The Slowest Death

JACK MURPHY DELIVERS JUSTICE
 
Detective Jack Murphy can read a crime scene like a book. When the naked, brutalized corpse of a narcotics cop is found, it’s not the body that tells him a sick killer is on the loose, but the monkey figurine—of the “see no evil” kind—shoved down his throat. It’s a message, not a clue. Then a high-profile judge is set on fire. Another figurine left behind. Murphy has a guess what’s next. But it’s not what he expects. The torture-killer taking out Evansville’s defenders of law and order isn’t the only one with secrets. The victims might have a few, too . . .
 
Praise for Rick Reed and his novels
 
“A jaw-dropping thriller.”—Gregg Olsen
 
“Leaves you wondering whether you really did lock the doors before you went to bed.”—Mystery Scene 
 
“Put this on your must-read list.”—John Lutz
 
“The things Reed has seen as a police officer make for a great book.”
—Suspense Magazine
 
“Rick Reed knows the dark side as only a real-life cop can, and his writing crackles with authenticity.” —Shane Gericke

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