The points of issue
Little, Brown first printing, 1992: copyright page with the number line descending to 1 (first printing). Dust jacket priced the printed price. Connelly's debut and first Harry Bosch novel — the key collectible of the series.
Is this the true first?
US Little, Brown 1992 is the true first, preceding the UK Orion/Allison & Busby editions. The US first with full number line is the desirable copy; signed copies sought.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Later printings show a number line not reaching 1. Confirm trade first by the printed priced jacket and number line ending in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Black Echo a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Little, Brown first printing, 1992: copyright page with the number line descending to 1 (first printing). Dust jacket priced the printed price. Connelly's debut and first Harry Bosch novel — the key collectible of the 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. US Little, Brown 1992 is the true first, preceding the UK Orion/Allison & Busby editions. The US first with full number line is the desirable copy; signed copies sought.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Later printings show a number line not reaching 1. Confirm trade first by the printed priced jacket and number line ending in 1.
I have a first edition of The Black Echo — 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.