Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A vintage hardcover edition of Daphne du Maurier's classic psychological thriller, bound in characteristic yellow cloth with green stamped lettering. This 1952 American release followed the massive success of 'Rebecca' and solidified du Maurier's reputation as the queen of the Cornish Gothic.
Story
Daphne du Maurier was inspired to write this tale after seeing a haunting portrait of Rachel Carew at Antony House in Cornwall. Published in 1951, it became an instant sensation, leading to a 1952 film that marked the American debut of Richard Burton. The story’s power lies in its ultimate mystery: the reader is never told if Rachel is a victim or a villain.
Maker / Origin
Daphne du Maurier was a master of atmosphere who lived in a secluded Cornish manor called Menabilly, which served as the blueprint for her fictional estates. Though often categorized as 'romance,' her work is deeply subversive, exploring obsession and the darker corners of the human psyche.
Condition & Value
The book shows moderate shelf wear, particularly at the spine ends and corners, and the original dust jacket is missing. The internal pages appear clean with some expected age-toning to the paper. The absence of the jacket reduces the value by approximately 70-80% compared to a complete collector's copy.
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.