How to identify a first printing
- 2008-present: collectible SIGNED LIMITED hardcovers; the numbered (and sometimes lettered) limitation page identifies the edition - print runs are small and usually single-state per format.
- Author-driven imprint lines (Gleefully Macabre, Dark Worlds, Shadow Side, Bitter Ale, Tempest) appear on the title/series page; identify the series and its position, as several lines ran to fixed completion (e.g., Shadow Side 11 vols, Bitter Ale 12 vols).
- High output: match the specific title's stated limitation rather than assuming a uniform number across the catalog.
- Some titles issued as matched-numbered sets within a series; set-matching numbers are a collecting point.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded 2008 by Paul Goblirsch; major modern limited-edition horror house.
- Publishes Brian Keene, Joe R. Lansdale, Edward Lee, Paul Tremblay, Jonathan Janz, and many others; recognized as an HWA Specialty Press.
- Distinctive author-imprint model with completed finite series lines.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Gleefully Macabre (Jeff Strand), Dark Worlds (J.F. Gonzalez), Shadow Side (Jonathan Janz), Bitter Ale (Bryan Smith), Tempest (ed. Mary SanGiovanni). Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Thunderstorm Books book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 2008-present: collectible SIGNED LIMITED hardcovers; the numbered (and sometimes lettered) limitation page identifies the edition - print runs are small and usually single-state per format. Author-driven imprint lines (Gleefully Macabre, Dark Worlds, Shadow Side, Bitter Ale, Tempest) appear on the title/series page; identify the series and its position, as several lines ran to fixed completion (e.g., Shadow Side 11 vols, Bitter Ale 12 vols).
Does Thunderstorm Books use a number line?
Author-driven imprint lines (Gleefully Macabre, Dark Worlds, Shadow Side, Bitter Ale, Tempest) appear on the title/series page; identify the series and its position, as several lines ran to fixed completion (e.g., Shadow Side 11 vols, Bitter Ale 12 vols).
Is a book-club edition a Thunderstorm Books first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded 2008 by Paul Goblirsch; major modern limited-edition horror house.
What era does this cover?
This covers Thunderstorm Books (2008-present). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.