Clive Cussler Obsidian Sky

A forgotten civilization. A lost Biblical artifact. A criminal enterprise lurking beneath the seas. What links them with a potential cataclysmic event that threatens all of humanity? That’s the question facing Dirk Pitt in this latest electrifying novel in the beloved New York Times bestselling series created by the “grand master of adventure” Clive Cussler.

When National Underwater and Marine Agency director Dirk Pitt rescues a team of archaeologists trapped in a cavern by an earthquake, an unexpected artifact is discovered that rewrites history. A two-thousand-year-old silver scroll contains a message in a language more ancient than Phoenician and offering clues to a priceless treasure from antiquity.

While they work to decipher the message, another mystery arises. A freighter has disappeared without a trace in the Mediterranean. When Pitt and his partner Al Giordino find the wreck, they discover that the cargo—a large scale particle accelerator capable of creating plutonium and radioisotopes—is missing. In the wrong hands, its use could spell disaster for Western civilization.

It’s only the first step in a perilous journey to uncover a trail of drugs, deceit, secret technology, and a conspiracy that threatens the planet. From a desperate car chase in the hills of Sicily, to a wild escape on a Spanish river, to a harrowing ride on an underground boring machine, the race begins to connect the pieces in a puzzle with very ancient roots but deadly modern consequences. Only Pitt can discover the truth and halt the plans to extinguish humanity and turn the skies to obsidian.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs