Multiple Authors (Including Michael Connelly and contributors to The Blue Religion)
Bestselling Mystery and Crime Fiction Authors · Literature
Mystery Writers of America
Era
2008 (Circa publication year)
Item Type
Book - First Edition
Condition
Near Mint - Clean pages, crisp ink with no fading, sharp cover and binding.
Rarity
Moderately rare as a multi-signed first edition gathering several distinct crime fiction authors in one volume.
Overall Assessment
An excellent collector's piece for fans of modern crime fiction, offering strong aesthetic appeal and verified multi-author context on a desirable first edition.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic based on context, signing event provenance typical for anthology book releases, and consistent natural variations in handwriting styles.
Signature Style
Varied cursive and print signatures ranging from legible full names to stylized author monograms, typical of multi-author book signings.
Signature Characteristics
Natural flow, varying stroke pressures, and distinct idiosyncratic letter forms corresponding to multiple distinct writers.
Ink & Medium
Black and blue ballpoint and felt-tip marker on paper title page.
Item Description
First edition hardcover of 'The Blue Religion: New Stories About Cops, Criminals, and the Chase', edited by Michael Connelly, published by Little, Brown and Company in 2008, signed on the title page by multiple contributing authors.
Estimated Value
$150 - $300
Comparison to Known Examples
Consistent with known signing habits of authors during promotional book tour events for anthologies.
Authentication Tips
Compare individual signatures against known exemplars of Michael Connelly and other notable contributors listed in the anthology's table of contents.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA specializing in multi-signed literary works.
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the varying inks and handwritings strongly support authentic in-person multi-signing.
Provenance Notes
Originates ideally from a book tour stop, Bouchercon convention, or dedicated Mystery Writers of America signing event.
Historical Context
Reflects the collaborative nature of modern crime writing and the promotional culture surrounding contemporary mystery anthologies.
Market Trends
Stable demand among mystery and thriller fiction collectors, particularly for multi-signed thematic anthologies.
Investment Potential
Moderate long-term appreciation, largely driven by the enduring popularity of Michael Connelly and key contributing authors.
Similar Autographs
Other crime fiction anthologies edited by Michael Connelly or published by the Mystery Writers of America.
Display & Preservation
Store away from direct sunlight in an archival book protector or climate-controlled bookcase to prevent page yellowing.
Interesting Facts
Anthologies like 'The Blue Religion' frequently gather multiple award-winning authors in a single room, making multi-signed copies highly prized by genre enthusiasts.
Notes
Multi signed first edition 2008