Downtown Smithfield Welcomes Once Upon A Crime with Grand Opening Celebration June 27

Downtown Smithfield Welcomes Once Upon A Crime with Grand Opening Celebration June 27

SMITHFIELD, NC – Downtown Smithfield is excited to welcome a new chapter to its growing business community with the grand opening of Once Upon A Crime, an independent bookstore specializing in thriller, suspense, mystery, and crime fiction while also offering a variety of books across many other genres. The store will officially celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, June 27, at its new location at 230 E. Market Street in Downtown Smithfield. 

Owners Danielle and Aaron Hilton recently relocated to North Carolina from Gloucester, Virginia, where they successfully owned and operated a beloved independent bookstore. When the opportunity arose to open a shop in Downtown Smithfield, they knew they had found the perfect place to continue their passion for books, community, and bringing people together. 

While visitors will find an exciting collection of books—with a special focus on thriller and suspense titles—the Hiltons are equally passionate about creating a welcoming gathering place for readers. Readers can browse a wide selection of genres, ensuring there is something for everyone who walks through the door.

At their previous bookstore, Danielle hosted a book club that quickly became much more than a discussion group. What started as a shared love of reading evolved into a community of nearly 40 women who formed lasting friendships and meaningful connections.

"Many of these women didn't necessarily have a place to meet other like-minded people," Danielle shared. "The book club created a sense of belonging and friendship that has continued long after we left Gloucester."