le Carré, John (1986) ‘A Perfect Spy’, UK signed and inscribed first edition

John le Carré (David Cornwell) (1986) ‘A Perfect Spy’, UK first edition, first printing, published by Hodder & Stoughton. Signed and inscribed by le Carré: “with best wishes from John le Carré”.

Provenance: this is one of four signed first editions signed for Michael Newman which we have recently aquired in the south-west of England. As the inscription in the ‘Russia House’ copy reveals Michael Newman has been le Carré’s long friend, neighbour and occasional councilor on his work in progress. Signed copies are exceptionall scarce and desired, and most ‘signed’ copies are either provided by means of a laid in signature or with questionable provenance at best.

Condition: a very good copy with no other scribbles inside the book. A whiff of foxing to the page block and spine lean which may correct over time. Slight shelf wear to boards.

‘A Perfect Spy’ is perhaps le Carré’s best novel, and it has been hailed as one of, if not the best novel since 1945 by many critics and fellow writers of stature such as by Philip Roth. It is le Carré’s most autobiographical novel and an amazing character stud.