Deathstalker

The Deathstalker series of space opera novels, by British author Simon R. Green, was written during the 1990s and early 2000s. Although referred to by a single name, the series consists of two major episodes (each dealing with a different member of the Deathstalker Clan), and other associated novels providing a backstory to the characters and events of the fictional universe. The first episode, comprising five books, tells the story of how Owen Deathstalker, reluctant heir to the ancient Deathstalker name and minor historian, came to lead a galactic rebellion against the powerful and corrupt empire in which he lives. The second episode is set 200 years after the first, and follows Lewis Deathstalker, a distant relative to Owen. Three additional novels, eventually republished as an anthology, act as a prequel of sorts – although they contain no mention of the Deathstalker family they expand on other important characters and provide further insight into the workings of the empire. Books Both major Deathstalker episodes are classic examples of an epic form of space opera. Each deals not only with its protagonist but also develops a large cast of supporting characters, many of whom are given as much depth as the hero. Even minor characters often have significant portions of a novel devoted to them. The series as a whole spans over 200 years of Green's fictional universe, and is known for its flamboyant style of narrative. Partly a parody of the 1950s space-opera genre, the Deathstalker novels are also a satirical take on dictatorship, fascism, fashion, established religion and the media. Setting