Several papers have been carrying the story on books to be released today (1 January 2026) from copyright publishing restrictions and into the public domain. Among these, Waugh’s Vile Bodies has been prominently mentioned. It was published as his second novel in early 1930 in both the UK (C&H) and, a bit later, in the US (Jonathan Cape & Harrison Smith).
Oddly, no one seems to be aware that another of Waugh’s books was published in 1930. This was Labels: A Mediterranean Journey, a nonfiction travel book that was issued later in the year by Duckworths. It was also published about the same time in the US by Jonathan Cape & Harrison Smith but was retitled A Batchelor Abroad. This book would also seem to be entitled to publication free of copyright royalty restrictions. Two other books by Waugh had previously entered into the public domain: Rossetti (a biography) and Decline and Fall (a novel). These were published in 1928 in both the UK and US.
A perusal of Amazon listings in the US and UK indicates some level of activity on Vile Bodies. There is an ambitious listing for a collected edition of Waugh’s writing in a “Signature Classics Edition”. This would involve a 1052 page (apparently print) edition as well as a digital version ($0.99). The publisher is Asimis Books. In addition to Vile Bodies, the collection will include the novel Decline and Fall, as well as a collection of what looks to be a fairly complete collection of short stories. These latter would include several stories published after 1930, so there may be some royalties owing.
Other upcoming editions of Vile Bodies listed on Amazon.com include a Kindle ($3.99) and (apparently a paperback) book edition ($19.99) in the “Rediscovered Books” series published by the Ft Raphael Publishing Co. These versions are edited by Kevin Theis. Another Kindle and possibly a paper edition is contemplated by the publisher BY2NEXT TEAM. The Kindle version would cost $0.99 but it is unclear what the cost of the print edition would be or whether Amazon.com will have it on offer. A print edition is apparently to be included since it is described as having “an excellent matte-finish cover that looks stunning on any bookshelf.” Additional forthcoming versions are noted by Rare Treasure Editions (January), Mint Editions (July) and Open Road Media (February). Whether any of these new editions will be offered in the UK is unclear.
