Signed First Edition with Personal Inscription? I'm not so sure.

[KimWheel]

Hi everyone,

I have a question and am hoping someone can give me an answer. I've been all over the interwebs with no real help.

My friend gave me a birthday gift today that is a First Edition of "The Darktower: The Gunslinger". Not only is it signed, but has a personal inscription for me. I find it VERY hard to believe this is a legitimate inscription. The friend who gave this to me does have some connections in the comic book industry, but from all the information I have read, Stephen King does not do this sort of thing anymore.

Can anyone give me any advice on how to proceed in checking the authenticity of this inscription? I don't know whether to be excited or angry that my friend defaced a first edition to impress me. I wouldn't be entirely surprised if the latter were true (long story).
I hope someone can help. Thank you.

[Moderator]

I've sent you a PM.

[KimWheel]

Unfortunately, thanks to the help of Ms. Mod, I was able to confirm that this is indeed a forgery. As you all can probably understand, I am very disappointed that someone attempted to use my love for Stephen King's work to make me think better of them. It's actually very sad that someone would do this at all.

On another note, I am simply glad this was resolved in a timely manner without me cleaning out my bank account to learn the truth. One benefit is that I have joined these message boards and will be able to interact with other individuals who share a love for an amazing writer and great stories.

Thank you!