London, Macmillan & Co., 1987. First Edition. First Impression. Hardback. The first book published by Banks using his Iain M. Banks name. The first Culture novel and his fourth novel overall. Arguably his most collectable title. Near fine with just a little edge wear. A lovely copy of an excellent book. A highlight of modern science fiction collecting. Cover art by Richard Hopkinson [6466, Hyraxia Books].