First edition, first printing. Hardback. Flat signed by the author duo (Nicci Gerrard and Sean French) on the title page without dedication. An immaculate, true first-printing copy of this milestone psychological thriller, which was later adapted into a major feature film. Condition Report Book: Fine. Crisp, flawless cloth boards with sharp corners and tight binding. Text block is bright and perfectly square, displaying none of the heavy age-toning typical of this 1999 paper stock. Free from any marks or previous owner inscriptions. Dust Jacket: Fine. Vibrant, crisp, and beautifully preserved wrapper with no edge wear, rubbing, or micro-tears. The original publisher's price on the front flap remains entirely unclipped. Protected in a clear, archival sleeve.

Printers Line: 1 3 5 7 9 10 8 6 4 2 (Indicates the absolute first printing from Michael Joseph).

Summary In this erotic and claustrophobic psychological thriller, successful London researcher Alice Loudon impulsively abandons her stable career and loving boyfriend after a chance encounter with a charismatic stranger. Swept into a storm of consuming sexual obsession with Adam Tallis-”a rugged, heroic mountaineer-”Alice initially believes she has found true passion. However, the dark side of Adam's secretive nature quickly surfaces. When anonymous notes warn her about his mysterious past and the suspicious deaths of women previously in his life, Alice begins a desperate investigation into her new husband. Nicci French builds a masterclass in domestic suspense, tracking Alice's rapid descent from reckless infatuation to a terrifying fight for her sanity and survival.