What If?

If history took a different turn, where would we be today?

What If? by Robert Cowley explores the fascinating concept of alternate history through a collection of thought-provoking essays. Delve into the minds of renowned historians as they ponder the monumental events of the past and dare to ask, what if things had gone differently?

From the war between the Ottomans and the Romans and the fall of Rome, from the decisive battles of World War I and the Bosnian War, these essays offer a captivating exploration of how our world could have unfolded. Discover the War of the Roses, dive into assassination attempts on President Lincoln, and uncover the profound impact of warfare on art and literature.

With its engaging narrative and insightful analysis, Cowley challenges us to reimagine history and consider the profound implications of the choices that shaped the world we know today. Featuring Stephen J. Ambrose, John Keegan, and many others.

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