From Scrubs to Spines: The Story Behind The Sprayed Edge

Leslie Ethridge is the passionate force behind The Sprayed Edge, an indie bookstore built on a love for stories that are bold, emotional, unconventional, and unforgettable. Alongside her husband, Kyle, she has created more than just a business—it’s a community for readers who crave everything from dark romance and smut to fantasy, humor, and the beautifully weird corners of literature.

Born and raised in South Alabama, Leslie’s love for books began at a young age. Reading was always more than a hobby—it was an escape, a comfort, and a lifelong passion. However, during her college years, the demands of her academic journey made it difficult to read for pleasure as much as she wanted. Despite that, her love for storytelling never faded—it simply waited for the right time to resurface.

Leslie attended University of Alabama, where she built an impressive academic and professional foundation. She holds a Master’s degree in Nursing, a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, an Associate’s degree in Nursing, an Associate’s degree in Emergency Medicine, and an Associate’s degree in General Studies. Her career in healthcare began as a paramedic, eventually advancing into her current role as a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in wound care. Her dedication to helping others heal and thrive is something she carries into every aspect of her life—including her bookstore.

Owning an indie bookstore has always been a dream for Leslie. With The Sprayed Edge, that dream has become a reality. Looking ahead, she hopes to expand the business into a mobile bookstore, bringing curated reads and unique literary experiences directly to readers in new and exciting ways.

Her husband, Kyle, has been a pillar of support throughout this journey. With over 15 years in law enforcement, he brings dedication, resilience, and an unwavering belief in Leslie’s vision. Together, they run The Sprayed Edge entirely on their own, handling every aspect of the business while staying deeply connected to their customers.

As parents to their son, family remains at the center of everything they do. Their shared commitment to hard work, passion, and authenticity shines through in their business. Leslie and Kyle pride themselves on creating a personalized, welcoming experience for every customer—whether it’s helping someone discover their love for reading for the first time or tracking down that one elusive “unicorn” book a reader has been searching for.

At The Sprayed Edge, it’s not just about selling books—it’s about building connections, fueling passions, and creating a space where every reader feels seen and valued. Leslie and Kyle go above and beyond to ensure complete customer satisfaction, making it their mission to provide an experience that keeps readers coming back for more.

If you’d like to connect, learn more, or get help finding your next favorite read, please feel free to reach out through the Contact Us section of the website or send a direct message on any of our social media platforms. Leslie and Kyle are always happy to help you find exactly what you’re looking for—and maybe even something you didn’t know you needed.