If you’re looking for something a little different to do on a Monday night in Portland this spring, you might want to swing by one of the city’s most beloved independent bookstores.
On April 20 from 7–8 PM, Portland author Arran Gimba will be reading from his new young adult novel, Detective Peter Higgins and the Enigma of Shadows, at the cozy and always welcoming Annie Bloom’s Books in Multnomah Village.
Book readings have a certain charm that you just can’t replicate online. There’s the smell of books, the quiet anticipation in the room, and the sense that you’re getting a behind-the-scenes look into a writer’s imagination. Annie Bloom’s has hosted hundreds of these events over the years, turning the shop into a gathering place for Portland’s readers, writers, and curious neighbors.
This particular evening promises something a little unusual.
A Detective Story With a Twist
Detective Peter Higgins and the Enigma of Shadows isn’t your typical mystery novel. The story follows a private investigator who finds himself dealing with strange technology, unusual cases, and a client suffering from amnesia.
The result is a genre-blending adventure that mixes classic detective storytelling with science fiction elements. It’s the kind of premise that raises plenty of questions.
Who is the mysterious client?
What secrets are hidden in the shadows?
And how does futuristic technology fit into the puzzle?
Readers who enjoy mysteries, sci-fi, or stories that don’t fit neatly into one category will likely find plenty to enjoy.
Why Bookstore Events Still Matter
In an era where so much reading happens on screens, independent bookstores continue to serve an important role. They’re places where stories become shared experiences instead of solitary ones.
At events like this, readers can hear directly from the author, ask questions, and sometimes discover how a story evolved from an initial idea into a finished novel.
And of course, there’s the chance to get a signed copy.
A Perfect Portland Evening
If you haven’t been to Annie Bloom’s before, it’s worth the visit on its own. Tucked into the heart of Multnomah Village, the shop has that classic neighborhood bookstore feel. Shelves are packed with everything from children’s books to literary fiction, and the staff always seems to have a recommendation ready.
A Monday night reading there is about as “Portland” as it gets.
So if you enjoy mysteries, love supporting local authors, or just want an excuse to browse a bookstore for an hour, consider stopping by.
You might leave with a new favorite story.
And maybe a few new mysteries to solve.
