The points of issue
Author's second novel under his own name. Black boards with gilt-blocked spine titling; copyright page states 'First published 1982'. Issued in original dust jacket.
Is this the true first?
UK Jonathan Cape (1982) is the true first; the US McGraw-Hill edition followed in 1986.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No book-club edition relevant; later impressions are stated on the copyright page. A Cape reprint appeared in 1991.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Before She Met Me a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Author's second novel under his own name. Black boards with gilt-blocked spine titling; copyright page states 'First published 1982'. Issued in original dust jacket.
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 Jonathan Cape (1982) is the true first; the US McGraw-Hill edition followed in 1986.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No book-club edition relevant; later impressions are stated on the copyright page. A Cape reprint appeared in 1991.
I have a first edition of Before She Met Me — 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.