In a futuristic Vienna where artificial intelligence enables potential immortality, Kommissar Landauer investigates the mysterious appearance of two identical corpses, uncovering a cult of young people who repeatedly kill their own clones in pursuit of answers about death and consciousness. The story explores philosophical questions about identity, mortality, and the ethical implications of transferring or duplicating human consciousness.

Reader Review Summary

Set in Vienna in the year 2095, the novel explores a future where artificial intelligence has made it possible for humans to live indefinitely, raising questions about whether immortality is truly desirable. The story begins with Kommissar Landauer investigating two identical female corpses found in the Danube, leading him into a world where young people, known as 'Deather', repeatedly kill their own clones. The narrative spans multiple locations, including London and Greece, and delves into philosophical questions about death, consciousness transfer, and the implications of duplicating oneself. The book is part of the Hologrammatica universe and continues themes and characters from previous installments, with references to the AI Æther and a society where minds can be uploaded into new bodies or realities.

Readers appreciated the fluid and engaging writing style, noting that the book is clearly identifiable as the work of Tom Hillenbrand. The world-building and philosophical exploration of life, death, and consciousness were highlighted as strengths, with several reviewers enjoying the thought-provoking questions raised about identity and mortality. The structure, involving multiple interwoven plotlines and perspectives, was seen as compelling, and the return to the Hologrammatica universe was welcomed by fans of the earlier books. The integration of thriller elements with science fiction and philosophical themes was also positively received.

Some readers expressed disappointment with the plot, describing it as thin or lacking in new developments compared to previous books in the series. There were comments that the novel felt like a filler or a transitional entry, with few new questions or plot threads introduced. The middle section was described as slow or stagnant, and the ending was seen as open or abrupt, leaving many questions unresolved. Several reviewers noted that the motivations and roles of certain characters were unclear by the conclusion, and that the book relied heavily on familiarity with earlier volumes, making it less accessible to new readers.

The book has an average reader rating of 3.55 out of 5 based on 29 ratings and 7 full reviews. It is scheduled for publication on March 13, 2025, and is categorized as science fiction. The narrative incorporates elements of crime investigation, speculative technology, and existential inquiry, and is positioned as part of an ongoing series, with some speculation among readers about the possibility of future installments. The story references previous events and characters from the Hologrammatica trilogy, and knowledge of earlier books is recommended for full comprehension.