John Masters - Now, God Be Thanked - Franklin Library - Signed First Edition - 1979

Now, God Be Thanked — John Masters (Franklin Library, 1979) - First Edition Edition

Introduction
A finely produced First Edition Society volume of Now, God Be Thanked by John Masters, published by The Franklin Library in 1979. Bound in full dark green leather with ornate gilt decoration on the spine and boards, this edition shows the refined craftsmanship typical of Franklin Library: gilt page edges, sewn-in ribbon marker, and high-quality archival paper. The binding is bright and elegant, with crisp gilt motifs and a clean presentation throughout.

Content Summary
Now, God Be Thanked is the opening volume of Masters’ “Loss of Eden” trilogy, an expansive family saga set at the outbreak of the First World War. The story follows the intertwined lives of the Rowlands, the Strattons, and those around them, as ordinary people face the upheaval of a world descending into conflict. Rather than a purely military account, the novel focuses on the personal experience of civilians and soldiers caught in the shifting world of 1914. Themes of duty, loss, love, and the transformation of society run throughout the book. This edition includes genealogical charts, introductory texts, and period illustrations that deepen the reader’s connection to the story.

Features and Specifications
Publisher: The Franklin Library, Franklin Center, Pennsylvania
Year: 1979
Edition: First Edition Society (true first edition)
Binding: Full green leather with extensive gilt design
Illustrator: Francis Golden, including colour plates
Page edges: Gilt
Paper: Archival-quality, acid-free
Ribbon marker: Green satin
Series: First volume in the “Loss of Eden” trilogy
Pages: Approx. 500+

Condition Report
Covers: Excellent. Clean leather, bright gilt decoration.
Spine: Excellent, straight, no rubbing.
Page edges: Very good+ to excellent; gilt remains bright with light handling marks.
Interior: Near fine; clean pages, crisp text, vivid illustrations.
Binding: Tight and secure.
Ribbon marker: Intact with a natural curl at the end.
No writing, bookplates, or tears.
Overall an excellent collector’s copy.

Shipping
The book will be packed with care and shipped securely with tracking and insurance.