Classic space opera adventure, Book #1 in the "Family D'Alembert" series. The Empire of Earth, spanning more than a thousand solar systems, is threatened by a conspiracy from within. Now, with more than three-quarters of the Galaxy ready to fall into enemy hands, the Empire is forced to call on its top-secret weapon: the renowned Circus of the Galaxy featuring the d'Alembert family, a clan of circus performers with uncanny abilities. But even these super agents may not be in time to save the Empire.

Stephen Goldin said of this series: "Doc Smith wrote the original novelette, "Imperial Stars," but passed away before he could write any more in this series. I was hired to expand the original story to book length and write nine further books. It's not easy following in the footsteps of a master, but fans have told me I did a good job."