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Our Tethered Skates #1
Our Tethered Skates
Layla has been living in the shadow of her sister who mysteriously disappeared ten years ago. On the anniversary of her sister’s disappearance, she experiences a nasty fall while ice skating and knocks her head on the ice.
When Layla wakes up, she finds that she has been magically transported to a kingdom made of ice and snow called Verglas. There, she is declared the warrior Verglas has been waiting for. She must choose between fighting against the Frosts—a long-time enemy—or going home without finding out more about her sister’s disappearance.
Will she succeed as the warrior like her predecessors? Or will she crumble under all the pressure?
When Layla wakes up, she finds that she has been magically transported to a kingdom made of ice and snow called Verglas. There, she is declared the warrior Verglas has been waiting for. She must choose between fighting against the Frosts—a long-time enemy—or going home without finding out more about her sister’s disappearance.
Will she succeed as the warrior like her predecessors? Or will she crumble under all the pressure?
104 pages, Paperback
First published April 18, 2023
About the author
Naadhira Zahari
6 books97 followersNaadhira has been writing since she was 15 and has never stopped. She spends most of her time getting sucked in books and daydreaming about fictional characters. She’s a lover of words and languages and aspires to make all her dreams come true, specifically to publish all her stories. She can also be found on Bookstagram, Twitter and Blog at @legenbooksdary
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
April 18, 2023
Our Tethered Skates by Naadhira Zahari was a very fast paced read and I enjoyed every chapter in this book.
I was so invested in the story. Honestly I felt like the story is a little bit short. It was not enough, though. Throughout the reading, I can't wait to know more about what will happen next chapter after chapter.
Love all the characters especially Bam. Can't believe it already ended. Need more! I hope Naadhira will write more stories soon. But please take your time. No stress yea! Hehehhe.
Highly recommended! Please go buy this book!!!
I was so invested in the story. Honestly I felt like the story is a little bit short. It was not enough, though. Throughout the reading, I can't wait to know more about what will happen next chapter after chapter.
Love all the characters especially Bam. Can't believe it already ended. Need more! I hope Naadhira will write more stories soon. But please take your time. No stress yea! Hehehhe.
Highly recommended! Please go buy this book!!!
June 9, 2024
The story was simple. I was expecting more but it's a novella so I should understand. Although the novella was very short, I can't finish it in one sitting due to my hectic schedule :) Took couples of minutes here and there, and now the 10-year-old in me is happy because I read this in week 13 (it's the stressful phase of the semester). This is the first book I finished from my PBAKL 2024 haul hehe ^^
The book is mainly about Layla, a girl whose own parents shunned her after the incident where her sister mysteriously disappeared some years ago. She was magically transported to a kingdom named Verglas on her sister's disappearance anniversary. It's a kingdom made of ice. Both Layla and her sister used to skate. Oh oh, and Layla was transported when she was ice skating. She hit her head and poof! You'll have to read it to know more :3
Layla is a sister I wish to have (and be!) -Someone who cares about breaking free from not-so-good stuff in the family i.e. how her parents deal with grief. Yet, she too is clueless. She doesn't know how. Honestly, I see myself in her. My siblings might agree :) Anyway, I'm glad that the story does not end here (right?) because as far as I'm aware, the recently-released book from the author, Our Tethered Worlds, is its sequel.
Aite, my assignments are waiting. Please pray that I'll be strong like Layla this final week. I'll be back for the sequel! <3
P.S. Here are some of my favourite lines from the book because they hit home *sobs
“The moon and stars shine as her only companions in the darkness.”
“Layla thinks it's unrealistic but that's what fiction can do—transport readers from harsh realities and instil hope for better days.”
“She's so used to being the loner left to her own devices both at home and at school.”
“She doesn't miss home but she feels out of place here in this magical kingdom. ... Neither feels right.”
“She feels like she has reached her limit.”
“Even if it is wishful thinking, she is willing to take the chance.”
“Layla feels helpless and confused” —Me right now :'')
#aliahreads2024 #14
#1M1BC
The book is mainly about Layla, a girl whose own parents shunned her after the incident where her sister mysteriously disappeared some years ago. She was magically transported to a kingdom named Verglas on her sister's disappearance anniversary. It's a kingdom made of ice. Both Layla and her sister used to skate. Oh oh, and Layla was transported when she was ice skating. She hit her head and poof! You'll have to read it to know more :3
Layla is a sister I wish to have (and be!) -Someone who cares about breaking free from not-so-good stuff in the family i.e. how her parents deal with grief. Yet, she too is clueless. She doesn't know how. Honestly, I see myself in her. My siblings might agree :) Anyway, I'm glad that the story does not end here (right?) because as far as I'm aware, the recently-released book from the author, Our Tethered Worlds, is its sequel.
Aite, my assignments are waiting. Please pray that I'll be strong like Layla this final week. I'll be back for the sequel! <3
P.S. Here are some of my favourite lines from the book because they hit home *sobs
“The moon and stars shine as her only companions in the darkness.”
“Layla thinks it's unrealistic but that's what fiction can do—transport readers from harsh realities and instil hope for better days.”
“She's so used to being the loner left to her own devices both at home and at school.”
“She doesn't miss home but she feels out of place here in this magical kingdom. ... Neither feels right.”
“She feels like she has reached her limit.”
“Even if it is wishful thinking, she is willing to take the chance.”
“Layla feels helpless and confused” —Me right now :'')
#aliahreads2024 #14
#1M1BC
May 19, 2023
A read with a magic system that felt clever.
And the cover is just GORGEOOUS~
RTC
And the cover is just GORGEOOUS~
RTC
June 11, 2023
Rating: 3.5🌟
When Layla was young, her sister disappeared after sneaking out of the house in the middle of the night to skate on a frozen lake. Ten years later, upon missing her sister too painfully, Layla sneaks out to skate as well, but accidentally slips and falls. She wakes up in an icy kingdom called Verglas, where its people believe that she was their long awaited warrior.
My, my. Reading this was a fun ride ✨❄️ Layla finding herself thrown in an unknown place and meeting an ice boy was so relatable. I would have freaked out and ran away as fast as I can too, but good thing Layla eventually befriended Bam, because he’s literally the most precious. I would not have minded more Layla and Bam moments to be honest. But unlike Layla and Bam who were so easy to love, I find Queen Cayra to be a little bit… suspicious. Though there were nothing bad about her, I feel like she was hiding too much. I barely trusted her even till the end.
Plot-wise, this book has a solid story, though because of the short length of it, I feel like many details are being omitted. Certain parts of the story did not have enough explanation to it, causing the plot to not have much depth. I have so many questions, which I won’t express here so as not to spoil anything. Nonetheless, the magic system and the different types of Skaters are something that I was pretty amazed by. I need more from this story, really.
Our Tethered Skates is one of the first three English young adult books published by Bookiut PTS and I truly adore this one 🤍 It’s a quick read, perfect for young or beginner readers. The language is fairly easy to grasp and there are good morals to be found as well.
Many thanks to Bookiut PTS for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review.
When Layla was young, her sister disappeared after sneaking out of the house in the middle of the night to skate on a frozen lake. Ten years later, upon missing her sister too painfully, Layla sneaks out to skate as well, but accidentally slips and falls. She wakes up in an icy kingdom called Verglas, where its people believe that she was their long awaited warrior.
My, my. Reading this was a fun ride ✨❄️ Layla finding herself thrown in an unknown place and meeting an ice boy was so relatable. I would have freaked out and ran away as fast as I can too, but good thing Layla eventually befriended Bam, because he’s literally the most precious. I would not have minded more Layla and Bam moments to be honest. But unlike Layla and Bam who were so easy to love, I find Queen Cayra to be a little bit… suspicious. Though there were nothing bad about her, I feel like she was hiding too much. I barely trusted her even till the end.
Plot-wise, this book has a solid story, though because of the short length of it, I feel like many details are being omitted. Certain parts of the story did not have enough explanation to it, causing the plot to not have much depth. I have so many questions, which I won’t express here so as not to spoil anything. Nonetheless, the magic system and the different types of Skaters are something that I was pretty amazed by. I need more from this story, really.
Our Tethered Skates is one of the first three English young adult books published by Bookiut PTS and I truly adore this one 🤍 It’s a quick read, perfect for young or beginner readers. The language is fairly easy to grasp and there are good morals to be found as well.
Many thanks to Bookiut PTS for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 20, 2023
I got this book because of the cover. 🫣 There I said it. 😆 The cover is too lovely…reminds me so much of the Lover cover by Tay Tay. 🙃
This book revolves around two sisters and their accidental discovery of another magical land.
This book is only 100 pages long and you will be done in one seating. It’s fast paced and smooth.
However, I do feel that it could have been a bit more descriptive.
Nevertheless for junior readers, this would be a perfect book to start with. Not too intimidating and it got its charms and magic drizzled here and there.
If you are looking for something light, and wanna escape your hectic atmosphere, this book will just be the one for you.
This book revolves around two sisters and their accidental discovery of another magical land.
This book is only 100 pages long and you will be done in one seating. It’s fast paced and smooth.
However, I do feel that it could have been a bit more descriptive.
Nevertheless for junior readers, this would be a perfect book to start with. Not too intimidating and it got its charms and magic drizzled here and there.
If you are looking for something light, and wanna escape your hectic atmosphere, this book will just be the one for you.
April 26, 2023
I have one complaint about this book; IT IS TOO SHORT, WE NEED MORE. Well, I *need* more.
If the stunning cover did not hypnotise you to buy it, look at it longer and you'll find yourself pressing "checkout". I think the greatest thing about this book is the structure of the plot. It was fast-paced and it captures the reader's attention. It is enthralling in a way that makes you want to keep reading it, you may even finish it in one seating since it is only 101 pages! It is the perfect length for people looking for their FIRST BOOK to read or a quick gripping book to get you out of a reading slump. Some might say that it may be too fast-paced and didn't space out for the story to take its course, which I agree with. This story is big and wild, the adventure packed into 101 pages is simply not enough. I wish there was more time spent on developing some emotional entanglement between certain characters to pull off the avalanche of feels🏔️😭. I get it, it is a novella, a short story, with a limited amount of words and pages. But I would LOVE, ADORE to read it as a full-length novel of 70k+ words. And make it a duology please. There's so much to expand upon, the possibilities are endless. All the more reason why it stays with you and makes you imagine the wonderful things it could grow into. Yet, the novella length is just right, it is welcoming to new readers, and it invites them to read. The page count makes it less intimidating to start. And as we readers all know, once we start, we can't stop. 😉 If you're going to cultivate the habit of reading and don't know which book to pick up, start with this. It is short, sweet, thrilling and satisfyingly heartbreaking.
Not to mention, the wintery setting will make you wish you have hot milo. And all the badass ice skating moves might influence you to try ice skating!
4 stars because I'm saving the 5 stars for when Naadhira grants my wish. 💕
Currently available in Malaysia: https://bookcafe.com.my/our-tethered-...
If the stunning cover did not hypnotise you to buy it, look at it longer and you'll find yourself pressing "checkout". I think the greatest thing about this book is the structure of the plot. It was fast-paced and it captures the reader's attention. It is enthralling in a way that makes you want to keep reading it, you may even finish it in one seating since it is only 101 pages! It is the perfect length for people looking for their FIRST BOOK to read or a quick gripping book to get you out of a reading slump. Some might say that it may be too fast-paced and didn't space out for the story to take its course, which I agree with. This story is big and wild, the adventure packed into 101 pages is simply not enough. I wish there was more time spent on developing some emotional entanglement between certain characters to pull off the avalanche of feels🏔️😭. I get it, it is a novella, a short story, with a limited amount of words and pages. But I would LOVE, ADORE to read it as a full-length novel of 70k+ words. And make it a duology please. There's so much to expand upon, the possibilities are endless. All the more reason why it stays with you and makes you imagine the wonderful things it could grow into. Yet, the novella length is just right, it is welcoming to new readers, and it invites them to read. The page count makes it less intimidating to start. And as we readers all know, once we start, we can't stop. 😉 If you're going to cultivate the habit of reading and don't know which book to pick up, start with this. It is short, sweet, thrilling and satisfyingly heartbreaking.
Not to mention, the wintery setting will make you wish you have hot milo. And all the badass ice skating moves might influence you to try ice skating!
4 stars because I'm saving the 5 stars for when Naadhira grants my wish. 💕
Currently available in Malaysia: https://bookcafe.com.my/our-tethered-...
February 26, 2026
the family story was solid, and i like the theme and the messages :) but still, some scenes weren't enough for me, so im giving it 3.5 stars— wish it had more details!! (but yeah, its a novella)
January 21, 2024
For a short novel, this was so eventful! I was so invested in the story and the characters were so likeable that I wish we could have a longer version of it. I really wanna know more back story of the world and the characters — most especially Bam!
But all on all, Naadhira is a really good writer. I am looking forward to reading more stories from her 💕
But all on all, Naadhira is a really good writer. I am looking forward to reading more stories from her 💕
June 7, 2023
Our Tethered Skates is about Layla, who has been magically transported to an ice and snow kingdom called Verglas after she falls on the ice rink.
- The writing is captivatingly good that I finished this in one day. The terms used are so easy to follow, leads to smooth understanding of the plot.
- The characters are uniquely personified. From Layla, to Bam to Queen Cayra, each of them have their own distinct features. I love when the author can describe their characters very well because I can visualize them just like that in my mind.
- I love the way Layla conquers her insecurity in Verglas. Like, we can see evident difference between Layla pre-Verglas and Layla post-Verglas. The author did a very great job here, I'm convinced!
- The story emphasizes on how valuable our family is - even one loss affects the whole institution. I learn that if a problem occurs and no action is taken, it will drag on to the extent that nothing can be done unless someone is brave enough to address it out loud to solve it. I believe that this is relatable beyond time.
- The only down side of this book? It ends. I need more, seriously. I can see its potential of being expanded to maybe 300-400 pages novel considering that short revelation at the end of the book (that left me in huge excitement! you have to read the book to know what it is 😇) but I know that will just defeat the purpose of it being a short story 😅
- The writing is captivatingly good that I finished this in one day. The terms used are so easy to follow, leads to smooth understanding of the plot.
- The characters are uniquely personified. From Layla, to Bam to Queen Cayra, each of them have their own distinct features. I love when the author can describe their characters very well because I can visualize them just like that in my mind.
- I love the way Layla conquers her insecurity in Verglas. Like, we can see evident difference between Layla pre-Verglas and Layla post-Verglas. The author did a very great job here, I'm convinced!
- The story emphasizes on how valuable our family is - even one loss affects the whole institution. I learn that if a problem occurs and no action is taken, it will drag on to the extent that nothing can be done unless someone is brave enough to address it out loud to solve it. I believe that this is relatable beyond time.
- The only down side of this book? It ends. I need more, seriously. I can see its potential of being expanded to maybe 300-400 pages novel considering that short revelation at the end of the book (that left me in huge excitement! you have to read the book to know what it is 😇) but I know that will just defeat the purpose of it being a short story 😅
June 14, 2023
cute <3
February 10, 2024
I freaking love the cover! Its so gorgeous!
The story is simple and yet fulfilling. I cant wait for my newphew to read it. It will be magic and epic.
The story is simple and yet fulfilling. I cant wait for my newphew to read it. It will be magic and epic.
June 28, 2023
Amazingly creative and entertaining.
May 30, 2023
May 2023: Our Tethered Skates
When I first got to know that @bukubookiut is publishing this book around my eldest's birthday, I could not be more happy. The right timing, with hopes that my girls will slow down bickering at each other because this book revolve around sisterhood.
⛸️I love the cover. You have to see it irl, touch and feel it. Same goes to the other books, SoT and TID.
⛸️Apart from being brave to fight the Frost, Layla learnt to accept the lost of her sister. I love how she returns home, face her parents and agree to get professional help. I think this is the most important message from this book.
⛸️Turn to page 26, Layla is bold to speak her mind when Bam tries to grab her arm. Body safety is a constant topic that we discuss at home, so happy we can relate to Layla's action.
⛸️I feel upset at Queen Cayra for not informing the family about Maya. As a kind, responsible queen, has she not thought about Maya's family?
If there is a plan for a sequel, I hope it will be from Mom's and Queen Cayra's pov. Both have a lot to explain! 😅
When I first got to know that @bukubookiut is publishing this book around my eldest's birthday, I could not be more happy. The right timing, with hopes that my girls will slow down bickering at each other because this book revolve around sisterhood.
⛸️I love the cover. You have to see it irl, touch and feel it. Same goes to the other books, SoT and TID.
⛸️Apart from being brave to fight the Frost, Layla learnt to accept the lost of her sister. I love how she returns home, face her parents and agree to get professional help. I think this is the most important message from this book.
⛸️Turn to page 26, Layla is bold to speak her mind when Bam tries to grab her arm. Body safety is a constant topic that we discuss at home, so happy we can relate to Layla's action.
⛸️I feel upset at Queen Cayra for not informing the family about Maya. As a kind, responsible queen, has she not thought about Maya's family?
If there is a plan for a sequel, I hope it will be from Mom's and Queen Cayra's pov. Both have a lot to explain! 😅
August 23, 2024
THE COVER IS JUST GORGEOUS. Kudos to both the designers :)
Overall, it was a really good concept. I understand this is the author's first work for fiction (having written only non-fiction in the past) - it's an amazing feat and she should be proud of herself.
The beginning was intriguing and when Layla gets into Verglas, it fell a bit short for me in terms of the dynamic between her and Bam. Most likely cause she was in the process of world-building but the conversations between both of them - I felt could be improved. Very creative concept and execution.
After that, the story really takes off. You can feel that you're in some magical, winterland. I was pretty invested in the plot. In such a short novella, she packed all the necessary things a newly found warrior would do - arms, get practice, etc.
My logical brain just could not shut off when the outfits and the ambiance were described. They were giving me warm, spring vibes rather than winter. Skating in the palace in a flowy yellow dress and having parties in gardens of lush flowers. So there was a bit of a disconnect there for me. Just a super minor observation when she reached the stairway of the palace - it was said Layla removed her skates to get up the stairs. Once she reached the top - she 'skated' into the main hall (or something). My literal brain just found it hard to follow. haha
An enjoyable read, and looking forward to the second installment :)
Overall, it was a really good concept. I understand this is the author's first work for fiction (having written only non-fiction in the past) - it's an amazing feat and she should be proud of herself.
The beginning was intriguing and when Layla gets into Verglas, it fell a bit short for me in terms of the dynamic between her and Bam. Most likely cause she was in the process of world-building but the conversations between both of them - I felt could be improved. Very creative concept and execution.
After that, the story really takes off. You can feel that you're in some magical, winterland. I was pretty invested in the plot. In such a short novella, she packed all the necessary things a newly found warrior would do - arms, get practice, etc.
My logical brain just could not shut off when the outfits and the ambiance were described. They were giving me warm, spring vibes rather than winter. Skating in the palace in a flowy yellow dress and having parties in gardens of lush flowers. So there was a bit of a disconnect there for me. Just a super minor observation when she reached the stairway of the palace - it was said Layla removed her skates to get up the stairs. Once she reached the top - she 'skated' into the main hall (or something). My literal brain just found it hard to follow. haha
An enjoyable read, and looking forward to the second installment :)
June 17, 2023
This novel reminds me of Barbie. It's about a girl who mysteriously lost her sibling. Layla's sister (Maya) has been missing for approximately ten years; her absence makes the home more uncomfortable and monotonous. Layla misses her sister terribly, and on the anniversary of Maya's disappearance, she skates on the lakes behind their house. While she was skating, she fell and smacked the ice on her head. After waking up from the small accident, she found herself in another parallel universe. Fast forward—then she was assigned with becoming a warrior in order to preserve the kingdom of Verglas from an evil foe known as the Frost. As seems, you should read the book to know more about Layla's decision whether she wants to be a warrior or to return home and live with her parents.
I love how the author expresses Layla's sentiments regarding her sister's disappearance ten years ago. How are they meant to respond to such news and Layla's initiative to seek help for her family. When we lose someone, we will have numerous questions about ourselves. Can we behave normally? Can we have a good laugh? Is it necessary to feel depressed all of the time? What if someone says to you, "Hey, you just lost someone." "How can you be so content for the time being?" If it's grief, then let it be. If you need to weep, cry. If you're sad, let yourself be sad. Recognise such sorts of emotions. Don't abandon your feelings just because you feel ashamed of what you've done.
I love how the author expresses Layla's sentiments regarding her sister's disappearance ten years ago. How are they meant to respond to such news and Layla's initiative to seek help for her family. When we lose someone, we will have numerous questions about ourselves. Can we behave normally? Can we have a good laugh? Is it necessary to feel depressed all of the time? What if someone says to you, "Hey, you just lost someone." "How can you be so content for the time being?" If it's grief, then let it be. If you need to weep, cry. If you're sad, let yourself be sad. Recognise such sorts of emotions. Don't abandon your feelings just because you feel ashamed of what you've done.
January 1, 2024
First of all. What a beautiful, beautiful cover this book has -- it definitely will make you wanna grab the book and start your reading with it, but not before taking your time admiring the cover.
Great story, short and completely captivating, although I'd say you will still can't help it but wishing that the story has been longer.
Great story, short and completely captivating, although I'd say you will still can't help it but wishing that the story has been longer.
May 26, 2023
Plot - 5 ⛸️
Character - 5 ⛸️
Writing Style - 5 ⛸️
World Building - 5 ⛸️
Art - 5 ⛸️
Cover - 5 ⛸️
Overall - 5 ⛸️ / 5 ⛸️
Character - 5 ⛸️
Writing Style - 5 ⛸️
World Building - 5 ⛸️
Art - 5 ⛸️
Cover - 5 ⛸️
Overall - 5 ⛸️ / 5 ⛸️
April 8, 2024
I read it as our tethered sky first before realizing the real title. Nice idea, nice conflict but so so story. May be because it's too short.
June 6, 2023
Our Tethered Skates by Naadhira Zahari ✨
Apa yang saya dapat melalui pembacaan kali ini :
✨Kasih sayang sesama keluarga.
✨Setiap orang ada perkara yang sedang ditempuh dan diperjuangkan.
✨Tidak mudah berputus asa dengan apa jua rintangan dan ujian kehidupan.
✨Betapa kadangkala menyokong seseorang dari belakang juga adalah lebih dari cukup.
✨Berusaha untuk keluar daripada masalah dan mencari jalan penyelesaian.
✨Time heals. Walau seberapa lama, insya Allah masa akan menyembuhkan.
Bab akhir tu saya rasa sedikit beremosi (sedih). Pasti sakit terpaksa melepaskan yang
tersayang tanpa dapat ucap selamat tinggal. 🥲
Buku yang tidak terlalu tebal, tetapi kisah dan jalan ceritanya tidak membosankan. Setiap kali habis satu bab, tak sabar nak baca bab seterusnya.
Kulit bukunya juga sangat cantik. Lukisan Verglas pun saya rasa cantik walau tanpa warna. Terbayang suasana di Verglas tu dalam fikiran sendiri.
My favourite verse :
“That’s what fiction can do - transport readers from harsh realities and instil hope for better days.”
Apa yang saya dapat melalui pembacaan kali ini :
✨Kasih sayang sesama keluarga.
✨Setiap orang ada perkara yang sedang ditempuh dan diperjuangkan.
✨Tidak mudah berputus asa dengan apa jua rintangan dan ujian kehidupan.
✨Betapa kadangkala menyokong seseorang dari belakang juga adalah lebih dari cukup.
✨Berusaha untuk keluar daripada masalah dan mencari jalan penyelesaian.
✨Time heals. Walau seberapa lama, insya Allah masa akan menyembuhkan.
Bab akhir tu saya rasa sedikit beremosi (sedih). Pasti sakit terpaksa melepaskan yang
tersayang tanpa dapat ucap selamat tinggal. 🥲
Buku yang tidak terlalu tebal, tetapi kisah dan jalan ceritanya tidak membosankan. Setiap kali habis satu bab, tak sabar nak baca bab seterusnya.
Kulit bukunya juga sangat cantik. Lukisan Verglas pun saya rasa cantik walau tanpa warna. Terbayang suasana di Verglas tu dalam fikiran sendiri.
My favourite verse :
“That’s what fiction can do - transport readers from harsh realities and instil hope for better days.”
May 14, 2023
First of all, yes, I judge the book by its cover and yes, this book is amazingly written! The only problem about this book is that it’s wayyy too short 😭 I want more conversation between Bam & Layla. I need more of Layla’s fight scene in Verglas (✨oh she’s a beauty, she’s elegant during battle against the frost✨)
The icy and snowy environment of Verglas reminds me of Narnia & it brings comfort to me while reading the book.
Long story short, I love this book so much & Id recommend this masterpiece to those who needs short fantasy to get out of book slump. 4 ⭐️
June 4, 2023
{44/2023} 4/5🌟 Fantasy Fiction | 101 pages
What I love about the story from this book, is the world building - snowy and wintery, always my favourite season - one can’t help but to be reminded of the visuals from the Frozen movie series but I can assure you, that they are totally two different stories.
Layla, her existence is still being shadowed by her eldest sister, Maya, although it has been ten years since her disappearance after she went out for ice-skating. She misses her sister so much that she decides to go out and ice-skate on the anniversary of her missing sister.
That’s when Layla fell and upon consciousness finds herself to be awaken in a magical wintery kingdom named as Verglas and soughted as the kingdom warrior much to her confusion. Layla is then caught in between, whether she stays and helps fight Verglas’ enemy, Frost, alongside its people or go home. Layla knows she needs to find the answers to her sister’s disappearance and she knows it has something to do with Verglas. Layla agrees to stay and help but with one condition. What could the condition be?
It sounds like any typical fairytale but what I like about the story is the lessons. Lessons concerning getting help when we know we need it. That it is okay to grieve when we lost someone. Plus, it is okay if it is needed for us to express and let the elders know our feelings. It certainly takes courage but it’s not wrong. A big lesson for us elders too, to make importance of every single communication our little ones are trying to convey.
I really hope the end is not the really the suppossed ending. I really hope that there are bigger secrets awaiting, but I guess, only @legend knows the answers.
If you love warrior princess fantasy, especially the one who knows all the graceful moves in ice-skating - this one is surely for you (ehem, and the kids too, don’t forget! 😅)
#justreaddontbawang #bookmehnia #JuneReads #JuneTBRs #bookstagrammalaysia #bookstagrammy #malaysiamembaca #bookstagrammer #bookgram #bibliophile #bibliophilemy #bookish #bookaddict #bookaesthetic #bookish #readersofinstagram #goodreads #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookworm #heyjune #ourtetheredskates #naadhirazahari
What I love about the story from this book, is the world building - snowy and wintery, always my favourite season - one can’t help but to be reminded of the visuals from the Frozen movie series but I can assure you, that they are totally two different stories.
Layla, her existence is still being shadowed by her eldest sister, Maya, although it has been ten years since her disappearance after she went out for ice-skating. She misses her sister so much that she decides to go out and ice-skate on the anniversary of her missing sister.
That’s when Layla fell and upon consciousness finds herself to be awaken in a magical wintery kingdom named as Verglas and soughted as the kingdom warrior much to her confusion. Layla is then caught in between, whether she stays and helps fight Verglas’ enemy, Frost, alongside its people or go home. Layla knows she needs to find the answers to her sister’s disappearance and she knows it has something to do with Verglas. Layla agrees to stay and help but with one condition. What could the condition be?
It sounds like any typical fairytale but what I like about the story is the lessons. Lessons concerning getting help when we know we need it. That it is okay to grieve when we lost someone. Plus, it is okay if it is needed for us to express and let the elders know our feelings. It certainly takes courage but it’s not wrong. A big lesson for us elders too, to make importance of every single communication our little ones are trying to convey.
I really hope the end is not the really the suppossed ending. I really hope that there are bigger secrets awaiting, but I guess, only @legend knows the answers.
If you love warrior princess fantasy, especially the one who knows all the graceful moves in ice-skating - this one is surely for you (ehem, and the kids too, don’t forget! 😅)
#justreaddontbawang #bookmehnia #JuneReads #JuneTBRs #bookstagrammalaysia #bookstagrammy #malaysiamembaca #bookstagrammer #bookgram #bibliophile #bibliophilemy #bookish #bookaddict #bookaesthetic #bookish #readersofinstagram #goodreads #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookworm #heyjune #ourtetheredskates #naadhirazahari
December 31, 2023
Our Tethered Skates, to me, is written for a specific group of audience: children to middle graders. It's simple and straightforward. With only 101 pages, I think the world building is easy to understand, nothing too complicated and not much of explanation is needed. It's perfect for kids age 7 to 12 or even up to 15. It gives me Narnia and Alice in Wonderland vibes, to be exact.
The storyline again is very straightforward, the resolution was too easy for me, like a war that took away Maya (the elder sister) would easily be won by Layla is something I can't accept easily. I would love it to be more than just what it is but provided this is somewhat a novella and the nature of the book is supposed to be short and simple. One shouldn't be too analytical as they are reading this book.
I also love that the author addresses the issues on dysfunctional family and provides a solution to it, especially when the solution comes from a teenager, the youngest member in the family. I think the author has done great at delivering the message of being bold to take matters into our hands, it doesn't matter whatever age you are, no matter how small you are, your opinion matters and your voice should be heard. This book is also about coping with loss and moving on with your life. It's about grief and love for the people altogether.
Honestly, I would love this book to be deeper and wider for adult readers because for me, I'm not getting the satisfying feeling after finishing this book. But I also do believe that there are adult readers who enjoy the simplicity of this book where one can just sit and read the story as it is.
The storyline again is very straightforward, the resolution was too easy for me, like a war that took away Maya (the elder sister) would easily be won by Layla is something I can't accept easily. I would love it to be more than just what it is but provided this is somewhat a novella and the nature of the book is supposed to be short and simple. One shouldn't be too analytical as they are reading this book.
I also love that the author addresses the issues on dysfunctional family and provides a solution to it, especially when the solution comes from a teenager, the youngest member in the family. I think the author has done great at delivering the message of being bold to take matters into our hands, it doesn't matter whatever age you are, no matter how small you are, your opinion matters and your voice should be heard. This book is also about coping with loss and moving on with your life. It's about grief and love for the people altogether.
Honestly, I would love this book to be deeper and wider for adult readers because for me, I'm not getting the satisfying feeling after finishing this book. But I also do believe that there are adult readers who enjoy the simplicity of this book where one can just sit and read the story as it is.
July 9, 2023
The book is about a teen, Layla trying to keep her family together after the disappearance of her elder sister, Maya a decade ago. It's a short fantasy but really well-executed that touches on the impact of child neglect, and about having to grow up way before time in a broken family.
Queen Cayra is one manipulative character that I loved to hate. She knew Maya but didn't tell Layla about what really had happened to her sister. Instead, she gave her false hope and gave the promise to help search for her AFTER Layla helped them win the war against Frost. The fact that the people in Veglas threw Layla a grand warrior party just gave me a red flag here. I mean, who in the correct mind would hold a party on the brink of war? During the confrontation between the Frost leader and Layla, he mentioned that she reminded him of someone, but Queen Cayra slayed him before Layla had the chance to ask him more. She was definitely trying to hide something.
I don't know. Maybe I'm overthinking. Maybe I read too many dark/gothic psycho-thriller that I started to see things that are not there. I expect something light, sweet fantasy but to me, this is a dark fantasy masquerading behind a cotton candy cover. This is a deeply affecting story that is haunting, cruel, and yet hopeful.
And the epilogue. This part hits me really hard. Now I have a reason to re-read My Killer Vacation to recover from this.
Kudos to the author for this unbearably sad but beautiful story.
Queen Cayra is one manipulative character that I loved to hate. She knew Maya but didn't tell Layla about what really had happened to her sister. Instead, she gave her false hope and gave the promise to help search for her AFTER Layla helped them win the war against Frost. The fact that the people in Veglas threw Layla a grand warrior party just gave me a red flag here. I mean, who in the correct mind would hold a party on the brink of war? During the confrontation between the Frost leader and Layla, he mentioned that she reminded him of someone, but Queen Cayra slayed him before Layla had the chance to ask him more. She was definitely trying to hide something.
I don't know. Maybe I'm overthinking. Maybe I read too many dark/gothic psycho-thriller that I started to see things that are not there. I expect something light, sweet fantasy but to me, this is a dark fantasy masquerading behind a cotton candy cover. This is a deeply affecting story that is haunting, cruel, and yet hopeful.
And the epilogue. This part hits me really hard. Now I have a reason to re-read My Killer Vacation to recover from this.
Kudos to the author for this unbearably sad but beautiful story.
January 15, 2024
I want to preface this by saying I read a good amount of children's books because I have kids and I like to read to them. Is the author a teen? If so, I might understand some of the choices made in the book, and well done for getting published!
I give this a 2.5 stars. All in all I thought the premise of the book was interesting. Though the story felt too short, the dialogue at times seemed to drag unnecessarily at times so I guess it is a pacing issue?
I was pleasantly surprised that some real life issues were raised in this book, we get glimpses of grief and loss and how it's delt with but, understandably (being a childrens book), it wasn't delved in too deeply. I could have done without the words "screwed" when reading this because of my 8 year old, but I just left those out.
Though simple, I'd be a little hard pressed to call this story sweet. Though i did enjoy the loveable supporting character, Bam.
I half expected Maya to have been trapped somewhere or that by some delicious twist of fate, she was actually someone hidden in plain sight. But no, the story is entirely and plainly straightforward and not particularly fleshed out. A result of being less than 100 pages maybe?
That being said I enjoyed reading it to my son and he enjoyed listening. We had fun trying to guess what twists there would be in the end even though there weren't any (except maybe the moms revelation).
I give this a 2.5 stars. All in all I thought the premise of the book was interesting. Though the story felt too short, the dialogue at times seemed to drag unnecessarily at times so I guess it is a pacing issue?
I was pleasantly surprised that some real life issues were raised in this book, we get glimpses of grief and loss and how it's delt with but, understandably (being a childrens book), it wasn't delved in too deeply. I could have done without the words "screwed" when reading this because of my 8 year old, but I just left those out.
Though simple, I'd be a little hard pressed to call this story sweet. Though i did enjoy the loveable supporting character, Bam.
I half expected Maya to have been trapped somewhere or that by some delicious twist of fate, she was actually someone hidden in plain sight. But no, the story is entirely and plainly straightforward and not particularly fleshed out. A result of being less than 100 pages maybe?
That being said I enjoyed reading it to my son and he enjoyed listening. We had fun trying to guess what twists there would be in the end even though there weren't any (except maybe the moms revelation).
May 30, 2023
"In front of her stands a sight that goes beyond her imagination." ❄
In this young adult fantasy Layla, a teen who lost her sister ten years ago, gets into an ice skating accident that transports her to Verglas, a kingdom of ice, and discovers she is the destined warrior to save the people from the notorious Frosts.
I'd been eyeing this book since it was first published a couple of months ago and am so happy that it's finally in my hands! Beautiful outside, beautiful inside 💖
I would have loved having this book growing up. It's precisely the type of story I devoured every day. But that doesn't stop me from enjoying it at this old age (tua lah sangat kan 🤣)
Quick story! I got to PBAKL late and missed the book signing, but as I was getting the book the author herself emerged like magic and turns out she was still there! Ahh I felt so lucky. She was so nice, you guys, and so friendly that eased my introvertedness 😂💕
Thank you, Naadhira, for introducing us to Verglas! It was such a fun ride reading this story and it was so nice meeting you!
In this young adult fantasy Layla, a teen who lost her sister ten years ago, gets into an ice skating accident that transports her to Verglas, a kingdom of ice, and discovers she is the destined warrior to save the people from the notorious Frosts.
I'd been eyeing this book since it was first published a couple of months ago and am so happy that it's finally in my hands! Beautiful outside, beautiful inside 💖
I would have loved having this book growing up. It's precisely the type of story I devoured every day. But that doesn't stop me from enjoying it at this old age (tua lah sangat kan 🤣)
Quick story! I got to PBAKL late and missed the book signing, but as I was getting the book the author herself emerged like magic and turns out she was still there! Ahh I felt so lucky. She was so nice, you guys, and so friendly that eased my introvertedness 😂💕
Thank you, Naadhira, for introducing us to Verglas! It was such a fun ride reading this story and it was so nice meeting you!
December 28, 2024
⛸️❄️🏒🧊💀
my rating: 4.1/5
opinion (beware of spoilers):
this novella follows after layla's (fmc) journey in the kingdom of verglas as a warrior where she needs to make a decision whether to help the kingdom and fight kingdom of frost or go back to the comfort of her home without finding out about her lost sister, maya.
it's one of those books where you pick up for a quick relaxing read and towards the end, as a person that could not handle 'goodbyes', it was not as relaxing as i hoped for. SOBBING CRYING THROWING UP was more of my vibes, going to miss bam (a hockey player that protects the queen) so much!!!
overall, it's a good introductory book to a beginner fantasy reader like me, very lighthearted and demure. as a sucker for great covers, i was also very intrigued by the cover when i saw it in the store and the content did not disappoint. since this is the first book of a duology, i'd love to grab the second book as soon as i can as well!
thank you for writing this story and indirectly healing something in me.
wardah ꨄ
my rating: 4.1/5
opinion (beware of spoilers):
this novella follows after layla's (fmc) journey in the kingdom of verglas as a warrior where she needs to make a decision whether to help the kingdom and fight kingdom of frost or go back to the comfort of her home without finding out about her lost sister, maya.
it's one of those books where you pick up for a quick relaxing read and towards the end, as a person that could not handle 'goodbyes', it was not as relaxing as i hoped for. SOBBING CRYING THROWING UP was more of my vibes, going to miss bam (a hockey player that protects the queen) so much!!!
overall, it's a good introductory book to a beginner fantasy reader like me, very lighthearted and demure. as a sucker for great covers, i was also very intrigued by the cover when i saw it in the store and the content did not disappoint. since this is the first book of a duology, i'd love to grab the second book as soon as i can as well!
thank you for writing this story and indirectly healing something in me.
wardah ꨄ
October 5, 2025
Ngl, I bought this using my siswa voucher. And honestly, I bought it because of the cover ofc, it’s so cute! But I didn’t expect it to be this thin 😂 RM15 feels quite pricey for me…
Butttt, the story is actually quite interesting. Every chapter keeps baiting me to read the next one just to find out what happens next. The story is really suitable for younger readers too because of the moral values in it.
I just hope this was a full novel instead of a novella. Ten chapters are too short 😭 I want to know more about her sister’s journey and please put what happen to her mom’s in that kingdom too!
If people ask me whether I’d recommend this, I definitely would! I even gave it to my sister to read because it’s very interesting. At the same time, the English is simple word, this suitable for people who struggle with English like me (even though I like reading English stories🤣)
So that’s all, bye! 🌸
Butttt, the story is actually quite interesting. Every chapter keeps baiting me to read the next one just to find out what happens next. The story is really suitable for younger readers too because of the moral values in it.
I just hope this was a full novel instead of a novella. Ten chapters are too short 😭 I want to know more about her sister’s journey and please put what happen to her mom’s in that kingdom too!
If people ask me whether I’d recommend this, I definitely would! I even gave it to my sister to read because it’s very interesting. At the same time, the English is simple word, this suitable for people who struggle with English like me (even though I like reading English stories🤣)
So that’s all, bye! 🌸
November 22, 2023
[Our Tethered Skate by Naadhira Zahari]
It was in the middle of the night when Layla went out skating without her parents knowing then an accident occurred which took her to another universe, Verglas. There she met with Bam which I find him sooo cute! I couldn't help but imagining him with Baymax appearance (•-•). Later she learnt that her missing sister, Maya who disappeared for 10 years had been there before. My heart breaks for Layla of how she was treated as if she was invisible to her parents. But this incident was a reset button that held the family together again.
My friend lent me this book when I stayed overnight at her house and little did I know this story brought me into such a magical world ✨ It reminded me of Rise of Guardian movie ❄ It's a very light and short story which I wish it was longer but still I enjoyed reading this 💙
4.5/5 🌟
It was in the middle of the night when Layla went out skating without her parents knowing then an accident occurred which took her to another universe, Verglas. There she met with Bam which I find him sooo cute! I couldn't help but imagining him with Baymax appearance (•-•). Later she learnt that her missing sister, Maya who disappeared for 10 years had been there before. My heart breaks for Layla of how she was treated as if she was invisible to her parents. But this incident was a reset button that held the family together again.
My friend lent me this book when I stayed overnight at her house and little did I know this story brought me into such a magical world ✨ It reminded me of Rise of Guardian movie ❄ It's a very light and short story which I wish it was longer but still I enjoyed reading this 💙
4.5/5 🌟
January 7, 2024
COVER: 10/10. Story? Not so much...
This story is about Layla who was transported into a fantasy skate world that is on a brink of invasion. As The Chosen One, she has to help the kingdom of Verglas and fight alongside them as their warrior. She's also on the search for her missing sister, Maya who is possibly last seen in Verglas.
While the concept of a skate wonderland kingdom is interesting & the 10/10 cover helps me imagine, I can't help but feel the impracticality & weirdness of everything. Like, if you live long enough in this world, would walking feels awkward?
The story itself is very straightforward although it tries to be deep at the end. And 10 years! The family is in grief for 10 years and I'm surprised no one suggested therapy sooner!
Writing-wise, there's some weird word choice like "expand" instead of "explain", like editing need to check it properly.
This story is about Layla who was transported into a fantasy skate world that is on a brink of invasion. As The Chosen One, she has to help the kingdom of Verglas and fight alongside them as their warrior. She's also on the search for her missing sister, Maya who is possibly last seen in Verglas.
While the concept of a skate wonderland kingdom is interesting & the 10/10 cover helps me imagine, I can't help but feel the impracticality & weirdness of everything. Like, if you live long enough in this world, would walking feels awkward?
The story itself is very straightforward although it tries to be deep at the end. And 10 years! The family is in grief for 10 years and I'm surprised no one suggested therapy sooner!
Writing-wise, there's some weird word choice like "expand" instead of "explain", like editing need to check it properly.
May 29, 2024
Tbh the first thought that came to my mind when I first saw the cover was: “OMG CUTE BARBIE-ISH BOOKS”. I nearly would have left without purchasing it but decided to purchase it anyway.
The story is about Layla who was left with a big hole in her life when her sister Maya disappeared 10 years ago. The family dynamic has changed so much that a once caring and loving family became so distant to one another that they barely know each other.
I love despite how short the book was, it still had so many scenes that was beautifully written with just enough details to give you a movie to plqy in your head while reading. It would’ve been better if there was more descriptive writing on the characters but I guess that what makes it fun.
I would definitely recommend this book if you are just starting out and want something quick and easy to read!
The story is about Layla who was left with a big hole in her life when her sister Maya disappeared 10 years ago. The family dynamic has changed so much that a once caring and loving family became so distant to one another that they barely know each other.
I love despite how short the book was, it still had so many scenes that was beautifully written with just enough details to give you a movie to plqy in your head while reading. It would’ve been better if there was more descriptive writing on the characters but I guess that what makes it fun.
I would definitely recommend this book if you are just starting out and want something quick and easy to read!
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