The points of issue
US David McKay first, 1977: red paper-covered boards with title stamped in black on the spine, octavo; jacket designed by Erik Sundgaard. The first Sharon McCone novel, widely credited with establishing the modern female private-eye series.
Is this the true first?
The US David McKay 1977 hardcover is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later Mysterious Press / Warner reprints carry their own imprints and are clearly later issues.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Edwin of the Iron Shoes a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US David McKay first, 1977: red paper-covered boards with title stamped in black on the spine, octavo; jacket designed by Erik Sundgaard. The first Sharon McCone novel, widely credited with establishing the modern female private-eye series.
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. The US David McKay 1977 hardcover is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later Mysterious Press / Warner reprints carry their own imprints and are clearly later issues.
I have a first edition of Edwin of the Iron Shoes — 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.