Analyzing 8,053,1138.1M ReviewsFor 22,83722.8K Experts
Google reviewers rate Frugal Muse Books 4.8 out of 5 based on 349 reviews, frequently highlighting the store's extensive selection of used and new titles, reasonable pricing, and friendly staff who assist with recommendations and special orders. Customers also appreciate the availability of free book bins and the store's community-oriented atmosphere. However, recurring criticisms in lower-rated reviews cite rude customer service, overpriced comic books, and poor communication regarding the status of book sales or store credit transactions.
Data from Google, last updated November 3, 2026.
Score per factor (100 = best)Each factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: momentum and reliability; weakest: replies to reviews.
Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.
349 Google reviews we collected
Phrases our text analysis found in 223 written reviews
How often each topic comes up in the written reviews
We read 223 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.
“Very well priced and I’ve always had super friendly cashiers who’ve helped find items I’m looking for or even recommended books to me!”
“Neither the same associate nor her rude coworker believed me and said I had to bring in the certificate.”
“I've both bought and sold books from and to them and have received a fair price.”
“Great payouts on stuff but their comics are super overpriced.”
“…e, just wish this store was on the east side of Madison - that said I highly recommend this store, the man who owns the store was very nice, much to c…”
“The owners of the store have a well-curated collection of books with timely displays of relevant titles.”
“Not many have the time or are willing to have a genuine conversation.”
“Great service - and great patience.”
“Gretchen was lovely to speak with, and the communication was refreshing in the current world we live in.”
praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.
This is such a cool place.... Books for everyone 1st time here I was in awe at the amount of books... What they do for the community is amazing
Great payouts on stuff but their comics are super overpriced. Bought a copy of vatman faces by matt wagner in decent condition for 7 bucks. On its best day a like new copy of that book goes for 4 dollars. I still pulled the trigger and bought not just the first issue but all 3 because its hard to find all 3…
It’s a cute little book store with friendly staff. I’m knocking a star of the review because I wouldn’t recommend buying notecards there. They use stickers which are designed not to be removed which is not great for something you want to send someone. It takes so long to pick the sticker of the cards and it leaves a…
Happened to get the book I wanted shipped in the day I was looking for it all over town. Wide selection, great prices, and a cool dude behind the counter
The Frugal Muse is a wonderful bookstore. They have a large selection of fiction, nonfiction, children, teen, and collectible books, as well as other media and gifts such as journals, cards, etc. I appreciate that they have clearance books and even a bin with free books in front in the store. The staff is friendly…
If you enjoy bookstores this is the place for you. Large selection and reasonable prices. If you are near Madison it's definitely worth a visit
4.8 ★★★★★ 349 reviews on Google · rating breakdown
Reviews from Google, shown as published (original wording, unedited).
This is such a cool place.... Books for everyone 1st time here I was in awe at the amount of books... What they do for the community is amazing
Thank you Linda!
If you like used bookstore then here you go
Thanks Jacob!
Good selection
Great payouts on stuff but their comics are super overpriced. Bought a copy of vatman faces by matt wagner in decent condition for 7 bucks. On its best day a like new copy of that book goes for 4 dollars. I still pulled the trigger and bought not just the first issue but all 3 because its hard to find all 3 together. All in all I spent 22 bucks on a set that sells for 10-13. Whoever prices their comics needs a reality check. Another red flag is their loose comics are the same price as the books that are sealed and backed and boarded.
It’s a cute little book store with friendly staff. I’m knocking a star of the review because I wouldn’t recommend buying notecards there. They use stickers which are designed not to be removed which is not great for something you want to send someone. It takes so long to pick the sticker of the cards and it leaves a ton of sticky residue that you can’t exactly wash of paper. I would recommend they find a better way to price the cards. Lightly writing the price in pencil would probably be preferable to this.
Happened to get the book I wanted shipped in the day I was looking for it all over town. Wide selection, great prices, and a cool dude behind the counter
Thank you Rio!
Great place! I remember when there was a North Side location as well.
Thank you Ryan!
The Frugal Muse is a wonderful bookstore. They have a large selection of fiction, nonfiction, children, teen, and collectible books, as well as other media and gifts such as journals, cards, etc. I appreciate that they have clearance books and even a bin with free books in front in the store. The staff is friendly and helpful. I've both bought and sold books from and to them and have received a fair price. At one point I brought in books they weren't interested in, and the owner actually made suggestions of other places I may be able to sell them based on their age and content. The store is inviting and homey and a book lover's dream!
Thank you Ellen!
If you enjoy bookstores this is the place for you. Large selection and reasonable prices. If you are near Madison it's definitely worth a visit
Thank you Ken!
Great selection. Good old bookstore feel.
Thank you Eric!
Analyzing 8,053,1138.1M ReviewsFor 22,83722.8K Experts
