Parallel Power

A sweeping account of how Latin America overthrew Cold War dictators, fell under the rule of cartels and criminal empires, and set off forces of migration and power that reshaped the future of the Americas.

Organized crime is a global phenomenon, but nowhere has it evolved as rapidly—or as dangerously—as in Latin America. Over the past decade, criminal organizations across the region have grown into hyper-powerful enterprises, adapting to government crackdowns while capitalizing on booming global demand for cocaine, illegal gold, and human smuggling. Flush with cash, they pushed deep into politics, law enforcement, and legitimate business, reshaping entire countries from Mexico to Chile.
In Parallel Power, Will Freeman delivers a gripping account of this transformation and its consequences for democracy and daily life.

Drawing on vivid on-the-ground reporting, firsthand testimony, and expert analysis, the book reveals how criminal networks built parallel states—corrupting courts, hijacking economies, and terrorizing communities. What emerges is a timely portrait of a continent at a crossroads, as millions of people from Guatemala to Brazil struggle to reclaim safety, dignity, and control over their future.

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