Fleet of the Forgotten

by Dan Thornton

An unlikely hero. An unfinished ship. Humanity's last hope.

Ryan Anders has spent his life fighting for a place in a world that doesn’t want him.
Chosen by lottery to attend the Fleet Academy, he learned quickly that survival means knowing when to keep your head down.

Until the day the sky fills with fire.

Without warning, an alien armada descends, shattering Earth’s defenses and scattering its fleet in a storm of confusion and retreat. Amid the chaos, Ryan seizes an unfinished warship.

The plan is get his friends clear of the slaughter. But the moment they break orbit, the plan is gone. Now they are cut off, flying blind, forgotten.

Their enemy does not speak. Does not negotiate.
And they will not stop until humanity is dust.

Genres: Science Fiction

372 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 6, 2025

About the author

Hey there, I'm Dan Thornton, and if you're a fan of sci-fi, we're probably already friends.

I’m a U.S. Navy vet who used to live life on the edge - literally. I served on the sprawling deck of an aircraft carrier, where my job was to wrangle F-14 Tomcats. Think of it as a daily dose of chaos, adrenaline, and jet engines that are trying their best to eat you. That real-world, high-stakes insanity became the fuel for my stories. I learned firsthand what true camaraderie combined with controlled chaos looked like, and I channel all of that into the books I write today.

My debut novel, Fleet of the Forgotten, is a military sci-fi story that's been years in the making, with parts of it even taking root back when I was in the service. It’s my way of blending the love I have for authors like Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, and Andy Weir with the grit and teamwork of real military life.

When I’m not at my keyboard, you’ll find me in my happy place: geeking out. Whether I'm 3d printing a replica plasma rifle, suiting up for Comic-Con, or quoting sci-fi movies, I’m all in.

I’m also a firm believer that no creative journey is a solo flight, and I’m just grateful to be sharing this wild ride with all of you.

Thanks for stopping by!

Reviews

[Trevor Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fleet of the Forgotten is the kind of book that reminded me why I fell in love with technothrillers as a teenager — it has the same relentless momentum and tactical clarity I got from early Tom Clancy, except this time it’s unfolding in deep space. Think the energy of the 21st-century Star Trek reboot mixed with the grit of Battlestar Galactica and the military edge of Starship Troopers. It’s that kind of ride.

Ryan Anders is an immediately compelling lead: sharp, sardonic, quietly angry, and born into the lowest caste of a rigid, dystopian social hierarchy. His two closest friends come from the same caste, giving their dynamic both humor and poignancy as they navigate a fleet dominated by corporate heirs, political royalty, and military dynasties. The broader cast is equally memorable: a corporate-elite bully, a high-born politico overachiever with surprising versatility, an oddball with uncanny instincts, and an AI ship with a split personality. And the fleet politics? Let’s just say some ship commanders have more moves up their sleeve than Red October's Captain Ramius — others not so much.

Dan Thornton’s Navy background shines through in all the right ways. The tactical realism, command friction, and battle choreography feel grounded and cinematic without drowning the reader in technical explanations. The world-building is substantial but efficient: enough to feel immersive, but not so dense that it slows the pacing. I have a personal “page 75 rule” (if the plot hasn’t moved by then, odds are I’m out), and I devoured this book.

Don't expect this read to be philosophical or mind-bending (at least not yet — it’s Book 1), but it is fantastic, immersive entertainment. Smart, intense, and full of momentum. And for a debut? It hardly reads like one.

A truly impressive start to the Exiles War series. 5 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to see where the Fleet of the Forgotten ends up next.

[KallistaFaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It had everything that makes a sci-fi read a great read. It is well written with strong likeable characters, and one in particular that I didn’t like from the moment we met them 😆 Great world building too which is a big plus in my opinion. I’m a “visual” reader, and this book did not disappoint.

Being book one in a series it ended with a myriad of unanswered questions, so I can’t wait for the next instalment.

This author is now firmly on my auto buy list.

[Greg Falconer · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book!

I don't read lots of Sci-Fi books but wow this one was fantastic. You will not believe this is a debut novel. The setting of this book feels new and original but also feels like the classic Sci-Fi we all love.

The character development in this book is top notch and you can't help but fall in love with not only the 3 main characters but almost every character you meet.

The space battles are a real highlight, as someone with no knowledge of science, they are explained incredibly well and keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you like great characters, action and plot twists in your Sci-Fi books then this is 100% for you and wow does it stick the landing, the ending will leave you desperate for book 2.

[Nadine Sturgill · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5🌟 This Fleet will not be Forgotten!

Thank you @thorntonbooks for allowing me to be an early reader. A bit out of my normal reading genre, but am I glad! This was an intense jump into Sci-fi and I can't wait to fall into the Exiles War. Sign me up for the ISA right now!

Ryan, David and Anna are pulled from school one week before graduating. They've been pulled early for fleet assignment. This is when it all starts to get crazy! Ryan,on a watch duty at the Cosmic Explorer, suddenly becomes the highest ranking officer on a ship when an alien attack hits, and along the way his friends David and Anna come into the picture as the Forge is attacked, bringing along civvies and Martians. Personalities clash as another member, Elizabeth Miller also arrives, as she and Ryan are at odds. There's also another ensign who is granddaughter to a very well known/admired captain. Craziness ensues as ships in space are destroyed and trying notify the Forge. Stakes are high, attacks are happening, aliens are in the Forge and attacking, people are injured and the Explorer needs to leave to help the Columbia. IT'S INTENSE BUT FANTASTIC! There is an interesting ending which results in a cliffhanger and that is why Ive given it 4.5 🌟. I know there's more greatness to come!

This is written quite well and has a cinematic feel. Could see it playing in my head. Was a hard focus, read in 2 sitdowns, only cause I feel asleep holding my kindle. 🤣

The interactions are described to the minute detail but in a good way. The chemistry between characters is superb. There is high stakes, personality clashes, and even mystery that keep you on the edge of your seat!

[Conor Hennelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Independence Day and a Star Trek episode had a baby, that baby would be Fleet of the Forgotten. It's an energetic story that's more into saving the day than solving the mysteries of the universe. The space battles really stand out as being so tense and so clearly written that you can almost feel the control boards exploding around you when the enemy lands a blow or the space captains pull off a crazy move. If you like seeing futuristic weapons and stellar battle strategies in action, you'll have a great time. Reach escape velocity from everyday life by getting this book and taking an action-packed trip into the future of the solar system.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[David Boevers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review: Fleet of the Forgotten by Don Thornton

Don Thornton’s debut novel is a spacefaring epic waiting to break out on the national stage. Fleet of the Forgotten launches the Exile’s War series with the confidence and depth of a seasoned storyteller. Don’t fall behind—this series promises to be a page-turner from beginning to end.

The story follows Ryan Anders, a cadet nearing the end of his academy training in humanity’s first united interstellar fleet. Set in a near future where corporate dynasties and military families dominate, Ryan finds himself at the bottom of a rigid social hierarchy. A “lottery placement” among the privileged elite, he is resented by his peers and underestimated by his superiors—unaware that someone high in Fleet Command is quietly watching out for him.

When a series of mysterious incidents ripples through the solar system, Ryan and his classmates are abruptly promoted and thrust into the chaos of war. Stationed aboard the massive Forge base on the far side of the Moon, Ryan must navigate both the bureaucracy of command and the resentment of his crew. But when an unknown enemy launches a devastating attack, Earth’s fleet collapses, and Ryan suddenly finds himself in charge of a damaged ship filled with secrets and a mismatched team of idealists, elitists, and untested graduates.

Cornered and outgunned, Ryan makes a desperate decision to activate a forbidden drive system to save his crew. What follows is an audacious leap into the unknown that changes everything they thought they knew about survival, loyalty, and destiny.

Thornton, a military veteran, brings sharp authenticity and tactical realism to every scene. The Battle of the Forge is cinematic and intense, filled with strategy, sacrifice, and heart. With a cast of layered characters and a sweeping sense of scale, Fleet of the Forgotten is a stunning debut that marks the beginning of a series to watch.

[Coffeebooklibrary Rhea Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in 1 sitting as if I was having a sci-fi movie marathon

I haven’t done that for a really LONG time. It’s everything you want sci-fi to be, fast, ragtag group, real life off hand comedy … And the main character Ryan who is going to save us all 🤭

I don’t do spoilers. So please just read it.

[Daniel Still · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starship Troopers and Star Trek lovers rejoice! This debut novel was a fast-paced fantastic adventure! I loved it and read it all in two days. A real page turner!

[Cristine Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an entertaining read! If you like a Star Trek meets Firefly crossover, then you'll like this. A character-driven, found family story. The plot is fantastic! Space battle scenes, a hidden enemy = juicy and what I expect for a sci-fi novel. I'm thrilled this is a series. Can't wait to see what happens next.

[Pamela Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow—this book was intense!

From the very first page it had me hooked, and by chapter four or five I realized I was flying through the chapters without even noticing. The characters are strong and well-written, and the tech and battle scenes were described in a way that felt vivid and exciting, even without any military background on my part. By the end, I was honestly sad to see it finish—there are still so many unanswered questions and hints of what’s to come. I’ll definitely be looking forward to the next book and can’t wait to see where the story goes.

[Kay Hertz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A debut novel that SCREAMS future Best Selling Author!

I'm blown away that this was written by a first-time Indie author!
The absolute level of excitement I had reading this book is at the top of my literary experiences!

Overall: 5🌟
Plot: 5📍
Tension: 5🧨
Mystery: 4 🔍
Laughter: 3 😁

When I say the Tension was a 5, I mean I:
- read the book for 3 hours in the middle of the night instead of sleeping (who needs sleep?!?)
- literally stopped to DM the author MID-READ to animatedly tell him my thoughts (thank you so much for putting up with all my crazy messages!)
- HOLLERED at Hubby (aka The Traveling Book Pilot who you all get to meet soon, too!!!!) who I nudged into reading with me, to get his thoughts.

This book had it all; scenes that felt like That One Horror Movie that sticks with you, Star Wars meets Ender’s Game, the all encompassing WWII Pacific Naval Battles, but make it Outer Space, political machinations & classism but blow those up ten-fold, and an ending that will leave you gasping, about to drop into the abyss! Or rather, more appropriately, feeling like you’re getting sucked into a black hole!

Ryan and his rag tag team feel like watching real-life JOPA (Junior Officer Protection Agency, a JO joke similar to the E-4 mafia) shenanigans. From befriending the best bartenders in the seediest (but most outstanding!) bars, to the petty squabbles in an OSC Class (Officer Selection Course), if you DO have a military or similar background, you’ll see familiar and realistically plausible elements.

If you’re NOT at all connected to the military, the author perfectly balances that *enough* line - you feel like you understand enough for the story to make sense, but it’s not so tactical and technical heavy that you’re lost to jargon.

This movie could easily be translated to a blockbuster and I wish I could re-read it for the first time!

I am SO friggin thrilled I was selected to read and review this book for Mr. Thornton! And I cannot WAIT for the next installment in the series!
All opinions are my own.

[Dean Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

A grounded, authentic start to a promising military sci-fi series

Fleet of the Forgotten delivers exactly what fans of classic military science fiction are looking for: detailed world building, believable command structure, and a genuine sense of service life that could only come from someone who’s actually worn the uniform. Dan Thornton’s background as a veteran really shines through; the battle tactics, dialogue between ranks, and procedural realism all feel lived-in rather than imagined.

The story takes its time setting the stage, introducing the main characters and the larger universe before the action really kicks in. There’s a clear emphasis on how people adapt under pressure, especially Ryan Anders, the unlikely cadet who finds himself thrust into command when everything falls apart. I appreciated how the novel explores leadership, teamwork, and what it means to hold a crew together when hope is almost gone - including successful use of multiple POVs.

I’ll admit I came into the book expecting something slightly different - maybe with their ship being stranded from the start, though having reread the blurb I'm not sure why I had that expectation - but what I found was better, an engaging and carefully constructed setup for a bigger saga. By the time the story hits its stride, the tension and scope are both impressive, and the final chapters left me wanting more.

The ending lands on a definite cliffhanger (but we get a sneak peek of the next book!), so I’m already looking forward to seeing where Thornton takes the series next. If you enjoy grounded, technically sound military sci-fi with strong world building and heart, Fleet of the Forgotten is a solid start to what feels like an ambitious universe.

[Noah Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fleet of the Forgotten is an action-packed thrill ride from start to finish. The opening chapters introduce the characters we’re going to be following throughout the story. Once that’s established, this story takes off and you better be ready to hold on.

Ryan Anders is an everyman that can easily be identified with; the underdog you want to see succeed. One part heroic by circumstance and one part troublemaker, Anders has plenty of room to grow. Whether he’s ready for it or not.

The cast of supporting characters is diverse and fleshed out. Each has their own motivations and backstories that are teased throughout. The enemy is lethal and unknown. The high points of Fleet of the Forgotten, for me, are the space battles. Grand in scale and well-written, you won’t get lost in the details as the scenes unfold. The stakes feel real, tensions run high, and the explosions are epic.

As is typical with science fiction, there are futuristic technologies that seem plausible for the world of the story. Dan Thornton gives enough detail about how things work without getting bogged down in the minutiae of it all; character and story remain the focus.

As is indicated by the title, this is book one of a new series. Without giving away any spoilers, the ending was satisfying but left me wanting to know what happens next. Fleet of the Forgotten was a fast-paced read that kept me furiously turning the pages until the very end.

** I received a free e-ARC from BookSprout. This review is voluntary and based on my own experience of reading this book **

[Matthew O'Hare · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from the very first page — from the subtle dread of the opening to the huge reveals later on. Dan’s characters are relatable and incredibly easy to fall in love with. Each one has their own distinct personality and brings something unique to the table… even one character (who I shall not name) that I wanted to punch — as intended!

Ryan is an amazing main character, and I enjoyed every minute spent in his head. While I loved Ryan, I don’t know why, but I really resonated with David Kim. He reminded me a bit of myself — the loyal, nerdy friend who’s not afraid to throw hands when needed 🤣

One aspect that deserves a huge spotlight is the space battles. Dan writes these scenes so vividly that you feel every vibration of the ship, every moment of fear. You can clearly visualise both the interior and exterior mid-battle, like a movie playing in your head, leaving you on the edge of your seat.

The writing is fantastic, and the attention to detail in explaining the more sci-fi elements leaves little room for confusion — it paints such a clear picture of how the technology works. I enjoy military sci-fi, though I don’t often read it, but this book completely changed my mind and lit a fire in me.

I’ll be following this series and author closely — especially after that ending (damn you, Dan!). It was an amazing read, and I thoroughly enjoyed every second. I highly recommend picking up this book!

[Rachel Hanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fleet will not soon be forgotten!

What a rush of excitement and mystery, political intrigue, emotion, explosions, and just a touch of horror. We loosely follow the journey of recent academy grad, Ryan Anders and his comrades out to a space station where they prep to take their first missions with the Fleet Alliance. But what begins as a celebration of a new battleship, quickly evolves into the most epic space battle imaginable.

I think what I appreciated most about this book was the style choice for the narration of the story. Again, Ryan and his friends were sort of our anchors, our emotional constants to guide us through the battle. But then we also almost simultaneously and intermittently got to bounce across literal space between Commanders of battleships, Lieutenants and Captains onboard the space station, and those of various rank, status, and personel taking in a multitude of experiences with their own fresh voices and emotional backstories. It was like I got to experience the whole thing in real-time, from everywhere at once. And honestly, I loved every bit of it.

There is a good deal of military lingo and heavy science that is beautifully explained, and I feel more learned for the opportunity! Very excited about the ending, and the opening to a whole new perspective of galactic proportions.

For lovers of classic sci-fi adventure and military sci-fi alike.

[Laura Sienna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharp, tense military sci-fi with a strong found-family core

Fleet of the Forgotten hooked me fast and never let go. Dan Thornton drops readers straight into chaos an alien attack, a shattered fleet, and one unfinished ship piloted by people who were never meant to survive this long. The tension feels constant and earned, not inflated.

What really works here is the found-family dynamic under real pressure. Ryan is a quiet, believable protagonist, and watching this group adapt, improvise, and trust each other in the absence of any safety net is deeply satisfying. The attention to the physics and realities of space travel adds credibility and immersion without bogging the story down.

Fair warning: this ends on a cliffhanger. Some threads are resolved, but many are not. If you enjoy high-stakes military sci-fi, alien threats, and character-driven survival stories and don’t mind waiting for answers this is absolutely worth the ride.

[Amy Brookes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fleet of the Forgotten is a pulse pounding sci-fi epic that wastes no time throwing readers into chaos, courage, and impossible choices. Dan Thornton crafts a compelling underdog hero in Ryan Anders, whose quiet resilience makes his sudden leap into command feel earned and gripping. The opening alien invasion is cinematic and brutal, instantly raising the stakes, while the idea of escaping in an unfinished warship adds constant tension and ingenuity to every decision the crew makes.

What truly stands out is the novel’s sense of scale and emotional weight. Beyond the explosive space battles and relentless enemy threat, Fleet of the Forgotten is about survival, loyalty, and what it means to lead when no one is coming to save you. The silence and mystery of the alien enemy only heighten the dread, making every encounter feel ominous and urgent. Fast paced, immersive, and deeply human at its core, this book is a standout read for fans of military sci-fi and last stand space adventures.

[Silvie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't believe this is a debut novel! It had be gripped straight away. Fleet of the forgotten has everything you'd expect from a good Sci-Fi book - space ships, battles, aliens, monsters, cheeky AI, explosions and a crew you just gotta love. Oh, and the word QUANTUM :)

Considering how much action is packed in this book, at no point this felt predictable or "trying to overachieve". Dialogues are easy to read and battles have you literally glued to the page. I was a little worried as I often get lost in battles - that's why I tend to read less "action packed" books, but this was so easy to read, I was gobsmacked.

I just hope the sequels come out soon because I have so many questions :)

Please do read this, you will thank me later.

[Samantha Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! The ending left me wanting more — seriously, I need the next one like yesterday. The story feels really fresh and original, and I honestly couldn’t put it down.

Sci-fi isn’t usually what I reach for, but I’ll read pretty much anything once, and I’m so glad I gave this a shot. It reminded me why I used to love science fiction in the first place. The characters are great, the pacing keeps you hooked, and the world feels so real.

Dan Thornton did an amazing job with Fleet of the Forgotten. Totally worth the read — and I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!

[Ana Del · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a rush! Military Fleet sci fi at its finest.

I just finished this book and I’m absolutely blown away by the depth of naval knowledge and detail in this story. Tension, high stakes, twists upon twists, humor, camaraderie, bravery, lingering ghosts, political grievances, and just a hint of horror all fold into an epic story that’s clearly gearing up for something even greater.
The worldbuilding is incredible! Rich, complex, and realistic. A fully immersive experience without ever overpowering the narrative or the characters.

I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!

[Charli Nile · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s been awhile since I read science fiction and this was a lovely welcome back. Learning about the world through the eyes of three, recently graduated friends was engaging and pulled me into the world effortlessly. There was fun banter and I enjoyed the interactions between the group. It was fun to see them grow and change as the story played out.

There was good tension in the battle scenes and the action sequences flowed well. I felt like I was on the edge of my seat as the fights unfolded. The technology was well written and the world was well described and immersive.

The plot was plotting and man was there ever a twist at the end! I’m very curious where this will go in the next book.

[Laura Thornton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was my first within this genre and I'm hooked. It's fast-paced, exciting, and full of suspense. I don't have any experience with the military but these characters helped me understand why the friendships last for a life time. Can't wait to read the next one!

[Karen Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heart-pounding, cinematic space epic that feels both intimate and vast. 'Fleet of the Forgotten' delivers high-stakes action, emotional depth, and a hero worth rooting for. I couldn't put it down

[Mr. and Mrs. Robert Brian Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story played like a Star Trek episode: cinematic in the way it's told. Many love this in stories, wanting fast-paced movies in text form, but I would rather watch a movie for that experience. With the cinematic style of this book, we often were in a scene following one character, shifted to the thoughts and feelings of the character they met, then followed that character to another. This led to frequent PoV swaps in some chapters.

The main plot of this story felt solid and was well-paced with clear character growth. Side plots felt more hit and miss. Perhaps some of them tie into later books.

As this was an ARC read, and a debut novel, I gathered feedback for the author, mostly line editing issues. I had fun with this story and would check out more from this author.