The points of issue
Short story collection of twelve stories; first edition published by Virago in 1995 (ISBN 1-86049-190-1), cover bearing a still of Louise Brooks chosen by the author. Smith's debut book; winner of the Saltire First Book of the Year award and a Scottish Arts Council award.
Is this the true first?
UK Virago (1995) is the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Distinguish the 1995 first issue from the later reissue under a different ISBN (1-86049-584-2).
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Free Love and Other Stories a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Short story collection of twelve stories; first edition published by Virago in 1995 (ISBN 1-86049-190-1), cover bearing a still of Louise Brooks chosen by the author. Smith's debut book; winner of the Saltire First Book of the Year award and a Scottish Arts Council award.
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 Virago (1995) is the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Distinguish the 1995 first issue from the later reissue under a different ISBN (1-86049-584-2).
I have a first edition of Free Love and Other Stories — 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.