Invasion

New York Times bestselling author Robin Cook’s “pressure cooker of a thriller” (Booklist) takes medical technology into a new realm, where everything we know about the human body—and the universe we live in—is about to be challenged.

Everyone assumes it’s just the flu—but when a powerful virus causes unexplained symptoms, the few left uninfected must discover a cure before they catch it, too...

After Cassy Winthrope’s boyfriend Beau displays brief, flu-like symptoms, he begins to act strangely. His body is stronger and faster, his mind shaprer. And suddenly the straight-edged guy who never skips class and hates big dogs is playing hooky and walking around with a bullmastiff.

Once Cassy shares these observations with their mutual friend Pitt, the pair notice that almost everyone else in their small college town seems to be infected with the same virus that Beau has. Could it be connected to the tiny black disks appearing everywhere, stinging those who pick them up?

Recruiting members of the community and medical experts unexposed to the disease that’s defying all diagnoses, Cassy knows she’s in a race against time. But can she figure out how to save the people she cares for—before it’s too late to reverse the changes?

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