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Promises Stronger Than Darkness: Unstoppable #3    by Charlie Jane Anders Amazon.com order for
Promises Stronger Than Darkness
by Charlie Jane Anders
Order:  USA  Can
Tor, 2023 (2023)
Hardcover, e-Book
* * *   Reviewed by Hilary Williamson

Promises Stronger Than Darkness is the third in Charlie Jane Anders' Unstoppable YA series that opened with Victories Greater Than Death. This space opera romp stars teen Tina Mains, who has the usual hopes and fears, but also a challenging destiny to fulfill. The episodes definitely need to be read in order, as it's hard to follow otherwise.

Tina (hidden and raised on Earth) is a clone of legendary galactic heroine, Captain Thaoh Argentian. When she's called to do her duty and joins the Royal Fleet on the Indomitable, her earthling friend Rachel goes with her. Unfortunately, Tina is unable to regain all of Thaoh's memories. In the first episode, teen Earth geniuses were enlisted to the Indomitable crew.

Episode 2, Dreams Greater Than Heartbreak, focused more on Rachael and Elza. Saving millions, Rachael lost her artistic talent. Elza competed to become a princess in the Palace of Scented Tears, succeeded, and now is linked to a powerful AI that constantly keeps her informed of continuing planetary catastrophes. Tina faced an impossible choice and lost herself to the arrogant Thaoh Argentian.

The adventures continue here with a steady stream of close shaves, encounters with weird and wonderful aliens. These young heroes (a galaxy's Most Wanted) continue their quest to save the universe; recover Tina (resulting in more strong emo); and argue constantly (even while under fire) about pacifism vs. violence. Overall, an engaging rollercoaster of angst and action.

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