The points of issue
'First Edition' stated on the copyright page with the Random House number line whose lowest number is '2' (Random House practice: 'First Edition' stated together with '2' as the lowest figure in the line denotes the first printing). Quarter cloth over boards; first-issue jacket bears the printed price on the front flap. 259 pp.
Is this the true first?
US Random House is the true first; the novel introduces C. W. Sughrue and is widely regarded as one of the finest American private-eye novels. UK editions follow.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club edition lacks the stated 'First Edition' and the number line, bears a blind-stamp on the rear board, has no flap price, and is on lighter paper.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Last Good Kiss a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page with the Random House number line whose lowest number is '2' (Random House practice: 'First Edition' stated together with '2' as the lowest figure in the line denotes the first printing). Quarter cloth over boards; first-issue jacket bears the printed price on the front flap. 259 pp.
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 Random House is the true first; the novel introduces C. W. Sughrue and is widely regarded as one of the finest American private-eye novels. UK editions follow.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club edition lacks the stated 'First Edition' and the number line, bears a blind-stamp on the rear board, has no flap price, and is on lighter paper.
I have a first edition of The Last Good Kiss — 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.