The points of issue
US Alfred A. Knopf (A Borzoi Book) hardcover first, October 1988. First printing has the words First Edition stated on the copyright page with the Borzoi colophon and no later-printing statement, in the priced unclipped jacket. Quarter white cloth over beige boards with gilt medallion. Third of the Vampire Chronicles. Note that Knopf ran printings before publication, so some copies state a later printing before publication date while still being first edition so stated.
Is this the true first?
US Knopf (1988) is the true first; a UK edition also appeared in 1988. Separate signed limited issues in slipcase exist as later fine-binding productions, first thus rather than the true first.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
A book-club edition lacks the printed jacket price and the stated First Edition line; identify the trade first by the stated First Edition on the copyright page and the priced jacket.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Queen of the Damned a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: US Alfred A. Knopf (A Borzoi Book) hardcover first, October 1988. First printing has the words First Edition stated on the copyright page with the Borzoi colophon and no later-printing statement, in the priced unclipped jacket. Quarter white cloth over beige boards with gilt medallion. Third of the Vampire Chronicles. Note that Knopf ran printings before publication, so some copies state a later printing before publication date while still being first edition so stated.
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 Knopf (1988) is the true first; a UK edition also appeared in 1988. Separate signed limited issues in slipcase exist as later fine-binding productions, first thus rather than the true first.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
A book-club edition lacks the printed jacket price and the stated First Edition line; identify the trade first by the stated First Edition on the copyright page and the priced jacket.
I have a first edition of The Queen of the Damned — 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.