For the Sake of Elena

The vicious murder of a young socialite leads Detective Inspector Thomas Lynley into a web of false identities, hidden motives, and buried secrets that some might kill to protect—a thrilling novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling Inspector Lynley series.

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“Powerful and deeply affecting, For the Sake of Elena is another satisfying addition to this superb series.”—The Baltimore Sun

In her clingy dresses and dangling earrings, Elena Weaver exuded a sexuality at odds with the innocence projected by the unicorn posters on her walls. While her embittered mother fretted about her welfare, in Cambridge—where Elena was a student at St. Stephen’s College—her father and his second wife each had their own very different image of the girl. As for Elena, she lived a life of casual and intense relationships, with scores to settle and goals to achieve—until someone bludgeoned her to death.

Unwilling to involve the local police, the university calls in New Scotland Yard. Thus, Detective Inspector Thomas Lynley and Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers enter a rarefied world where academic gowns often hide murderous intentions. For the officers, the true identity of Elena proves elusive, as each relationship she left behind casts a new light both on herself and on those who appeared to know her best. What’s more, Elena’s father has his own dark secrets. While his past sins make him neurotically dedicated to Elena and blind to her blacker side, present demons drive him toward betrayal. . . .

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