The Swans

Feathers fly when a true crime podcast and burning obsession meet head-on in this darkly comedic young adult novel.

For decades, the Sutton Swans, beloved birds that nest in a small town’s local pond, have been the targets of brutal attacks. And ever since seventeen-year-old Mason Barnes learned about the swans’ sordid history and his dad’s connection to one of the crimes, he can’t seem to shake his growing interest in the white-feathered fowl.

Desperate to be in the thick of something that matters, Mason feels the tug of fate when a popular true crime podcast sweeps into town to cover the story, transforming the young man’s budding fascination into a burning fixation.

As his infatuation and instability grow, so does his intent to pull off a scheme that not even the best investigative journalists could predict—something that will change the town of Sutton forever. And if it impresses Sophie, the enigmatic new girl? Well, then Mason might truly get everything he’s ever wanted.

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