Moonstone - new LE 2nd November 2023
Original topic subject: New LE 2nd November 2023
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1assemblyman
Discard a shoal of red herrings to discover Folio’s next brilliant limited edition! Set your alarms for 2pm 2 November to reveal all... 🕵️♂️ ⏰
2A.Godhelm
Notable hashtags on the instagram post: fiction, mystery, detective. Looks like something set late 1800s, early 1900s? Would they do a Dupin LE? They've included those stories in some prior Poe collections though. Lots of Holmes published but no LEs. Does the warning against red herrings suggest something about the usual suspects?
5MobyRichard
That's clearly Gary Oldman in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
6assemblyman
>3 folio_books: I wonder is the person in the FS office who comes up with these clues called Baldrick.
7folio_books
>6 assemblyman:
That's a reasonable hypothesiis, though presumably a less creative member of the family known to Blackadder.
That's a reasonable hypothesiis, though presumably a less creative member of the family known to Blackadder.
8ubiquitousuk
The image reminds me of Jekyll and Hyde, which could sort of be construed as a detective mystery, although I'm not convinced this is the title in question.
9Shadekeep
James Brolin is Peter Dinklage as Charles Manson in The Fall of the House of Amityville. Coming soon to VHS.
10HonorWulf
>9 Shadekeep: James Brolin was the first likeness that came to mind for me as well
12RRCBS
>11 What_What: that was my thought, but not sure if it would be a popular LE.
13geoffmiles
>8 ubiquitousuk: I think that's a good guess - Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde would be an obvious third pick for the 'classic Gothic' LE series after Dracula and Frankenstein. The illustration style doesn't look much like Angela Barrett, though.
15astropi
>1 assemblyman: I would love to see a "brilliant" LE from the FS. My last order from the FS was back in April of 2021 when I purchased the PKD Complete Short Stories set. I thought that was a unique and wonderful production from the FS -- not something you could find from other publishers. The design and execution were fabulous, it was clear that a lot of love and thought went into that set.
Currently, the only LE I am interested in is their Waste Land, but not at $1500. The majority of LEs they have released the past couple of years I've found rather bland and overpriced. For example, consider "We Have Always Lived in the Castle"
LE is $395 while the standard is $75.
Differences between the two: first, I think the standard has a much better cover design. That said, the LE has a magnetic clamshell and includes a "Print for framing printed on Natural Evolution paper" -- does anyone ever actually frame these prints? The LE is signed by the artist and Donna Tartt who wrote the forward. I actually do appreciate artist signatures, but for over 5 times the cost of the standard I find all these "extras" completely underwhelming. I think this explains why many of these LEs firstly feel like they're just the standard edition recycled, and secondly why they have been selling poorly.
Currently, the only LE I am interested in is their Waste Land, but not at $1500. The majority of LEs they have released the past couple of years I've found rather bland and overpriced. For example, consider "We Have Always Lived in the Castle"
LE is $395 while the standard is $75.
Differences between the two: first, I think the standard has a much better cover design. That said, the LE has a magnetic clamshell and includes a "Print for framing printed on Natural Evolution paper" -- does anyone ever actually frame these prints? The LE is signed by the artist and Donna Tartt who wrote the forward. I actually do appreciate artist signatures, but for over 5 times the cost of the standard I find all these "extras" completely underwhelming. I think this explains why many of these LEs firstly feel like they're just the standard edition recycled, and secondly why they have been selling poorly.
16assemblyman
>15 astropi: What makes a “brilliant” FS LE? It’s subjective really. You loved the PKD Short Stories but I found the design too in your face and distracting. A fair few would say the Shakespeare set or the Gormenghast Trilogy are “brilliant” with just as much thought put in as the PKD. Looking at the LEs I have I find my tastes are more “old fashioned”. My last LE bought direct from FS was Ulysses. I love it but many would say it’s just a leather bound version of the SE. I do agree with you regarding the LE/standard releases and also the prints.
In regards this LE, with it being released without any whiff of publicity before the announcement I was thinking it will be a release in the same vein as The Haunting of Hill House or We have Always Lived in the Castle, but we shall see.
In regards this LE, with it being released without any whiff of publicity before the announcement I was thinking it will be a release in the same vein as The Haunting of Hill House or We have Always Lived in the Castle, but we shall see.
17Bookworm59
I thought of "The Moonstone" right away.
19cronshaw
>18 A.Nobody: Well noted. Folio love a birthday (even if they sometimes forget to send out birthday discount vouchers).
20What_What
>15 astropi: At least The Turn of the Screw LE had the decency to be leather bound by Ludlow, IIRC.
21astropi
>20 What_What: Yes, and we all know that Ludlow is amazing. That said, the standard Screw is $60 USD and the limited is $725... for $725 you can purchase a numbered edition from Lyra's Press! I decided to check, and according to the FS website the LE Screw has a "low stock" of 105 copies left out of 250 :)
22Ragnaroek
>21 astropi:
It was reduced 100£ for a short time if iam not mistaken
It was reduced 100£ for a short time if iam not mistaken
24kdweber
>23 boldface: Both the Arion Press and LEC have done nice editions of Moonstone.
25jroger1
>22 Ragnaroek:
It was offered at 20% off ($580) in June.
It was offered at 20% off ($580) in June.
26Ragnaroek
>25 jroger1:
Yeah. It's 500£ for me and was 400£ back then. Still very expensive for an non signed, very short work and non letterpress
Yeah. It's 500£ for me and was 400£ back then. Still very expensive for an non signed, very short work and non letterpress
28DMulvee
I would be so ecstatic if this were to be Dickens’ The Mystery of Edwin Drood!
I fear that commercially it wouldn’t make sense, and don’t think it is this, however until November 2nd I guess there is a small chance
I fear that commercially it wouldn’t make sense, and don’t think it is this, however until November 2nd I guess there is a small chance
29astropi
>27 boldface: The Arion Press edition is gorgeous.
https://www.arionpress.com/store/95-the-moonstone
Interestingly enough, both the AP and LEC editions have similar illustration styles which are apropos. However, I feel that the LEC's decision to color the illustrations makes it look cheap, for example -
whereas the AP edition did not use color and it looks more natural -
All personal taste of course :)
At the end of the day, while I'm not a fan of the LEC, it's still beautifully printed letterpress and is dirt cheap. The AP edition is much more expensive, but again, also beautiful letterpress.
https://www.arionpress.com/store/95-the-moonstone
Interestingly enough, both the AP and LEC editions have similar illustration styles which are apropos. However, I feel that the LEC's decision to color the illustrations makes it look cheap, for example -
whereas the AP edition did not use color and it looks more natural -
All personal taste of course :)
At the end of the day, while I'm not a fan of the LEC, it's still beautifully printed letterpress and is dirt cheap. The AP edition is much more expensive, but again, also beautiful letterpress.
30boldface
>28 DMulvee: "I would be so ecstatic if this were to be Dickens’ The Mystery of Edwin Drood!"
So would I, as long as it were half price as you only get half the story.
So would I, as long as it were half price as you only get half the story.
31boldface
>29 astropi:
Thanks for the illustrations. The black and white certainly fits better with the period.
Thanks for the illustrations. The black and white certainly fits better with the period.
32A.Nobody
>11 What_What: Speaking of The Moonstone, Kings Langley Press in Australia now has a pre-order for their own version of the book. This is the same publisher that recently released The Wheels of Chance (H.G. Wells) that some people here were pleased to see. They also soon will be doing The Woman in White in a matching style to The Moonstone.
33What_What
>32 A.Nobody: Thank you for sharing!
34assemblyman
FS have now sent out a message regarding possibly doing Dr Jekyl and Mr Hyde to go in series with Dracula and Frankenstein. I didn’t receive the message myself but saw it posted on Facebook.
35Dr.Fiddy
>34 assemblyman: I hope they do! Already having the LEs of Dracula and Frankenstein, I answered a big YES to be interested in Dr J and Mr H as well :)
36LeBacon
>34 assemblyman: Eh, more repeats. And of a title just reissued. I swear they have no imagination whatsoever with the gothic/horror titles.
37sekhmet0108
>36 LeBacon: Seriously. It's so tedious. They will scrape the barrel when it comes to SFF, but when it comes to a classic, their vision becomes severely limited.
38DanielOC
>37 sekhmet0108: yes, to make the cut has to be a famous classic that would appear on a HS summer reading list
39jroger1
>38 DanielOC:
High school reading lists have been vetted over the decades to include the very best classical literature, but students can read only a few of them. I can’t fault Folio for publishing the best.
High school reading lists have been vetted over the decades to include the very best classical literature, but students can read only a few of them. I can’t fault Folio for publishing the best.
40Willoyd
> I can’t fault Folio for publishing the best.
Nobody would criticise them for that - it's the fact that their definition of the 'best' when it comes to classics has become so boringly narrow, unimaginative and repetitive (and expensive as the vast bulk of their classic volumes nowadays are LEs). So, an LE of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde? Yawn.
Nobody would criticise them for that - it's the fact that their definition of the 'best' when it comes to classics has become so boringly narrow, unimaginative and repetitive (and expensive as the vast bulk of their classic volumes nowadays are LEs). So, an LE of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde? Yawn.
41lzy23
Curious to see if it'd still be Angela Barrett's illustrations in line with the previous two; given that she's already done illustrations for Hand & Eye's Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
42LesMiserables
This message has been deleted by its author.
43LesMiserables
>41 lzy23: I thought the Grahame Baker Smith illustrations from the 2006 publication were quite complementary to the text.
The 1948 Mervyn Peake illustrations didn't move me, to be frank.
The Sam Weber illustrations in the 2009 Lord of the Flies would do the trick for me.
The 1948 Mervyn Peake illustrations didn't move me, to be frank.
The Sam Weber illustrations in the 2009 Lord of the Flies would do the trick for me.
45BooksFriendsNotFood
>44 What_What: I was surprised too! I had assumed 2 Nov was a Tuesday until I realized otherwise on Monday night and I was like whoa.
46What_What
>45 BooksFriendsNotFood: Haha, I was also waiting for it yesterday. Threw off my whole week!
48DanielOC
>39 jroger1: I think most devotees have their HS reading list under the belt and are looking a little further afield by the time they have the income to spend on FS LEs.
49antinous_in_london
Relieved that they didn’t go too heavy on the Moonstone pricing - £250 seems reasonable (especially compared to Turn of the Screw LE !)
51Dr.Fiddy
>50 DMulvee: Same here :)
52Bookworm59
No standard edition for this? Don't they usually do an LE and an SE?
53BooksFriendsNotFood
Ooh I think this is actually the first LE in a while that I find skippable! (Knowing my flip-floppy brain, I will add the disclaimer: for now.) I don't really love that all of the illustrations seem to be sepia toned, and the curved slipcase style has never appealed to me (even though I absolutely did not notice this on the Murakami slipcase in person for at least 1+ years). The binding design also looks pretty "normal" - nice art though - so I think I can finally be one of those people who would've preferred an SE...ideally without the quarter binding look to it. (I doubt I'd purchase the SE version either though so this is moot.)
I won't be surprised if a lot of people love this one though precisely because of its more classic look!
I won't be surprised if a lot of people love this one though precisely because of its more classic look!
55BorisG
Ordered on the spot – gorgeous illustrations and love the design. Reasonable pricing too (compared to recent LEs, perhaps less in absolute terms…)
56EdmundRodriguez
I'd prefer it to be a SE with cloth spine. I do like the design though.
58CobbsGhost
I love this LE and it's exactly the kind of book I want to collect. Interesting story, with a well done and not so gaudy production. Kudos to Folio. I haven't been buying from them because they're essentially a Socialist, childlike think-tank in their book selections run with the most aggressive Capitalist business practice imaginable. Yet, somehow, they get one or two in my wheelhouse.
59Shadekeep
Looks like a decent LE, and not terribly priced at $375 American (though a gratuity of $70). Already ordered the forthcoming edition from Kings Langley Press however, which will be paired with their next release, The Woman in White.
60cronshaw
>58 CobbsGhost: Their Ayn Rand edition likely caters to the 'childlike think-tank' imagination, but it's not very 'Socialist'. I've not read Sebag Montefiore's 'Stalin' but I gather it's not remotely flattering towards Socialism. Nor is Orlando Figes' 'People's Tragedy'.
This LE is a big pass for me. The spine design is just too gaudy. It reminds me of the Ulysses LE which also seemed inspired by the idea of a cow branded with as much gilt as possible. Truly, less is more.
This LE is a big pass for me. The spine design is just too gaudy. It reminds me of the Ulysses LE which also seemed inspired by the idea of a cow branded with as much gilt as possible. Truly, less is more.
61A.Godhelm
Quarterbound in leather, gilded page top, 250 GBP? 10/7 format, 500+ pages. Very nice considering some of the recent LEs in cloth and the 100GBP price point for some 'normal' books now.
62PartTimeBookAddict
Looks like a Reader's Digest presentation with an Easton Press spine.
I think the Kings Langley press beat them in style and illustrations.
However, I have the 4-Vol Collins box set, which is better than both. A cool green Victorian design, with four separate introductions. Copies can be found on the secondary at a very reasonable price. Now, time to actually get to reading the Moonstone!
I think the Kings Langley press beat them in style and illustrations.
However, I have the 4-Vol Collins box set, which is better than both. A cool green Victorian design, with four separate introductions. Copies can be found on the secondary at a very reasonable price. Now, time to actually get to reading the Moonstone!
63Shadekeep
>62 PartTimeBookAddict: However, I have the 4-Vol Collins box set
Was that an earlier FS release, or one from another publisher?
Was that an earlier FS release, or one from another publisher?
64red_guy
>62 PartTimeBookAddict: Just what I was thinking! The lovely thing about the 4-vol 'Mysteries' set from 1992 is that it has pitch-perfect cod Victorian 1860's buckram covers and includes Armerdale (the best one!). The illustrations , while not possessing the Tom Sellick/ Little House on the Prairie vibe of this current edition are inoffensive Alexy Pendle b&w pics usually of people standing around looking vague (although no illustrations at all would be better). >63 Shadekeep: It's available online for £50 - £80 on Ebay, (e.g. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/404213363683?hash=item5e1cfe73e3%3Ag%3AYNkAAOSw7TtkG1... and a very good deal. A nicer thing altogether than this, IMO.
65CobbsGhost
>60 cronshaw:
True in a sense, but Rand experiences life exactly as all other materialists do and so oppression is viewed very differently than in bygone eras. Everything is someone else's fault it's only what to do about that the socialist animals disagree with her on.
Montefiore's book is a small deviation from the standard, as was Ferguson's Empire in 2018.
Figes book was published right at the end of the great FS era, 2013 and doesn't represent the current selection model. Figes is certainly not far from the modern tree of academia.
True in a sense, but Rand experiences life exactly as all other materialists do and so oppression is viewed very differently than in bygone eras. Everything is someone else's fault it's only what to do about that the socialist animals disagree with her on.
Montefiore's book is a small deviation from the standard, as was Ferguson's Empire in 2018.
Figes book was published right at the end of the great FS era, 2013 and doesn't represent the current selection model. Figes is certainly not far from the modern tree of academia.
66PartTimeBookAddict
>63 Shadekeep: >64 red_guy:
Yes. That is the set in question. I've only read "The Woman in White" from that collection. Ruth Rendell introduces.
If you search ABEbooks with "Folio Society Edition Four Mysteries Wilkie Collins" you'll find about 9 results all around 100USD.
I don't know why there's a sudden resurgence of "The Moonstone" but I would snag one soon before resellers drive up their prices.
Yes. That is the set in question. I've only read "The Woman in White" from that collection. Ruth Rendell introduces.
If you search ABEbooks with "Folio Society Edition Four Mysteries Wilkie Collins" you'll find about 9 results all around 100USD.
I don't know why there's a sudden resurgence of "The Moonstone" but I would snag one soon before resellers drive up their prices.
67Shadekeep
>64 red_guy: Thanks, I'll check them out. Love the volume titled "No Name", it almost looks like a meta-joke now.
68boldface
>66 PartTimeBookAddict: "I don't know why there's a sudden resurgence of "The Moonstone" . . ."
I presume it's because the fast-approaching 8 January 2024 happens to be the 200th anniversary of Collins's birth and The Moonstone is usually considered his finest work.
I presume it's because the fast-approaching 8 January 2024 happens to be the 200th anniversary of Collins's birth and The Moonstone is usually considered his finest work.
69PartTimeBookAddict
>68 boldface: That's probably it. Still seems strange. Not that he is a forgotten writer, but it seems that publishers are really banking on a demand for his writing right now.
We'll see how well this LE does. Either way it's moved Moonstone up on my winter reading schedule.
We'll see how well this LE does. Either way it's moved Moonstone up on my winter reading schedule.
70HonorWulf
Came across this and instantly thought of this thread for any one who might be interested:
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/oct/28/hunt-on-for-book-containing-wilkie...
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/oct/28/hunt-on-for-book-containing-wilkie...
71wcarter
I normally buy almost every FS LE, but this time I will skip and stick with the Kings Langley version that is due early next year for 1/4 the price and with 20 colour and 9 monochrome illustrations. Far better value. See here.
I also own the 1951 FS Monstone edition, which was reviewed in Folio Archives here.
I also own the 1951 FS Monstone edition, which was reviewed in Folio Archives here.
72kdweber
I enjoyed reading The Moonstone as well as The Woman in White but I'll stick with my $45 LEC editions. Not books I'm interested in owning more than one copy.
73EdmundRodriguez
>71 wcarter: I've just pre-ordered the King's Langley version, decided I don't need a LE of this title!
74astropi
>59 Shadekeep: Indeed, it's a (never ever explained) surcharge of $70 USD or about 23% more than the price for UK folk. As you pointed out, the beautiful Kings Langley Press edition is arguably as beautiful and is $86 USD. That said, I do think the FS has a more beautiful cover and binding, but in my opinion definitely not worth the extra $289. In fact, the FS used to produce "regular" editions in this vein, such as their wonderful world myth series of books. For example --
75boldface
>74 astropi: "In fact, the FS used to produce "regular" editions in this vein, such as their wonderful world myth series of books."
Yes, indeed. Myths and Legends of India cost £42.50 in the UK in 2001, which is still considerably less than £100 in today's money. It has the same dimensions as the new LE (10" x 7"), with 784 pages of St Paul's Wove and 15 glossy colour illustrations (LE has 536 pages and 10 illustrations). No letterpress limitation page or any fancy signatures, though. I'm tending to agree with >60 cronshaw: that there's too much going on on the spine - Myths and Legends, though the lettering is chunky, is more elegant and stylish.
Yes, indeed. Myths and Legends of India cost £42.50 in the UK in 2001, which is still considerably less than £100 in today's money. It has the same dimensions as the new LE (10" x 7"), with 784 pages of St Paul's Wove and 15 glossy colour illustrations (LE has 536 pages and 10 illustrations). No letterpress limitation page or any fancy signatures, though. I'm tending to agree with >60 cronshaw: that there's too much going on on the spine - Myths and Legends, though the lettering is chunky, is more elegant and stylish.
76astropi
>75 boldface: The Arion Press edition's spine is pretty bare. That said, the slipcase is adorned with a Swarovski crystal. Gimmicky? Yeah, but not necessarily bad :)
Here's a picture I found online --
Here's a picture I found online --
77cronshaw
>74 astropi: Excellent observation! A most apt and revealing comparison.
78A.Godhelm
>75 boldface: cost £42.50 in the UK in 2001, which is still considerably less than £100 in today's money
Got curious so I used the bank of england inflation calculator; 76GBP to be precise.
Got curious so I used the bank of england inflation calculator; 76GBP to be precise.
79DMulvee
My copy arrived and I am pleased. It is the same height as the Myths and Legend series, which I plan to display it next to.
80cronshaw
>78 A.Godhelm: Which will now buy you the cloth-bound Dune Messiah or Buried Giant, take your pick!
81folio_books
Ordered at 1.57 pm yesterday, delivered 10.30 this morning. Impressive.
82affle
>81 folio_books:
Is it the delivery speed or the book which is impressive, Glenn?
I missed the 2pm cutoff for ordering, so I'll have to wait until Tuesday.
Is it the delivery speed or the book which is impressive, Glenn?
I missed the 2pm cutoff for ordering, so I'll have to wait until Tuesday.
83folio_books
>82 affle:
I was commenting on the delivery speed, because I haven't had time to extract the book from the packaging yet. I realised at the time my comment was ambiguous. Shameful, I know.
I was commenting on the delivery speed, because I haven't had time to extract the book from the packaging yet. I realised at the time my comment was ambiguous. Shameful, I know.
84assemblyman
I really like it but maybe not enough at that price point. The illustrations are lovely but >74 astropi: makes a good point and comparison.
I have a general question on the gold foil used on leather LE and fine edition FS books in recent years. Has anyone found it looks to be extremely light compared to older titles like for example the Myths and Legends series? I've found it in editions I have or had like Montaigne's Essays and The Three Musketeers. I ended up selling The Three Musketeers because some gold foil flaked off not long after getting it and I became wary of taking it out after that in case i made it worse.
I have a general question on the gold foil used on leather LE and fine edition FS books in recent years. Has anyone found it looks to be extremely light compared to older titles like for example the Myths and Legends series? I've found it in editions I have or had like Montaigne's Essays and The Three Musketeers. I ended up selling The Three Musketeers because some gold foil flaked off not long after getting it and I became wary of taking it out after that in case i made it worse.
85BorisG
It’s interesting how much tastes differ. The value comparison with the Kings Langley Press is very valid, but their illustrations and binding are really not to my taste…
Having said that, I would have loved to have more illustrations in the FS edition. Not so much for value reasons, but as I find them gorgeous and strongly fitting the mood of the novel as I imagined it.
And >74 astropi: ‘s comparison is sobering. I also remember the Nonesuch Dickens series standing at a (then unattainable) price pinnacle of £42.50, when I joined the FS in 2008. That’s £65.43 according to an inflation calculator – which those editions certainly wouldn’t be sold for today, if the FS reissued them.
As a side note, The Moonstone doesn’t seem to be selling hugely well – just over 100 copies sold as of now, based on the ‘add to basket’ method.
Having said that, I would have loved to have more illustrations in the FS edition. Not so much for value reasons, but as I find them gorgeous and strongly fitting the mood of the novel as I imagined it.
And >74 astropi: ‘s comparison is sobering. I also remember the Nonesuch Dickens series standing at a (then unattainable) price pinnacle of £42.50, when I joined the FS in 2008. That’s £65.43 according to an inflation calculator – which those editions certainly wouldn’t be sold for today, if the FS reissued them.
As a side note, The Moonstone doesn’t seem to be selling hugely well – just over 100 copies sold as of now, based on the ‘add to basket’ method.
86DMulvee
>84 assemblyman: I would be surprised if the foil came off the spine as it is inset and you can feel the change in depth from the leather to the foil and back to the leather. The foil on The Hitchhikers LE was a bit of a mess, so hopefully this has been produced in response to that feedback so it won’t come off
87assemblyman
>86 DMulvee: It was the front cover for the Three Musketeers which has a lot of gold on it. The spine was fine as are other newer FS books I have but the experience had me compare it with others in my collection and I just found the foil work better in the older ones. But then it could just be all in my head.
88abysswalker
>74 astropi: agreed, value for money is definitely decreasing in the big picture, and probably faster than simple inflation would explain.
That said, presumably the paper of the Moonstone LE is much nicer than these standard edition comparisons?
Also worth noting that the myths and legends series (which I like and have several volumes from) uses leather of a not particularly high quality.
(This LE of the Moonstone is not for me, personally, but it seems like a nice enough production if the overall aesthetic works for a collector's taste.)
That said, presumably the paper of the Moonstone LE is much nicer than these standard edition comparisons?
Also worth noting that the myths and legends series (which I like and have several volumes from) uses leather of a not particularly high quality.
(This LE of the Moonstone is not for me, personally, but it seems like a nice enough production if the overall aesthetic works for a collector's taste.)
89cronshaw
>84 assemblyman: Yes, I've noticed this too. The quality of the gilt used for lettering and also for staining the top edge appears to have changed at some point. When you look at the gilt top edge of this Moonstone LE, it has a somewhat powdery feel that disperses reflected light, it's not at all like the smooth mirror reflective effect of more traditional gilt top edges.
90folio_books
>82 affle:
>83 folio_books:
!.30 pm and I've finally succumbed to the urge to examie my prize. I'm impressed! More so than I was expecting, actually. Solid construction and illustrations are spectacularly good. I'll be keeping an eye on that chap for the future. You won't be disappointed, Alan.
I'll finish on a pet peeve of mine. People who are invited to sign limitation labels should be advised to do so legibly. It says it's Val McDermid but you wouldn't guess that in a hundred years from the scrawl. I wouldn't even call it a scribble. And what are you smirking at, Juan Esteban Rodriguez? Your effort is not much better.
Edited to say I forgot to mention the slipcase, well above the normal SE model. And it fits!
>83 folio_books:
!.30 pm and I've finally succumbed to the urge to examie my prize. I'm impressed! More so than I was expecting, actually. Solid construction and illustrations are spectacularly good. I'll be keeping an eye on that chap for the future. You won't be disappointed, Alan.
I'll finish on a pet peeve of mine. People who are invited to sign limitation labels should be advised to do so legibly. It says it's Val McDermid but you wouldn't guess that in a hundred years from the scrawl. I wouldn't even call it a scribble. And what are you smirking at, Juan Esteban Rodriguez? Your effort is not much better.
Edited to say I forgot to mention the slipcase, well above the normal SE model. And it fits!
91Libri_mea_vita_sunt
Iam pretty sure Folio doesn't use foil for theire gilded edges, they use gilded paint. I have the 'The Shadow of the Wind' LE and you can see it very well.
Compare it to Easton Press or any fine press books you have and you will see the difference in quality.
(Atleast for the more cheaper LEs ... the gilded Edges on some of the expensive books seems fine)
Compare it to Easton Press or any fine press books you have and you will see the difference in quality.
(Atleast for the more cheaper LEs ... the gilded Edges on some of the expensive books seems fine)
92cronshaw
>90 folio_books: Very glad you're delighted with it. While the aesthetic is not my cup of tea I'm pleased when any Devotee is happy with their brew as ordered.
93folio_books
>92 cronshaw: I'm pleased when any Devotee is happy with their brew as ordered.
Very happy on this occasion, thanks. I've been a lot more selective with recent Folio purchases, and LEs are no longer semi-automatic buys. I gave this one very careful consideration. I thought the price was reasonable but the deciding factor was my guilt at not buying a LE for a long time (for me!). I'm relieved and delighted with the outcome.
Very happy on this occasion, thanks. I've been a lot more selective with recent Folio purchases, and LEs are no longer semi-automatic buys. I gave this one very careful consideration. I thought the price was reasonable but the deciding factor was my guilt at not buying a LE for a long time (for me!). I'm relieved and delighted with the outcome.
94sekhmet0108
I have the set of 4 Wilkie Collins novels, and have read Woman in White and Armadale. I started Moonstone a while back but didn't finish it. Also started No name end of October and will finish it soon. In my opinion, Armadale is the best of the lot. I can't recommend it enough!
As pretty as this LE is, i am not convinced by the book itself. Also very grateful to this forum for introducing me to Kings Langley Press, which seems to be doing what i want FS to be doing.
I love buying LEs, but Collins is not one of my favourites. Some of his books are real misses, The Dead Secret, for example.
I like the illustrations and the cover is beautiful but i feel like Kings Langley version is way more bang for the buck. The illustrations are great too!
I hope they continue taking out more classics, it would really help fill in some gaps in my collection!
And i too think that FS price increases are becoming too much. Plus, paying for shipping and additional taxes makes it almost not worth it. This time the discount coupon barely covers the taxes.
As pretty as this LE is, i am not convinced by the book itself. Also very grateful to this forum for introducing me to Kings Langley Press, which seems to be doing what i want FS to be doing.
I love buying LEs, but Collins is not one of my favourites. Some of his books are real misses, The Dead Secret, for example.
I like the illustrations and the cover is beautiful but i feel like Kings Langley version is way more bang for the buck. The illustrations are great too!
I hope they continue taking out more classics, it would really help fill in some gaps in my collection!
And i too think that FS price increases are becoming too much. Plus, paying for shipping and additional taxes makes it almost not worth it. This time the discount coupon barely covers the taxes.
95GardenOfForkingPaths
>79 DMulvee: >90 folio_books: Thank you for sharing your impressions!
Though I have never read the novel (or any Wilkie Collins!) so can't comment on appropriateness, I think the illustrations, especially those used on the covers, are very compelling. When browsing the artist's website, I noticed that he also did the illustrations for the FS edition of True Grit. Although that one is a favourite FS edition from recent years, and I read it only a year ago, I didn't make the connection because the style is a bit different for The Moonstone illustrations.
Does it say in the book what type of leather is used and where it was printed and bound?
Though I have never read the novel (or any Wilkie Collins!) so can't comment on appropriateness, I think the illustrations, especially those used on the covers, are very compelling. When browsing the artist's website, I noticed that he also did the illustrations for the FS edition of True Grit. Although that one is a favourite FS edition from recent years, and I read it only a year ago, I didn't make the connection because the style is a bit different for The Moonstone illustrations.
Does it say in the book what type of leather is used and where it was printed and bound?
96folio_books
>95 GardenOfForkingPaths:
As you say, the style is very different and I didn't make the connection either. I do have a copy of True Grit and like it very much. I'll need to dig it out and compare the illustrations more carefully.
Neither the book nor the website can help with the type of leather or where printed and bound. I've emailed Folio to enquire and I'll let you know if anything useful transpires. All I can say if that the spine has that deeply satisfyng aroma I instantly associate with genuine leather - mmmmm!
As you say, the style is very different and I didn't make the connection either. I do have a copy of True Grit and like it very much. I'll need to dig it out and compare the illustrations more carefully.
Neither the book nor the website can help with the type of leather or where printed and bound. I've emailed Folio to enquire and I'll let you know if anything useful transpires. All I can say if that the spine has that deeply satisfyng aroma I instantly associate with genuine leather - mmmmm!
97wooter
>96 folio_books: If they dont say where its printed and bound its unlikely to be anywhere to be proud of, i guess?
99cronshaw
>96 folio_books: >97 wooter: I do find it alarming if Folio have begun publishing any edition that no longer reveals where it is printed and bound.
*Edited to remove misguided reference on my part to Folio's recently published (quite exquisite) edition of 'The Order of Time' by Carlo Rovelli. I had mistakenly believed that the usual colophon information was not present. My thanks to >103 bookfair_e: for correcting me.
*Edited to remove misguided reference on my part to Folio's recently published (quite exquisite) edition of 'The Order of Time' by Carlo Rovelli. I had mistakenly believed that the usual colophon information was not present. My thanks to >103 bookfair_e: for correcting me.
100astropi
>99 cronshaw: Very alarming! I know the FS has unfortunately published books from China in the past. Apart from (in my opinion) not being of the same high quality as books printed in Europe, I simply don't want to support the Chinese regime. Did you try reaching out to the FS inquiring where the books are printed and why they no longer state where?
101Libri_mea_vita_sunt
>100 astropi:
The Book of Dust Trilogy by Pullman (His Dark Materials) was bound in China.
It's an beautiful Edition, with an strange smell, though.
China doesn't necessarily means that the work conditions and the quality is subpar.
I understand the point of the china's government nevertheless.
The Book of Dust Trilogy by Pullman (His Dark Materials) was bound in China.
It's an beautiful Edition, with an strange smell, though.
China doesn't necessarily means that the work conditions and the quality is subpar.
I understand the point of the china's government nevertheless.
102jroger1
>100 astropi: >101 Libri_mea_vita_sunt:
I’ve always believed that quality printers/binders should be rewarded wherever they happen to reside. I know that child labor can be problematic in China and elsewhere, but we’ve seen recently that it occurs here in America too. We also have our share of quirky politics.
I’ve always believed that quality printers/binders should be rewarded wherever they happen to reside. I know that child labor can be problematic in China and elsewhere, but we’ve seen recently that it occurs here in America too. We also have our share of quirky politics.
103bookfair_e
>99 cronshaw:
It's at the back of the book:
This edition of The Order of Time has been designed and typeset by Daniel Streat (Visual Fields) in Portrait Text with Euclid as display. The text has been printed on Abbey Pure Rough paper and bound in Duchesse Orientblau cloth by Gomer Press Ltd, Llandysul, Wales. The binding and slip case, designed by Daniel Streat, have been blocked in Kurz Warm gold foil.
It's at the back of the book:
This edition of The Order of Time has been designed and typeset by Daniel Streat (Visual Fields) in Portrait Text with Euclid as display. The text has been printed on Abbey Pure Rough paper and bound in Duchesse Orientblau cloth by Gomer Press Ltd, Llandysul, Wales. The binding and slip case, designed by Daniel Streat, have been blocked in Kurz Warm gold foil.
104astropi
>101 Libri_mea_vita_sunt: Agreed. Some years ago I purchased a few Centipede Press books that were printed in China, and they were absolutely subpar. Mind you, CP books are not cheap. That said, CP did replace/repair as needed. After a few such books, CP stopped using Chinese printers/binders for good.
>102 jroger1: Oh yeah, every place has its problems for sure. Still, my overall political and ideological views tend to be far removed from China so I try to support them as little as possible.
>103 bookfair_e: Good to know! It is a bit strange that they placed that at the back of the book. I know most fine press books discuss binding etc on the colophon which is typically at the end of the book, but I don't recall seeing that before for a FS edition :)
>102 jroger1: Oh yeah, every place has its problems for sure. Still, my overall political and ideological views tend to be far removed from China so I try to support them as little as possible.
>103 bookfair_e: Good to know! It is a bit strange that they placed that at the back of the book. I know most fine press books discuss binding etc on the colophon which is typically at the end of the book, but I don't recall seeing that before for a FS edition :)
105Shadekeep
>74 astropi: That's lovely! I have the Celtic Myths and Legends volume, which is handsome as well, and this would be a great companion to it. Rather a shame that this used to be the standard for regular editions at one time.
106kdweber
>105 Shadekeep: It is a nice series. I’ve got 13 volumes from the Folio Society Myths & Legends series but unfortunately for the FS I bought them all used on the secondhand market. Scratch that, I believe I bought the Irish Myths directly from the FS but it doesn’t quite match.
107DMulvee
>106 kdweber: There has to be a story behind the design decision of Irish Myths and Legends.
Whilst the same height as the others, the change in the font and design means they definitely don’t appear to belong together visually, I’d be keen to know why they changed things for this volume!
Whilst the same height as the others, the change in the font and design means they definitely don’t appear to belong together visually, I’d be keen to know why they changed things for this volume!
108cronshaw
>103 bookfair_e: Thank you, you've reassured me immensely and positively cheered up my morning! I've amended my guilty post.
I didn't think that this information could be at the back of a Folio volume, though I know this is common practice in French editions. It's all the more gratifying because 'The Order of Time' is such a beautifully designed and produced volume, the paper didn't seem anything like the odd-smelling overly smooth YuLong paper that hasn't been popular with Devotees, so I was perplexed that this information appeared to be missing.
I really must pay more careful attention. Forgive me, Ms. Mole.
I didn't think that this information could be at the back of a Folio volume, though I know this is common practice in French editions. It's all the more gratifying because 'The Order of Time' is such a beautifully designed and produced volume, the paper didn't seem anything like the odd-smelling overly smooth YuLong paper that hasn't been popular with Devotees, so I was perplexed that this information appeared to be missing.
I really must pay more careful attention. Forgive me, Ms. Mole.
109affle
>96 folio_books:, >99 cronshaw:
Here's another with the usual colophon information printed at the back - it isn't in fact that uncommon.
The book is typeset by the FS, printed by Memminger, and bound by Josef Spinner in cowhide leather. The papers are Munken Pure for the text, Arctic Volume Ivory for the illustrations, Sirio for the endpapers, and Fedrigoni Natural for the limitation sheet. Duchesse cloth is used to cover both the boards and the slipcase. Sinophobes may come off their perches on high moral ground, and buy with full sanctimony. Vegans will be less happy.
From which you will infer, Glenn, that despite what the website and confirmation email have to say, the courier does work weekends, and my copy came today. And you are of course right, the book is far nicer in the hand than website suggests. I'm very pleased with it, and am looking forward to renewing acquaintance with Sergeant Cuff and Lady Verinder after many, many years.
I don't know if individual copies vary, but the leather on mine is a distinctly darker blue than the picture on the website would suggest, and a long way from (>60 cronshaw:) 'gaudy'. It's just about the colour of the leather-bound SOED or Oxford Thesaurus.
Here's another with the usual colophon information printed at the back - it isn't in fact that uncommon.
The book is typeset by the FS, printed by Memminger, and bound by Josef Spinner in cowhide leather. The papers are Munken Pure for the text, Arctic Volume Ivory for the illustrations, Sirio for the endpapers, and Fedrigoni Natural for the limitation sheet. Duchesse cloth is used to cover both the boards and the slipcase. Sinophobes may come off their perches on high moral ground, and buy with full sanctimony. Vegans will be less happy.
From which you will infer, Glenn, that despite what the website and confirmation email have to say, the courier does work weekends, and my copy came today. And you are of course right, the book is far nicer in the hand than website suggests. I'm very pleased with it, and am looking forward to renewing acquaintance with Sergeant Cuff and Lady Verinder after many, many years.
I don't know if individual copies vary, but the leather on mine is a distinctly darker blue than the picture on the website would suggest, and a long way from (>60 cronshaw:) 'gaudy'. It's just about the colour of the leather-bound SOED or Oxford Thesaurus.
110folio_books
>95 GardenOfForkingPaths:
>99 cronshaw:
>109 affle:
Ah, you beat me to it, Alan. After reading cronshaw's post I decided I should check in the back and, lo and behold, there it is. Unfortunately that was this morning and I've been out all day so I couldn't correct my original message before now. I've never heard of Folio delivering on a Saturday but my copy was delivered yesterday by a very un-DPD like beat up old hire Transit so nothing surprises me. My copy is dressed in the darker blue leather described by Alan. It is many a long year since I first discovered Sergeant Cuff and I, too, am looking forward to renewing his amiable acquaintance.
>99 cronshaw:
>109 affle:
Ah, you beat me to it, Alan. After reading cronshaw's post I decided I should check in the back and, lo and behold, there it is. Unfortunately that was this morning and I've been out all day so I couldn't correct my original message before now. I've never heard of Folio delivering on a Saturday but my copy was delivered yesterday by a very un-DPD like beat up old hire Transit so nothing surprises me. My copy is dressed in the darker blue leather described by Alan. It is many a long year since I first discovered Sergeant Cuff and I, too, am looking forward to renewing his amiable acquaintance.
112boldface
I'm still on the fence about this one. I shall have to get out my trusty Robinson Crusoe . . .
113Bookworm59
>112 boldface: I see what you did there. ;-)
114folio_books
>112 boldface:
>113 Bookworm59:
Here's me shrugging and thinking Jonathan had gone a bit peculiar in his old age and it turns out I'm the peculiar septuagenarian. One of you will have to explain it to me ...
>113 Bookworm59:
Here's me shrugging and thinking Jonathan had gone a bit peculiar in his old age and it turns out I'm the peculiar septuagenarian. One of you will have to explain it to me ...
115bookfair_e
>114 folio_books:
Another peculiar septuagenarian here - it didn't mean anything to me either.
Wikipedia comes to the rescue:
"...In Wilkie Collins' most popular novel, The Moonstone, one of the chief characters and narrators, Gabriel Betteredge, has faith in all that Robinson Crusoe says and uses the book for a sort of divination..."
Another peculiar septuagenarian here - it didn't mean anything to me either.
Wikipedia comes to the rescue:
"...In Wilkie Collins' most popular novel, The Moonstone, one of the chief characters and narrators, Gabriel Betteredge, has faith in all that Robinson Crusoe says and uses the book for a sort of divination..."
117folio_books
>116 affle:
I did and of course Robinson Crusoe hits you right between the eyes, Can't remember any of that from when I first read it but then I suppose that was over forty years ago, probably nearer 50. I suppose I'm doing well to remember Sergeant Cuff ...
I did and of course Robinson Crusoe hits you right between the eyes, Can't remember any of that from when I first read it but then I suppose that was over forty years ago, probably nearer 50. I suppose I'm doing well to remember Sergeant Cuff ...
118cronshaw
>177 Fear not, I read it a decade ago (Folio's 1951 edition with nine charming colour lithographs by Edwin La Dell) and completely forgot the reference to Mr. Crusoe.
119Cat_of_Ulthar
>109 affle: Mine arrived today and it definitely is darker than the photos suggest. Not just the leather spine but the boards as well. It's probably to do with the way computers display stuff. Much like the Beowulf LE where some people were complaining about how yellow it was but, in reality, it's not nearly so bright.
120Cat_of_Ulthar
PS. I think I might have to read Robinson Crusoe sometime. Somehow I have got through life without ever doing so. One to note for Les Mis's thread on reading and rereading.
121vmb443
Has anyone in the US received their copy yet? And, if so, who was the shipper? And how long did it take? Received an email Friday saying it was shipped, but no tracking info was provided (nor appears on the Order Page of the website). I know it sounds like DHL isn’t being used right now which is unfortunate, since they were very fast and very detailed as to their tracking.
122BooksFriendsNotFood
>121 vmb443: I received a shipping confirmation yesterday morning but alas, I don't see any tracking info or tracking number. I assume it'll randomly show up on my doorstep either this week or next week. I hope yours is delivered soon!
If they really are using FedEx instead of DHL for express deliveries now, I guess one benefit for me would be that DHL never delivered on Saturdays, which I didn't love even though I think it only affected me once. They were definitely speedy though.
If they really are using FedEx instead of DHL for express deliveries now, I guess one benefit for me would be that DHL never delivered on Saturdays, which I didn't love even though I think it only affected me once. They were definitely speedy though.
123vmb443
>122 BooksFriendsNotFood: Received my copy today - shipped via FedEx, box came in perfect condition and I am very happy with the book!
124BooksFriendsNotFood
>123 vmb443: Hooray, that's great to hear! And thanks for the heads up that it's coming via FedEx!
125amysisson
Received mine today and it is gorgeous!
Question: is it normal for an expensive LE like this to have the signatures not on a bound page, but on a small rectangle of paper pasted onto the page (only pasted on one edge)? If that glue were to dry out and the rectangle slip out unnoticed, the value of the book goes way, way down, I would think. I'd have thought they would have the author and illustrator sign pages first that would later be bound into the book, but I'm pretty new to all this.
Question: is it normal for an expensive LE like this to have the signatures not on a bound page, but on a small rectangle of paper pasted onto the page (only pasted on one edge)? If that glue were to dry out and the rectangle slip out unnoticed, the value of the book goes way, way down, I would think. I'd have thought they would have the author and illustrator sign pages first that would later be bound into the book, but I'm pretty new to all this.
126CJDelDotto
>125 amysisson: I'm not sure about other publishers, but for FS LEs, the "tip-in" for signatures and the hand-written edition number is fairly common.
127jroger1
>125 amysisson:
This is my objection to “signed” books in general. Even when a full signature page is bound in or tipped in, the signer has never actually touched the book for which you are paying a premium. My hobby is collecting books, not autographs.
This is my objection to “signed” books in general. Even when a full signature page is bound in or tipped in, the signer has never actually touched the book for which you are paying a premium. My hobby is collecting books, not autographs.
128BooksFriendsNotFood
I confirmed that I don't really care about signatures after I asked myself "Would I care if Jane Austen came back and signed some books?" and the answer was "Nope." As a tween I had also asked this one celebrity I grew up seeing in movies to sign a piece of notebook paper for me when I had unexpectedly encountered them, but then when I moved I threw it out because what was I supposed to do with it? 😭
I can't guarantee that I would never ever pay an extra 100 GBP if FS did a signed version of something I was interested in, but that'd not be because of the signature but instead because I'd be making a dumb decision lol. But I really love the look of the tipped in signature/limitation labels so I very much enjoy that aspect of LEs! (Similar (in its potential status of "horribly unpopular opinion") to how I would've loved for The Moonstone to come with an extra print - in a non-curved slipcase; please do excuse the whining...I guess I like boxy things - although I'm somewhat thankful it didn't in this scenario because I don't want an increased price.)
I can't guarantee that I would never ever pay an extra 100 GBP if FS did a signed version of something I was interested in, but that'd not be because of the signature but instead because I'd be making a dumb decision lol. But I really love the look of the tipped in signature/limitation labels so I very much enjoy that aspect of LEs! (Similar (in its potential status of "horribly unpopular opinion") to how I would've loved for The Moonstone to come with an extra print - in a non-curved slipcase; please do excuse the whining...I guess I like boxy things - although I'm somewhat thankful it didn't in this scenario because I don't want an increased price.)
129jroger1
>128 BooksFriendsNotFood:
I actually have quite a lot of signed editions, mostly signed by the artists from Easton Press and Suntup, but they are books I would have bought even without the signatures.
I actually have quite a lot of signed editions, mostly signed by the artists from Easton Press and Suntup, but they are books I would have bought even without the signatures.
130BooksFriendsNotFood
>129 jroger1: "...but they are books I would have bought even without the signatures."
Ooh yes, I can see why! So far Suntup has been the only exception to my recent no non-FS rule and I'm looking forward to the Suntup Psycho AE.
Ooh yes, I can see why! So far Suntup has been the only exception to my recent no non-FS rule and I'm looking forward to the Suntup Psycho AE.
131English-bookseller
>128 BooksFriendsNotFood: I think you might care a bit more about those books when you realise that a genuine Jane Austen signature goes for thousands of pounds!
I would be wary however of books with a Jane Austen signature published after 1817...
I would be wary however of books with a Jane Austen signature published after 1817...
132BooksFriendsNotFood
>131 English-bookseller: You make an excellent point: I should videotape her signing the books in 2023 for proof and then watch the money roll in. 😹 I’d have to confirm that she’s cool with me selling the books though or she may be tempted to eat my brain, what with being a zombie and all… ;)
133boldface
>131 English-bookseller:
You certainly can't be too careful. Funnily enough, I got a Moonstone quite recently, from an online auction site, signed by Jane Austen. My heart missed a beat when I read your post, but I've just re-checked it now and, although the felt tip is a little bit smudged, it's definitely 1816.
Phew! . . . Heaves a big sigh of relief.
You certainly can't be too careful. Funnily enough, I got a Moonstone quite recently, from an online auction site, signed by Jane Austen. My heart missed a beat when I read your post, but I've just re-checked it now and, although the felt tip is a little bit smudged, it's definitely 1816.
Phew! . . . Heaves a big sigh of relief.
134What_What
>127 jroger1: Believe it or not, some people hold books with signature pages bound into it with very high esteem, thinking the author actually touched the book itself. Which for them has some sort of value. Imagine, a UHaul appears in front of the home of the author and people trudge in hundreds and hundreds of books for the author to sign, they pack them up, then ship them across the ocean again. Strange.
135astropi
To each their own. To me autographed books are special when I admire the author and the work. It's a part of history and connects me more to the author. Likewise, when an artist signs it also means something to me. As for books signed by a contributor, I typically do not care except in rare occasions.
>134 What_What: Believe it or not, some people hold books with signature pages bound into it with very high esteem, thinking the author actually touched the book itself.
That's certainly true when an author inscribes a book or the book is presented directly to the author who then signs. However, when it comes to "high-quality" books such as LEs from the FS etc. where the signature pages are inserted, I don't know of anyone that believes the author actually held the finished book and then signed. Where exactly did you get that from -- source please?
>134 What_What: Believe it or not, some people hold books with signature pages bound into it with very high esteem, thinking the author actually touched the book itself.
That's certainly true when an author inscribes a book or the book is presented directly to the author who then signs. However, when it comes to "high-quality" books such as LEs from the FS etc. where the signature pages are inserted, I don't know of anyone that believes the author actually held the finished book and then signed. Where exactly did you get that from -- source please?
136terebinth
>135 astropi: To me autographed books are special when I admire the author and the work.
I feel that way too - the author has signed the book whether or not he handled its completed form, and signed editions from the two decades before WWII, a period for fiction that I relish probably more than any other, are often well above normal trade standards in paper, printing and binding. The special edition of one anthology of short stories, Charles' Wain, published in 1933, will have taken a little arranging, as each of its 95 copies is signed by all 18 contributors.
I feel that way too - the author has signed the book whether or not he handled its completed form, and signed editions from the two decades before WWII, a period for fiction that I relish probably more than any other, are often well above normal trade standards in paper, printing and binding. The special edition of one anthology of short stories, Charles' Wain, published in 1933, will have taken a little arranging, as each of its 95 copies is signed by all 18 contributors.
137SF-72
>134 What_What:
It does happen. Some authors go to the publishers or printers (or also independent bookshops) and sign the books there and then. (Recent examples I know of are Richard Armitage for Geneva or Sebastien De Castell for his Spellslinger series. No big names around here, I know.) And I saw a video of Neil Gaiman and several collaborators sitting around a table and passing books around, which everyone signed. Those were very expensive and exclusive books, though.
That being said, it's definitely the exception to the rule these days.
It does happen. Some authors go to the publishers or printers (or also independent bookshops) and sign the books there and then. (Recent examples I know of are Richard Armitage for Geneva or Sebastien De Castell for his Spellslinger series. No big names around here, I know.) And I saw a video of Neil Gaiman and several collaborators sitting around a table and passing books around, which everyone signed. Those were very expensive and exclusive books, though.
That being said, it's definitely the exception to the rule these days.
138cwl
Or you take the book with you and have it signed in person at book tours or lectures. I’ve several FS signed just this way, not counting inscribed standard editions. Nothing tipped in here and you have a quick chat simultaneously. Also, many authors (and musicians) do indeed sit down and sign stacks at a time.
139woodstock8786
>137 SF-72: I wasn’t aware of the fact that Richard Armitage writes books now. He is a fantastic audiobook narrator, though
140SF-72
>139 woodstock8786:
I agree, he's one of my favourite narrators, along with Neil Gaiman and David Tennant.
Audible saw how successful his narrations were, especially when it comes to crime novels, and suggested that he let someone write a book under his name, an idea Richard Armitage didn't like at all. (It is pretty unpleasant, though I'm sure it's happening often enough.) Instead, he wrote a book on his own, 'Geneva'. It was an audible audio book first (narrated by himself), but was good and successful enough that a traditional publisher (Faber & Faber) bought the rights. The hardcover was published just a month ago, and there was also an independent book club edition, as well as several options for signed copies, and a book tour. It was something of a surprise, but then he has always done a lot of writing in connection with his preparation for acting roles, developing character biographies and the like. I guess that was the basis for this. A new book is just in the works, too.
I agree, he's one of my favourite narrators, along with Neil Gaiman and David Tennant.
Audible saw how successful his narrations were, especially when it comes to crime novels, and suggested that he let someone write a book under his name, an idea Richard Armitage didn't like at all. (It is pretty unpleasant, though I'm sure it's happening often enough.) Instead, he wrote a book on his own, 'Geneva'. It was an audible audio book first (narrated by himself), but was good and successful enough that a traditional publisher (Faber & Faber) bought the rights. The hardcover was published just a month ago, and there was also an independent book club edition, as well as several options for signed copies, and a book tour. It was something of a surprise, but then he has always done a lot of writing in connection with his preparation for acting roles, developing character biographies and the like. I guess that was the basis for this. A new book is just in the works, too.
141amysisson
>139 woodstock8786:
>140 SF-72:
My favorite narrator is Josephine Bailey, but I'd love to try a Richard Armitage audiobook. Do either of you have one particular favorite of his?
>140 SF-72:
My favorite narrator is Josephine Bailey, but I'd love to try a Richard Armitage audiobook. Do either of you have one particular favorite of his?
142SF-72
>141 amysisson:
The range is large when it comes to authors and genres. That being said: A personal favourite is 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' due to a fantastic choice when it comes to the narration, and I like the story anyway. In some countries it's only available as part of The Monster Collection. Among the crime novels he's read, the series by Joy Ellis or L. J. Ross are really good in my opinion. And his own novel Geneva is also a good one - he narrates it himself.
The range is large when it comes to authors and genres. That being said: A personal favourite is 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' due to a fantastic choice when it comes to the narration, and I like the story anyway. In some countries it's only available as part of The Monster Collection. Among the crime novels he's read, the series by Joy Ellis or L. J. Ross are really good in my opinion. And his own novel Geneva is also a good one - he narrates it himself.
143Shadekeep
I don't know if he's done any audiobooks (though I wouldn't be surprised if he has), but someone whose narration I consistently enjoy is Peter Dinklage. Mellifluous yet wry.
144ambyrglow
I value book signatures when I receive them myself, as a memento of my interaction with the author. Granted, some of those interactions have been pretty brief--big-name authors do book signings assembly-line style--but some are lengthy. I once brought seventeen books to be signed by one of my personal favorite authors, an obscure author no one here is likely to have heard of. So obscure that almost no one else showed up for the signing, as it turns out, so we stood around and chatted for an hour, and each book has in addition to her signature a single sentence referencing whatever we happened to be talking about at the moment. They sort of make a coherent story, if I reassemble then in the order she signed them; otherwise, they're incomprehensible in-jokes. They give me delight every time I pick up one of her books off my shelf.
Signatures that came already written in the book when I received it? I know the market values them more highly, since they can be authenticated, but they don't mean much to me at all.
Signatures that came already written in the book when I received it? I know the market values them more highly, since they can be authenticated, but they don't mean much to me at all.
145amysisson
>142 SF-72: Thanks!
>143 Shadekeep: Ooh, Peter Dinklage! I'll look for something narrated by him.
>144 ambyrglow: What a lovely experience with that favorite author of yours!
I wrote only short stories, not novels, and I'm as obscure as any other author no one has ever heard of, but I have to say, on the rare occasion someone has asked me to sign a story in an anthology, well, quite frankly there's no bigger high for a writer. (That I know of, anyway!)
>143 Shadekeep: Ooh, Peter Dinklage! I'll look for something narrated by him.
>144 ambyrglow: What a lovely experience with that favorite author of yours!
I wrote only short stories, not novels, and I'm as obscure as any other author no one has ever heard of, but I have to say, on the rare occasion someone has asked me to sign a story in an anthology, well, quite frankly there's no bigger high for a writer. (That I know of, anyway!)
146Shadekeep
>144 ambyrglow: My encounters with authors have been few, but positive. I ran into Harry "Hal" Clement Stubbs at a con and had a lovely chat with him. Got a signature on a cheap paperback from the con shop, as I hadn't brought any of his books with me unfortunately. I also attended an Edward Tufte seminar and he signed all his books. He was signing covers and I asked for an interior signature, and he told me he has a special one for that and produced a huge, flamboyant initials-and-star drawing.
One other interesting author encounter I had was at the Waldenbooks at my local mall when I was teen. A lady was sitting out front at a desk for a signing, and as no one was around at the time so I struck up a conversation with her. She was very sweet, and it was only later back home when I was describing her to family that we realised it was V.C. Andrews.
One other interesting author encounter I had was at the Waldenbooks at my local mall when I was teen. A lady was sitting out front at a desk for a signing, and as no one was around at the time so I struck up a conversation with her. She was very sweet, and it was only later back home when I was describing her to family that we realised it was V.C. Andrews.
148SF-72
>143 Shadekeep:
Peter Dinklage seems to have done a few audio books as part of an ensemble cast, including one where he reads a story by Dr. Seuss. I haven't listened to any yet, but it sounds like that should be enjoyable.
Peter Dinklage seems to have done a few audio books as part of an ensemble cast, including one where he reads a story by Dr. Seuss. I haven't listened to any yet, but it sounds like that should be enjoyable.
149Shadekeep
>148 SF-72: Nice, that does sound like something he would be suited to.
150amysisson
>146 Shadekeep: I had a Waldenbooks encounter as well. I had just discovered science fiction at age 16, and at age 18 I got my first job in high school at Waldenbooks. This was in New Jersey.
One of our store employees took a long shot, contacted Isaac Asimov, and invited him to our New Jersey store for a signing. And he said yes! To say I was a starstruck sci-fi nerd teenager would be putting it mildly!
One of our store employees took a long shot, contacted Isaac Asimov, and invited him to our New Jersey store for a signing. And he said yes! To say I was a starstruck sci-fi nerd teenager would be putting it mildly!
151Shadekeep
>150 amysisson: That's great! I attended a talk by Asimov once, but it sounds like you got a chance to get much closer.
One other encounter I just remembered was from community college. Our creative writing teacher invited the noted psychologist and folklorist Bruno Bettelheim to come talk, and rather amazingly he did. A few of us got to chat with him afterwards, too.
One other encounter I just remembered was from community college. Our creative writing teacher invited the noted psychologist and folklorist Bruno Bettelheim to come talk, and rather amazingly he did. A few of us got to chat with him afterwards, too.
152woodstock8786
>141 amysisson: I can also attest to the Joy Ellis audiobooks as very good. And I recently listened to a very good audiobook narrated by Armitage: The Garden of Angels by David Hewson. It’s a historical fiction and also worth giving a try
154owf_117
Wow I had a hard time finding this thread since "Moonstone" isn't in the title, haha. Anyway, in case anyone is still interested in this LE I wanted to reply that I purchased a copy and received it today. I was a little surprised to see that I got number 618 of 750. That was much higher than I was expecting. There's no indication on the FS website of how close it is to being sold out (none of the usual "over half sold" banners or low stock counters), but if they are being shipped out in order then that would indicate there are only about 130 copies left.
155wcarter
>154 owf_117:
Fixed that title problem for you.
Fixed that title problem for you.
156cyber_naut
>154 owf_117: Thanks for the heads up. I've been thinking about this versus the Kings Langley edition. What are your initial impressions?
157smhunter85
>154 owf_117: There are 389 left. You can always work out remaining copies by adding them to your cart until the website advises there aren't that many in stock.
158Ragnaroekk
>154 owf_117:
Numbers are always random in my experience.
Numbers are always random in my experience.
159owf_117
>155 wcarter: Thank you!
>157 smhunter85: OK, thanks for clarifying that. They definitely don't ship them out in numbered order then.
>156 cyber_naut: I'm happy with it. As one of the cheaper LEs I knew what I was getting - basically a fine edition with a limitation and a couple of autographs. Overpriced, yes, but I wanted it and set my expectations accordingly and so I'm satisfied. Also, as is usually the case, the book does look more impressive in person than it does in pictures.
>157 smhunter85: OK, thanks for clarifying that. They definitely don't ship them out in numbered order then.
>156 cyber_naut: I'm happy with it. As one of the cheaper LEs I knew what I was getting - basically a fine edition with a limitation and a couple of autographs. Overpriced, yes, but I wanted it and set my expectations accordingly and so I'm satisfied. Also, as is usually the case, the book does look more impressive in person than it does in pictures.
160sdawson
>156 cyber_naut:
According to tracking my copy of The Moonstone by Kings Langley Press should be arriving today or tomorrow. I can attempt a review then. Just an alternative.
There is also a 1959 George Macy edition printed by The Elm Tree Press if you are into older versions. The binding is not as luxurious as this new Folio Socitey edition, but it is a fine book, and there is a somewhat matching 1964 edition of The Woman in White by the same publisher and press.
While I have those two on my shelf, I am looking forward to reading the Kings Langley version in the coming weeks.
According to tracking my copy of The Moonstone by Kings Langley Press should be arriving today or tomorrow. I can attempt a review then. Just an alternative.
There is also a 1959 George Macy edition printed by The Elm Tree Press if you are into older versions. The binding is not as luxurious as this new Folio Socitey edition, but it is a fine book, and there is a somewhat matching 1964 edition of The Woman in White by the same publisher and press.
While I have those two on my shelf, I am looking forward to reading the Kings Langley version in the coming weeks.
161cyber_naut
>160 sdawson: many thanks - interested to hear thoughts on the edition!
162boldface
>60 cronshaw:
>74 astropi:
>75 boldface:
>78 A.Godhelm:
>81 folio_books:
Well, of course, having been on the fence, I finally caved in and ordered it, along, naturally, with the King's Langley edition for good measure, as The Moonstone is one of my favourite books. As promised, it arrived the next working day (>81 folio_books:) (although there was a weekend in between). I gently slid the beast out of its impressive cloth-covered slipcase and adjusted my glasses. I tried them on the right way up, I tried them on upside down, I half squinted through them, I stood on my head. No, it wasn't me. The spine was inverted . . . or was it that the text and boards were the wrong way up, or perhaps it's a Folio Society innovation to gild the bottom edge? Anyway, I was confused and immediately phoned Sergeant Cuff, who put me on to the fabled Customer Service. They re-enacted the delivery and this time a perfect copy arrived. Coincidentally, I picked up my Robinson Crusoe and read (in Chapter VIII):
"It was now that I began sensibly to feel how much more happy this life I now led was."
____________
So now for the (honest) review.
Q. Is it an LE?
A. It's limited to 750 numbered copies (the other twenty learned and lettered owners will have to fight it out and thus become hors de combat). It has two (illegible) signatures. So, yes, it must be.
Q. What's special about it and what raises it above the level of a high-end standard edition?
A. Unlike the story, this does remain a bit of a mystery. Of course, it's a very nice book. It goes without saying that the materials used are high quality, as we would expect. There's the shiny dark blue leather spine (>60 cronshaw:) with lots of silver and gilt on it (whichever way round you look at it). The leather is not Morocco, as of old, but it is cowhide, not the nameless kind, and has a faint aroma on a good day. It has an elegant cloth-covered slipcase (with a foil and silhouette design on it) which is a little bit sturdier and fancier than the usual plain paper-covered ones. It has very pleasing creamish paper with a minimum of print-through. It has ten very atmospheric, largely sepia, illustrations, two of them double-page spreads, not to mention the illustrated boards, depicting appropriately moonlit scenes in blue, sepia and silver. The stylish endpapers strikingly depict the Shivering Sands, highlighted in metallic gold on indigo blue - a nice touch.
However, as depicted in >74 astropi: above, Myths and Legends of India, a standard edition of 2001, has many similar features (bar the limitation details) - intricate, multicoloured, and foiled, cloth-covered boards; quarter leather (admittedly of an unspecified variety and less shiny) which extends a little further round the boards; elegant and uncluttered gilt lettering on the spine; smooth cream paper; stained top edge; fifteen colour illustrations.
One obvious disparity between the two books, apart from the £175 price difference (allowing for changing values over time ->78 A.Godhelm:), is the ribbon marker in the new LE, although it is strangely positioned in my copy, just a third of the way through the book, as though FS doubt most people will get much beyond the first 250 pages.
And then I thought, we live in different times, in a different economic climate,
Q. Are my comparisons unreasonable? What does Robinson Crusoe, the final arbiter, have to say on the matter?
A. "I learned to look more upon the bright side of my condition, and less upon the dark side, and to consider what I enjoyed, rather than what I wanted: and this gave me sometimes such secret comforts, that I cannot express them; and which I take notice of here, to put those discontented people in mind of it, who cannot enjoy comfortably what God has given them, because they see and covet something that he has not given them. All our discontents about what we want appeared to me to spring from the want of thankfulness for what we have." (Chapter IX)
>74 astropi:
>75 boldface:
>78 A.Godhelm:
>81 folio_books:
Well, of course, having been on the fence, I finally caved in and ordered it, along, naturally, with the King's Langley edition for good measure, as The Moonstone is one of my favourite books. As promised, it arrived the next working day (>81 folio_books:) (although there was a weekend in between). I gently slid the beast out of its impressive cloth-covered slipcase and adjusted my glasses. I tried them on the right way up, I tried them on upside down, I half squinted through them, I stood on my head. No, it wasn't me. The spine was inverted . . . or was it that the text and boards were the wrong way up, or perhaps it's a Folio Society innovation to gild the bottom edge? Anyway, I was confused and immediately phoned Sergeant Cuff, who put me on to the fabled Customer Service. They re-enacted the delivery and this time a perfect copy arrived. Coincidentally, I picked up my Robinson Crusoe and read (in Chapter VIII):
"It was now that I began sensibly to feel how much more happy this life I now led was."
____________
So now for the (honest) review.
Q. Is it an LE?
A. It's limited to 750 numbered copies (the other twenty learned and lettered owners will have to fight it out and thus become hors de combat). It has two (illegible) signatures. So, yes, it must be.
Q. What's special about it and what raises it above the level of a high-end standard edition?
A. Unlike the story, this does remain a bit of a mystery. Of course, it's a very nice book. It goes without saying that the materials used are high quality, as we would expect. There's the shiny dark blue leather spine (>60 cronshaw:) with lots of silver and gilt on it (whichever way round you look at it). The leather is not Morocco, as of old, but it is cowhide, not the nameless kind, and has a faint aroma on a good day. It has an elegant cloth-covered slipcase (with a foil and silhouette design on it) which is a little bit sturdier and fancier than the usual plain paper-covered ones. It has very pleasing creamish paper with a minimum of print-through. It has ten very atmospheric, largely sepia, illustrations, two of them double-page spreads, not to mention the illustrated boards, depicting appropriately moonlit scenes in blue, sepia and silver. The stylish endpapers strikingly depict the Shivering Sands, highlighted in metallic gold on indigo blue - a nice touch.
However, as depicted in >74 astropi: above, Myths and Legends of India, a standard edition of 2001, has many similar features (bar the limitation details) - intricate, multicoloured, and foiled, cloth-covered boards; quarter leather (admittedly of an unspecified variety and less shiny) which extends a little further round the boards; elegant and uncluttered gilt lettering on the spine; smooth cream paper; stained top edge; fifteen colour illustrations.
One obvious disparity between the two books, apart from the £175 price difference (allowing for changing values over time ->78 A.Godhelm:), is the ribbon marker in the new LE, although it is strangely positioned in my copy, just a third of the way through the book, as though FS doubt most people will get much beyond the first 250 pages.
And then I thought, we live in different times, in a different economic climate,
Q. Are my comparisons unreasonable? What does Robinson Crusoe, the final arbiter, have to say on the matter?
A. "I learned to look more upon the bright side of my condition, and less upon the dark side, and to consider what I enjoyed, rather than what I wanted: and this gave me sometimes such secret comforts, that I cannot express them; and which I take notice of here, to put those discontented people in mind of it, who cannot enjoy comfortably what God has given them, because they see and covet something that he has not given them. All our discontents about what we want appeared to me to spring from the want of thankfulness for what we have." (Chapter IX)
163Cat_of_Ulthar
>162 boldface: That's a lovely passage from Crusoe, a book which I should find time to read one day.
A shorter, if less elegant, version of the same sentiment might be King Crimson's 'happy with what you have to be happy with'.
A shorter, if less elegant, version of the same sentiment might be King Crimson's 'happy with what you have to be happy with'.
164folio_books
>163 Cat_of_Ulthar:
That's the first time I can recall reading a Crimson quote on these hallowed pages - my favourite band. It makes me happy :)
That's the first time I can recall reading a Crimson quote on these hallowed pages - my favourite band. It makes me happy :)
166Cat_of_Ulthar
>164 folio_books: You're welcome :-)
167howtoeatrat
>162 boldface: I also received a copy with the spine inverted. Like you, I was sent a new copy when I notified Customer Service. Pretty significant QC issue.
168Pendrainllwyn
>167 howtoeatrat:
>162 boldface:
Maybe this inverted/defective copy will become as valuable as a plate 77 penny red! Hopefully you didn't have to return the defective copy. Nine 77 penny reds got into circulation. I wonder how many inverted Moonstones. Maybe some readers still haven't noticed :-)
>164 folio_books: In the Court of the Crimson King is a brilliant album. I never connected with another King Crimson album. Which album do you recommend I give another go?
>162 boldface:
Maybe this inverted/defective copy will become as valuable as a plate 77 penny red! Hopefully you didn't have to return the defective copy. Nine 77 penny reds got into circulation. I wonder how many inverted Moonstones. Maybe some readers still haven't noticed :-)
>164 folio_books: In the Court of the Crimson King is a brilliant album. I never connected with another King Crimson album. Which album do you recommend I give another go?
169folio_books
>168 Pendrainllwyn: Which album do you recommend I give another go?
To save the boredom of Devotees I'll message you separately.
To save the boredom of Devotees I'll message you separately.
170sdawson
I'm puzzled as to how any, let alone two in our small sampling, inverted spines made it through production.
171DukeOfOmnium
Possibly some were printed with the intent that they'd be sold in Europe?
172boldface
>168 Pendrainllwyn: "Hopefully you didn't have to return the defective copy."
I did have to. Customer Service seem to think they can pull it apart, re-assemble it the right way round and re-sell it. To save their blushes, I won't reveal what number it was, but anyone receiving a copy in the near future should examine it very carefully for signs of acrobatic tampering!
I did have to. Customer Service seem to think they can pull it apart, re-assemble it the right way round and re-sell it. To save their blushes, I won't reveal what number it was, but anyone receiving a copy in the near future should examine it very carefully for signs of acrobatic tampering!
173nick.dudine
Dear collectors,
Since Kings Langley Press has been mentioned above, and some of you may not be subscribed to our email newsletter, I wanted to let you know that our edition of The Moonstone can now be shipped from a UK warehouse, significantly reducing shipping costs for the UK and most European countries, as well as Canada and the US. Below are the new shipping rates for some key regions:
UK: £4.45
USA: US$19.00
Canada: CA$33.00
Ireland: €7.95
Spain: €7.95
Germany: €9.95
France: €5.95
Switzerland: ₣14.00
Please note, this is not a complete list, and other countries in Europe benefit from reduced shipping rates as well. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out to info@kingslangleypress.com (Sometimes shipping rates do not sync properly, so if you feel like the shipping rate for your country is not calculated correctly, please send us a note!)
Since Kings Langley Press has been mentioned above, and some of you may not be subscribed to our email newsletter, I wanted to let you know that our edition of The Moonstone can now be shipped from a UK warehouse, significantly reducing shipping costs for the UK and most European countries, as well as Canada and the US. Below are the new shipping rates for some key regions:
UK: £4.45
USA: US$19.00
Canada: CA$33.00
Ireland: €7.95
Spain: €7.95
Germany: €9.95
France: €5.95
Switzerland: ₣14.00
Please note, this is not a complete list, and other countries in Europe benefit from reduced shipping rates as well. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to reach out to info@kingslangleypress.com (Sometimes shipping rates do not sync properly, so if you feel like the shipping rate for your country is not calculated correctly, please send us a note!)
174Keith_Ldn
>173 nick.dudine: I'm very tempted! Where is your version printed and bound?
175nick.dudine
>174 Keith_Ldn: Printed in Slovakia and bound in Germany.
