Kyr is raised on tales of heroic sacrifice and righteous vengeance against the Majoda, the enemy who destroyed Earth. However, as she ventures beyond the confines of Gaea Station, she encounters different perspectives on the war, challenging her indoctrinated beliefs. The novel explores the human cost of conflict, questioning the very nature of heroism and the seductive allure of blind vengeance.

While Kyr's initial journey is driven by a desire for revenge, she finds solace and strength in unexpected alliances. Her relationship with her brother's friend, brilliant but rebellious, and a mysterious captive alien become her lifeline as she navigates betrayal and uncertainty. "Some Desperate Glory" highlights the importance of chosen family and the profound impact of genuine connection amidst chaos.

Raised within the rigid societal structure of Gaea Station, Kyr's life is preordained – fight, breed, and die for a cause predetermined by others. Her escape and subsequent journey become a quest for self-discovery. Kyr grapples with societal expectations, unlearning ingrained biases, and ultimately forging her own path. The novel celebrates the power of free will and the importance of defining oneself on one's own terms.