The Far Call is a novel about a multi-nation mars mission and the obstacles it faces. Whilst parts were there were a few parts that were a little slow, overall a good tale of space exploration and the potential problems that arise. ( )

Pretty much sums it up:
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/gordon-r-dickson-2/the-far-call/
"...About the only people who unselfishly believe in the mission are the six ""marsnauts"" themselves and Jens Wylie, the idealistic young US Undersecretary of Science for Space Development. Otherwise, the whole of Cape Canaveral seems to be a launching pad for all kinds of cynical diplomatic games, secret surveillance, silent ruthlessness, and practiced buck-passing. Aboard Phoenix I and II, a crushing work schedule--the result of nationalistic glory-hogging by higher-ups--imminently endangers the twin vehicles and their crews. Here are the makings of a strong cautionary comment on space-exploration programs and what they may come to, but somehow the makings never get properly assembled...." ( )

Nabije toekomst: De tijd is aangebroken voor een volgende stap op weg naar de diepe ruimte. Mars zal worden gebruikt als springplank. De bemanning krijgt te maken met de risico's van de ruimtevaart, maar ook met de emoties van de zes mannen in de twee schepen en de reacties van de achterblijvers op Aarde als de situatie zich onvoorzien ontwikkeld...Een realistisch scenario ( )