Identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a first edition, first printing of Anne Hillerman's 2025 mystery novel, 'Shadow of the Solstice'. Part of her acclaimed Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito series, this volume continues the rich Southwestern detective legacy established by her father, Tony Hillerman.
Story
Published by HarperCollins in 2025, this volume is part of the long-running Southwestern mystery series originally created by Tony Hillerman. Anne Hillerman took over the series to critical acclaim, maintaining its deep roots in Navajo Nation culture and geography. Modern first editions of popular mystery series have a dedicated but predictable collector base. Anne Hillerman's continuation of her father's Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito series guarantees strong initial demand.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
For modern first editions, condition is paramount. The dust jacket must be unclipped and free of tears, scuffs, or edge wear. The boards and spine must be tight, and the pages clean without remainder marks. Any deviation from 'Fine/Fine' condition will severely discount the value of a modern release.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Modern first editions of popular mystery series have a dedicated but predictable collector base. Anne Hillerman's continuation of her father's Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito series guarantees strong initial demand. However, because these are printed in large runs by major publishers, unsigned copies rarely appreciate significantly above retail price. The premium in this market is entirely driven by author signatures, pristine condition, and confirmed first-printing status.
▲ First edition, first printing status is the baseline requirement for collector interest.
▲ Part of a highly collected, long-running legacy mystery series.
▲ Recent 2025 publication date ensures current market relevance and demand.
▼ Lack of confirmed author signature — unsigned copies trade at standard used-book rates rather than collector premiums.
▼ Condition sensitivity — any dust jacket wear or remainder marks will drop the value to reading-copy levels ($5-$10).
Best Venue
Check the title page for an author signature and verify the copyright page for a full number line ending in '1'. If signed and pristine, list on collector-focused platforms like eBay or AbeBooks for $50-$60. If unsigned, it is best sold as a standard used hardcover or bundled with other Hillerman novels to maximize shipping efficiency.
Upside Potential
If the book is confirmed to be signed by Anne Hillerman on the title page and remains in unread, Fine/Fine condition, it will easily realize the $54-$60 high end of the range, matching current dealer retail prices.