We’re Ink & Alibi, an independent, traveling bookstore coming to Northern Michigan in 2027. Specializing in mysteries, thrillers, and stories of intrigue, Ink & Alibi is designed for the curious, the perpetually suspicious, and anyone who has ever stayed up reading past their bedtime.
About Ink & Alibi
Inspired by the belief that every story holds a key to discovery, Ink & Alibi is an invitation to explore, connect, and find something unexpected. Through carefully curated books, mystery-themed gifts, immersive experiences, and community events, we’re creating a destination where stories don’t just unfold—they’re uncovered. While mysteries and thrillers form the heart of Ink & Alibi, we also feature fiction and nonfiction that explores broader themes related to secrets, suspense, and curiosity.
Our Vision
Our vision for Ink & Alibi is rooted in a lifelong love of reading and a belief that books are more than stories. They’re adventures, conversation starters, and invitations into worlds we never want to leave.
Stories have always been at the center of my life—from Teasing Chuck, a book I wrote in second grade about my beloved dog Charlie, to my childhood obsession with Harriet the Spy, which might explain why I’m always thrilled to open the first page of a new notebook.
Between the notebooks, mysteries, and countless stories we couldn't put down, we launched our own investigation to discover how we could create a place where readers can connect through a shared love of discovery, storytelling, and intrigue.
Ink & Alibi is the story we’ve been working toward for years.
The Investigation Begins
The first chapter of Ink & Alibi is already underway through our online Bookshop.org storefront and our Classified Volume mystery reading experiences.
Next June, Ink & Alibi will launch a mobile bookstore experience, bringing books, gifts, games, and mystery-filled adventures to readers across Northern Michigan. You’ll find us at farmers markets, festivals, pop-ups, and community events in Boyne City, Petoskey, and beyond.
As we build toward our 2027 mobile launch, we’ll be sharing Field Notes: behind-the-scenes trailer updates, book recommendations, event announcements, and additional ways for supporters to help bring the full vision of Ink & Alibi to life. A crowdfunding campaign may also be part of the next chapter, giving our community the chance to help unlock what comes next.
The Next Chapter
The long-term goal is to establish a permanent, brick-and-mortar home for Ink & Alibi that will be a one-of-a-kind gathering place for mystery lovers and curious readers of all ages. Through atmospheric design, gifts, games, immersive experiences, and thoughtfully curated books, Ink & Alibi will become a destination where readers can explore, discover, and become part of the story.
Each visit will offer a new chapter, a fresh clue, and another mystery to unravel.
Until then, we’re building the case one clue at a time.
Thank you for joining the investigation.