A diplomatic mission led by Perry Rhodan and his friend Gucky takes a surprising turn when they respond to a distress call on a remote world within the League of Free Terrans, where unexpected robot attacks threaten the inhabitants. As they rush to aid the planet, what begins as a routine mission spirals into a harrowing escape into the mysterious Toten Ocean, setting the stage for a high-stakes intergalactic conflict.

"Totenozean" by Kai Hirdt and Dirk Schulz is an exhilarating start to the Perry Rhodan mini-series of 2024. Set in the distant future, around 3000 years from now, the story takes place in the Liga Freier Galaktiker (League of Free Galactics), a vast stellar empire spanning thousands of worlds inhabited by humans and other alien races working together for a peaceful future.

The novel starts with a brief introduction of Perry Rhodan and his long-time friend, the Mousebeaver Gucky, as they receive a distress call and set out to help. The main storyline then shifts to follow an explorer team led by exo-biologist Marlynn Kane, conducting covert research on the planet Chentap, home to a turtle-like species called the Chennan who are on the brink of discovering space travel.

After weeks of uneventful analysis, chaos suddenly erupts as androids land on the planet and ruthlessly slaughter the Chennan. The explorer team, consisting of well-crafted characters like Kor Chappal, Lilja Ryksdottir, and the Siganese Johann Aspra, forms an alliance with the Chennan as they find themselves caught in the crossfire of an unknown enemy targeting both parties.

Kai Hirdt masterfully creates an immersive atmosphere, drawing readers into the story as they learn about new worlds and life forms alongside the protagonists. The Chennan species is particularly intriguing, hinting at hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered. The origin and motives of the attacking androids remain a mystery, leaving readers eager for answers in the upcoming installments.

The novel's pacing is fast and action-packed, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. Hirdt's skilled characterization brings depth to the explorer team, making their struggles and teamwork feel authentic as they navigate internal tensions and work together to overcome challenges.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of the Chennan civilization, with fascinating details about their underwater life and the challenges faced by oxygen-breathers in an aquatic environment. The story takes an unexpected turn when the explorer team's initial perceptions of the Chennan are challenged, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the plot.

The epilogue returns to Perry Rhodan and Gucky, ending with a twist that will leave readers craving the next installment. While Rhodan's presence in this novel is limited, the groundwork laid in "Totenozean" sets the stage for his larger role in the unfolding mystery.

Overall, "Totenozean" is a gripping and promising start to the 2024 mini-series. Kai Hirdt and Dirk Schulz have crafted a captivating story filled with engaging characters, fascinating alien species, and a central mystery that will keep readers hooked. With its fast-paced action, unexpected twists, and the looming presence of Perry Rhodan, this novel is a must-read for science fiction and space opera enthusiasts alike.