Set 4000 years in the future, Perry Rhodan is blackmailed by the mysterious Shrell into traveling to the distant Agolei region to kill his oldest friend, Reginald Bull, under threat of Earth's destruction. As Rhodan races to save both his wife and his home, he navigates shifting alliances, ethical dilemmas, and the enigmatic Wyconder, with the tragic figure Botabar playing a key role in a story rich with intrigue and uncertainty.

Reader Review Summary

Set in a future approximately 4000 years ahead, the novel takes place in the 23rd century of the New Galactic Calendar, where humanity has spread across thousands of worlds and established a vast network of alliances and trade in the Milky Way. The story centers on Perry Rhodan, who is working to strengthen intergalactic connections through the PHOENIX project, utilizing a new type of courier spaceship. The plot is set in motion when a mysterious woman named Shrell appears on Terra, demanding that Rhodan travel to the distant Agolei region to kill his oldest friend, Reginald Bull, threatening the destruction of Earth and the Moon with the 'Brennende Nichts' if he refuses. Rhodan, accompanied by a small crew aboard the PHOENIX, embarks on this mission, encountering complex political and ethical dilemmas, as well as the enigmatic figure Botabar, der Wahrhafte, along the way.

Readers appreciated the engaging and suspenseful narrative, noting that the book integrates well with the ongoing 'PHOENIX' cycle and builds effectively on previous installments. The characterization, particularly of Perry Rhodan as a compassionate and driven protagonist facing personal stakes—such as the urgent need to save his wife Sichu—was highlighted positively. The inclusion of mysterious elements, such as the enigmatic alien ship and the character Botabar, as well as the exploration of trust, intrigue, and ethical questions, were also well received. Several reviewers found the pacing fluid and the story compelling, with some noting that the plot advanced the overall series arc.

Some readers expressed dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the book, particularly the handling of the Wyconder storyline, which some found repetitive or irritating. There were comments about the plot relying too much on coincidences and the 'ominous' elements feeling arbitrary or ultimately inconsequential. A few reviewers felt that the secrecy and decision-making of the Wyconder leadership were difficult to accept, and that some developments occurred too quickly or lacked sufficient explanation. The recurring focus on the Wyconder and their attempts to sideline Perry Rhodan was seen by some as tiresome.

The book was published on April 18, 2025, and is classified as space opera and science fiction. It is authored by Kai Hirdt and has received an average reader rating of 3.67 out of 5, based on 21 ratings and 8 full reviews. The narrative continues threads from previous volumes and leaves several plot points unresolved, maintaining suspense for future installments. The story also features subplots involving other characters and settings, such as the Wyco system and the fate of Atlan's group, contributing to the broader tapestry of the series.