Money may be the mother's milk of politics, but no amount of money or politics has been able to get astronauts to Mars. Mars Expedition I results in the deaths of its astronauts. Years later, Mars Expedition II seems headed toward the same disastrous ending, with its astronauts defying Mission Control's orders from Earth and the political agenda of the mission's chief scientist, Dr. Graves. Already defeated while trying to manipulate the astronauts' selection process, Dr. Graves now uses technology to force his will onto those hurtling toward Mars to establish its first successful human colony. Astronauts Bill and Jackie want to accomplish Mars Expedition II. But doing so is costing more of everything -- time, commitment, perseverance -- than the bureaucrats or computer models predicted.
This was a short sci fi book that reminded me a lot of the old "Twilight" series. Fun read, nothing life changing. The characters are pretty shallow and I am assuming that the author is poking fun at the way we live. Some humorous parts because of those spots. If you want a quick easy sci fi read, this one is for you.