The Diplomat’s Wife 1956 1st Ed Inscribed Vice Consul Provenance HC For Sale

Unique association copy inscribed to a U.S. Vice Consul stationed in Barranquilla, Colombia—offering a tangible connection to mid-20th century American diplomatic history.
The Diplomat’s Wife by Richard Fyfe Boyce, published by Harper & Brothers in 1956. First Edition, hardcover.
Period Inscription with Diplomatic Provenance
This first edition includes a period handwritten inscription by a U.S. Vice Consul stationed in Barranquilla, Colombia, offering a rare and thematically appropriate connection to the subject matter of the book. Barranquilla was an active U.S. diplomatic post in the mid-20th century, making this inscription especially resonant given the book’s focus on diplomatic life and service abroad.
The book bears the label of a Washington, D.C. bookseller, further reinforcing its association with diplomatic and government circles.
A mid-century novel of international diplomacy and intrigue, following the private world of a diplomat’s wife as she navigates political tensions, social maneuvering, and the personal costs of life abroad. A blend of society drama and Cold War–era intrigue.
This is a solid, well-preserved first edition copy with a tight binding and clean, readable interior. Pages show light, even toning consistent with age, with no loose pages noted. Overall, a well-kept mid-century hardcover.
Includes notable period ephemera and provenance details.
The front free endpaper contains a handwritten vintage inscription by a previous owner, referencing travel or residence abroad (“Via Canal, Barranquilla, Colombia”) and ending with “Good Luck!” This inscription adds a distinctive mid-20th-century personal and travel-era context. (This is not an author inscription.)
Also present is a vintage Sidney Kramer Books bookseller sticker affixed to the inside cover. Sidney Kramer Books of Washington, D.C. was a respected mid-century bookstore, and the sticker adds further authenticity and collectible interest.
The book also includes an author’s period disclaimer stating that the work is an unofficial publication and does not contain classified or approved government material. This language reflects the author’s proximity to diplomatic and governmental circles during the Cold War era and underscores that the narrative is based on personal observation and experience, rather than official policy or secret disclosures. The disclaimer itself adds historical texture and context typical of 1950s diplomatic literature.
A strong and honest example of a 1950s first edition novel with appealing provenance, bookstore history, and cultural context. An excellent copy for collectors of mid-century fiction, diplomatic or political-themed literature, or books with travel-era inscriptions and historical character.
Book will be carefully packed to ensure safe shipment.