I generally liked this audio book. It was well written and well read by the narrator, who was very talented. The story tells the story of a transgender girl who lives in a society that seems corporate run, much like the worlds of the Murderbot or Alien, and she works on the edges of that society as a scavenger. Wylla answers an irresistible message that is sent out into the deep depths of space, enticing scavengers from all around. The prize is an AI mask that not only hones your senses but gives the wearer valuable survival skills where milliseconds count. What heroine Wylla doesn’t expect is something beyond comprehension with uncharted abilities, and imagine her shock when the tech comes with its very own impossible sentience whose corporate creators want back. As Wylla and the embedded AI intelligence Sable are prudently forced to get to know and trust each other (and fast), they find solace and empowerment in shared past experiences where their autonomy mattered little to those in power. Thus they decide on a path of vindication and revenge as they investigate Sable’s existence.

I only have two major complaints was that I was not thrilled with the POV in which the book was written-- first person POV alternating with a second person narrative . It was unique, but could be very annoying at times. I guess it worked for this particular book, but it could really throw people who are not ready for it. And it did take me a long bit of listening to get used to it. My other complaint is that there is literally not a single positive male figure in the book. If this book had been written about women, the misogyny would have be painful to read, but it seems that since men are the target in this book, it is acceptable.

It takes a lot of talent to go between a human like voice to that of an AI sentient and I felt narrator Emily Gibbons Bouchard did a great job at balancing both. The audiobook is relatively short, since it's a novella length, and I found it to be a quick, listen in one sitting type of story. There is a lot going on, and also not a lot going on, in Volatile Memory and Bouchard definitely captured he essence of the story.

Thank you Macmillan Audio for the gifted ALC.

*Thanks to NetGalley and MacMillan audio for early copy for review*

The world building in this worked so much for me. I was able to understand the political issues of it and how characters made their way through it so easily. The Sci-fi tech was also something I was able to wrap my head around immediately as well. It was so interesting seeing this world through queer lenses.

I listened to the audiobook for this and I think the narrator did a great job with emphasis the inner conflicts are characters were going through.

This novella made my sci-fi loving heart so happy! It was sapphic, it had revenge, and it is sci-fi. Seriously, say no more. This was my first experience with a book written in second person and I wasn’t sure how I would feel about that, but it worked oh so well! Book 1 of a duology and I can’t wait for book 2 😍 4.25 stars!

Volatile Memory is the new sapphic science fiction novella by Seth Hadden. With a universe centered around corporate greed and uniformity, it's easy enough to imagine the limitations imposed on the poorer populace, and the struggles to survive outside society. Hadden does an excellent job of grounding readers with tidbits of information throughout the novella, giving it depth, even though the focus of the story is on Wylla, her identity, and her struggle to survive. It's a poignant tale of being true to yourself.

Wylla is one of the many scavengers tolerated by the Corporate Federation, living on the outskirts in a hobbled ship. She refused to conform, to remain in a body that didn't fit, and learned to hack so she could change her identity records and erase any mention of her former self. Her family didn't understand, telling her should would be unemployable and would never be loved. That didn't stop her from transitioning via hormones and augments, "turning flesh into art."

Even so, she's barely scraping by when a call goes out, taunting scavengers to come and get an elite piece of technology. Wylla sees the possibilities of selling this new off market prototype from Visor Forge, but never expected the bloodbath when other scavengers make it to the tech first.

Inside the MARK I HAWK is a woman's consciousness. "It's stored in the volatile memory," the Appraiser whispered, "and the instant we shut it off, it will be wiped." Despite the money she could make by selling the mask, and the knowledge that Visor Forge will kill to get it back, Wylla is unable to let it go. Whether it's a technical glitch, the ghost of a dead woman, or a sentient artificial intelligence, the mask captivates Wylla.

The novella begins with what readers will assume is the second person point of view, but it's actually from the perspective of the consciousness inside the MASK I HAWK. The story resonated with me, especially, because my daughter is transgender. There's a chillingly accurate line, "Remember, the cruelty is the point" which brought me to tears. As my country chooses transgender people and immigrants as the targets of their hate and fear, it's so easy to put myself into Wylla's shoes. It had a huge impact on me, and I'm buying the book for my daughter.

The audiobook is narrated by Emily Gibbons Bouchard, and her sweet and sultry voice is a siren song from the MARK I HAWK to Wylla. It's absolutely captivating.

I saw mention online that this is the first book in a duology, so I'll be anxiously awaiting a sequel.

Good characters, a fun bit of mystery, and a very interesting technology system this book is a quick read and well worth the time spent

I listened to the ALC for Volatile Memory by Seth Haddon. It is the first book in The Volatile Memory Duology. It is really a novella, a pretty brief read. The narrator for this book, Emily Gibbons Bouchard, does an excellent job. The story is unusual - it is in second person and alternate first person POVs. I am not a fan of second person as I do not like hearing stories told in that fashion. Seems to be a constant series of 'you'. Initially, it was very off-putting, but then we dropped into the first person POVs. This is an extremely unique sapphic science fiction and unique revenge story. As we begin, there is a message that goes out about a valuable piece of tech hidden on a nearby planet. The tech isn't just valuable, it's inhabited. A very unusual, but ultimately rewarding story about being human in a post-human universe. I need to thank Net Galley and MacMillan Audio for my gifted arc. This book releases on July 22, 2025. I will absolutely be reading book two.

I really wanted to like this but alas, I did not. It was confusing. And I hated the writing style, written in first person POV by Sable, a copy of a mind living in a mask, but written to the trans woman who saved her, Willa. “You were” this and that and “you kicked” etc - I have never seen that style of writing before and I really hated it personally. The idea of a mind fragment falling in love with a human… a human kissing a mask… it was all too weird for me. The most redeeming factor was the trans rep and commentary.

I didn’t necessarily love the narrator but I do think it fit the story.

Thank you for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

4.5 stars rounded up! ✨

Wow!! This little book packed quite the punch!

The story beautifully tackled themes of gender identity, being trans, misogyny, and what it means to be human. These can all get heavy quickly but I was blown away by the mix of the gentle, authentic approach regarding identity, while also being steeped with feminine rage against the patriarchy (and capitalism!).

The sci-fi elements were really well done as well. The concept of having high-tech AI animal masks to help you go through life was so intriguing and felt truly unique but digestible. Despite touching on some heavier themes, this was action packed!

I listened to the audiobook format and really enjoyed it! The narrator fit the story well! I think there was definite benefit for me to listen to some of the more tech-talk that I might have just skimmed over while reading.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC!

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the advanced listening copy. This was a great novella! I do not generally get emotional in novellas as there is not as much time to get to know the characters so this one was surprising emotional for me. I really enjoyed the developing relationship between the two main characters. The use of second person can frequently throw me off, but it was used so well here. I can't wait for the second installment!

Volatile Memory was great! I thoroughly enjoyed this audiobook. It was fast-paced, contemplative, gnarly, and erotic. This is how you do erotic... sensual... horny... and from the point of view of a hawk-shaped helmet! This was my first Seth Haddon, and I'm hooked! I can't wait to read his other works. Also, another hit for Tordotcom, their novellas continue to impress me.

This was an entertaining, thought-provoking and surprisingly emotional sci-fi Sapphic space romance novella between a treasure hunter and the AI she falls for. Great on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Martha Wells or the book Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review. My only complaint was that I was sad the story ended so quickly but luckily it's a duology so I'll keep my eyes out for the final installment.

CW: infertility rep

3.25 ⭐ | Audiobook: 4 ⭐
Volatile Memory is a short, futuristic sci-fi story centered around an advanced AI mask technology that contains the consciousness of an individual. The concept is intriguing, and there’s clearly a larger world behind the tech, but I wish the story had been longer—it left me wanting more depth about the history and development of the technology. The main character is on a journey of self-discovery, trying to piece together how she ended up in this new existence. Most of the story takes place as an internal conversation, which made it a bit hard for me to stay fully engaged at times. With a longer format, I think some of the confusion could have been cleared up, and the story might have had more impact.
Thanks to @NetGalley for the audiobook—I'd rate that experience a solid 4 stars!

This was excellent!

I sincerely hope that this is the start to a series and not just a standalone story. I was invested in Wylla and Sable from the jump and their dynamic was very fascinating!

I don’t want to say too much about the plot as this story is quite short but we follow a trans woman and a mask containing a dead women’s consciousness. The idea of the mask tech and the way it is used was very intriguing and I would love to read more in this setting.

The novella is written entirely in 2nd person which might put some people off but I ate it up in 1 sitting.

Thank you to netgalley for the ALC of this novella!!

This is, without a doubt, the best book I have ever had the pleasure of receiving early. One of the best books I've ever read, and an absolute favorite of the year.

The main character of this novella, Wylla, is so real it was almost painful to hear the ways she suffered. But she's SO smart, and watching her game the system to get the best life she can for herself was so good, I loved watching her mind work. The POV character Sable made me swoon in so many ways. She's my favorite kind of character but I love that from the beginning of her internal monologue you can hear how bloodthirsty she is, how desperate for revenge. And her love for Wylla! From the very first line she is instantly fascinated by the other woman, it a totally genuinely romantic way.

Probably the best "made for me" part of this was that the entire novella is in second person! you the reader ARE Wylla, and Sable is talking to you as the events of the novella happen. I'm literally always a sucker for second person, and it was such a pleasant surprise because I didn't know much about this novella going in!!

Highly, highly recommend this novella. quippy tag line is definitely "be gay, do crime" but they really fucking mean it.

📖 Bookish Thoughts
Not going to lie, I was confused through a good portion of this book, but I loved it anyway. Volatile Memory is a fast paced sapphic sci fi novella that leans into bleak, high tech dystopia and feminine rage. It gets intense quickly and explores themes of bodily autonomy, survival, and revenge.

The second person POV wasn’t my favorite, and I think this one would have been easier to follow with immersive reading or on my Kindle. I listened to the audiobook, and while I didn’t fully connect with the format, the narration itself was fantastic.

Also, I’ve seen comparisons to This Is How You Lose the Time War, which is one of my all time favorites. This didn’t give that vibe for me. Still, I really enjoyed it for what it was and think it’s a solid, sapphic sci fi novella.

✨ What You Can Expect:
• Sapphic sci fi
• AI consciousness
• Second person POV
• Dystopian society
• Revenge quest

📖 Final Score: 4 stars
🎧 Audio Score: 5 stars
🎙️ Narration Style: Solo
📅 Pub Date: July 22, 2025
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the advanced listening copy. All thoughts are my own.

Generally speaking, I don't consider myself a sci-fi reader, but Volatile Memory kept coming across my feeds because it's sapphic and I finally gave into the promo. This actually is a really interesting story. I'd put it in the same conversations as books like Automatic Noodle and The Stars Too Fondly for the ways it explores transness and gender through presentation as well as whether memories make a person or if a body makes a person.

This novella is especially interesting in how it is told in second-person, although technically maybe it's first-person? HAWK is the perspective character, but she is talking to Willa as if Willa is the reader, and I really like how that created the story and the closeness it brings the reader. There are several iterations of individuality, from Willa's choices to change her body despite corporation standards to how tightly Willa and HAWK are woven together when she puts the mask on.

I'm very excited to read the sequel and I'll be interested to see others' thoughts about this book. Volatile Memory is so queer and trans and angry in all the best ways. This was a very interesting story and I really enjoyed the perspective choices, as well as how things were revealed and themes were explored.

firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc and an alc!

4.5 stars — this is a sci-fi but felt more like a horror/sci-fi novel omg!

volatile memory had an insane amount of social commentary revolving around bodies — specifically conducting harmful science experiments regarding implementing AI into human bodies; infertility; and trans-bodies.

i was completely blown away by the genius writing and progression of the plot.

as for the audio, the narration did a fantastic job!

i’m definitely going to look into the author’s backlist!

I was immediately taken with this book due to the powerful writing. The beginning gave me a rush with its strong main character, quick world and problem details, originality, and chilling action scenes. It’s dark in the best ways.
Strengths:
There's enough familiarity–with a federation, a maverick captain of a piece of crap ship, financial desperation, government / corporate enemies–to feel immediately on board in the adventure.
Luscious originality with the masks–fascinating and so well done, because they matter in the book.
Vivid settings, tech, and battles.
Appealing characters, and I appreciated the challenges of working within the intrinsic limitations of the story’s set-up. I liked them and wanted them to win.

Distractions:
Please note: These are my idiosyncratic opinions, nothing against authors or readers who enjoy these things. Feel free to skip this. I have nothing against romance. Recently, I've enjoyed several LGBTQIA books that include characters who fall in love.
The romance kicks in like flash paper. My interest lagged through the getting to know you dialogues, gooey emotional bits, and especially the unbelievable rhapsodizing during what would otherwise have been exceptional high-tension lives-on-the-line scenes. I can’t buy prolongied glowy thoights about a beloved during life or death action. The moments where growing trust was shown via action were far more effective than the interior monologues. It’s also difficult to trust a romance with heavy dependency, when one character has power over the other's existence.
The trans oppression material became a bit repetitive. Although considering the legal and criminal anti-trans attacks in multiple countries, it’s understandable that the author chose to lean into it. Direct depictions of having and protecting the congruent body and name were engaging. For me, her self-assertion in communication and action had greater impact than the thought trains. 

The ending slays.
This is a well-written, memorable audiobook with an excellent performance by the narrator.
Highly recommended for non-squeamish readers who enjoy speculative or science fiction–and there's enough dark, violent, and squelchy bits for eclectic horror readers. I'll watch for more books from Seth Haddon.
Thank you, Macmillan Audio, for the eARC for consideration. These are solely my own opinions.

Volatile Memory is a short and impactful look at identity and the quite literal masks that people wear in order to conceal or display aspects like gender, nature, etc.; seen in a world where a mask can actually have a consciousness from a wearer and be so infused as to carry that and even merge with another wearer. The creativity in the science and the human impacts of living in that world is a fascinating metaphor, and makes for a bizarrely thought=provoking ride.