The points of issue
UK Viking first, 1986, published under the pseudonym 'Barbara Vine'; first-issue dust jacket priced on the front flap; copyright page carries a single first-published statement.
Is this the true first?
UK Viking (1986) is taken as the true first; the US Bantam edition followed in 1986. The debut of the 'Barbara Vine' identity; won the MWA Edgar Award for Best Novel. Recognizing that 'Barbara Vine' is Ruth Rendell is the key identification point.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions lack the flap price; later impressions add a printing statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Dark-Adapted Eye a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK Viking first, 1986, published under the pseudonym 'Barbara Vine'; first-issue dust jacket priced on the front flap; copyright page carries a single first-published statement.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. UK Viking (1986) is taken as the true first; the US Bantam edition followed in 1986. The debut of the 'Barbara Vine' identity; won the MWA Edgar Award for Best Novel. Recognizing that 'Barbara Vine' is Ruth Rendell is the key identification point.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions lack the flap price; later impressions add a printing statement.
I have a first edition of A Dark-Adapted Eye — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.