The Birthgrave
New York: DAW Books, Inc., 1975. Early Printing. 12mo, publisher’s stiff illustrated paper wraps, all edges stained yellow.
Inscribed paperback original of British scifi, fantasy, and horror writer Tanith Lee's breakthrough novel, the opening volume of the "Birthgrave" trilogy. One of the genre’s most prolific and imaginative authors, Lee penned more than ninety novels and three-hundred short stories, becoming the first woman to win the British Fantasy Award for Best Novel in 1980. Blending fantasy with elements of science fiction and gothic horror, The Birthgrave follows an amnesiac woman who awakens inside a dormant volcano and journeys through a violent, ancient world in search of her identity. As the novel engages with themes of sexuality and female autonomy that challenged the conventions of traditionally male-dominated heroic fantasy, it was rejected by numerous British publishers before being accepted by DAW. Credited for establishing Lee's reputation in the US and helping launch her career as a full-time writer, it additionally earned a nomination for the Nebula Award for Best Novel. With an introduction by fellow fantasy author Marion Zimmer Bradley and cover illustration by prolific scifi and fantasy artist George Barr. Issued as number 154 in the publisher’s catalog. Inscribed by Lee to the title page: "To Alina / with love / Tanith 1981." Third printing. Fine. Item #13675
$100.00