The points of issue
UK Bantam Press hardcover, published December 2002 — the series' return to hardcover format after two trade paperback originals. First printing has a full number line including 1; issued with dust jacket alongside a simultaneous trade paperback.
Is this the true first?
UK Bantam Press 2002 hardcover is the true first; the US Tor edition followed in 2006.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The simultaneous UK trade paperback, later printings, the US Tor edition (2006), and book-club copies differ from the hardcover first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of House of Chains (Malazan 4) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK Bantam Press hardcover, published December 2002 — the series' return to hardcover format after two trade paperback originals. First printing has a full number line including 1; issued with dust jacket alongside a simultaneous trade paperback.
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 Bantam Press 2002 hardcover is the true first; the US Tor edition followed in 2006.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The simultaneous UK trade paperback, later printings, the US Tor edition (2006), and book-club copies differ from the hardcover first.
I have a first edition of House of Chains (Malazan 4) — 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.