A BOOK-LOVER who is fighting back against the decline of bookshops has celebrated her first month in business.

Olivia Rosenthall opened Maldon Books on the High Street on December 7.

The 26-year-old always wanted to open her own bookshop and decided Maldon would be the ideal location.

Olivia said: “The opening was really good and so busy – we were full from open until close.

“Unfortunately, author Nick Butterworth couldn’t make it so we were afraid we wouldn’t have a lot of people turn up, but they did, and it was a really nice day.

“We’ve had so many customers so far. In the lead-up to Christmas it was so busy and we had lots of visitors which surprised me as I didn’t think it would go as well as it is going.

“The best part about opening the store so far, I think, has just been meeting everyone and seeing people so excited and enthusiastic to have a bookshop available in Maldon again.

“Everybody has been so nice and welcoming.”

Olivia, from Bradwell, has worked in bookshops all her life and decided to open the shop in Maldon as it was the “perfect place”.

Although she believes traditional books are making a comeback, she is still worried for the future.

She added: “So far it has been all good and I think it helped opening just before Christmas as we had a lot of people coming in to buy gifts.

“But I am a bit apprehensive for January and what it will be like in the quieter months.

“I’m hoping to counteract that with things like book clubs, one of which I should have going by January or February.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has come in so far, and not only if they’ve bought a book but just to say hello and welcome me to the high street. It’s been lovely.”

Olivia’s dream is to keep local bookshops and the “magical and unique” experience of physical reading alive for the community.

Bestselling author Salley Vickers will be visiting the store on Tuesday, January 14 to discuss her latest novel, Grandmothers, followed by a Q and A and signing.

The event will take place at 6.30pm and tickets cost £5. To find out more, visit facebook.com/maldonbooks.