Epic variant covers. [Seven Secrets, Vol. 1 by Tom Taylor; Daniele Di Nicuolo]

As the title of this post suggests, the variant chapter covers were kind of epic. But I guess that's kind of the point of variant covers, adding depth to a story through what some, in this case myself, might consider professional fan art. Written by Tom Taylor and illustrated by Daniele Di Nicuolo, Seven Secrets, Vol. 1 is a first volume entry into a world of supernatural secrets and international political intrigue.

New York Times bestselling author Tom Taylor and fan favorite artist Daniele Di Nicuolo present a new series about seven powerful secrets—words, wonders, weapons, and worse—with the power to change the world.

SEVEN SECRETS WILL CHANGE THE WORLD.
For centuries, the Order has trusted in Keepers and Holders to guard the Secrets in seven briefcases against all harm but when their stronghold is attacked and the secrets put in peril, the entire Order must face their greatest fear—an enemy who knows too much and is willing to kill to get what he wants. Now, the Order's newest member, Caspar, must discover the truth of the Secrets before the enemy does, or risk losing everything.

New York Times bestselling author Tom Taylor (DCeased) and fan favorite artist Daniele Di Nicuolo (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers) present a new series about seven powerful secrets—words, wonders, weapons, and worse—with the power to change the world. Collects Seven Secrets #1-6

The story transitions seamlessly between exposition filled flashbacks and the present, even setting up a future eventuality that definitely shifts the context of the story. Being told a given character doesn't survive to see the end of the main story arc definitely adds some interest. Caspar, our plucky 15 year old protagonist, has been raised in a somewhat cult-y secret order, aptly named the Order, that guards seven mysterious and powerful secrets. Caspar retroactively narrates his life, mostly in the context of, and the explosive events of the volume. Because when power is held and the government isn't the villainous counterpart vying for control, who or what else could it be but an equally shadowy cabal? They are ~the Seekers~. Oooh!  And alas, their successful efforts look to spell the end of the Order. Or perhaps the reveal of the secrets? Double ooh!!

There's something about the main illustration style that just feels firm and familiar, so I liked that. The same goes with the story. Insubordination in small amounts from subordinates who know less than they'd like to, betrayal from within, forbidden romances. "Seven Secrets" is a solid story. There's nothing super offensive about it, though I have questions and notes on the character styling. But I also didn't find anything super new or exhilarating about it. However, I would continue in the story. I'm hooked with the way this volume ends. 4 stars from me. 

Seven Secrets, Vol. 1 (ISBN:9781684157068) is due for publication May 04, 2021

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