The points of issue
UK Macmillan edition (1993): original red cloth with gilt spine titling, no later-printing statement, and the printed price on the first-issue jacket. Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Novel (1994).
Is this the true first?
The UK Macmillan edition (1993) is generally accepted as the true first. The US St. Martin's Press edition is also dated 1993 (stated 'First U.S. Edition: October, 1993'); the two appeared the same year and dealers treat the UK issue as preceding, though the gap is narrow.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions exist in both markets: blind-stamp to the rear board and no jacket price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of The Sculptress a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: UK Macmillan edition (1993): original red cloth with gilt spine titling, no later-printing statement, and the printed price on the first-issue jacket. Winner of the Edgar Award for Best Novel (1994).
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. The UK Macmillan edition (1993) is generally accepted as the true first. The US St. Martin's Press edition is also dated 1993 (stated 'First U.S. Edition: October, 1993'); the two appeared the same year and dealers treat the UK issue as preceding, though the gap is narrow.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions exist in both markets: blind-stamp to the rear board and no jacket price.
I have a first edition of The Sculptress — 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.