The points of issue
US Tor hardcover published November 17, 2020; 'First Edition' stated with number line to 1.
Is this the true first?
US Tor and UK Gollancz editions were published simultaneously on November 17, 2020; the US Tor first printing is customarily collected as the first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings differ; leatherbound editions separate.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Rhythm of War (Stormlight Archive 4) a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US Tor hardcover published November 17, 2020; 'First Edition' stated with number line to 1.
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 Tor and UK Gollancz editions were published simultaneously on November 17, 2020; the US Tor first printing is customarily collected as the first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings differ; leatherbound editions separate.
I have a first edition of Rhythm of War (Stormlight Archive 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.