With properties similar to lead and mercury, deuterium will be used to fuel the spacecraft of the future. Tasked with finding this rare natural resource in the asteroid belt, Chief Geologist Officers Roger and Andy have just completed a nine-month stint aboard the research vessel U.S.S. Bergeron. They are excited to return home, but preparations for the months-long trip back to Earth are interrupted by new orders rerouting the crew to Mars. The latest mission is to investigate the whereabouts of the archaeology team that discovered an ancient Martian city while preparing to establish the planet’s first colony.

After an ominous final transmission from the Mars expedition, Earth lost all contact with the archeologists. Roger and Andy are accompanied to the Red Planet by their crew member Guy, who is responsible for piloting the shuttle. But the landing party’s curiosity and sense of adventure are soon replaced by fear as their investigation reveals horror after horror, and they find themselves repeatedly facing perilous conditions and imminent danger. Rushing against the clock, they must find a way to thwart a nefarious plan and save Earth.

Set in the year 2149, this book is an imaginative blend of futuristic science fiction, mystery, and adventure. Martin provides a realistic depiction of the dangers of space exploration while simultaneously incorporating Hollywood’s fantastical characterizations of alien life. The author’s love of Edgar Allen Poe’s work and Tolkiën’s The Hobbit is clearly evident in this space opera meets speculative fiction. The author’s heavy use of dialogue to advance the story, coupled with his infusion of camaraderie, humor, and emotionality into the characters’ interactions, builds convincing character depth and development. While usage errors detract somewhat from the book’s flow, the book’s compelling conflict, fast-paced storyline, and element of suspense make for an entertaining read.