The points of issue
'First Edition' stated on the copyright page, Doubleday's standard practice. Maroon cloth with gilt spine lettering, 431 pages, map endpapers. His mystery novel featuring the detective Lobo.
Is this the true first?
US Doubleday 1973 is the true first; a UK Collins edition followed the same year.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Reprints and later states omit the stated 'First Edition' line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of A Touch of Danger a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page, Doubleday's standard practice. Maroon cloth with gilt spine lettering, 431 pages, map endpapers. His mystery novel featuring the detective Lobo.
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. US Doubleday 1973 is the true first; a UK Collins edition followed the same year.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Reprints and later states omit the stated 'First Edition' line.
I have a first edition of A Touch of Danger — 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.