I enjoyed the parallel storylines of Sam and Kwan. Sam, a girl with the gift of telepathy, tries to uncover what dark secrets are being hidden on the base she is being housed. Kwan, a brilliant coder, is recruited to help develop technology on the base after intercepting a cryptic message from the Dark Galaxy. Both characters need to navigate their new environment and what is being kept from them. With each other’s help, they will be able to save themselves and the world.

I liked the use of telepathy in the book. When the Sam was using telepathy, the text was in italics. She was able to communicate to Kobe, a male friend of hers, and Duskara through this method. With Kobe the conversations were very kind and affirming, which showed how much they care for each other. In contrast, her communication with Duskara brought shadows of doubt. Each message laced with manipulation.

The final chapters really brought the story together, delivering the overarching message that the journey might not always be easy, but every experience leads to self-growth. Sam traveled to the Dark Galaxy and was able to save her friends with her quick thinking. Kwan learns her life has been memories of childhood that had been a lie, and she was built in a lab as an Ai cyborg. Her memories had been tampered with, but she finally discovered the truth. She sacrifices herself to save everyone from Duskara. Just as she is on the brink of death, Sam is able to rescue her and get her to safety. Both characters follow their instinct and stay true to themselves.

I highly recommend this book to any science fiction fans. There is discussion of other galaxies, lifeforms, and space travel. The fast-paced story will keep you turning pages and wanting more. This book is appropriate for younger readers in middle school and beyond.