The points of issue
US Dial Press first edition, 1982, in first-issue dust jacket. The first printing is identified by the words First Printing stated on the copyright page (rather than a number line). Paretsky's debut and the first V. I. Warshawski novel.
Is this the true first?
US Dial Press (1982) is the true first, Paretsky's debut; the UK Gollancz edition follows. Scarce in fine jacketed first-printing state.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The book-club edition lacks the First Printing statement, bears a blind-stamped mark on the rear board, has no flap price, and is on lighter bulked paper.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Indemnity Only a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US Dial Press first edition, 1982, in first-issue dust jacket. The first printing is identified by the words First Printing stated on the copyright page (rather than a number line). Paretsky's debut and the first V. I. Warshawski novel.
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. US Dial Press (1982) is the true first, Paretsky's debut; the UK Gollancz edition follows. Scarce in fine jacketed first-printing state.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The book-club edition lacks the First Printing statement, bears a blind-stamped mark on the rear board, has no flap price, and is on lighter bulked paper.
I have a first edition of Indemnity Only — 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.