Owner: Michelle Flye
By Ann Marie Byrd, Feature Writer
Next Chapter Books, located at 320 South Front Street, next to the ABC store and behind Captain Ratty’s Seafood, is an absolutely charming little book store and local art gallery.
“The community is so supportive of Next Chapter Books and they take pride in the fact that New Bern has an independent book store,” says Michelle Flye.
Michelle, who is the owner as well as an author in her own right, took over the store in January 2020 from Mary Jo Buckl. The shop carries used books, local author books and local artwork on consignment. Signed used copies of Nicholas Sparks novels are also available.
“Our top sales are our gently used books and books by local authors,” says Michelle. “Some of our top-selling local authors are Joey Jones, who writes romantic drama, Leslie Tall Manning, who writes magical realism and young adult, and even me. I write poetry, romance and children’s books.”
The shop has a beautiful collection of art, included photography by James Dugan and Elaine Varley, watercolors by Barbara Williams, and pottery and handmade postcards.
Michelle, who was born and raised in Brevard, NC, attended UNC Chapel Hill and studied journalism. Afterward, she earned her master’s degree in library science at UNC Greensboro. She has been a New Bern resident for 17 years.
“I never thought I’d be a business owner. I first became involved with Next Chapter Books as an author, selling my books on consignment. I had gotten to know Mary Jo, and so when she told me she was giving up the store, I knew it was my time to step into her shoes, so in 2020 I took over. It’s a very special place.”