In Hero Years by Michael A. Stackpole
The In Hero Years by Michael A. Stackpole is a unique take on superhero fiction. It combines action, mystery, and a touch of noir. The series explores the life of a retired superhero who returns to a world that has moved on without him.
Publication Order of In Hero Years Books
- In Service Days (2020)
- Need to Know (2020)
- Easy As Pie (2020)
- Field Trip (2020)
- Lost Hiker (2020)
- Ill Met in Lyttleton (2020)
- Capital City Crime: Haunted City (2020)
- Capital City Crime: Cold Comfort (2020)
- XR-39 Tango (2020)
- Capital City Crime: Cruel Summer(2020)
- Bad Time in Bounty Grove (2020)
1. In Hero Years… I’m Dead (2010)
This is the original book in the series and serves as a standalone story. It follows a retired superhero who returns to a world that has moved on without him. The story is gritty and explores themes of aging, redemption, and the cost of heroism. It’s a mix of action, mystery, and emotional depth, offering a unique take on the superhero genre.
2. In Service Days (2020)
This book introduces Lemuel Lyttle, a teenager training to become a superhero for his family’s ancestral home, Lyttleton. As he enters high school, he faces challenges like bullies, scheming classmates, and the pressure of keeping his abilities a secret. The story is a mix of teenage drama and superhero action.
3. Need to Know (2020)
This prequel focuses on Grant Stone, a teenager with extraordinary powers living in the small town of Lyttleton. When a bank robbery occurs, Grant is forced to use his abilities, which sets him on a path toward becoming a hero. The story is action-packed and explores the challenges of hiding one’s powers.
4. Easy As Pie (2020)
In this story, Lemuel Lyttle, now known as Merlin, must solve a small-town mystery involving a kidnapping – or possibly a theft. The stakes are high, as the town’s football team’s future depends on his success. This lighthearted tale showcases Lemuel’s early days as a hero.
5. Field Trip (2020)
Lemuel travels to Capital City, where he meets his idol, Puma, and joins him in defending the city from criminals. However, not everything is as it seems, and Lemuel must navigate the complexities of being a hero in a big city.
6. Lost Hiker (2020)
When Rose Van Ryn, an heiress, goes missing while hiking near Lyttleton, Lemuel and Grant join the search. They are aided by Bluestar, a hero from Capital City. The story combines mystery, teamwork, and heroics.
7. Ill Met in Lyttleton (2020)
This book delves deeper into the mysteries of Lyttleton and its connection to the larger world of heroes and villains. It explores the town’s secrets and the challenges faced by its young heroes.
8. Capital City Crime: Haunted City (2020)
Set in Capital City, this story follows the heroes as they tackle supernatural threats and uncover hidden conspiracies. It’s a darker, more intense entry in the series.
9. Capital City Crime: Cold Comfort (2020)
This book continues the adventures in Capital City, focusing on a chilling mystery that tests the heroes’ limits. It’s a gripping tale of crime and heroism.
10. XR-39 Tango (2020)
This story explores the technological side of the superhero world, introducing new characters and challenges. It’s a fast-paced, action-packed addition to the series.
Why You’ll Love the Series
The In Hero Years series offers a fresh take on superhero fiction. It combines action, mystery, and emotional depth, making it perfect for fans of character-driven stories. Each book adds new layers to the world, exploring the lives of heroes and the challenges they face. Whether you’re a fan of gritty tales or lighthearted adventures, this series has something for everyone.