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Untethered
Winner of the 2022 ASA/HQ Fiction Prize. A finely observed debut novel of a young Muslim woman's experience of immigration to Australia from Sri Lankan-Australian writer Ayesha Inoon.
Zia secretly longs to go to university but as a young woman in a traditional Muslim family, she does what is expected of her and agrees to an arranged marriage to Rashid, a man she barely knows. Cocooned by the wealth and customs of her family, Rashid's dark moods create only the smallest of ripples in their early life together. When growing political unrest spurs them to leave Sri Lanka and immigrate to Australia, Zia is torn between fear of leaving her beloved family and the possibility of new freedoms. While on paper their new country welcomes them with open arms, their visas come with many restrictions and for the first time Zia faces isolation, poverty and an increasingly unstable marriage that forms a cage stronger than any she's known before. Determined to carve a place for herself in this new country, Zia sets out on uncertain terrain and discovers friendship, devastating loss and hope for a different future. One that asks her to consider not just who she is, but who she might become. Partially drawn from her own experiences, debut author Ayesha Inoon's novel weaves the threads of family, culture and tradition together with the uncertainty and freedom of starting anew to create a complex tapestry of identity, resilience and hope. 'A nuanced and moving exploration of what it means to leave the only home you've ever known for the promise of a better life, Ayesha Inoon's Untethered examines the crushing disappointments that can await immigrants and the ever-present question of whether they did the right thing.' - Tracey Lien, award-winning author of All That's Left Unsaid 'By turns gentle and searing, rich with life, yearning and the search for self, Ayesha Inoon's beautifully written debut novel is an unmissable read.' - Kim Lock, bestselling author of The Other Side of Beautiful & The Fancies
Zia secretly longs to go to university but as a young woman in a traditional Muslim family, she does what is expected of her and agrees to an arranged marriage to Rashid, a man she barely knows. Cocooned by the wealth and customs of her family, Rashid's dark moods create only the smallest of ripples in their early life together. When growing political unrest spurs them to leave Sri Lanka and immigrate to Australia, Zia is torn between fear of leaving her beloved family and the possibility of new freedoms. While on paper their new country welcomes them with open arms, their visas come with many restrictions and for the first time Zia faces isolation, poverty and an increasingly unstable marriage that forms a cage stronger than any she's known before. Determined to carve a place for herself in this new country, Zia sets out on uncertain terrain and discovers friendship, devastating loss and hope for a different future. One that asks her to consider not just who she is, but who she might become. Partially drawn from her own experiences, debut author Ayesha Inoon's novel weaves the threads of family, culture and tradition together with the uncertainty and freedom of starting anew to create a complex tapestry of identity, resilience and hope. 'A nuanced and moving exploration of what it means to leave the only home you've ever known for the promise of a better life, Ayesha Inoon's Untethered examines the crushing disappointments that can await immigrants and the ever-present question of whether they did the right thing.' - Tracey Lien, award-winning author of All That's Left Unsaid 'By turns gentle and searing, rich with life, yearning and the search for self, Ayesha Inoon's beautifully written debut novel is an unmissable read.' - Kim Lock, bestselling author of The Other Side of Beautiful & The Fancies
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
June 9, 2023
Zia is a young Muslim women living in Colombo, Sri Lanka, she did well at the girls school she attended and would have liked to go to university. Her parents expect her to marry, after meeting Rashid Hassan once and their marriage is arranged. Zia has lived a very sheltered life, she’s been protected by her family’s wealth, traditions and her faith. Zia's mother assures her that she and Rashid are well suited, everything will be fine and can you imagine marrying a stranger?
With the growing political unrest in Sri Lanka, Rashid decides they should immigrate to Australia, once he's settled, he sends for Zia and their daughter Farah. Zia leaves her family for the unknown, she has never travelled without a chaperone before and she’s bound for Canberra. Zia notices Rashid is a little short when they arrive, he’s prone to moodiness and it doesn’t take long for her to discover why. Australian has a complicated and expensive visa process, Rashid has found it hard to get a job as a software engineer despite his university degree, high profile position in Colombo and he finds it deeming.
Zia is living in a strange country, she has no friends, feels isolated and she misses her family and comfortable life in Sri Lanka. Zia has more freedom in Australia, but Rashid's behaviour is unpredictable, when they suffer another setback and devastating loss, Zia doesn’t know what she’s going to do and she and Rashid grow further apart.
I received a copy of Untethered by Ayesha Inoon from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. The narrative explores topics such as arranged marriages, Sri Lankan culture, family, traditions, faith, and being a migrant. The challenges they faced moving to Canberra, adapting to a colder climate, negotiating the red tape and discrimination, financial issues, loneliness and isolation, the pressure it puts on relationships, how it affects men differently and especially someone like Rashid. Four stars from me, I’m a first generation Australia and I could certainly relate to some of Zia’s struggles, I had nothing but admiration for her character and I can understand why Ms. Inoon has won awards for her debut novel.
With the growing political unrest in Sri Lanka, Rashid decides they should immigrate to Australia, once he's settled, he sends for Zia and their daughter Farah. Zia leaves her family for the unknown, she has never travelled without a chaperone before and she’s bound for Canberra. Zia notices Rashid is a little short when they arrive, he’s prone to moodiness and it doesn’t take long for her to discover why. Australian has a complicated and expensive visa process, Rashid has found it hard to get a job as a software engineer despite his university degree, high profile position in Colombo and he finds it deeming.
Zia is living in a strange country, she has no friends, feels isolated and she misses her family and comfortable life in Sri Lanka. Zia has more freedom in Australia, but Rashid's behaviour is unpredictable, when they suffer another setback and devastating loss, Zia doesn’t know what she’s going to do and she and Rashid grow further apart.
I received a copy of Untethered by Ayesha Inoon from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. The narrative explores topics such as arranged marriages, Sri Lankan culture, family, traditions, faith, and being a migrant. The challenges they faced moving to Canberra, adapting to a colder climate, negotiating the red tape and discrimination, financial issues, loneliness and isolation, the pressure it puts on relationships, how it affects men differently and especially someone like Rashid. Four stars from me, I’m a first generation Australia and I could certainly relate to some of Zia’s struggles, I had nothing but admiration for her character and I can understand why Ms. Inoon has won awards for her debut novel.
August 22, 2023
A beautifully written story of an immigrant's experience. Zia and her husband Rashid and young daughter Farah come to Canberra from Colombo when they no longer felt safe as Tamil Muslims in Sri Lanka when unrest threatened their well being. An arranged marraige between two well off families started well enough for them in their native Colombo.
But the immigration experience is hard on all of them, missing family, familiar culture and friends, as well as living hard in Canberra, where Rashid now works as a cleaner after working in IT in a well paid job back home. Their relationship struggles and Ms Inoon chronicals it well. There are many ups and downs, it was not always easy to read, but well worth the effort. Well done Ms Inoon. Library ebook, 4 stars.
But the immigration experience is hard on all of them, missing family, familiar culture and friends, as well as living hard in Canberra, where Rashid now works as a cleaner after working in IT in a well paid job back home. Their relationship struggles and Ms Inoon chronicals it well. There are many ups and downs, it was not always easy to read, but well worth the effort. Well done Ms Inoon. Library ebook, 4 stars.
August 20, 2023
This debut novel from Ayesha Inoon gives a slightly different view of the usual immigrant experience, with a well-off, successful, multilingual, Muslim Sri Lankan couple giving up their comfortable life in the face of escalating political unrest. Having previously enjoyed foreign education, overseas travel and luxury cars, Rashid and Zia choose Australia's skilled migration program for their escape. They are granted visas, but are committed to Canberra for 2 years before they are permitted to relocate. What a fall in circumstances! I guess I'm more accustomed to reading the refugee experience, so it was a shock to me to find that these characters fared little better. Skilled migration without a pathway to suitable employment was probably my biggest surprise. Rashid slides into a dark state of mind because of this, but the story is told from Zia's point of view and her experience is arguably more sombre. Luckily she has her language skills and her love of writing, and over time she begins to make friends and become aware of the potential freedoms of her new life in Australia.
Of course there's a lot more to this novel which reads as being possibly autobiographical. I enjoyed it but found it was let down in audiobook format by the awkward narration.
3.5 stars.
Of course there's a lot more to this novel which reads as being possibly autobiographical. I enjoyed it but found it was let down in audiobook format by the awkward narration.
3.5 stars.
May 21, 2023
This is a debut novel from Sri-Lankan/Australian author Ayesha Inoon. It tells the story of Zia who is a devout Muslim girl from a wealthy family who enters an arranged marriage with up and coming tech engineer Rashid. She barely knows the man but as her dreams of going to university will never be allowed to happen, and he seems nice, she agrees. Love comes after the marriage, and the arrival of their daughter completes their family unit. But Rashid has dark moods which he warned about before they marry, telling her to just ignore them, after they are married he tells her he will always love her even if it appears he doesn’t.
While living with her family ignoring his mood swings is easy however the dangerous political situation in Sri Lanka compels the young couple and their now 4-year-old daughter to emigrate to Canberra in Australia for a better life.
Leaving everyone she knows and with only the belongings she can fit in her suitcase, Zia is lost and isolated - untethered. Rashid can only get work as a cleaner and he goes spiralling downwards as he feels like a failure as a man and provider. Things are not looking good for them as they lose their love connection to each other. Zia gradually makes connections outside her home against a background of an increasingly bewildering relationship with Rashid - his mood is constantly angry. The better life they assumed would happen now seems increasingly elusive.
The author has written a story that stayed with me long after I closed the last page. As a reader I got to know how Rashid felt as well as Zia. The two stories build up the story of the marriage as two people find their way in a strange land with no support and leaves you wondering if their love can ever be rekindled. The two love each other but it seems they can connect as they use to. A couple of dramatic events and wise words from unexpected sources lead the reader, along with Zia and Rashid, to their better life.
I utterly recommend this novel
With thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for my copy.
While living with her family ignoring his mood swings is easy however the dangerous political situation in Sri Lanka compels the young couple and their now 4-year-old daughter to emigrate to Canberra in Australia for a better life.
Leaving everyone she knows and with only the belongings she can fit in her suitcase, Zia is lost and isolated - untethered. Rashid can only get work as a cleaner and he goes spiralling downwards as he feels like a failure as a man and provider. Things are not looking good for them as they lose their love connection to each other. Zia gradually makes connections outside her home against a background of an increasingly bewildering relationship with Rashid - his mood is constantly angry. The better life they assumed would happen now seems increasingly elusive.
The author has written a story that stayed with me long after I closed the last page. As a reader I got to know how Rashid felt as well as Zia. The two stories build up the story of the marriage as two people find their way in a strange land with no support and leaves you wondering if their love can ever be rekindled. The two love each other but it seems they can connect as they use to. A couple of dramatic events and wise words from unexpected sources lead the reader, along with Zia and Rashid, to their better life.
I utterly recommend this novel
With thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for my copy.
August 23, 2023
This wasn’t the novel I was expecting, but am I so glad I had the opportunity to read it! This isn’t the quintessential Australian story, but I bet it resonates with many Australians. I really felt I have been allowed to look into a traditional Sri Lankan family. Through Zia I got to see the romance of an arranged marriage. I got to see the husband as the head of the household. I got to experience Australia through the eyes of a poor, lonely migrant. I got to be brave, make new friends and learn new skills. This is a quiet story, full of normal people doing every day. I am so glad I got sent this novel. I loved it
July 3, 2023
A story of a young couple fleeing their homeland (Sri Lanka) and their support network to seek greener pastures in Australia. The transition was not as easy as expected as they face employment issues, loneliness and difficulty in integrating. A marriage that seemed so comfortable initially now becomes fragile and they do not have their support network to fall on. As Zia, our main protagonist who has a love for reading and writing, slowly finds new connections and grows in confidence, she starts to dream of a future that she wasn’t allowed to when she got married. A fantastic novel on migration and how hard this experience can be, racism, marriage, parenthood and womanhood.. loved this book!
February 17, 2025
4.5 stars
This was a beautifully written, very real story about a young Sri Lankan-Muslim couple who immigrate to Australia, looking at the hardships and growth they both undergo in this new country. The book had references that were a comforting familiarity to me while also letting me learn new things about a culture and religion I didn’t grow up in.
Reading this story made me feel for my parents, esp my mum, and some of the struggles they would have also faced back then.
This was a beautifully written, very real story about a young Sri Lankan-Muslim couple who immigrate to Australia, looking at the hardships and growth they both undergo in this new country. The book had references that were a comforting familiarity to me while also letting me learn new things about a culture and religion I didn’t grow up in.
Reading this story made me feel for my parents, esp my mum, and some of the struggles they would have also faced back then.
April 12, 2023
Ayesha Inoon, Untethered, Harlequin Australia, HQ (Fiction, Non Fiction, YA) & MIRA, 2023
Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Australia, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
I am even more grateful to Ayesha Inoon for writing this book – it’s a story that remains long after reading, creating the emotion and some of the understanding that is so essential to gaining any insight of a life lived through two cultures. I gave Ayesha Inoon an additional half star in appreciation for her wonderful rendering of Australia’s capital city, Canberra. I have not fed swans at Lake Ginninderra but have felt guilty at turning on the heating before the Canberra designated date - after Anzac Day! The descriptions of the streets, quiet but then birdsongs filling the air, Floriade, shopping in Belconnen at the mall, and more bring alive an Australian city. And, before this, the life in Colombo is colourful, family oriented and more – a picture unknown to me until the descriptions permeated not only Zia’s life, but mine as I read.
Zia is an appealing and endearing character whose strength helps her make such a success of both lives. She arrives in Canberra with her and Rashid’s daughter, Farah, joining him in a new life. She has had to leave behind her the results of the first choices she has had to make before embarking on the journey from Sri Lanka. She has lost closeness with her large extended family of not only parents, parents in law, sibling and sister-in-law but other relatives, their friends, and her friends. Belongings are left. Memories bound up in these are a source of regret, and it will take time, effort, and acceptance to make new memories. Unfamiliar is the environment, her new home, and more seriously, Rashid. Close to her relationship with Rashid in importance and unfamiliarity is learning to be by herself, be responsible for Farah alone, learning the isolation of a new Australian life in contrast with the past.
Inoon cleverly weaves the contrasts in Zia’s life. The familiarity of the wedding in Sri Lanka, and all it entails, is compared with the wedding she and a friend observe by the lake; learning to drive and having the opportunity to study is juxtaposed with the disappointment she felt in Sri Lanka when her studies were cut short; and the security of her past choice of clothing, then wearing or not wearing the hijab, and the loss of a scarf to hide her responses are considered through the narrative when she has the freedom to respond differently to what seemed to be simple decisions. Zia’s life is filled with new experiences and the attendant distress, elation, need to learn and adjust.
Side by side with Zia’s experiences, Rashid’s demonstrate how his need for paid work of a professional standard pervades his life. Rashid’s story is told with sympathy. At the same time as the reader is alerted to the distress and difficulties resulting in behaviour that, like Zia’s, uneasily combines elements of the past with a desire to become acclimatised to the new. Unlike her parents, Farah becomes quickly accustomed to the lack of a large family, going to pre-school and making friends. In this way Inoon signals hope for the adults who will continue to wrestle with past ideas and ideals and new ones.
The outside world is introduced through Rashid’s work, Zia’s learning to drive and friendships, and Farah’s schooling. It is also invoked through Zia’s faith with its manifestation of prayer and attending the mosque in Canberra. Less benignly, the shootings in a New Zealand mosque, reactions in Colombo and the fear that attends living as a Moslem are thoughtfully woven through the domestic story.
I found Untethered one of the most engaging books I have read this year, and perhaps for a very long time. It does have its serious implications with its narrative that promotes a greater understanding of what it is to live the lives of people such as Zia, Rashid and Farah. However, it is also a story that has its own life as that of a couple and their child finding new ways to live as partners and a family. Ayesha Inoon has woven both narratives together beautifully.
Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Australia, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.
I am even more grateful to Ayesha Inoon for writing this book – it’s a story that remains long after reading, creating the emotion and some of the understanding that is so essential to gaining any insight of a life lived through two cultures. I gave Ayesha Inoon an additional half star in appreciation for her wonderful rendering of Australia’s capital city, Canberra. I have not fed swans at Lake Ginninderra but have felt guilty at turning on the heating before the Canberra designated date - after Anzac Day! The descriptions of the streets, quiet but then birdsongs filling the air, Floriade, shopping in Belconnen at the mall, and more bring alive an Australian city. And, before this, the life in Colombo is colourful, family oriented and more – a picture unknown to me until the descriptions permeated not only Zia’s life, but mine as I read.
Zia is an appealing and endearing character whose strength helps her make such a success of both lives. She arrives in Canberra with her and Rashid’s daughter, Farah, joining him in a new life. She has had to leave behind her the results of the first choices she has had to make before embarking on the journey from Sri Lanka. She has lost closeness with her large extended family of not only parents, parents in law, sibling and sister-in-law but other relatives, their friends, and her friends. Belongings are left. Memories bound up in these are a source of regret, and it will take time, effort, and acceptance to make new memories. Unfamiliar is the environment, her new home, and more seriously, Rashid. Close to her relationship with Rashid in importance and unfamiliarity is learning to be by herself, be responsible for Farah alone, learning the isolation of a new Australian life in contrast with the past.
Inoon cleverly weaves the contrasts in Zia’s life. The familiarity of the wedding in Sri Lanka, and all it entails, is compared with the wedding she and a friend observe by the lake; learning to drive and having the opportunity to study is juxtaposed with the disappointment she felt in Sri Lanka when her studies were cut short; and the security of her past choice of clothing, then wearing or not wearing the hijab, and the loss of a scarf to hide her responses are considered through the narrative when she has the freedom to respond differently to what seemed to be simple decisions. Zia’s life is filled with new experiences and the attendant distress, elation, need to learn and adjust.
Side by side with Zia’s experiences, Rashid’s demonstrate how his need for paid work of a professional standard pervades his life. Rashid’s story is told with sympathy. At the same time as the reader is alerted to the distress and difficulties resulting in behaviour that, like Zia’s, uneasily combines elements of the past with a desire to become acclimatised to the new. Unlike her parents, Farah becomes quickly accustomed to the lack of a large family, going to pre-school and making friends. In this way Inoon signals hope for the adults who will continue to wrestle with past ideas and ideals and new ones.
The outside world is introduced through Rashid’s work, Zia’s learning to drive and friendships, and Farah’s schooling. It is also invoked through Zia’s faith with its manifestation of prayer and attending the mosque in Canberra. Less benignly, the shootings in a New Zealand mosque, reactions in Colombo and the fear that attends living as a Moslem are thoughtfully woven through the domestic story.
I found Untethered one of the most engaging books I have read this year, and perhaps for a very long time. It does have its serious implications with its narrative that promotes a greater understanding of what it is to live the lives of people such as Zia, Rashid and Farah. However, it is also a story that has its own life as that of a couple and their child finding new ways to live as partners and a family. Ayesha Inoon has woven both narratives together beautifully.
June 5, 2023
Untethered by Ayesha Inoon
This book is Zia's story, a young Srilankan Muslim mother and wife, who moves to Australia with her husband to start a new life. Her story or her husband Rashid's story are not new to me. People who have lived fairly privileged life migrate and find out that you need to start from square one. Rashid for one is unable to find a job that fits his profile and is working multiple shifts at a cleaning company to make ends meet.As for Zia when she moves out of her sheltered life and becomes untethered, the world was all hers to explore. But with this new found freedom comes challenges of fitting into a new country and its ways. As Zia navigates these new waters little does she know it's her first step into discovering herself. With hope and lack of it, a devastating loss and empathy from unexpected corners, Zia's tale is one that resonates with a lot of migrant women.
The book touches on equality, choices some women are never given, toxic masculinity, patriarchy's toxic need to protect women and somehow blaming them for being too dependent and Islamophobia among others. Zia was probably the most etched out character, Rashid her husband is a typical privileged desi male who takes out his anger and stress on the women in his life particularly his mother and wife. The end felt a bit rushed but I really enjoyed the book.
Ayesha Inoon, this is an amazing book written very well. Hoping to read more from you.
⭐⭐⭐✨
Thank you Harlequin (HQ Australia) @
Harper Collins Australia for sending me this reviewer copy
This book is Zia's story, a young Srilankan Muslim mother and wife, who moves to Australia with her husband to start a new life. Her story or her husband Rashid's story are not new to me. People who have lived fairly privileged life migrate and find out that you need to start from square one. Rashid for one is unable to find a job that fits his profile and is working multiple shifts at a cleaning company to make ends meet.As for Zia when she moves out of her sheltered life and becomes untethered, the world was all hers to explore. But with this new found freedom comes challenges of fitting into a new country and its ways. As Zia navigates these new waters little does she know it's her first step into discovering herself. With hope and lack of it, a devastating loss and empathy from unexpected corners, Zia's tale is one that resonates with a lot of migrant women.
The book touches on equality, choices some women are never given, toxic masculinity, patriarchy's toxic need to protect women and somehow blaming them for being too dependent and Islamophobia among others. Zia was probably the most etched out character, Rashid her husband is a typical privileged desi male who takes out his anger and stress on the women in his life particularly his mother and wife. The end felt a bit rushed but I really enjoyed the book.
Ayesha Inoon, this is an amazing book written very well. Hoping to read more from you.
⭐⭐⭐✨
Thank you Harlequin (HQ Australia) @
Harper Collins Australia for sending me this reviewer copy
February 12, 2024
I’m so glad I read this book! It really opened my eyes to what it’s like for so many people migrating to Australia. How they leave everything they have ever known behind and start over. I learnt so much! It was a bittersweet read about the strength of women even with limited choices. And how with perseverance and hope you can have the life you want.
Thank you to netgalley for providing this book in exchange for a review.
Thank you to netgalley for providing this book in exchange for a review.
December 22, 2023
The title ‘untethered’ sums up the themes of this story so accurately. So many complex interweaving threads of an immigrant’s life and how it leads to resilience in the midst of loss.
July 15, 2023
This book! It was absolutely amazing. I cried, I laughed, I emphasized, I celebrated.
What an amazing book Ayesha Inoon - all the stars for your masterpiece.
What an amazing book Ayesha Inoon - all the stars for your masterpiece.
March 22, 2024
A wonderfully written book, perhaps not exactly the story I was expecting but still enjoyable to read. Only 3 stars as I struggled through it quite a bit, and wasn’t very invested in the characters or the outcome
July 17, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced reading copy of Untethered by Ayesha Inoon.
Story 4.5 / 5 stars
Ayesha Inoon’s first novel, Untethered is something I would not have usually read considering it is to do with other cultures with religious elements. HOWEVER I am glad I have finished the book in full and feel like I received an education.
Zia is a young girl from Colombo, Sri Lanka who is promised to Rashid in an arranged marriage situation as their culture dictated it.
Rashid and Zia with their young daughter immigrate to Australia as immigrants through the legal channels arriving in Canberra, the capital of Australia. Here, Rashid’s expertise and education are not recognised and takes a job as a cleaner to support his family. This part of the story made me wonder about the immigrants around me who work hard in dead end jobs such as cleaners and service station attendants. Maybe these people had good paying jobs and a quality education only to come here and start from scratch all over again. In my opinion that is quite sad and heartbreaking to lose everything and be judged harshly for it through both ignorance and arrogance.
When Zia gets her driver’s license and starts to grows emotionally, realising she is more than the sum of her life, she can be independent and loyal to her husband I found that I was cheering for her. I wanted her to leave Rashid’s stronghold. Inoon covers domestic violence at the hands of Zia’s husband and why culture can fuel domestic violence. Yes Rashid was depressed- they both were - but he still had no right to hurt Zia physically and emotionally no matter what he was going through.
I wanted Zia to leave Rashid and start a new life. I understood why she could not and would not do so, but at the same time I was hopeful as Zia starts to truly discover herself as her own person. I sympathised with Zia and her story.
Excellent prose and I actually enjoyed looking through the window of another culture. As I said before, I feel my eyes have been opened a little more and educated.
Well done Ayesha!
Story 4.5 / 5 stars
Ayesha Inoon’s first novel, Untethered is something I would not have usually read considering it is to do with other cultures with religious elements. HOWEVER I am glad I have finished the book in full and feel like I received an education.
Zia is a young girl from Colombo, Sri Lanka who is promised to Rashid in an arranged marriage situation as their culture dictated it.
Rashid and Zia with their young daughter immigrate to Australia as immigrants through the legal channels arriving in Canberra, the capital of Australia. Here, Rashid’s expertise and education are not recognised and takes a job as a cleaner to support his family. This part of the story made me wonder about the immigrants around me who work hard in dead end jobs such as cleaners and service station attendants. Maybe these people had good paying jobs and a quality education only to come here and start from scratch all over again. In my opinion that is quite sad and heartbreaking to lose everything and be judged harshly for it through both ignorance and arrogance.
When Zia gets her driver’s license and starts to grows emotionally, realising she is more than the sum of her life, she can be independent and loyal to her husband I found that I was cheering for her. I wanted her to leave Rashid’s stronghold. Inoon covers domestic violence at the hands of Zia’s husband and why culture can fuel domestic violence. Yes Rashid was depressed- they both were - but he still had no right to hurt Zia physically and emotionally no matter what he was going through.
I wanted Zia to leave Rashid and start a new life. I understood why she could not and would not do so, but at the same time I was hopeful as Zia starts to truly discover herself as her own person. I sympathised with Zia and her story.
Excellent prose and I actually enjoyed looking through the window of another culture. As I said before, I feel my eyes have been opened a little more and educated.
Well done Ayesha!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2023
I really enjoyed this. As an immigrant to Australia myself, (over two thirds of a lifetime ago) so much of this struck chords with me, it was very personal.
I was only 15 when I came, with my parents and sister and brothers, so I didn’t face the same things Zia did, but I recognise her feelings. I feel them. I feel like she could be my friend.
I didn’t want to stop reading, although I had to. There are things we have to do in our lives. For ourselves, and those we care about.
I have loved sharing this part of Zias life, and would love to know more about where she went from here.
I was only 15 when I came, with my parents and sister and brothers, so I didn’t face the same things Zia did, but I recognise her feelings. I feel them. I feel like she could be my friend.
I didn’t want to stop reading, although I had to. There are things we have to do in our lives. For ourselves, and those we care about.
I have loved sharing this part of Zias life, and would love to know more about where she went from here.
July 19, 2023
This story is about Zia, who comes from a traditional Muslim family and agrees to go ahead with an arranged marriage to Rashid.
When they decide to leave Sri Lanka and immigrate to Australia, their lives change dramatically. They are poor, lonely and their marriage faces many struggles.
However, although Zia deals with a horrible loss and a difficult life, she gets through it with new friendships and works out who she wants to be.
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
This book hurt but it was also empowering. Although Zia probably didn’t feel it, she was so brave, in this new country, learning new things and making new friends.
I adored Pete, he was so kind and encouraging. He was a sweetheart and was just what Zia needed. Would love to say a lot more, but I’m trying to keep this spoiler free!
I also enjoyed learning more about the Sri Lankan and Muslim traditions and culture, there were some new ones I had never heard of which was really interesting.
* Please check trigger warnings *
Thank you so much @harlequinaus and @harpercollinsaustralia for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When they decide to leave Sri Lanka and immigrate to Australia, their lives change dramatically. They are poor, lonely and their marriage faces many struggles.
However, although Zia deals with a horrible loss and a difficult life, she gets through it with new friendships and works out who she wants to be.
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This book hurt but it was also empowering. Although Zia probably didn’t feel it, she was so brave, in this new country, learning new things and making new friends.
I adored Pete, he was so kind and encouraging. He was a sweetheart and was just what Zia needed. Would love to say a lot more, but I’m trying to keep this spoiler free!
I also enjoyed learning more about the Sri Lankan and Muslim traditions and culture, there were some new ones I had never heard of which was really interesting.
* Please check trigger warnings *
Thank you so much @harlequinaus and @harpercollinsaustralia for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2023
This was beautifully written, but left a sour taste in my mouth.
Let's just say that while the husband's treatment and behavior is extremely realistic, I hated reading about it.
I read to learn about other people's lives and perspectives, but this made me feel grateful for the freedom I have and pity everyone who's imprisoned in a life/relationship like this. To put the husband's happiness and success as the responsibility of the wife, the abuse and controlling behavior was uncomfortable to read about and too many excuses made for the husband's "moods". Also the last few chapters and ending did not go in the direction I was expecting. I wanted more "resolution" in the end.
I can recommend this to anyone who's interested in reading immigrant stories and this would make a great pick for a book club. Lots of things to discuss and unpack.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Let's just say that while the husband's treatment and behavior is extremely realistic, I hated reading about it.
I read to learn about other people's lives and perspectives, but this made me feel grateful for the freedom I have and pity everyone who's imprisoned in a life/relationship like this. To put the husband's happiness and success as the responsibility of the wife, the abuse and controlling behavior was uncomfortable to read about and too many excuses made for the husband's "moods". Also the last few chapters and ending did not go in the direction I was expecting. I wanted more "resolution" in the end.
I can recommend this to anyone who's interested in reading immigrant stories and this would make a great pick for a book club. Lots of things to discuss and unpack.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2023
I always love debut novels and this one is very interesting. emotional and brings Canberra to life.
I found this interesting to read and found it quite engaging as well as bringing back memories of life changes and changing schools, making friends and experiencing different ways of life in my own story. The characters are so real and people you can see living in your own neighbourhood, town or city.
A great debut novel and I am so glad it wasn't a book that was too drawn out but in parts I became bored as it seemed to not go anywhere. Then it would get back on track. A good and interesting story and worth the read. I would give it 3 1/2 stars.
Untethered
Ayesha Inoon
Harlequin Australia
I found this interesting to read and found it quite engaging as well as bringing back memories of life changes and changing schools, making friends and experiencing different ways of life in my own story. The characters are so real and people you can see living in your own neighbourhood, town or city.
A great debut novel and I am so glad it wasn't a book that was too drawn out but in parts I became bored as it seemed to not go anywhere. Then it would get back on track. A good and interesting story and worth the read. I would give it 3 1/2 stars.
Untethered
Ayesha Inoon
Harlequin Australia
January 17, 2024
This was a beautifully written book about Zia, a young Sri Lankan woman who emigrates to Australia with her husband and daughter. This journey becomes one of self-discovery and the confrontation of fear as she encounters freedom, hardship, and grief in the unfamiliar world of Canberra.
One of the main reasons that I picked this up was that I am moving to Canberra shortly and wanted to read an outsider’s perspective of assimilating into the city. I did get that, but it was so much more as well. The best part for me was how richly Inoon describes Sri Lankan culture and history, which I realised that I knew hardly anything about. You can definitely tell that it draws on the author’s own experiences.
One of the main reasons that I picked this up was that I am moving to Canberra shortly and wanted to read an outsider’s perspective of assimilating into the city. I did get that, but it was so much more as well. The best part for me was how richly Inoon describes Sri Lankan culture and history, which I realised that I knew hardly anything about. You can definitely tell that it draws on the author’s own experiences.
June 28, 2023
What a debut! This novel follows the beautiful and honest story of Zia, a Sri Lankan woman who migrates with her family to Australia in hope of a better life. Zia’s narrative voice provides an intimate glimpse into the struggle of balancing culture, norms and religion in a new country. Inoon has the ability to capture even the mundane in a riveting way - where the motions of Zia’s everyday life are turned into a colourful and captivating narrative. I couldn’t put this book down, and am very much looking forward to reading more from this talented author.
August 26, 2023
This was a beautiful story of the things we choose to be bound by. An ‘untethered’ woman finds herself both free and lost in a new country. The novel highlights how she and those around her must choose what tethers them - a freedom and privilege that can be fraught with pain. This concept made me reflect on religion, gender roles, and the process of acculturation in a new way. There is no shortage of complicated characters making these difficult choices which makes for a fascinating read.
I did feel that the first half of the novel read a bit like a series of short vignettes which were repetitive in nature, however this did provide insight into the feelings and routines of day to day life.
I did feel that the first half of the novel read a bit like a series of short vignettes which were repetitive in nature, however this did provide insight into the feelings and routines of day to day life.
August 20, 2023
Loved this book so much - I found the writing very poignant and evocative and it was so easy to become deeply invested in Zia’s journey. As someone from a first generation immigrant family I also found the nuances and intricacies of this book elicited new perspectives on my own upbringing and heritage; I didn’t expect to be moved as deeply as I was by this book.
June 25, 2023
A few times I found myself forgetting this is was fiction as it felt so real.
Ayesha certainly has a way with words. Her writing style is incredible and it's hard to imagine that this is her debut novel as it's hard to put down.
The FMC, Zia, is such a strong character. Her growth throughout the book is admirable. Zia goes through an arranged marriage, moves country, bears children and endures a difficult marriage and the story of self discovery/growth is beautiful.
I can't recommend this enough. It's a must-read!
Thank-you to Harlequin and Ayesha Inoon for this book in exchange for a review!
Ayesha certainly has a way with words. Her writing style is incredible and it's hard to imagine that this is her debut novel as it's hard to put down.
The FMC, Zia, is such a strong character. Her growth throughout the book is admirable. Zia goes through an arranged marriage, moves country, bears children and endures a difficult marriage and the story of self discovery/growth is beautiful.
I can't recommend this enough. It's a must-read!
Thank-you to Harlequin and Ayesha Inoon for this book in exchange for a review!
June 11, 2023
Fabulous read. Thought provoking concepts - skilled migration, safety and freedom.
January 3, 2025
4.8/5
July 26, 2023
I loved this book. From a wealthy and close knit Muslim life in Sri Lanka to the isolation of life in suburban Canberra, the writing is thoughtful and insightful. It is the lived experience of what it is to lose family, friends and country and start again in a new strange land.
May 5, 2025
I wanted to love this story as it is a tale of a south Asian woman migrating to Australia with her husband and young daughter in hopes of a new and more prosperous life.
The main character was in an arranged marriage at 20 and had never pursued further education or employment due to the cultural norms of where she grew up. Her / her husbands families were quite wealthy - he had a IT masters degree from the US and his job back in Sri Lanka earned money that afforded to buy them a home and have in-house help.
The sense of community and support from their family and friends all disappeared when she moved into a rental home in north Canberra and had no family, no friends and no money. Forced to work as a cleaner as he was not a permanent resident to get a public service job, the husband became increasingly more distant and temperamental and once the main character finally made connection in Australia, their relationship was bound to end poorly.
While this book is fictional it is very realistic and very likely replicates and resonates with the experience of many young immigrant families. The political and religious unrest and hate crimes are very real and prevalent and are a major influence to why people leave the only lives they’ve known.
Unfortunately there were some deductions in this for me as I struggled to get through some of it because it felt the character progression was far too slow. I know it is the cultural norm to stay in these relationships (most likely especially since she was Muslim / religious) but it was clear she was unhappy for a very long time and could not figure out how to make the change (when her character design was meant to be independent, not helpless). She showed reluctance to better her situation for so long yet somehow when she managed to by the end (receiving education to write) to me it felt very sudden and abrupt?
I also understand that her husband was ignorant and at times abusive but I can never support cheating. PLEASE communicate / seperate. And the delusion of this woman to think she would ever get him to be with her 😖 so sad
The man she cheated with also gave off the worst vibes from the beginning - he met his wife when she was underage and they were 10+ years apart…not that he pursued her when she was a teenager but still…I hate it…
Yes the relationships and personalities are a lot more nuanced than face value and culture and religion has a lot to do with the way that she is but I did not find her character empowering and motivated enough unfortunately. I am glad she realised her dream but for it to take 95% of the book for her to get there and with no detail on how it was going and what her life will now be like, it felt underwhelming to me.
From one (non-visibly) brown Canberra woman to another, I appreciated this book and can absolutely see why someone would love it but it was very unfortunately not my
favourite read.
The main character was in an arranged marriage at 20 and had never pursued further education or employment due to the cultural norms of where she grew up. Her / her husbands families were quite wealthy - he had a IT masters degree from the US and his job back in Sri Lanka earned money that afforded to buy them a home and have in-house help.
The sense of community and support from their family and friends all disappeared when she moved into a rental home in north Canberra and had no family, no friends and no money. Forced to work as a cleaner as he was not a permanent resident to get a public service job, the husband became increasingly more distant and temperamental and once the main character finally made connection in Australia, their relationship was bound to end poorly.
While this book is fictional it is very realistic and very likely replicates and resonates with the experience of many young immigrant families. The political and religious unrest and hate crimes are very real and prevalent and are a major influence to why people leave the only lives they’ve known.
Unfortunately there were some deductions in this for me as I struggled to get through some of it because it felt the character progression was far too slow. I know it is the cultural norm to stay in these relationships (most likely especially since she was Muslim / religious) but it was clear she was unhappy for a very long time and could not figure out how to make the change (when her character design was meant to be independent, not helpless). She showed reluctance to better her situation for so long yet somehow when she managed to by the end (receiving education to write) to me it felt very sudden and abrupt?
I also understand that her husband was ignorant and at times abusive but I can never support cheating. PLEASE communicate / seperate. And the delusion of this woman to think she would ever get him to be with her 😖 so sad
The man she cheated with also gave off the worst vibes from the beginning - he met his wife when she was underage and they were 10+ years apart…not that he pursued her when she was a teenager but still…I hate it…
Yes the relationships and personalities are a lot more nuanced than face value and culture and religion has a lot to do with the way that she is but I did not find her character empowering and motivated enough unfortunately. I am glad she realised her dream but for it to take 95% of the book for her to get there and with no detail on how it was going and what her life will now be like, it felt underwhelming to me.
From one (non-visibly) brown Canberra woman to another, I appreciated this book and can absolutely see why someone would love it but it was very unfortunately not my
favourite read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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July 11, 2023Australia may see itself as 'the lucky country' but lucky for whom? This is a wonderful depiction of a migrant story that doesn't follow the standard trajectory. I loved the detail about life in Colombo and the insight particularly into life as a Muslim. Woman. Ayesha Inoon is a beautiful writer with a fascinating perspective on life between two cultures.
January 12, 2024
A beautifully written novel. So much heart and tenderness. I adore the protagonist, Zia - and it seems the author is just as beautiful, brave, intelligent and thoughtful. A privilege to read this.
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