Nicola Sturgeon flogging signed copies of her book - months before it hits shelves

With almost five months to go until her book is due to be released, Nicola Sturgeon is at pains to spread the word.

The former First Minister took to social media yesterday to plug signed copies of her memoir, entitled Frankly.

In a message, the former SNP leader wrote: ‘Did I mention I had a book coming out in August?

‘You can pre-order a signed copy from one of the brilliant independent bookstores at the link.’

Despite the exclusive nature of the offering, listings on websites selling the book suggested that signed versions do not cost any more than standard copies.

Signed volumes sold by Waterstones are priced at £28 – the exact same price as the unsigned books.

Some websites also offer the option of requesting a ‘personal dedication’ from Ms Sturgeon. Although, again, at no extra cost. Other independent bookstores are selling signed versions at £25.20 and £26.60 each.

Nicola Sturgeon has been prmoting the sale of signed copies of her book

Ms Sturgeon last week announced the title of her her upcoming memoir is Frankly

Billed as a ‘unique blend of personal insight and captivating vignettes’, the cover of Ms Sturgeon’s book was revealed last week.

According to its blurb on online shopping site Amazon, it is ‘remarkable for its honesty and self-reflection’. It also describes Ms Sturgeon as: ‘Campaigner. Leader. Pioneer.’

However, critics have said claimed that her track record of failing to recall key information during inquiries into the Alex Salmond affair, the Covid pandemic and the ferries fiasco mean the book will need to be taken with a pinch of salt.

Ms Sturgeon told the UK Covid Inquiry she had deleted her WhatsApp exchanges about the pandemic, in line with policy.

After the memoir’s title was announced, Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton said: ‘Bookshops might have to stock this in their fantasy section, given the brass neck title chosen by Nicola Sturgeon. Unlike the former First Minister, Scots won’t forget how her memory suddenly failed her when she was grilled at the Covid and Salmond inquiries or over her role in the ferry scandal.’

Ms Sturgeon has been working on the ‘personal and revealing memoir’ since at least 2023, when publisher Pan Macmillan successfully bid for the UK rights.

She received an advance of £300,000.