The points of issue
Putnam first edition (January 1991) with full number line on the copyright page.
Is this the true first?
Putnam US true first; the UK Headline edition followed later in 1991.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book club reprint lacks the number line and jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Cold Fire a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Putnam first edition (January 1991) with full number line on the copyright page.
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. Putnam US true first; the UK Headline edition followed later in 1991.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book club reprint lacks the number line and jacket price.
I have a first edition of Cold Fire — 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.