When we first opened in 2016, our shop was known as the Lawrenceburg Visitor Center — a cozy place to welcome travelers and locals alike. A year later, it grew into Tastefully Delicious, where books, gifts, and baked goods all found a home together. And tucked inside those early shelves was one of our very first authors: Ann H. Gabhart.
At the time, I didn’t know that carrying Ann’s books would lead to such a special friendship — or that her stories would become such a big part of our journey. Ann’s novels capture Kentucky better than anyone I know. Her Heart of Hollyhill series feels like sitting on a front porch with your neighbors, listening to stories that could have happened right down the road.
So, when we hosted our very first author signing, it only felt right that it was Ann sitting at that table, surrounded by her books, her readers, and the sweet smell of baked goods drifting over from the kitchen.
Over the years, we’ve been lucky to welcome her back many times — especially during her spring releases — and each event has felt like a reunion of old friends. In 2017, when we had a little extra space, we even hosted a “Breakfast with Ann” where she spoke to a full room while I served a buffet of homemade treats. That morning was pure magic — a mix of laughter, stories, and the warmth that only a small Kentucky town can offer.
Ann isn’t just an author to us anymore. She’s part of our family here at The Kentucky Bookstore. She stops by to shop, visit, and share what she’s working on next — and every time, she reminds us why we do what we do: to celebrate Kentucky stories and the people who write them.
Thank you, Ann, for being part of our story since the very beginning. Here’s to many more signings, more books, and more memories shared right here on Main Street.
— Gail
The Kentucky Bookstore
126 South Main – Lawrenceburg, KY