The points of issue
UK Macmillan first, published 26 June 1992: 'First published 1992' by Macmillan with a number line ending in 1. Walters's debut; it won the 1992 CWA John Creasey (New Blood) Dagger for best first novel. A scarce true first.
Is this the true first?
UK Macmillan 1992 is the true first; the US St. Martin's Press 1992 edition is a first-thus / first American edition.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
BCA / book-club editions carry a club code and lack the price; later printings drop the number line ending in 1.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Ice House a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK Macmillan first, published 26 June 1992: 'First published 1992' by Macmillan with a number line ending in 1. Walters's debut; it won the 1992 CWA John Creasey (New Blood) Dagger for best first novel. A scarce true first.
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 Macmillan 1992 is the true first; the US St. Martin's Press 1992 edition is a first-thus / first American edition.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
BCA / book-club editions carry a club code and lack the price; later printings drop the number line ending in 1.
I have a first edition of The Ice House — 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.