The Well-Beloved

1897, first US edition on book form of Thomas Hardy's final novel

Author

Publisher

Printing Details

First US edition (in book form). Hardback, bound in green cloth. Titled in gilt to the spine with gilt monogram to upper board. 20 × 13.5cm, 339pp, map to rear.

Hardy's last published novel (though written before Jude the Obscure) and it had been serialised in 1892. Jocelyn Pierston, celebrated sculptor, tries to create an image of his ideal woman—his imaginary Well-Beloved—in stone, just as he tries to find her in the flesh.

Condition

Fair. A reading copy. The cloth is scuffed and the front hinge is cracked, some marking to the boards but remaining readable.