Owner, Renee Joyce

Loves historical fiction, romance, fantasy, and autobiographies.

When she’s not reading books or selling books, Renee can be found running or roller skating by the beach, watching her son play sports, cheering for Angel City Football Club, playing board games and traveling with her fiancé, and finding any reason to do something fun with friends.

What inspired me to open my own bookshop? A lot of things, really.

It started with my parents who are both big readers. In our home, it wasn’t unusual for everyone to spend an entire day reading until our eyes were so tired we’d have to read one eye at a time. Our library cards were prized possessions— we’d check out the maximum number of books every time we’d visit.

In elementary school, I learned that the books could come to me! The Scholastic Book Fair was quite literally the best week of the entire year.

In high school, I had the most incredible English teacher for three of my four years. Dr. Mikulics, with his love of literature and theater, brought every book we read to life.

I earned a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and treasured the opportunity to delve into literary styles and genres I might not ever have explored on my own, deepening my appreciation for all kinds of books.

When my son was in elementary school, right here in Redondo Beach, I had my first taste of running my own bookstore as his school’s Scholastic Book Fair Chair. It was happening! I was living the dream! It was genuinely the best week of the year for him, me, and so many other kids! I turned those blank spaces into a winter wonderland for one week every year until he promoted to middle school… but that one week wasn’t enough.

Working as an editor, being in a book club, and visiting independent bookshops and book trucks whenever I have the chance isn’t enough.

It’s time for more… it’s time for Moonstone & Mist Bookshop!