Contest by Matthew Reilly
Release Date: Early Aug

Stefen Says: This isn’t a special edition in the terms of tinted edges or a fancy finish, but it does represent something interesting for Matthew Rilley fans, a hardcover edition of his very first book. Originally self published in 1996 with a run of only 1000 copies the then 20 year old Rilley personally walked around book shops trying to convince people to carry his book. Needless to say, a few years later the situation would be very different. I’m not sure if there’s been a hardcover edition in this format before, but this one looks perfect to slot alongside the hardcover editions of his Scarecrow and Jack West series’. One for the fans.

From the Publisher: The New York Public Library. A brooding labyrinth of towering bookcases, narrow aisles and spiralling staircases. For Doctor Stephen Swain and his daughter, Holly, it is the site of a nightmare.
For one night this historic building is to be the venue for a contest. A contest in which Swain is to compete – whether he likes it or not.
With his daughter in his arms, Swain is plunged into this terrifying fight for survival. He can choose to run, to hide or to fight – but if he wants to live, he has to win.
For in this contest, unless you leave as the victor, you do not leave at all.

Tender is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica
Release Date: Mid Oct

Stefen Says: This is a paperback special edition, more notable for its contents than appearance. Argentine author Agustina Bazterrica’s book Tender is the Flesh was first released in Spanish in 2017 and then in English translation in 2020. It’s a powerful and confronting story that explores the very nature of humanity and our attitudes towards others, and has sold more than a million copies. This edition features new cover art and a specially written afterward by the author.

From the Publisher: New special edition with a new afterword by the author of this shocking dystopian novel and TikTok sensation in which cannibalism is legal.
If everyone was eating human meat, would you?
Marcos is in the business of slaughtering humans – only no one calls them that. He works with numbers, consignments, processing. One day, he’s given a specimen of the finest quality. He leaves her tied up in an outhouse, a problem to be disposed of later. But she haunts Marcos. Her trembling body, and watchful gaze, seem to understand. And soon, he becomes tortured by what has been lost – and what might still be saved…

Princess Bride 50th Anniversary Edition by William Goldman
Release Date: early Aug

Stefen Says: This is another one that is special because of what it is rather than presentation. A 50th anniversary paperback release of one of my favourite books of all time, The Princess Bride. It was the inspiration for the beloved 1987 movie, directed by Rob Reiner. But if you’re a fan of the film don’t think you know the book, because despite how brilliant the adaptation was there is so much more for you in here. This is one for fans of the movie, fans of cosy fantasy, or anybody who wants a charming clever read that will stay with you forever.

From the Publisher: Her heart was a secret garden and the walls were very high.
Beautiful, flaxen-haired Buttercup has fallen for Westley, the farm boy.
Filled with ambition Westley departs to make his fortune and be worthy of her love. But when Buttercup hears that his ship has been captured by the Dread Pirate Roberts – who never leaves survivors – she vows never to love another.
Buttercup’s charms draw the attention of the malevolent Prince Humperdinck who will go to any lengths to make her his princess bride. But all is not lost! There is a rescue afoot by a mysterious man in black…
An iconic adventure filled with sword fights and giants, evil princes and pirates, revenge and ridiculousness, all wrapped in a dazzling satire of classic fairy tales.
The Princess Bride is not just a story you’ll want to read – it’s one you’ll want to live.