Venom Epic Collection: Shadows Of The Past

The Lethal Protector renews rivalries with the Amazing Spider-Man!

Eddie Brock and his alien symbiote return to torment Peter Parker — and they’re deadlier than ever! But Venom makes dangerous new enemies when he crosses the Sinister Six! As the world darkens for Eddie, the symbiote begins to hunger — and target the innocents Venom used to protect! To face his most nightmarish foe, Spidey must turn to the Fantastic Four for help — and not for the first time! But a fateful decision could forever change things for Peter and Eddie! Plus: Nova the Human Rocket hurtles into Venom’s path!

COLLECTING: Peter Parker: Spider-Man (1999) #9-10, 16-17; Nova (1999) #7; Amazing Spider-Man (1999) #19; Spectacular Spider-Man (2003) #1-5; Spider-Man/Fantastic Four (2010) #2; material from Amazing Spider-Man (1999) #12, Peter Parker: Spider-Man (1999) #12, Spider-Man Family (2007) #1-2

Written by Howard Mackie, Erik Larsen, Paul Jenkins, Christos Gage & More
Penciled by John Romita Jr., Joe Bennett, Erik Larsen, John Byrne, Humberto Ramos, Mario Alberti & More

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