The Summer War

Studio Duco's latest commission for Del Rey Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House, is the cover for The Summer War, the upcoming novella by bestselling author Naomi Novik.

Due out in September, the teaser cover was recently revealed on Goodreads and is now viewable on Instagram. The design employs classical etching techniques to reflect the story’s themes of magic, family, and redemption.

Set in a war-torn land, The Summer War follows young witch Celia, who inadvertently curses her brother Argent to a life devoid of love. As Argent seeks fame and glory, Celia strives to undo the curse, uncovering truths about a centuries-old conflict between mortals and the immortal summerlings. The cover’s intricate imagery—featuring motifs of swords and lutes—symbolises the intertwining of personal and mythical battles.

Find out more via Penguin Random House.