In a galaxy ruled by ancient AI gods and populated entirely by non-human species, an agent named Whirazomar races across the multiverse to secure a priceless map of all realities before a vengeful exile ascending through forbidden dimensions can claim it. Blending cosmic space opera with mind-bending worldbuilding, the story explores the limits of existence, the nature of alien consciousness, and the awe-inspiring strangeness of a universe where reality itself is the ultimate frontier.

Reader Review Summary

Set in the galaxy of Yokkun's Depth, the novel presents a sprawling, multiversal space opera where every character is non-human, and the narrative unfolds across countless realities layered beneath the 'surface' universe. The central plot revolves around the Well, a fissure connecting these realities, into which ancient horrors have been cast for eons. The story follows Whirazomar (Whira), an agent traveling in the belly of a sentient spore named Gnumph, as she races to intercept a map of all realities before it falls into the hands of a vengeful exile ascending impossibly through the layers. The worldbuilding is dense, featuring AI deities called the Throlken, a living nanobot swarm known as the Myriad, and a host of other alien species with unique forms of communication, technology, and biology. The narrative is told through multiple perspectives, primarily Whira, Draebol (the mapmaker), and the ascender, with the plot weaving together cosmic intrigue, interdimensional travel, and the politics of a galaxy where violence is outlawed by machine overlords.

Readers praised the book's imaginative and detailed worldbuilding, highlighting the sheer variety of alien species, technologies, and cultures. Many found the depiction of a universe without humans refreshing, with vivid descriptions of non-human perspectives, such as communication through scent, touch, or virtual realities. The integration of biological and technological elements, like sentient spores as spaceships and the Myriad's role in maintaining galactic infrastructure, was frequently noted as a standout feature. Several reviewers appreciated the sense of scale and awe, comparing the book's ambition to classic science fiction and noting its ability to evoke a 'sense of wonder.' The fast-paced, idea-driven narrative and the willingness to immerse readers in a complex, unfamiliar setting were also cited as strengths, especially for those seeking challenging or unconventional science fiction.

Criticisms focused on the book's density and the difficulty of engaging with its narrative, especially in the early chapters. Many readers found the initial third to be heavy on exposition and infodumping, with jargon and worldbuilding details sometimes interrupting the flow of the story. Some felt that, despite the alien cast, the characters' psychology and culture were too human-like, making the strangeness feel superficial. Others noted that the plot could be hard to follow due to the constant introduction of new concepts and species, and that the emotional stakes were underdeveloped, with character arcs described as static or lacking depth. A few reviewers were put off by the tone, which could shift abruptly from humor to graphic violence, and by the inclusion of unpleasant details. Some readers did not finish the book, citing its ambition and unfamiliarity as barriers to enjoyment.

The book is scheduled for publication in July 2025 and has received a moderate average rating from early readers, with a mix of enthusiastic and critical responses. It has been compared to works by authors such as Adrian Tchaikovsky, Greg Egan, and classic Golden Age science fiction writers, with several reviewers noting its appeal to readers who enjoy complex, idea-driven speculative fiction. The narrative structure includes multiple points of view and a blend of science fiction, fantasy, and biopunk elements. The book is not positioned as an entry point for newcomers to the genre, but rather as a challenging read for those interested in exploring alien perspectives and intricate worldbuilding.