Decorated Edges

Have you noticed how many books lately have beautifully dyed and decorated edges? Across genres and ages, the books are dressing up! I love it. It emphasizes to me the preciousness of a book and the magic inside.

Above are the page edges of A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang (2024). The blue edges are decorated by green vines and yellow flowers. This books was as beautiful to read as it was to look at (thanks to Sophia M.-F. for the recommendation). In it, Xishi is trained to infiltrate the court of a rival kingdom and take down its ruler. Falling in love with the man training her wasn’t part of the plan. A suspenseful and romantic read.

The Dragonship series by Scott Reintgen (started in 2024) is a thrilling fantasy, sci-fi middle-grade adventure of life on Mars with dragons. It will appeal to kids looking for nonstop action and has amazing edge details of dragon scales to make the books extra special (see above).

Below are the Celtic-patterned edges of Her Hidden Fire by Cliodhna O'Sullivan (2026). This YA fantasy is set in an Irish-inflected world where certain people are gifted with magic (mostly high-born) and become Channellers who rely on Keepers (those with less powerful magic) to aid them in their tasks. Éadha is low-born and in love with Ionáin. She secretly gives her magic to him so he can save his family’s reputation. Nothing complicated is going to happen there, right?

I listen to a lot of audiobooks, which means I occasionally miss out on the beauty of these decorated edges. So I was thrilled to discover some of the books I’ve listened to have lovely details. Check out the fanciness of Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarrow, Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous by Autumn K. England, and Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell and Ashley Mackenzie.

What do you think of these decorations? Does it add to your enjoyment of the book? Does it make your purchase feel extra special? Would you like more special editions of your favorites with sprayed edges?