The points of issue
Pocket Books, October 2007, issued simultaneously in trade paperback and hardcover; first printings carry a full number line ending in 1. Matthew Corbett #2.
Is this the true first?
US Pocket Books true first, both formats issued October 2007. The Subterranean Press signed limited edition followed in 2014 and is a reissue, not the first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
No separate book club edition is commonly reported; distinguish later printings by an incomplete number line.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Queen of Bedlam a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Pocket Books, October 2007, issued simultaneously in trade paperback and hardcover; first printings carry a full number line ending in 1. Matthew Corbett #2.
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 Pocket Books true first, both formats issued October 2007. The Subterranean Press signed limited edition followed in 2014 and is a reissue, not the first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
No separate book club edition is commonly reported; distinguish later printings by an incomplete number line.
I have a first edition of The Queen of Bedlam — 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.