If you’re a book lover who also enjoys a good cocktail, you’re going to want to hear this.
There’s a place in Denton, Texas, that’s basically heaven for romance readers and cozy bar lovers. It’s called The Plot Twist, and yes — it’s as magical as it sounds.
Darci Middleton is the founder. She’s a former science teacher turned bookstore bar owner. And the way she made this dream happen? Pretty inspiring.
Let’s talk about that wall
Even if you’ve never stepped foot inside The Plot Twist, you’ve probably seen their iconic wall on Instagram or TikTok. Books layered across the wall like an art installation, with a glowing neon sign that says, Came for the plot, stayed for the twist.
Darci and her mom made it themselves. Seriously. They used old books, ripped out the pages, nailed them to the wall, folded some corners, added florals, and boom. It became the most Instagrammed wall in Denton.
From wine nights to what if
The idea started during one of those wine-and-book nights with a best friend. Both moms. Both exhausted. Both dreaming of a space to unwind, away from the chaos of home.
They joked about starting a bar-bookstore. It didn’t seem serious at the time.
But months later, as Darci approached her last year of teaching, she couldn’t shake the idea. She knew she wanted something more. Something purposeful. Something that made space for her to grow and connect with people in a way that felt natural.
Talking about books was that bridge.
So she went to her mom and said, “What if we actually did this?”
Her mom, who has always had a DIY spirit and an entrepreneurial streak, was immediately in. Darci wanted a romance bookstore. Her mom had always wanted a boutique. So they merged both dreams and created something totally unique.
Romance books and bar vibes
They decided to focus on romance because the community is massive and passionate. But also, let’s be honest, selling books alone doesn’t make much money.
So they brought in the bar. That’s where the real profit comes from. Cocktails let them keep prices fair, stock indie authors that most shops can’t afford to carry, and create an experience that goes way beyond browsing shelves.
Getting their liquor license was expensive. Like, more than they expected. Not only do you pay the state fee, but you also have to pay the county separately.
And then there’s the waiting. Luckily, their license came through in about four weeks, which is fast for Texas.
While they waited, they leaned into dry January with a full mocktail menu that people loved. So now they offer both, and honestly, you can’t even tell which is which. Every drink looks just as beautiful and tastes just as good, with or without alcohol.
The menu is half the fun
Every cocktail has a bookish twist.
Think:
- Barlow’s Demise (a mimosa named after the most hated character in Fourth Wing, who’s allergic to oranges)
- Tamlin’s Tears with bitters, for obvious reasons to ACOTAR fans
- The Xaddy with edible glitter and a blueberry top to represent Xaden’s dragon
Even their mocktails get the same thoughtful treatment. No sad juice-and-sprite combos here.
Every month, they update the menu with new book-inspired drinks, including one tied to their Book of the Month pick. They brainstorm, test flavors, and have full-on tasting days. Yes, sometimes Darci leaves those planning meetings a little tipsy.
Creating a space that feels safe
One thing Darci was clear on from day one — this wouldn’t be a typical bar.
It’s a space that feels safe, welcoming, and filled with like-minded people. It’s where book clubs meet, friends gather, and solo readers sip cocktails and find new favorites.
You won’t have to worry about random guys hitting on you while you browse the romance section. Though funny enough, a lot of men still come in. Usually with their partners, often just happy to sit on the couch and chill while they shop. (Darci jokes they should start putting sports and car magazines out for them.)
Social media changed everything
Darci didn’t love social media at first. But she quickly learned how powerful it could be.
Their TikTok blew up. One of their opening videos hit over 2.5 million views. Now, people walk into the store every day saying they found The Plot Twist on Instagram or TikTok.
Then, they hired a content creator who understood trends, knew how to tell a story, and made content that was fun and shareable. It changed everything.
What Darci’s reading now
Darci’s a fantasy girl through and through. Right now, she’s reading A Tether Through the Rift by Lindsay Rhoden. It’s got amnesia, strong female characters, and a whole lot of heart.
Some other recent favorites:
- The Ever Queen by LJ Andrews (think Pirates of the Caribbean, but make it hot)
- Phantasma by Kaylie Smith (a wild mix of Beetlejuice, Danny Phantom, and Hunger Games)
For anyone dreaming of their own bookstore
Darci’s advice is simple. Get in the car and go talk to people.
She and her mom visited every bookstore and book bar they could find in Texas. They asked questions. They listened. They learned everything they could from people who were already doing it.
Now, they want to pay it forward. They’re even planning to host a Zoom Q&A soon to help aspiring bookstore owners figure out where to start.
If you’re ever in Denton, you have to check this place out at 227 West Oak Street in Denton, TX 76201. Get a cocktail. Buy a romance book. Sit on the couch and soak it in.
Look at that. You came for the plot and stayed for the twist. (See what I did there?)
