Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a first edition, first printing of Richard Roper's second novel, 'When We Were Young', published in 2021. The book features a colorful, retro-inspired dust jacket designed by Elke Sigal, reflecting the story's themes of nostalgia, friendship, and life choices.
Story
Published in 2021, this novel follows two estranged childhood friends who attempt to walk the 184-mile Thames Path. It explores the fragile nature of human connections and the weight of unfulfilled promises.
Maker / Origin
Richard Roper is a British author and editor whose debut novel, 'Something to Live For' (published as 'How Not to Die Alone' in the UK), was inspired by his research into the lonely lives of people whose estates are settled by public health funerals. His warm, humorous, and empathetic writing style has quickly established him as a notable voice in contemporary fiction.
Condition & Value
The dust jacket shows minor shelf wear and slight scuffing on the front cover. The pages appear clean and the binding is tight. Excellent condition preserves the maximum retail value. As a very recent, mass-market publication, this book is widely available.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.