
Kelly’s love for reading became stronger during a challenging period in her life. In 2019, while pregnant, she was diagnosed with preeclampsia and placed on strict bed rest.
During that time, books became her escape and emotional support. She especially connected with romance and fantasy romance (romantasy) novels.
What started as a way to pass time soon turned into a deep passion. Today, she reads around 100 books every year.
Balancing Work, Family, and Dreams
By profession, Kelly is a respiratory therapist. She is also a mother of two young children. Despite her busy routine, she continues to run her mobile bookstore on weekends.
She travels to local markets, festivals, and pop-up events, creating a space where people can explore books in a fun and relaxed setting.
For her, this is not just a business—it’s something she truly enjoys.
What Makes the Bookstore Special
Lattes and Love Letters usually carries around 250 to 300 books, mostly focused on romance. Kelly prefers to sell books she has personally read, so she can recommend them and discuss them with customers.
Some of her popular titles include works by authors like Elle Kayson, Nyla K, K.A. Knight and Ebony LaDelle.
One of her most loved products is the “Blind Date with a Book” package. Customers choose a romance genre, and she gives them a surprise wrapped book along with fun extras like bookmarks, stickers, and even a drink recipe.
Coffee, Community, and Connection
The “Lattes” part of her business comes from a partnership with Try-Me Coffee Roasters in New Orleans.
She offers unique coffee blends along with mugs, making the experience more cosy and enjoyable. Her caramel nut flavour, “Lattes and Love,” is especially popular.
Kelly also supports local authors by inviting them to events where readers can meet them and get signed copies.
Bringing Books to the Community
Kelly regularly attends events like the Full Moon Market in Plaquemine and book festivals in Thibodaux. She believes reading is important for everyone and wants to make books more accessible in smaller communities.
For her, it’s not just about selling books. It’s about creating meaningful connections between readers, writers, and the community.
