The Secret House of Death

This is the true first edition (UK 1968) of Rendell's very scarce title concerning a double murder that is at first taken for a lovers' suicide. Despite some minor faults, this is a very lovely copy. The book's condition can be broken down as: COVERS/BOARDS are Fine ( no bumps, rubbing, fading, soil). The spine heel and crown are crisp with no wear at all - like it was just unpacked. The INTERIOR is very clean and exceptionally crisp with two or three creased corners within. The title page has an embossed library seal, which is tidy and unobtrusive. A faint number is stamped on the copyright page. The back page has a stamped seal that is bleached and nearly invisible. Inside front cover has an indeterminate yellowing mark, possibly from glue. The page block edges are clean and bright. The DUST JACKET was shallowly trimmed on all sides. The price is intact, and there is minor edgewear/fraying to extremities. No chips. One shallow edge tear on bottom edge has been archivally mended. Otherwise, the dust jacket is glossy and bright. AUTHOR'S AUTOGRAPH is to the title page, made with black felt-tip pen. Please email for scans. This copy is not perfect, but it is definitely solid and presentable. The author's many awards include three Edgars and four Gold Daggers. …