Skylark DuQuesne

Skylark DuQuesne is the final installment in E. E. Smith's Skylark series, published in 1966. The novel represents a significant shift in the series by transforming former antagonist Marc DuQuesne into a more complex figure with potential for redemption. The story continues the space-faring adventures established in previous books, expanding the scope to encompass multiple galaxies. Two former enemies must consider joining forces to confront a threat that endangers all of humanity. The narrative builds on the advanced technology and interstellar civilizations introduced in earlier volumes, while introducing new alien species and cosmic phenomena. The action spans vast distances across space as characters grapple with choices that will affect entire galaxies. This concluding volume tackles themes of redemption, moral relativism, and the price of survival in an indifferent universe. The book raises questions about justified violence and whether former enemies can truly overcome their past conflicts.

Readers consider this the weakest book in Smith's Skylark series. The plot moves slower than previous installments, with extended philosophical discussions that some fans found tedious. Readers appreciated: - Return of familiar characters - Space combat sequences - Exploration of advanced technology concepts Common criticisms: - Excessive dialogue about morality and ethics - Less action than earlier books - Characters seem to repeat themselves - Pacing drags in middle sections A recurring complaint is that DuQuesne becomes too sympathetic compared to his villainous role in earlier books. Multiple reviews note the book feels padded and could have been shorter. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (388 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (41 ratings) "The philosophical debates go on far too long" - Goodreads reviewer "Last third of the book saves it with classic Smith space battles" - Amazon review "Not the best ending for the series" - LibraryThing user

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⭐ This 1965 novel was the last book E. E. Smith completed before his death, providing a fitting conclusion to a series that helped establish many conventions of space opera. ⭐ The Skylark series began in 1928 as Smith's first published work, making it one of the earliest examples of space opera in science fiction literature. ⭐ Smith, known as "Doc" Smith to his readers, was a food engineer who specialized in doughnut mixes and worked on patents for sugar-coating cereals while writing his science fiction novels. ⭐ The character of Marc DuQuesne was so popular that he influenced the creation of Darth Vader, particularly in the concept of a complex villain who could potentially be redeemed. ⭐ The novel's publishing was delayed for several years due to disputes between Smith and his publisher over the direction of the story, particularly regarding DuQuesne's character development.