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Deathstalker #3
Deathstalker War
22 hours, 7 minujtes
Fate had made Owen Deathstalker a rebel hero in an empire choked by tyranny. Embracing his warrior lineage for the sake of freedom, he stoked the flames of revolution, gathering the forces that one day must strike against Imperial authority. That day has come.
With his valiant compatriots Hazel d'Ark and Jack Random, Owen must now bring the uprising to a fiery conclusion. From the rebel strongholds of Mistworld and Virimonde to the Empire's mighty heart on the planet Golgotha, the fate of humanity now depends on a clash of arms across light-years of space. But Deathstalker's desperate cause will need more than an army of courageous fighters to succeed-- for the cunning Empress has some evil surprises to unleash...
Fate had made Owen Deathstalker a rebel hero in an empire choked by tyranny. Embracing his warrior lineage for the sake of freedom, he stoked the flames of revolution, gathering the forces that one day must strike against Imperial authority. That day has come.
With his valiant compatriots Hazel d'Ark and Jack Random, Owen must now bring the uprising to a fiery conclusion. From the rebel strongholds of Mistworld and Virimonde to the Empire's mighty heart on the planet Golgotha, the fate of humanity now depends on a clash of arms across light-years of space. But Deathstalker's desperate cause will need more than an army of courageous fighters to succeed-- for the cunning Empress has some evil surprises to unleash...
22 pages, Audible Audio
First published March 20, 1997
68 people are currently reading
867 people want to read
About the author
Simon R. Green
312 books3,207 followersSimon Richard Green is a British science fiction and fantasy-author. He holds a degree in Modern English and American Literature from the University of Leicester. His first publication was in 1979.
His Deathstalker series is partly a parody of the usual space-opera of the 1950s, told with sovereign disregard of the rules of probability, while being at the same time extremely bloodthirsty.
Excerpted from Wikipedia.
His Deathstalker series is partly a parody of the usual space-opera of the 1950s, told with sovereign disregard of the rules of probability, while being at the same time extremely bloodthirsty.
Excerpted from Wikipedia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
December 31, 2023
4.0 Stars
It took a while to get into this one but I really ended up enjoying it by the end. These stories are a good balance between entertainment and serious consequences. I look forward to continuing on with this series.
It took a while to get into this one but I really ended up enjoying it by the end. These stories are a good balance between entertainment and serious consequences. I look forward to continuing on with this series.
September 21, 2017
The Deathstalker series is a fast paced fun space opera in the Star Wars mould. It is not thought provoking sci-fi by any means but Simon R Green has an engaging writing style and despite using every sci-fi cliché in the book his story is still enjoyable and the characters even have a little depth to them!
This third third instalment of the series saw the rebellion in full swing. Owen and his allies continued the battle for key planets before taking the fight to the imperial capitol Golgatha itself for a final showdown with Empress Lionstone and her most loyal defenders.
The story started a little sluggishly but did settle back into the quality of the previous books in the mid to later stages. The battle for the key planets was a bit of a mixed bag. The action on Viramond and Golgatha was good but the stuff on Mistworld and Shannon's World was not quite as engaging. I'm not sure what went wrong on Mistborn as our previous visits there have all been quite exciting! I liked the idea behind the stuff on Shannon's World but felt we spent too long there and that we had no real investment in the enemies our heroes fought there which hurt that phase of the story a touch. The Deathstalker series is always at its best when it throws familiar characters against each other. That happened on Viramond and Golgatha and that is why I found those parts of the story the most exciting.
All in all I thought this was another decent entry into the Deathstalker series. We got a good conclusion to the rebellion vs the Empress story arc and the promise of more potential problems for Owen and the rest of our heroes in future instalments.
Rating: 3.5 stars. I'm rounding up to 4 here on Goodreads as this was closer to a 4 star read than a 3 star read for me.
Audio Note: The audio of this was produced by Listen & Live Audio who were the proto-Graphic Audio. It was very well done. The music and sound effects were done well and the narrators also did a great job with the characters.
This third third instalment of the series saw the rebellion in full swing. Owen and his allies continued the battle for key planets before taking the fight to the imperial capitol Golgatha itself for a final showdown with Empress Lionstone and her most loyal defenders.
The story started a little sluggishly but did settle back into the quality of the previous books in the mid to later stages. The battle for the key planets was a bit of a mixed bag. The action on Viramond and Golgatha was good but the stuff on Mistworld and Shannon's World was not quite as engaging. I'm not sure what went wrong on Mistborn as our previous visits there have all been quite exciting! I liked the idea behind the stuff on Shannon's World but felt we spent too long there and that we had no real investment in the enemies our heroes fought there which hurt that phase of the story a touch. The Deathstalker series is always at its best when it throws familiar characters against each other. That happened on Viramond and Golgatha and that is why I found those parts of the story the most exciting.
All in all I thought this was another decent entry into the Deathstalker series. We got a good conclusion to the rebellion vs the Empress story arc and the promise of more potential problems for Owen and the rest of our heroes in future instalments.
Rating: 3.5 stars. I'm rounding up to 4 here on Goodreads as this was closer to a 4 star read than a 3 star read for me.
Audio Note: The audio of this was produced by Listen & Live Audio who were the proto-Graphic Audio. It was very well done. The music and sound effects were done well and the narrators also did a great job with the characters.
March 12, 2024
And… we’re back.
My relationship with the Deathstalker books is complicated. I enjoyed Deathstalker well enough, but Deathstalker Rebellion just seemed to annoy me (even though it was pretty much more of the same). Deathstalker War sits somewhere in between. Even though, if we’re being honest, it is again more of the same.
The Deathstalker, one man soaked in his own blood, was suddenly the most dangerous and frightening thing he’d ever seen. It was like standing in the path of an oncoming hurricane, a great force of nature, grim and implacable. It was like looking into the eyes of a god, or a devil.
There is much more of Owen Deathstalker himself in this entry, compared to the previous one. Turns out it is a good thing after all, I enjoyed his sequences more than those of the other companions.
The trick, of course, to this series is buying into the comic book plot and the excess of it all. The whole thing is outrageous to say the least, with characters basically manifesting super-powers and cheating death in improbable ways at every turn. So, if you can manage to keep your tongue firmly embedded in your cheek, it helps.
War cries from a hundred worlds and cultures rang above the slaughter.
This outing is more Warhammer 40k than Star Wars, with pages and pages dedicated to hacking, slashing and flesh-vaporizing disruptor action. Frankly, a lot of the plot concerns itself with moving from one action set-piece to the next.
Don’t expect too much internal logic, and you’ll be golden. The ending holds some promise. Even so, I can hardly give this much more than three stars (at least now I am averaging out at 3 for the series thus far).
Trust a Deathstalker to seem at home in Hell.
My relationship with the Deathstalker books is complicated. I enjoyed Deathstalker well enough, but Deathstalker Rebellion just seemed to annoy me (even though it was pretty much more of the same). Deathstalker War sits somewhere in between. Even though, if we’re being honest, it is again more of the same.
The Deathstalker, one man soaked in his own blood, was suddenly the most dangerous and frightening thing he’d ever seen. It was like standing in the path of an oncoming hurricane, a great force of nature, grim and implacable. It was like looking into the eyes of a god, or a devil.
There is much more of Owen Deathstalker himself in this entry, compared to the previous one. Turns out it is a good thing after all, I enjoyed his sequences more than those of the other companions.
The trick, of course, to this series is buying into the comic book plot and the excess of it all. The whole thing is outrageous to say the least, with characters basically manifesting super-powers and cheating death in improbable ways at every turn. So, if you can manage to keep your tongue firmly embedded in your cheek, it helps.
War cries from a hundred worlds and cultures rang above the slaughter.
This outing is more Warhammer 40k than Star Wars, with pages and pages dedicated to hacking, slashing and flesh-vaporizing disruptor action. Frankly, a lot of the plot concerns itself with moving from one action set-piece to the next.
Don’t expect too much internal logic, and you’ll be golden. The ending holds some promise. Even so, I can hardly give this much more than three stars (at least now I am averaging out at 3 for the series thus far).
Trust a Deathstalker to seem at home in Hell.
December 7, 2020
Notes:
Graphic Audio: One of the better productions. I like the concept for Graphic Audio but I'm not always a fan of the way the sounds (vocals, narration, effects, music) are balanced. Sudden blasts of sound are bad for your eardrums. Happy to note that this was one of the better sound productions. =)
Another swashbuckling epic in the series. There was kooky installment in the journey that I listened to a few times because it was fun to visualize and there were lots of cool thought tangents to hop around.
In a lot of ways, the series is what I imagine it would be like to read a Star Wars book. ;)
Graphic Audio: One of the better productions. I like the concept for Graphic Audio but I'm not always a fan of the way the sounds (vocals, narration, effects, music) are balanced. Sudden blasts of sound are bad for your eardrums. Happy to note that this was one of the better sound productions. =)
Another swashbuckling epic in the series. There was kooky installment in the journey that I listened to a few times because it was fun to visualize and there were lots of cool thought tangents to hop around.
In a lot of ways, the series is what I imagine it would be like to read a Star Wars book. ;)
July 13, 2019
این جلد دقیقا طبق اسمش تماما سرشار از صحنه های نبرد بود و گاهی خسته کننده میشد که مجابم کرد که نسبت به جلد های دیگه ش، یه ستاره کمتر بدم.
ولی در نهایت این چیزی از عشقم نسبت به نوشته های گرین کم نمیکنه 😁
ولی در نهایت این چیزی از عشقم نسبت به نوشته های گرین کم نمیکنه 😁
September 3, 2021
The third novel in the Deathstalker series really brings the promise and potential of the series to fruition. The main character, Owen Deathstalker finally comes into his own and proves his place among heroes. Many of the other major characters, on both sides of the conflict also achieve their potentials and get past their own individual selfish interests to work together toward common goals. In many ways, this book could be considered the finish of a trilogy. However, there are two more books to come in the first “episode” as well as another follow-on trilogy and some prequel stories.
Up until now, I’ve considered abandoning the entire series. It’s pure space opera, which I enjoy, but too many characters, too many side plots, and too many long boring parts all combined to make me wonder if the good parts were worth digging for. But along comes this one and I found its wonderfully over-the-top schlock to be highly enjoyable. The author is adept at taking things to the extreme and somehow making it work. The title of the book says it all: Deathstalker War. And that’s exactly what it is. A war on a galactic scale, the rebels vs. the empire, mostly seen from the perspectives of the main characters but with some descriptive sections detailing the truly massive death and destruction across multiple planets and systems. Like the prior novels, this one divides up the larger novel into three or four “chapters”, each one zeroing in on a select group of characters and their adventures while we go a couple of hundred pages without hearing from the others. It’s like reading four separate books. But the final chapter brings all the characters together for an amazing heroic finale, with a series of climactic one-on-one battles like I’ve never seen before.
Far from giving up on these books, I am now energized for the next two in the series, at least, and then likely the rest of them as well.
Up until now, I’ve considered abandoning the entire series. It’s pure space opera, which I enjoy, but too many characters, too many side plots, and too many long boring parts all combined to make me wonder if the good parts were worth digging for. But along comes this one and I found its wonderfully over-the-top schlock to be highly enjoyable. The author is adept at taking things to the extreme and somehow making it work. The title of the book says it all: Deathstalker War. And that’s exactly what it is. A war on a galactic scale, the rebels vs. the empire, mostly seen from the perspectives of the main characters but with some descriptive sections detailing the truly massive death and destruction across multiple planets and systems. Like the prior novels, this one divides up the larger novel into three or four “chapters”, each one zeroing in on a select group of characters and their adventures while we go a couple of hundred pages without hearing from the others. It’s like reading four separate books. But the final chapter brings all the characters together for an amazing heroic finale, with a series of climactic one-on-one battles like I’ve never seen before.
Far from giving up on these books, I am now energized for the next two in the series, at least, and then likely the rest of them as well.
November 24, 2024
This is my favorite in this series so far. It just keeps giving.
Narration is outstanding. The word "elsewhere" is used excessively & each time Gildart Jackson says it- I'm transported back to the Alex Verus books.
Narration is outstanding. The word "elsewhere" is used excessively & each time Gildart Jackson says it- I'm transported back to the Alex Verus books.
November 28, 2024
Star Wars fans will love this!
I'm hooked. Everyone of Green's series are impossible to not finish. You become friends with or enemies of the characters! When I'm on the last book of a series...it takes me forever to finish. I just can't say goodbye
I'm hooked. Everyone of Green's series are impossible to not finish. You become friends with or enemies of the characters! When I'm on the last book of a series...it takes me forever to finish. I just can't say goodbye
November 28, 2012
It was the easiest thing to write this review. I say that because I have noticed that Simon R. Green uses this sentence many times in his Nightside series, and this is the book where it started to appear. Beyond that this book so far is my favorite of the series as there was a ton of action happening throughout the entire book, with an ending I only partially expected.
May 20, 2019
Ok, on to Book 3. Continuing with my reviews of this series where I explain how this series uses ideas from other books. This is the final battle for the Iron Throne. Hmm...Iron Throne. Sounds familiar. So Game of Thrones was published in 1996, and the first Deathstalker was published in 1995. So, I guess on this one, Simon R. Green was the first to use the moniker. Next up, we have an absolutely crazy Empress. Also sounds familiar. We have Cersei and Daenerys from Game of Thrones. I'd say that Lionstone is hands down worse than both of those ladies. But similar concept nonetheless. Don't even get me started on the feminist issues with portraying the single female ruler of a galactic empire as being bat-shit insane.
We have the all-out battle for control of the galaxy between the forces of "The Empire" versus "The Rebellion". Sounds very familiar (cough cough, Star Wars). The Rebellion features a set of complicated, funny, and charismatic heroes bent on saving the day (Star Wars). The "Mater Mundi" reminds me a lot of the character of "Oracle of Time" from the Brian Herbert Dune books. In this case, I think he copied from Green.
Ok enough with all that. I continue to read these books because they are downright funny. Yes, there is untold death and destruction, especially in this one. We see what all-out war actually does to a galaxy-spanning empire (even if it is just exposition and not first hand). That is something we don't really see in other series like these. Star Wars shows some battles but doesn't really explain the death toll. Dune speaks to the Mahdi's Jihad, but Herbert doesn't feature it on screen, so we also don't understand the death toll. This book shows all of that.
What I liked about this book:
-We see certain plotlines come to a close (certain deaths, etc)
-We see certain persons unmasked (not giving anything away here)
-We see plans within plans come to fruition (successfully or not)
-Toby and Flynn (still going strong and still hilarious)
-Hazel's redemption (I couldn't stand her bitchiness and addiction, at least that gets resolved)
What I didn't like about this book:
-The continued use of the Deus Ex Machina plotline. Over and over someone/something steps in to save the day. Blah Blah Blah. If I have to read about the "Mater Mundi" one more time I'm going to puke.
-The entire plotline of Shannon's World/HasselDama. I have no idea why this was necessary. Other than to completely destroy our childhoods ("I'm a very useful engine". AHH!) No point to it, no bearing on the overall plot of the story other than to develop Giles' and Julian Sky's abilities.
-The very long and drawn out ending. How many duels and speeches do we really need before getting to the good part!
-The repetitious nature of the exposition. The author repeatedly states the basics of the issues of rebellion, the issues facing them in the future, etc, etc, etc. Blah Blah Blah. Repeat it once for each book to bring everyone up to speed and be done with it already.
So, on to the next book to see how funny the author can be while explaining how our superheroes will battle the "Evil Aliens" and the "ENEMIES OF HUMANITY". AHH!
We have the all-out battle for control of the galaxy between the forces of "The Empire" versus "The Rebellion". Sounds very familiar (cough cough, Star Wars). The Rebellion features a set of complicated, funny, and charismatic heroes bent on saving the day (Star Wars). The "Mater Mundi" reminds me a lot of the character of "Oracle of Time" from the Brian Herbert Dune books. In this case, I think he copied from Green.
Ok enough with all that. I continue to read these books because they are downright funny. Yes, there is untold death and destruction, especially in this one. We see what all-out war actually does to a galaxy-spanning empire (even if it is just exposition and not first hand). That is something we don't really see in other series like these. Star Wars shows some battles but doesn't really explain the death toll. Dune speaks to the Mahdi's Jihad, but Herbert doesn't feature it on screen, so we also don't understand the death toll. This book shows all of that.
What I liked about this book:
-We see certain plotlines come to a close (certain deaths, etc)
-We see certain persons unmasked (not giving anything away here)
-We see plans within plans come to fruition (successfully or not)
-Toby and Flynn (still going strong and still hilarious)
-Hazel's redemption (I couldn't stand her bitchiness and addiction, at least that gets resolved)
What I didn't like about this book:
-The continued use of the Deus Ex Machina plotline. Over and over someone/something steps in to save the day. Blah Blah Blah. If I have to read about the "Mater Mundi" one more time I'm going to puke.
-The entire plotline of Shannon's World/HasselDama. I have no idea why this was necessary. Other than to completely destroy our childhoods ("I'm a very useful engine". AHH!) No point to it, no bearing on the overall plot of the story other than to develop Giles' and Julian Sky's abilities.
-The very long and drawn out ending. How many duels and speeches do we really need before getting to the good part!
-The repetitious nature of the exposition. The author repeatedly states the basics of the issues of rebellion, the issues facing them in the future, etc, etc, etc. Blah Blah Blah. Repeat it once for each book to bring everyone up to speed and be done with it already.
So, on to the next book to see how funny the author can be while explaining how our superheroes will battle the "Evil Aliens" and the "ENEMIES OF HUMANITY". AHH!
August 22, 2018
Well. What to say about this book that I haven't said about the others?
To begin with, as usual, I will have to state that reading this book purely for the purpose of criticizing it, you will not be disappointed. You will find oft-repeated phrases, and far too many references to Hell in some cases. And of course there is the fact that this book more than any of the others so far seems to act as four separate stories - the last of which brings everything together, for a brilliant finale before the next chapter in the Deathstalker Universe. However, in my not-so-professional-but-very-obstinate opinion, reading this book to criticize will not get you anywhere. It is far more profitable to read this for enjoyment - you will greatly enjoy it, if you set out to do so.
Well, regarding what I see as the "first" story in Deathstalker War - this "story" follows Hazel and Owen, among others, on Mistworld. It is a story that I find very compelling, at times very amusing, and very exciting - however it can be very horrifying. If you didn't hate Investigator Razor before now, you certainly will by the time you are finished this "story". The particular beef that I have with Green at this point is two characters in the book (who were left out of the audio version) who appear for a grand total of about ten pages, and seem only to be there to cause the reader disgust. Please only read the following spoiler if you will promise not to be put off the entire book, as it is only part of my rant and as previously mentioned these characters do not appear very much at all.
Anyway - this "story" made me laugh a lot, especially when Owen got into a temper, and his delightful dialogue and violent actions that ensue are generally vastly entertaining. But the story also made me cry, at times, and at other times I was laughing with delight rather than humor - for example, when a few espers were really happy about something and dancing on the ceiling. I don't want to give too much away, but it is safe to say that if you have already enjoyed Green's books, there is no doubt that you will be disappointed by this first "story".
OK, onto the second "story". I can honestly say that when I first read this, I was so incredibly surprised by it. Julian Skye, Finlay Campbell, Evangeline Shreck, and Giles Deathstalker, are all sent to Haceldama, the Field of Blood, to discover exactly what terrible events happened there, and to recover Vincent Harker, one of the Empress's most important military planners. Whatever your theories are on what happened to the Field of Blood (originally a pleasure planet, called Shannon's World) - you are almost certainly wrong. There are some very profound moments in this book that did surprise me, and for the simple reason that this story deals with the theme of childhood... If you read this part of the book, you will see why it is perhaps one of the saddest parts of the Deathstalker stories (as is the next "story" in this book). It all depends on how you look at things, I guess. You learn a lot about all the characters. I personally, find Giles Deathstalker to be almost distastefully hard and cold and overly honorable - which makes those moments where he is profound all the more refreshing. Don't get me wrong, I still like him, in a way. But I have come close to hating him at times, for what he does, especially in regards to Julian Skye. Speaking of which, I absolutely love Julian. Such a lovely young man - and if you like him as much as me, you will probably cry in this part of book, as I did. Julian does suffer - and it is cruel that the others are aware that it is during their mission, his suffering is distracting them. Finlay and Evangeline's love is wonderful as ever, though we learn more about both of them, and especially Finlay too. There are also moments of beauty in this part of the story, ones that I love.
That's really all I've got to say about the second "story", so I guess I will move on to the third "story". The start of this story is, to put it simply, beautiful. I have to put in a good word for the audio-books here - the music that they put on the beginning of the segment, well, it was a sunny day and it honestly made me want to dance with happiness. It was perfect. The music was accompanied with the narrative describing the start of the "story" - a perfect day on the back-water planet of Virimonde, with David Deathstalker and Kit SummerIsle, the two friends, trying to find peace in a more gentle, softly fun-filled life than they had with the upsets and excitements of high society. I honestly love these two - yes, even Kit, and if you read the book you will see why. He has to face the most terrible test to true friendship, and those with any scrap of empathy within them will have to feel sorry for Kit. I'm sorry, I need to go on another rant, but DO NOT read this spoiler unless you have already read the book, because it will certainly spoil this part for you. Right, sorry, rant over. This part of the book is honestly probably my favorite in terms of the writing, the emotions it made me feel (I like emotions, period :D) but in terms of what happened I can't help but wish it was written differently.
As an aside to this story, if you are like me and you are greatly amused by the redoubtable Valentine Wolfe, you will again not be disappointed. He makes many appearances in Deathstalker War, but, be warned; he has started to progress from those actions only just excusable due to his wonderfully entertaining temperament. He has begun to move into the disturbingly psychotic and completely inexcusable. So, consider yourself warned. You will not be able to justify dear Valentine much longer.
I guess that I've finally arrived at the final "story" of the book. It honestly is a worthy ending to the rebellion section of the Deathstalker Saga. Some people have commented, I believe, commented that it is so drawn out as to seem almost farcical, but I think that everything Green wrote was necessary, worthy, and gives you a very good idea as to the huge struggle that was being undertaken, and how desperate it was. There was one comment made in this book, left out of the audio version, that (because I have read some of the later books) made me suspect a huge twist later in the series. I may be wrong but I did get that feeling that everything (or, most things :D) clicked. I don't know what to say about this last part of the book, apart from the fact that it is hugely satisfying in how everything comes together, answering so many of your questions but leaving enough to foreshadow how entertaining and amazing it will be to read on.
In conclusion - a worthy, emotional, wonderful ending to this part of the Deathstalker Saga. It will, if you are anything like me, make you love, hate, cry, and make your heart pound with excitement.
I loved it. :)
To begin with, as usual, I will have to state that reading this book purely for the purpose of criticizing it, you will not be disappointed. You will find oft-repeated phrases, and far too many references to Hell in some cases. And of course there is the fact that this book more than any of the others so far seems to act as four separate stories - the last of which brings everything together, for a brilliant finale before the next chapter in the Deathstalker Universe. However, in my not-so-professional-but-very-obstinate opinion, reading this book to criticize will not get you anywhere. It is far more profitable to read this for enjoyment - you will greatly enjoy it, if you set out to do so.
Well, regarding what I see as the "first" story in Deathstalker War - this "story" follows Hazel and Owen, among others, on Mistworld. It is a story that I find very compelling, at times very amusing, and very exciting - however it can be very horrifying. If you didn't hate Investigator Razor before now, you certainly will by the time you are finished this "story". The particular beef that I have with Green at this point is two characters in the book (who were left out of the audio version) who appear for a grand total of about ten pages, and seem only to be there to cause the reader disgust. Please only read the following spoiler if you will promise not to be put off the entire book, as it is only part of my rant and as previously mentioned these characters do not appear very much at all.
Anyway - this "story" made me laugh a lot, especially when Owen got into a temper, and his delightful dialogue and violent actions that ensue are generally vastly entertaining. But the story also made me cry, at times, and at other times I was laughing with delight rather than humor - for example, when a few espers were really happy about something and dancing on the ceiling. I don't want to give too much away, but it is safe to say that if you have already enjoyed Green's books, there is no doubt that you will be disappointed by this first "story".
OK, onto the second "story". I can honestly say that when I first read this, I was so incredibly surprised by it. Julian Skye, Finlay Campbell, Evangeline Shreck, and Giles Deathstalker, are all sent to Haceldama, the Field of Blood, to discover exactly what terrible events happened there, and to recover Vincent Harker, one of the Empress's most important military planners. Whatever your theories are on what happened to the Field of Blood (originally a pleasure planet, called Shannon's World) - you are almost certainly wrong. There are some very profound moments in this book that did surprise me, and for the simple reason that this story deals with the theme of childhood... If you read this part of the book, you will see why it is perhaps one of the saddest parts of the Deathstalker stories (as is the next "story" in this book). It all depends on how you look at things, I guess. You learn a lot about all the characters. I personally, find Giles Deathstalker to be almost distastefully hard and cold and overly honorable - which makes those moments where he is profound all the more refreshing. Don't get me wrong, I still like him, in a way. But I have come close to hating him at times, for what he does, especially in regards to Julian Skye. Speaking of which, I absolutely love Julian. Such a lovely young man - and if you like him as much as me, you will probably cry in this part of book, as I did. Julian does suffer - and it is cruel that the others are aware that it is during their mission, his suffering is distracting them. Finlay and Evangeline's love is wonderful as ever, though we learn more about both of them, and especially Finlay too. There are also moments of beauty in this part of the story, ones that I love.
That's really all I've got to say about the second "story", so I guess I will move on to the third "story". The start of this story is, to put it simply, beautiful. I have to put in a good word for the audio-books here - the music that they put on the beginning of the segment, well, it was a sunny day and it honestly made me want to dance with happiness. It was perfect. The music was accompanied with the narrative describing the start of the "story" - a perfect day on the back-water planet of Virimonde, with David Deathstalker and Kit SummerIsle, the two friends, trying to find peace in a more gentle, softly fun-filled life than they had with the upsets and excitements of high society. I honestly love these two - yes, even Kit, and if you read the book you will see why. He has to face the most terrible test to true friendship, and those with any scrap of empathy within them will have to feel sorry for Kit. I'm sorry, I need to go on another rant, but DO NOT read this spoiler unless you have already read the book, because it will certainly spoil this part for you. Right, sorry, rant over. This part of the book is honestly probably my favorite in terms of the writing, the emotions it made me feel (I like emotions, period :D) but in terms of what happened I can't help but wish it was written differently.
As an aside to this story, if you are like me and you are greatly amused by the redoubtable Valentine Wolfe, you will again not be disappointed. He makes many appearances in Deathstalker War, but, be warned; he has started to progress from those actions only just excusable due to his wonderfully entertaining temperament. He has begun to move into the disturbingly psychotic and completely inexcusable. So, consider yourself warned. You will not be able to justify dear Valentine much longer.
I guess that I've finally arrived at the final "story" of the book. It honestly is a worthy ending to the rebellion section of the Deathstalker Saga. Some people have commented, I believe, commented that it is so drawn out as to seem almost farcical, but I think that everything Green wrote was necessary, worthy, and gives you a very good idea as to the huge struggle that was being undertaken, and how desperate it was. There was one comment made in this book, left out of the audio version, that (because I have read some of the later books) made me suspect a huge twist later in the series. I may be wrong but I did get that feeling that everything (or, most things :D) clicked. I don't know what to say about this last part of the book, apart from the fact that it is hugely satisfying in how everything comes together, answering so many of your questions but leaving enough to foreshadow how entertaining and amazing it will be to read on.
In conclusion - a worthy, emotional, wonderful ending to this part of the Deathstalker Saga. It will, if you are anything like me, make you love, hate, cry, and make your heart pound with excitement.
I loved it. :)
September 11, 2025
When Simon Green writes a chapter, God flips a coin.
Deathstalker War is split up into four immense chapters, each one its own novella-length story covering the antics of a different group of protagonists. His wide-ranging cast of characters is again a strength, and while it surely boggled the minds of readers to have so many people introduced in the last two books, it does have a payoff here, as we get to see each character's arc progress (and sometimes end), and the at-times intricate dynamics lend some intrigue to the story, even if they're handled a little clumsily. Even the second chapter, which was a huge slog for me, had its own little nuggets of interest.
While I was disappointed by the relative lack of Silence-Frost-Stelmach stories in comparison to the previous title, I think Green really outdid himself with the third chapter, "To Be a Deathstalker," which is probably the strongest work I've seen from him in the three books I've read. Even though the chapter still has his hallmarks of insane destruction, wanton death, and plot twists, I was surprised by the depth it brought to two characters who arguably were just supporting members of the cast up until this point. I think my only regret is that the (seemingly unrequited) affection that Kit had for David was almost thrown in as a footnote, albeit mentioned in later chapters. Maybe I missed little details in the previous book that hinted at it. So while not perfect, I think it was a highpoint for Green's writing so far, even if I do prefer the Silence-Frost relationship a little more.
Speaking of, the climactic story was equal parts dragging and engaging. Green leaves everything open-ended in a somewhat sudden ending, with a lot of character death that comes as a stark contrast to earlier instances, where characters literally on the brink of death come back and kick ass with ease moments later. The biggest surprise was actually Frost's death, as her and Stelmach dying means that Silence is without his typical companions for the subsequent title. Somehow I can't see her staying dead forever.
At any rate, while I wouldn't rate this novel any higher than the last entry in the series, I think it's not any worse either. The typical Green mixed bag.
Deathstalker War is split up into four immense chapters, each one its own novella-length story covering the antics of a different group of protagonists. His wide-ranging cast of characters is again a strength, and while it surely boggled the minds of readers to have so many people introduced in the last two books, it does have a payoff here, as we get to see each character's arc progress (and sometimes end), and the at-times intricate dynamics lend some intrigue to the story, even if they're handled a little clumsily. Even the second chapter, which was a huge slog for me, had its own little nuggets of interest.
While I was disappointed by the relative lack of Silence-Frost-Stelmach stories in comparison to the previous title, I think Green really outdid himself with the third chapter, "To Be a Deathstalker," which is probably the strongest work I've seen from him in the three books I've read. Even though the chapter still has his hallmarks of insane destruction, wanton death, and plot twists, I was surprised by the depth it brought to two characters who arguably were just supporting members of the cast up until this point. I think my only regret is that the (seemingly unrequited) affection that Kit had for David was almost thrown in as a footnote, albeit mentioned in later chapters. Maybe I missed little details in the previous book that hinted at it. So while not perfect, I think it was a highpoint for Green's writing so far, even if I do prefer the Silence-Frost relationship a little more.
Speaking of, the climactic story was equal parts dragging and engaging. Green leaves everything open-ended in a somewhat sudden ending, with a lot of character death that comes as a stark contrast to earlier instances, where characters literally on the brink of death come back and kick ass with ease moments later. The biggest surprise was actually Frost's death, as her and Stelmach dying means that Silence is without his typical companions for the subsequent title. Somehow I can't see her staying dead forever.
At any rate, while I wouldn't rate this novel any higher than the last entry in the series, I think it's not any worse either. The typical Green mixed bag.
December 23, 2018
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I liked Deathstalker War the best of the three in the Deathstalker series so far. This is possibly because the story had Owen Deathstalker at the beginning, the middle, and the end, which is more what I expect from the title character in an urban fantasy series.
The war has arrived. It only began in the previous book, Deathstalker Rebellion, where Owen and Hazel started things on Golgotha. Then Ruby and Jack Random continued the disruption on Technos.
Now we have Owen and Hazel fighting on Mistworld. Giles Deathstalker, along with Finley Campbell and Evangeline Shreck, and Julian Skye go to Shandakar (?) to find a famous battle strategist. Kid Death and David Deathstalker are in Virimonde where the war takes on another cruel twist.
At the end, everyone and everything come to a head in Golgotha. There are many twists and surprises. For all the cruelty and those who are selfish or overcome with rage and revenge, there are some with compassion and caring. All along the way, we have the journalist,Toby Shreck and his cross-dressing cameraman, Flynn, broadcasting everything happening live out to everyone, often raw footage, not approved by the Empire.
I am happy for those who survived, saddened by many who died, and curious to see what will happen going forward in Deathstalker Honor.
Narration:
Gildart Jackson has become the voice of the series for me and for so many of the characters. So many characters were given unique voices and I knew them right away. I listened at 1.5x speed comfortably.
Listen to a clip:
https://soundcloud.com/user-149056452...
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I liked Deathstalker War the best of the three in the Deathstalker series so far. This is possibly because the story had Owen Deathstalker at the beginning, the middle, and the end, which is more what I expect from the title character in an urban fantasy series.
The war has arrived. It only began in the previous book, Deathstalker Rebellion, where Owen and Hazel started things on Golgotha. Then Ruby and Jack Random continued the disruption on Technos.
Now we have Owen and Hazel fighting on Mistworld. Giles Deathstalker, along with Finley Campbell and Evangeline Shreck, and Julian Skye go to Shandakar (?) to find a famous battle strategist. Kid Death and David Deathstalker are in Virimonde where the war takes on another cruel twist.
At the end, everyone and everything come to a head in Golgotha. There are many twists and surprises. For all the cruelty and those who are selfish or overcome with rage and revenge, there are some with compassion and caring. All along the way, we have the journalist,Toby Shreck and his cross-dressing cameraman, Flynn, broadcasting everything happening live out to everyone, often raw footage, not approved by the Empire.
I am happy for those who survived, saddened by many who died, and curious to see what will happen going forward in Deathstalker Honor.
Narration:
Gildart Jackson has become the voice of the series for me and for so many of the characters. So many characters were given unique voices and I knew them right away. I listened at 1.5x speed comfortably.
Listen to a clip:
https://soundcloud.com/user-149056452...
December 28, 2020
I love Green and here again he shows his talent for super interesting characters and for jumping from one action sequence into the next, but it's also the weakest book of him I've read so far.
It feels like there is lots of phrasing that's repeated in very short distances, which makes it harder to read. Also I didn't like that it's basically four short stories with completely different characters (except for the useless journalists :D ). You get used to some characters, to one cool setting, and whoops - it's over already and you have to get used to other ones. Also, even if it's rather typical for Green, I didn't like how overpowered the protagonists were in this story. There was basically no challenge hard enough for any of them, because they just boosted and destroyed everything or healed all their mortal wounds. That's fine to do once or twice in a book, but here it probably happened more in every single short story.
It took me very long to finish this book. Although it's not written all that bad, in comparison to his newer books it surely is a tough read.
It feels like there is lots of phrasing that's repeated in very short distances, which makes it harder to read. Also I didn't like that it's basically four short stories with completely different characters (except for the useless journalists :D ). You get used to some characters, to one cool setting, and whoops - it's over already and you have to get used to other ones. Also, even if it's rather typical for Green, I didn't like how overpowered the protagonists were in this story. There was basically no challenge hard enough for any of them, because they just boosted and destroyed everything or healed all their mortal wounds. That's fine to do once or twice in a book, but here it probably happened more in every single short story.
It took me very long to finish this book. Although it's not written all that bad, in comparison to his newer books it surely is a tough read.
October 9, 2020
Probably just as good as the first two which I enjoyed but I must admit I'm tiring of this series a bit. It is a little too: and then this, and then this... Basically all semi unbelievable superhero stuff explaining the triumph vs evil with very little real conflict which is a bit more relaxing I suppose for the reader (not being as worried about your heroes/main characters) but I think personally I find it a bit too easy a read perhaps.
In the end I still enjoyed it but this book definitely took me much longer to get through than the others. Not sure I'll continue, definitely will read some other stuff next anyway and maybe come back after I've read something else for a few.
In the end I still enjoyed it but this book definitely took me much longer to get through than the others. Not sure I'll continue, definitely will read some other stuff next anyway and maybe come back after I've read something else for a few.
September 2, 2019
When Simon R Green decides to end a war, it’s over pal. Lots of twists, betrayals, character deaths and a fairly plausible way for the Empire to be overthrown that sets up the next two books to get the new government up and to settle various vendettas. My major complaint about this series remains that it is called Deathstalker even though it is more about the goings on in the entire galaxy rather than just a tight focus on Owen Deathstalker as one might expect. Nethertheless I'm looking forward to the next book anyways.
January 4, 2020
Oh wow. Just wow.
Green did an amazing job of showing how the rebellion from the previous book grew from a grass roots effort to the culmination of all out war.
The death machines decimating entire planets. Betrayal on all sides. People dying you'd never expect, and long lost family secrets revealed.
And the ending? Didn't see that coming at all. If all space operas were like this, I'd read more of them.
Green did an amazing job of showing how the rebellion from the previous book grew from a grass roots effort to the culmination of all out war.
The death machines decimating entire planets. Betrayal on all sides. People dying you'd never expect, and long lost family secrets revealed.
And the ending? Didn't see that coming at all. If all space operas were like this, I'd read more of them.
March 25, 2017
I'm increasingly unhappy with this series. Too many magical powers popping up unexpectedly for my taste.
The writing and editing seem to be deteriorating as well. It's bloated with introspective, definitely not the "non stop action" the Locus review suggests.
The second half has all the typos, like the copy editor just gave up.
I'm glad that this is the last of the first trilogy of the series. I'm not sure I'll head into the rest.
The writing and editing seem to be deteriorating as well. It's bloated with introspective, definitely not the "non stop action" the Locus review suggests.
The second half has all the typos, like the copy editor just gave up.
I'm glad that this is the last of the first trilogy of the series. I'm not sure I'll head into the rest.
March 23, 2023
Thinking back to 1994 when this series started, almost 30 years ago, I can remember the excitement
at starting a new grand adventure, a Space Opera.
Epic in scope. Boundless in imagination. This series is everything you want in Epic Sci-Fi.
A wicked villain ; a reluctant hero ; freaky aliens.
Just plain damn fun.
Green was one of my favourite authors for a long time after this.
at starting a new grand adventure, a Space Opera.
Epic in scope. Boundless in imagination. This series is everything you want in Epic Sci-Fi.
A wicked villain ; a reluctant hero ; freaky aliens.
Just plain damn fun.
Green was one of my favourite authors for a long time after this.
June 12, 2024
These books just keep getting better. This book shows us some success, but, as we know from real world experience, the most difficult is yet to come. And I am looking forward to it. The book is "edge of my seat" reading with great characters and very inventive new environments. But, I am looking forward to a break from all this testosterone. Loved the book.
January 30, 2021
More of a collection of 4 novellas. Fast paced and enjoyable, but the conclusion to the story arc felt a little rushed and contrived...overwhelming odds? No problem unleash the special abilities!
P.S. Heat of Darkness...in Toyland?!?! Weird...fun but weird.
P.S. Heat of Darkness...in Toyland?!?! Weird...fun but weird.
February 28, 2021
A disparate set of characters and stories. Just get to know one group of characters and next chapter has a new set. None particularly likeable or admirable. Hard work to finish, and this was my second attempt !
March 29, 2023
It was okay. It didn't really keep my interest. I did make it to the end. The descriptions of the torture, death, and destruction were a little over the top for my liking. I recommend for 14 and up.
November 27, 2023
Delightful installment until the very end….
Where there is one too many monologues—- did the author just decide to end every side plot in the last 2 chapters to start a new arc?? A little too fast of a climax for me, really took me out of story.
Where there is one too many monologues—- did the author just decide to end every side plot in the last 2 chapters to start a new arc?? A little too fast of a climax for me, really took me out of story.
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October 23, 2025The continuing adventures of Owen Deathstalker pit the warrior rebel and his compatriots, Hazel d'Ark and Jack Ransom, against the evil Empress of the planet Golgotha, who has some cosmic tricks up her sleeve. Original."
August 25, 2017
نسبت به دو جلد قبلی ضعیفتر بود و راوی گیج تر.
April 9, 2018
This was my favorite one yet. Surreal, funny and bloody, with a nice cliffhanger at the end.
June 18, 2018
A messy fart of a finish to a series
October 29, 2018
will review at www.fantasyliterature.com
April 10, 2019
This series really hits its stride in the third book with no signs of stopping.
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