Forget Me Not: a sapphic sci-fi verse novel

Starship L.O.L.A. #1

by A.E. Bratchford

Beatrice, a lonely traveller, floats through unknown territory in space. Trapped in a survival pod, she has no clue how she ended up there and little memory of much else. All the while, she is haunted by the ghost of someone she feels she should know.

On the other side of the galaxy, a crew of space marauders have almost given up hope of finding the missing member of their crew. One lost in an accident that nearly cost the team more than just their friend.

That being said,
one refuses to accept the truth.

Jordan will stop at nothing to get her friend back but as time goes on, she quickly realises that finding Beatrice was the easy part. What comes next is something she never could have anticipated.

Genres: Queer, Poetry

308 pages, Paperback

First published June 18, 2024

About the author

Anna (they/them) is a queer author and poet based in Naarm/Melbourne. They love to read and write cosy fantasy/sci-fi both in poetry and prose. If not writing or at work, they will most likely be reading, walking around their local area day-dreaming about their next novel idea, or spending time with their two cats - Nautica (Marketing Manager) and Mahnoy (Snack Supervisor).

While at home, Anna will most likely be drinking tea, thinking about making a cup of tea, or scolding themself because they've remembered another mug of cold, half drunk tea which they have unintentionally sacrificed to the tea goddess.

Want to read more from Anna? Use these handy social media handles and/or links below:

instagram: @a.e.bratchford
threads: @a.e.bratchford
facebook: @a.e.bratchford.author

website: https://annabratchford.com/
newsletter: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...

Reviews

[Lillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this on a short aeroplane flight, which was both perfectly judged and totally unwise - unwise because the imagery of being trapped in a flimsy metal box, hurtling through space and experiencing the dissolution of your own consciousness, is very unsettling when you're doing exactly that.

There is something comfortable and comforting about Bratchford's verse. It moves quickly, but you can linger indefinitely on the parts that most affect you. Bratchford plays with form in a few places to change up the flow and capture a new pocket of emotion.

The story is wholly driven by the deep bond between Jordan and Beatrice, but discovering it feels like an active reading experience. It feels like slowly unravelling a spool of ribbon, smoothing it out, then rolling it back up again and tucking it somewhere safe.

One of my favourite aspects is the found family. While each crew member has their own connection to Beatrice, I felt like their actions came from a place of utter conviction in Jordan and Beatrice's love. Like so long as those two believe in each other, anything is possible. The crew would do anything to protect and nurture that love. As the reader, I felt drawn into this found family with its shared conviction. I had total faith that Jordan and Beatrice would figure it out, there was simply no other possible outcome.

Highly recommend this fast-paced sapphic space sci-fi told in sincere, emotional verse.

[Amber (amberdevouredthis) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forget Me Not was not only my first sci-fi read, but my very first verse novel 💜 I justtt managed to squeeze it into my May reads, and it ended up being one of my favourite books of the month.  

FMN was such a beautifully written novel with a theme of sarcrificing for love.

𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩, 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦,
𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘹𝘪𝘦𝘴
𝘣𝘦𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘥, 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶
 
The book follows Beatrice and Jordan. Beatrice - separated from her crew, trapped in a survival pod and floating through space. Jordan - engineer, pilot, and all round trouble maker, who will stop at nothing to rescue her crewmate.

𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘪𝘵

𝘢 𝘵𝘶𝘨
𝘢 𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘭

𝘢 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥

𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦
𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦
𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳

This novel flowed so well, and was only about 1hr of reading time in total. It had me reminiscing about Firefly (which prompted me to rewatch the series over the weekend).

We get dual pov, which is one of my favourite things an author can do - albeit heart wrenching, every time we switched back to Beatrice 💔

I absolutely loved this book, and I definitely need some more sci-fi recs 🪐

Thank you Anna for the ARC 💜 I had just told myself I was pausing signing up for ARCs, when your book popped up - and I’m so glad I decided to squeeze one more book in 🥰

If you’re looking for an LGBTQIA+ read this Pride Month, I cannot recommend this enough 💜🌈

[MJ Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

Did i only just receive this ARC this morning? Yes. Would i have read it in one sitting if my damn therapy session didn't get in the way? Also yes. Was it good?

*happy puddle sigh*

Listen sometimes you just have to read a book where you know exactly how everything is going to shake out as it's set up. No guesswork, no stress, just two sappy bastards determined to keep each other alive and gay enough to pull it off somehow.

I'm not sure if the last poem was setting up for a sequel? It felt a little abrupt as endings go, and there were some threads that felt like they were left hanging, but i didn't mind a bit of a bumpy dismount after a good ride.

Can't wait to see the cover, too!!

(I signed up to receive a free ebook copy of Forget me Not directly from the author/pub but I'm leaving this review voluntarily and my opinions are my own ^-^)

[Karen Holding · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a unique and enjoyable experience, I've never read anything in verse before. It felt like all the background noise a regular novel sometimes has had been stripped away and all that was left is all the emotion and feeling of the characters.

[Emilie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was not the first verse novel I’ve read; however, it was the first verse sci-fi novel.

Unfortunately the format just didn’t work for me. Probably just personal preference, but verse novels tend not to lend themselves well to world building. I think Forget Me Not would have benefited from a more typical novel format. When I read verse novels, the emotions tend to come through so strongly (which I found true in this case), but due to sci-fi aspect we were set into a world we didn’t really know much about. Having that pieced together through verse didn’t pan out enough for me. This gave the feeling of an outlined plot rather than something fully laid-out and thought through. I’m sure it was on a background level, but as a reader that didn’t shine through as much as I would have liked.

Overall, I enjoyed Forget Me Not. I liked where the plot was going, and I loved the connection between characters. My one struggle was that while reading I wanted more. And after I finished, I wanted more. Sadly, not in a “wow I loved that so much, I want more!” way but in a “I’m feeling like there was so much missed potential, I wanted more” kind of way. I think the author A. E. Bratchford definitely has talent for overall plot and the emotional connections between characters, so I would love to see that in a more developed form in the future.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.

[Tien · Rating 4 out of 5]

A SFF verse novel! I had to read it especially when it included a favourite trope of mind (lost memory).

Told by both perspectives, as readers we are privileged to see how both protagonists think and feel. I pretty much read this in a single sitting; being verse novel, this was quite easily achieved. At the same time, I just had to know how this was going to end. And it is a cosmically beautiful ending. Despite being short due to format, it does have to be rather succinct but there was enough of the plot and twists to engage me. I'm even keen to know more about the secondary characters; loving the dynamics of this crew of space marauders.

My thanks to the author gifting me a copy of this book in exchange of my honest thoughts

[Dylan Schnabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

What a wonderful verse novel!

I'm a sucker for found-family sci-fi, and this excels there. The poetic verse was a little hit and miss for me, personally, but there were more hits than misses. I do think the novel was better served being fully verse than some prose and some verse. That being said, the second POV's verse blew me away a lot of the time. Great stuff, and an enjoyable, short read!

[By Book and Bone (Sally) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story, though the type of verse within wasn't for me. Just not the style I normally like.
If you enjoy poems with short sentences and sci-fi, I can definately recommend.

I received a copy of this book for free. All views expressed are my own.

[Merlina Garance · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was my first time reading a novel in verse and I enjoyed it! This felt like being sung a long, epic song, what I imagine listening to The Odyssey might have been like. This story doesn't linger on details, but it doesn't hurt. Your mind fills in the blanks and you can focus on emotions and action only. It's a fairly short read so perfect for a trip or rainy Sunday afternoon.

I received an advance copy and this is my honest review.

[Lexus · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wasn't huge on this book, which upsets me because I want to rate it higher. I feel there is a lot of potential but it was just missed. A large part of my dislike may come from this being a verse novel. It is my first time reading one and poetry is something I've always been very particular about, but I thought I would give it a try.

The main reason I wasn't super huge into this book is that it felt very rushed. There were aspects of the plot that I felt happened very quickly, especially towards the end. Whilst it made this a much faster read than usual and there was a clear sense of urgency in the shorter passages, it felt as though a lot of the finer details were skipped over in favour of a more dot-point style plot.

One thing I will give this book credit for is some of the slower sections where the characters emotions are clearly on display and this is shown both through the words themselves, and the layout choice. It was easy to get a clear and deep understanding of the character's perspectives and some of their more deeper emotions.

Countering this however, some of the other characters, those we don't see as often (for me this was Tahlia in particular), felt flatter and more 2-dimensional. It felt like there was a lot more that could have been explored, especially with the relationships of the crew, especially as it was so small.

All in all, I think this book had a lot of potential, and while I think this does work as a verse novel in some portions, I feel that more depth, possibly in the form of short descriptions in between the poetry, could have been added. If you want to give it a go, by all means. I think it is a good and relatively quick read that lets you get a taste of the style, however it may not be for everyone.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Forget Me Not, Bratchford masterfully blends science fiction with poetry, crafting a narrative that traverses galaxies while delving into the depths of human emotion. The verse flows seamlessly, painting vivid imagery that captivates readers and propels the story forward effortlessly.

At its core, Forget Me Not explores the profound bond between Jordan and Beatrice, anchoring the narrative amidst the cosmic expanse. Their relationship unfolds with complexity and vulnerability, drawing readers into a tapestry of connection and longing.

Fans of This Is How You Lose the Time War will find much to love in Bratchford's work. With a narrative prowess akin to El-Mohtar and Gladstone, Bratchford seamlessly blends science fiction and poetry, captivating readers from start to finish.

Looking for a compelling LGBTQIA+ read this Pride Month? (or any month, lesbi-honest)... Forget Me Not is a standout choice. Bratchford's poignant storytelling and authentic representation offer a heartfelt exploration of identity and connection. Whether you're drawn to science fiction, poetry, or simply crave a beautifully crafted narrative that celebrates love and acceptance, this book is a must-read.

[Evan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and Tea & Books Press for a copy of this ARC. All thoughts are my own.

Forget me not is a sweeping story in space, of love and the lengths we go to for the people who are our homes. It is told entirely in verse. Jordan has lost Beatrice, and across the depths of space she is desperate to find her again.

I have to say that I loved this story. It was filled with a sense of wistfulness and longing. It touched on grief, found family, and love. I can't quite figure it out, but it reminded me of the vibe from the game Heaven's vault - the weightiness of the past and the people across the vast emptiness of space.

I enjoy poetry in generaly though the style should not put anyone off. It is is accesible and easy to follow along, with layers of depth if you to taknyou time.

I absolutely recommend this to those who like sapphic stories, poetry, or even just stories in space. I can wait to see what comes next from Bratchford.

[Moth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forget Me Not is a queer, sci-fi novel in verse. It tells the story of Jordan, an impulsive pilot, rescuing her crewmate, Beatrice.
This was a fun, quick read. The verse style worked really well with the story, and there were several moments where the author created a cool structure in the poems. The story starts simply enough, and then slowly became more layered and adds more of a mystery element.
There were some parts of the story that went unexplained, and there were times it worked and times it didn’t. I wasn’t a big fan of the ending because it felt too vague for me.
Even still, Forget Me Not was an interesting sci-fi story. I’m always a sucker for books with interesting formats.

Thank you to Booksirens and Tea & Books Press for the ARC!

CW: torture; violence; confinement/isolation

[Skye Erikson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cross between a sapphic science fiction novel and a poetry book! A really easy, pleasant read. Once I got invested in the story, I was touched by the tenderness of the sentiments expressed, and truly enjoyed the way it was in a poetry style verse format as opposed to a traditional sci-fi novel. The description of settings is minimal as opposed to many others in the realm, it focuses heavily on the characters feelings and thoughts throughout their separation. I found it emotionally engaging and by the end, I was rooting for a happy ending<3 But you will have to read to find out!

A great read for someone who doesn't want to commit to a lengthy novel with tons of world building or lore but still wants a fun sci-fi story with an emotional sapphic twist! I read it in one sitting!

Well done A. E.!

[Owen Lach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forget Me Not is the kind of sci-fi verse novel that gets under your skin. In author A. E. Bratchford’s hands, the format is a master key, unlocking a universe of emotion with just a few lines at a time. The spare, single column of text on the page perfectly mirrors the cold emptiness of space that Beatrice finds herself trapped in. This isn’t your typical space opera. Forget epic battles and laser fights (although you’ll find those, too.) It’s all about the raw ache of being separated from the one you love by a distance so vast even light struggles to bridge it. Bratchford dives deep into the psyches of Beatrice and Jordan, our two queer heroes, exploring the crushing loneliness and desperate hope that fuels their journeys. Their love story is heartbreaking and hopeful all at once, reminding us that the echo of connection can still be heard even in the darkest corners of space.

[En · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forget Me Not is a sci-fi romance presented as a verse novel. We are thrown right into the aftermath of an accident, and tossed between two POVs as our leads find their way back to each other.

Between the short, punchy lines, the author conjures up a captivating plot, sufficient tension that kept me turning pages, and a realistic space crew that I can’t help but root for.

Worldbuilding is sparse but easy to grasp. We pick up bits of info as the plot unfolds. The prose was a joy to read. Though the pacing was quick, some parts invited me to slow down and savour the moment. I’ve never read a verse novel previously, and Forget Me Not was an enjoyable introduction.

If you like soft sci-fi novels that are character driven, give this hidden gem a go.

[Anushka Bagde · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book, especially as it was in verse format. It was an exciting way to read events unfold. I thought it was quite like a stream of consciousness, which I liked. Personally, I'm a fan of stream of consciousness because it's a form of writing and expression that flows and which you can read into seamlessly. At least for me! I liked the romance between the main characters and how we see their reactions as they happen. It was a beautiful book :)

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Estora · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned about Forget Me Not by A. E. Bratchford at a wedding, and as soon as I heard it was a sapphic sci-fi novel I knew I had to read it immediately. This was a delightful read. Told entirely in verse, the novel follows Jordan and Beatrice, two lovers who have been torn apart by catastrophe. They are determined to reunite, but there are forces at play larger than anyone can anticipate.

This was a treasure of a read, and one I was thrilled to stumble across by sheer coincidence. Looking forward to more from Bratchford in the future!

[Dylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

What a wonderful verse novel!

I'm a sucker for found-family sci-fi, and this excels there. The poetic verse was a little hit and miss for me, personally, but there were more hits than misses. I do think the novel was better served being fully verse than some prose and some verse. That being said, the second POV's verse blew me away a lot of the time. Great stuff, and an enjoyable, short read!"

[Lotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first time I read a novel in verse and it was interesting and an interesting experience. It does make me want to read more novels in verse.
Of course I can't compare to other novels in verse, but I did really like it.
There's a lot more that you have to fill in yourself, which was actually quite nice.
The interactions between the different characters was nice and the story itself was also very interesting.

[Nathaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a tightly woven sci-fi novel in verse about a space marauder crew trying to find a missing member, as well as what happens when they find her. It's well written and very engaging. I really enjoy Bratchford's 'novel in verse' style. It's easy to read and doesn't take long to get through, but it feels like a thick novel because the story is heavy and full. I'm really excited to see what else Bratchford writes.

[Rosemary J Wycherley]

Anna Bratchford captures the agony of love and loss in this brilliantly developed story that has the reader hurtling through outer space alongside the two star-crossed lovers. The journey is scary and heart breaking, and made all the more compelling by Anna's style of writing which displays a precision and deftness seldom found in new authors. I am looking forward to her next book.

[Morte Oakley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've never read a verse novel before, and I was pleasantly surprised. The story flowed well. The minimal language working well with the story. The characters are strong and the story engaging. Well worth the read. Be prepared to care.

[Emma Kirk · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel was a really interesting read, as it's written more like poetry than traditional sci-fi books.

I would like to add that I didn't buy this book, but download it for free through Book Sirens.

[Susan Stead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Forget Me Not was stepping out of my usual reads square. I am so glad I read this wonderful Sci-Fi verse book. I found I couldn’t wait to see what happened next!. Very cleverly written. Can’t wait for more AE Bratchford books.

[Georgia Whitehead · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. This is one of the best things I have read in such a long time!! Forget Me Not is a sci-fi, sapphic tale written in verse format. It is attention grabbing and got me emotionally invested so, so quickly. It is a quick read, but incredibly enjoyable and definitely something I will be reading over and over again. I am a huge sucker for space-based stories and this was no exception. I have gotten so attached to both FMC and I reckon anyone else who reads this will too! 5/5*!!

[Jake Vanguard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forget Me Not was my first timen reading a novel in verse, and I'm still astounded how many emotions are packed into so few words. The bond and care between Jordan and Beatrice are clearly palpable, as is the fear and sorrow Beatrice goes through, even as it's not a detailed description.
While word-wise, Forget Me Not is rather short, it feels like a full novel with how much is happening. Every single word is deliberately used, placed exactly right for maximum emotional damage.