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Symbiosis #1
Tethered
One boy, his mother, and a captain with secrets from her crew. Amongst the stars, all things lost are found.
Marlowe Rose has been fighting her ex, Dominik, for a decade. When he kidnaps their son, she sneaks onto his starship, planning to give him hell. Instead, she ends up caught, sequestered and questioned by the captain. But Tanisira Sekmith isn’t what Marlowe thought she was, and when it becomes clear that they’re all just puppets in Dominik’s eyes, Marlowe convinces the stoic captain to help rescue her son.
Tanisira promised herself she’d make no waves, catch no one’s attention, and cruise under the radar. Misplacing her trust once changed the trajectory of her whole life. After the fallout from her last job, flying a pleasure yacht is supposed to be boring and easy—exactly what she wants. But finding Marlowe on the ship changes everything. Marlowe sees her, shadows and all, and it forces Tanisira to face things she tried to leave behind.
Marlowe doesn’t expect to find, on this journey that she dreaded, something she’d given up. And Tanisira doesn’t know if she deserves happiness, but she doesn’t want to lose this: a kid with big, green eyes and his fierce, captivating mother.
Described as Becky Chambers meets Delilah Green Doesn't Care, Tethered is a Sapphic, soft science-fiction romance. There are content warnings in the front matter and on my website.
Marlowe Rose has been fighting her ex, Dominik, for a decade. When he kidnaps their son, she sneaks onto his starship, planning to give him hell. Instead, she ends up caught, sequestered and questioned by the captain. But Tanisira Sekmith isn’t what Marlowe thought she was, and when it becomes clear that they’re all just puppets in Dominik’s eyes, Marlowe convinces the stoic captain to help rescue her son.
Tanisira promised herself she’d make no waves, catch no one’s attention, and cruise under the radar. Misplacing her trust once changed the trajectory of her whole life. After the fallout from her last job, flying a pleasure yacht is supposed to be boring and easy—exactly what she wants. But finding Marlowe on the ship changes everything. Marlowe sees her, shadows and all, and it forces Tanisira to face things she tried to leave behind.
Marlowe doesn’t expect to find, on this journey that she dreaded, something she’d given up. And Tanisira doesn’t know if she deserves happiness, but she doesn’t want to lose this: a kid with big, green eyes and his fierce, captivating mother.
Described as Becky Chambers meets Delilah Green Doesn't Care, Tethered is a Sapphic, soft science-fiction romance. There are content warnings in the front matter and on my website.
496 pages, ebook
Published November 25, 2025
12 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Williams
3 books19 followersTJ Williams is a queer, autistic author. She lives in England with too many cats and a toddler who likes to throw things at her, reads an unholy amount of mxm books, and can quote Peppa Pig word for word. All their stories feature Black
and brown characters, queerness, disabilities and body diversity. She loves to
crochet (iffy), bake (rarely) and rewatch her comfort shows (happily).
Find them on social media at Tjwilliamswrites
Pronouns are they/she.
and brown characters, queerness, disabilities and body diversity. She loves to
crochet (iffy), bake (rarely) and rewatch her comfort shows (happily).
Find them on social media at Tjwilliamswrites
Pronouns are they/she.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 18, 2025
3.25 ⭐
"I am that buttoned up; she’s just the only one who ever wanted to see what I was hiding".
Okay, so this book was a recklessly passionate sci-fi romance ride, and wow—there’s a lot to unpack. We follow Marlowe, a mother doing everything in her power to get her son back after he’s abducted by her toxic ex, and Tanisira, the captain of the ship who’s finally starting to put her own life back together. As they’re thrown together on this adventure, their chemistry starts simmering, and both begin wondering if maybe—just maybe—love is closer than they ever thought…
Now, I’m a little torn with this one. I truly enjoyed how adventurous and fast-paced this voyage felt (seriously, I was hardly ever bored), but some things just didn’t fully land for me. Let’s start with the characters: at first, I couldn’t connect with Tanisira at all. She was so closed off I really thought we’d never get past those walls. But we do, and I ended up loving how the author slowly opened her up. I loved how everyone accepted her, baggage and all, and how Marlowe and the rest helped her realize she was more than the mistakes of her past. By the end, she’d become one of my favorite characters.
Marlowe, though… was harder for me to relate to. She’s a fantastic mom, and I adored how fiercely she fought to protect for her son throughout the story. But personality-wise, especially in how she treated Tanisira, I just couldn’t connect with her the same way.
Which brings me to the romance. Their banter early on had me so excited—it felt fun, full of potential, and I was excited to see how their relationship would grow — but in the end, I couldn’t fully enjoy it. Maybe it’s just me, but I felt like Tanisira deserved better. She wasn’t perfect, but she genuinely tried to make things work—being more open, more trusting, more vulnerable. Meanwhile, Marlowe spent most of the novel drowning in insecurity, doubting Tanisira or getting unnecessarily jealous. Yes, her trauma with Dominik explains a lot, but after everything she went through with Tanisira, I wanted to see her start healing sooner. She does grow, but for me it happened a bit too late to make their romance fully satisfying.
On the bright side, I adored the side characters. They brought such light and warmth into the story, especially during the heavier, angstier moments. The found-family vibes? Loved. The bits of world-building and cultural details? Also loved. And once the pacing picked up, I was completely hooked—never bored for a second.
Overall, this was a really fun read to pass the time. If you’re a sci-fi lover, you definitely don’t want to skip this one. Give it a try and see how you feel about these two.
P.S. A huge thank-for to the author for her kindness of gifting me an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
"I am that buttoned up; she’s just the only one who ever wanted to see what I was hiding".
Okay, so this book was a recklessly passionate sci-fi romance ride, and wow—there’s a lot to unpack. We follow Marlowe, a mother doing everything in her power to get her son back after he’s abducted by her toxic ex, and Tanisira, the captain of the ship who’s finally starting to put her own life back together. As they’re thrown together on this adventure, their chemistry starts simmering, and both begin wondering if maybe—just maybe—love is closer than they ever thought…
Now, I’m a little torn with this one. I truly enjoyed how adventurous and fast-paced this voyage felt (seriously, I was hardly ever bored), but some things just didn’t fully land for me. Let’s start with the characters: at first, I couldn’t connect with Tanisira at all. She was so closed off I really thought we’d never get past those walls. But we do, and I ended up loving how the author slowly opened her up. I loved how everyone accepted her, baggage and all, and how Marlowe and the rest helped her realize she was more than the mistakes of her past. By the end, she’d become one of my favorite characters.
Marlowe, though… was harder for me to relate to. She’s a fantastic mom, and I adored how fiercely she fought to protect for her son throughout the story. But personality-wise, especially in how she treated Tanisira, I just couldn’t connect with her the same way.
Which brings me to the romance. Their banter early on had me so excited—it felt fun, full of potential, and I was excited to see how their relationship would grow — but in the end, I couldn’t fully enjoy it. Maybe it’s just me, but I felt like Tanisira deserved better. She wasn’t perfect, but she genuinely tried to make things work—being more open, more trusting, more vulnerable. Meanwhile, Marlowe spent most of the novel drowning in insecurity, doubting Tanisira or getting unnecessarily jealous. Yes, her trauma with Dominik explains a lot, but after everything she went through with Tanisira, I wanted to see her start healing sooner. She does grow, but for me it happened a bit too late to make their romance fully satisfying.
On the bright side, I adored the side characters. They brought such light and warmth into the story, especially during the heavier, angstier moments. The found-family vibes? Loved. The bits of world-building and cultural details? Also loved. And once the pacing picked up, I was completely hooked—never bored for a second.
Overall, this was a really fun read to pass the time. If you’re a sci-fi lover, you definitely don’t want to skip this one. Give it a try and see how you feel about these two.
P.S. A huge thank-for to the author for her kindness of gifting me an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
October 16, 2025
If you’re reading this, preorder it. Thank you!😂😭😭
Full review to come but all I can say is WOW.
Full review to come but all I can say is WOW.
Currently reading
November 23, 2025🗣️ BLACK SCI-FI SAPPHICSSSSS!!!!!!
November 11, 2025
This book was really well done. While it is Sci-fi, it is very accessible and shouldn't be a deterrent as it is primarily a romance--particularly one that I found to be very special and really well done. One thing I am always looking for in romances is the chance to really understand and fall in love with the characters, and I think that was absolutely captured within this book. Both FMCs had their own struggles and insecurities that informed so much of their choices while also having their own motivations throughout the novel. This dimensionality really added to my overall enjoyment of the story as these characters felt real. There is an earnestness to them that helps drive the story forward as I was able to connect with the characters on an emotional level that made the plot that much more real and urgent. I also really appreciated the full breadth of these characters' selves. Seeing Marlowe balance motherhood, her protective drive, and her genuine love and fear for her son with her own chronic health struggles, sense of accomplishment, and desires was so impactful. And seeing Tanisira work towards overcoming her own insecurities and trauma with her past was so moving and handled with so much grace and love.
This book also included found family elements that I absolutely adored. Seeing a diverse group of people all come together and find peace and comfort within each other was so beautiful and really added so much heart to the story.
This was a really thoughtful and tender story that perfectly balances several different elements together to make a really well though out and complete book
This book also included found family elements that I absolutely adored. Seeing a diverse group of people all come together and find peace and comfort within each other was so beautiful and really added so much heart to the story.
This was a really thoughtful and tender story that perfectly balances several different elements together to make a really well though out and complete book
December 8, 2025
As a parent to a kid the same age as Vee with ADHD and having an invisible chronic illness, this story was particularly touching for me. Vee is high energy and surrounded my people who not only get him but LOVE him and as a parent who sees their child struggle in some social situations, this was really beautiful to read about.
My invisible chronic illness doesn't have chronic pain so I can't speak to that for Marlowe and others but having that yo-yo of feeling where you don't want to be a burden but some times, when the flare up is high and so very real, you need to ask for help really hit me in the feels. I truly loved to see Marlowe cared for and not judged for needing what she needed not for a 'good time' or to 'feel good' but to feel 'normal' to feel like she wasn't an intertwined ball of nerves on fire that everyone kept at arms length.
Marlowe is smart, warm, soft, and incredibly brave. She makes decisions that had me tisk tisking and sucking my teeth but it's not because she's jealous or faulted into unlikability. No, she acts like this and thinks like this because for Marlowe, life has always been on pause. She's always had to wait for the other shoe to drop. Things can't go well and can't be good for her. She doesn't jump to these conclusions. Her life so far has TAUGHT her this. I've had an incredibly toxic long-term relationship before I met my partner and there were times I would wait, expecting a different outcome because what other outcome would there be for me? In the end, it was healing to see her handle those situations and still take steps forward no matter how hard the wind would push against her.
This is a story of love. Not just by finding your partner who gets you in every way and well even if there's ways they don't, they still WANT to. This is also a story of believing in yourself. That you can be the ball of terror to end your kid's nightmare or even the softest pillow where you believe in yourself that you deserve to be loved no matter your past mistakes.
T.J. Williams didn't just enter with her debut novel by kicking open the door. She docked a freighter ship, filled it with found family, and gave you the choice to jump on board, to be part of the love shared. I look forward to more of her work in the future.
Also....am I crazy for shipping Beau and Nero.....
My invisible chronic illness doesn't have chronic pain so I can't speak to that for Marlowe and others but having that yo-yo of feeling where you don't want to be a burden but some times, when the flare up is high and so very real, you need to ask for help really hit me in the feels. I truly loved to see Marlowe cared for and not judged for needing what she needed not for a 'good time' or to 'feel good' but to feel 'normal' to feel like she wasn't an intertwined ball of nerves on fire that everyone kept at arms length.
Marlowe is smart, warm, soft, and incredibly brave. She makes decisions that had me tisk tisking and sucking my teeth but it's not because she's jealous or faulted into unlikability. No, she acts like this and thinks like this because for Marlowe, life has always been on pause. She's always had to wait for the other shoe to drop. Things can't go well and can't be good for her. She doesn't jump to these conclusions. Her life so far has TAUGHT her this. I've had an incredibly toxic long-term relationship before I met my partner and there were times I would wait, expecting a different outcome because what other outcome would there be for me? In the end, it was healing to see her handle those situations and still take steps forward no matter how hard the wind would push against her.
This is a story of love. Not just by finding your partner who gets you in every way and well even if there's ways they don't, they still WANT to. This is also a story of believing in yourself. That you can be the ball of terror to end your kid's nightmare or even the softest pillow where you believe in yourself that you deserve to be loved no matter your past mistakes.
T.J. Williams didn't just enter with her debut novel by kicking open the door. She docked a freighter ship, filled it with found family, and gave you the choice to jump on board, to be part of the love shared. I look forward to more of her work in the future.
Also....am I crazy for shipping Beau and Nero.....
October 24, 2025
ARC REVIEW for TETHERED by TJ Williams
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I want to start off by saying this book is probably in my top three favorite books for this year and maybe ever. Let me tell you why.
TJ William crafted an incredible story with Tethered. One that is inclusive, wholesome, healthy, and creatively inspiring. They described both plot and world-building in such a way that I felt entirely entrances, even at some points completely lost as if I could touch the things, hear the things, see them all for myself. This is the kind of story that feels as though it grips your heart and squeezes it, albeit a little too tight at times (I shed far too many tears reading this).
Tanisira and Marlowe felt like two pieces of my soul had been ripped out and put on page. One half, a fierce mother first and foremost that battles the very real insecurities, anxieties, and realities of being a mother. The other half, a hard-won woman, one who struggles to relieve herself of the guilt she holds for her mistakes. Both of these characters simultaneously healed me and made me sit back to think introspectively on my own perception of the world around me and within myself in ways I’ve never experienced in a book before. I feel a bit read to filth by TJ and all I’d like to say is….rude. (Jk jk *I say with my heart ripped out of my chest*).
I want to put emphasis on this because I feel like too often indie authors get a bad rap especially in the online space concerning books. I beg you to give them a chance. I love my fair share of traditionally published books but Tethered by TJ Williams is one of those many books written by lovely indie authors that are pure magic.
There aren’t enough words to tell you how much I adored this book. 10000000/5 ⭐️’s
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I want to start off by saying this book is probably in my top three favorite books for this year and maybe ever. Let me tell you why.
TJ William crafted an incredible story with Tethered. One that is inclusive, wholesome, healthy, and creatively inspiring. They described both plot and world-building in such a way that I felt entirely entrances, even at some points completely lost as if I could touch the things, hear the things, see them all for myself. This is the kind of story that feels as though it grips your heart and squeezes it, albeit a little too tight at times (I shed far too many tears reading this).
Tanisira and Marlowe felt like two pieces of my soul had been ripped out and put on page. One half, a fierce mother first and foremost that battles the very real insecurities, anxieties, and realities of being a mother. The other half, a hard-won woman, one who struggles to relieve herself of the guilt she holds for her mistakes. Both of these characters simultaneously healed me and made me sit back to think introspectively on my own perception of the world around me and within myself in ways I’ve never experienced in a book before. I feel a bit read to filth by TJ and all I’d like to say is….rude. (Jk jk *I say with my heart ripped out of my chest*).
I want to put emphasis on this because I feel like too often indie authors get a bad rap especially in the online space concerning books. I beg you to give them a chance. I love my fair share of traditionally published books but Tethered by TJ Williams is one of those many books written by lovely indie authors that are pure magic.
There aren’t enough words to tell you how much I adored this book. 10000000/5 ⭐️’s
November 3, 2025
TETHERED by TJ Williams has great worldbuilding and I enjoyed the characters!
Spoiler warning.
Here are some quotes I liked:
I like that Marlowe is an electrical engineer and I enjoyed seeing how she interacted with the world around her based on her engineering knowledge.
"But with society's advanced healthcare, life expectancy is longer. Those grouchy fuckers still have voices, but we might shed out bigots yet." MHM!!
""I do. Tanak velari navesh," I incline my head. Technically, it means nice to meet you, but from what I remember is literally translated as meeting you is joy." I LOVE THIS DETAIL.
I'm really happy to see a character with they/them pronouns!
"Although humans have been interplanetary for a long time, it's still expensive and inaccessible for many people." I like this detail! I personally think it says a lot about a rich and able-bodied population having more opportunities to be interplanetary, which reflects the kind of opportunities present in our lived world--think of the rich people who go to space, right? Yeah, I just think this is a good part of the worldbuilding.
"In the face of such brutal insignificance, how can anything seem more real than this? A sense of serenity settles over me as I float there, taking in the speckled darkness." I like the mood here!
I appreciate reading how Marlowe lives with RIND. The fact that one needs to afford it in order to manage the disorder contributes to the details of the economics of the fictional universe. Sorry I can't articulate my sentences well, but the detail of people with RIND needing to afford the treatment plan truly reflects our lived world and people requiring money to afford healthcare. Marlowe also tells us about the treatment having a shot every three days, the neural implant, and the how she feels living with RIND. I very much appreciate how this disorder is written and reading how she lives with it. The reason she has RIND is also part of the worldbuilding and I liked the experience of reading that reason, too. (I won't spoil it).
I love Tanisira. "It's the first time anyone has ever said anything like that to me--then again, it's the first time anyone has ever paid so much attention to me. This is how she sees me?" Awww
On another note, I like the sex scenes. I think they're fun, sexy, and I realllyyy enjoy the sparks between Tani and Marlowe!
"There is so much depth in the words, so much emotion woven around them that I don't have to ask for a translation." So sweet!!
I recommend TETHERED. It's a sapphic, soft science-fiction romance that has lovely characters, solid worldbuilding, and is very sweet.
Thank you TJ Williams for the eARC! This is my honest review.
Spoiler warning.
Here are some quotes I liked:
I like that Marlowe is an electrical engineer and I enjoyed seeing how she interacted with the world around her based on her engineering knowledge.
"But with society's advanced healthcare, life expectancy is longer. Those grouchy fuckers still have voices, but we might shed out bigots yet." MHM!!
""I do. Tanak velari navesh," I incline my head. Technically, it means nice to meet you, but from what I remember is literally translated as meeting you is joy." I LOVE THIS DETAIL.
I'm really happy to see a character with they/them pronouns!
"Although humans have been interplanetary for a long time, it's still expensive and inaccessible for many people." I like this detail! I personally think it says a lot about a rich and able-bodied population having more opportunities to be interplanetary, which reflects the kind of opportunities present in our lived world--think of the rich people who go to space, right? Yeah, I just think this is a good part of the worldbuilding.
"In the face of such brutal insignificance, how can anything seem more real than this? A sense of serenity settles over me as I float there, taking in the speckled darkness." I like the mood here!
I appreciate reading how Marlowe lives with RIND. The fact that one needs to afford it in order to manage the disorder contributes to the details of the economics of the fictional universe. Sorry I can't articulate my sentences well, but the detail of people with RIND needing to afford the treatment plan truly reflects our lived world and people requiring money to afford healthcare. Marlowe also tells us about the treatment having a shot every three days, the neural implant, and the how she feels living with RIND. I very much appreciate how this disorder is written and reading how she lives with it. The reason she has RIND is also part of the worldbuilding and I liked the experience of reading that reason, too. (I won't spoil it).
I love Tanisira. "It's the first time anyone has ever said anything like that to me--then again, it's the first time anyone has ever paid so much attention to me. This is how she sees me?" Awww
On another note, I like the sex scenes. I think they're fun, sexy, and I realllyyy enjoy the sparks between Tani and Marlowe!
"There is so much depth in the words, so much emotion woven around them that I don't have to ask for a translation." So sweet!!
I recommend TETHERED. It's a sapphic, soft science-fiction romance that has lovely characters, solid worldbuilding, and is very sweet.
Thank you TJ Williams for the eARC! This is my honest review.
November 19, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of Tethered! As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily.
✨ Adult Sapphic Sci-Fi Romance
✨ Third Person, Dual POV
✨ 3/5 Spice Level
✨ Standalone
✨ Rep: lesbian MC, bisexual MC, asexual SC, trans SC, nonbinary SC, chronic illness rep, Black rep, neurodivergent rep
I recommend if you enjoy…
- Sci-Fi that’s a mix of action & slice-of-life moments
- Queer-normative world
- Tender & Passionate romance
- Characters that feel real
- Found family vibes
Content warnings after review.
General thoughts…
I am a huge sci-fi lover, so whenever a sapphic sci-fi book comes my way I am just about rabid for it… I was so, so not disappointed in this one. This is T.J. Williams’ debut novel (!!!), and it was everything I could have dreamed of. The action, the characters, I ate up just about every letter of this novel. I normally save this for the end, but please consider giving this book a read.
Some things I loved…
- From the first few pages, I felt thrown into the plot. I was curious, and I wanted to know what was next. Probably one of the most attention grabbing first chapters I’ve read in a bit. I was sat and ready for more.
- The characters, ugh, I could go on and on. They all feel so incredibly genuine, like real people. This is something I really value in a book because it helps the story feel alive (even though we don’t have long distance space travel yet!)
- The side characters felt like family. The found family vibe was vibing, and so many interactions left me feeling so warm.
- I loved how Marlowe had such a distinct sense of self. She was not too proud to call herself out when she knew she was acting on her own emotions. I also appreciated how she approached her own autonomy, particularly around her chronic illness. I found myself really admiring her character a lot.
- Tanisira and Marlowe had some insane chemistry. Like off the charts, and I loved how sensual their relationship felt. Even with the compressed timeline of their relationship, I could feel their draw to each other.
- Vee is such a sweet kid, and I really loved seeing his relationship with his mom as well as his relationship develop with Tanisira.
Some things to consider…
- While this is a science fiction book, it also has the romance as a major part of the plot. If you are looking for sci-fi lighter on the romance, this definitely isn’t that book.
Final thoughts…
I can’t tell you how many times I told my friend that I was loving this book as I was reading it. It was…. definitely a lot. I was enjoying it so much I also didn’t want to rush through it! Thankfully it was long enough that I was able to savor it some… Highly, highly recommend you pick this book up, and I cannot wait to see what else T.J. Williams comes out with. Certainly a promising new voice in the sapphic book space.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
kidnapping by a parent, blackmail, manipulation, use of a needle, on page anxiety/panic attack, chronic illness depiction, gun violence, physical assault, grief/past family trauma, ableism mention, animal harm mention, domestic abuse mention, crime/human trafficking mention, child neglect/parentification mention, alcoholism mention, gambling addiction mention, military tour mention, partial amputation mention
✨ Adult Sapphic Sci-Fi Romance
✨ Third Person, Dual POV
✨ 3/5 Spice Level
✨ Standalone
✨ Rep: lesbian MC, bisexual MC, asexual SC, trans SC, nonbinary SC, chronic illness rep, Black rep, neurodivergent rep
I recommend if you enjoy…
- Sci-Fi that’s a mix of action & slice-of-life moments
- Queer-normative world
- Tender & Passionate romance
- Characters that feel real
- Found family vibes
Content warnings after review.
General thoughts…
I am a huge sci-fi lover, so whenever a sapphic sci-fi book comes my way I am just about rabid for it… I was so, so not disappointed in this one. This is T.J. Williams’ debut novel (!!!), and it was everything I could have dreamed of. The action, the characters, I ate up just about every letter of this novel. I normally save this for the end, but please consider giving this book a read.
Some things I loved…
- From the first few pages, I felt thrown into the plot. I was curious, and I wanted to know what was next. Probably one of the most attention grabbing first chapters I’ve read in a bit. I was sat and ready for more.
- The characters, ugh, I could go on and on. They all feel so incredibly genuine, like real people. This is something I really value in a book because it helps the story feel alive (even though we don’t have long distance space travel yet!)
- The side characters felt like family. The found family vibe was vibing, and so many interactions left me feeling so warm.
- I loved how Marlowe had such a distinct sense of self. She was not too proud to call herself out when she knew she was acting on her own emotions. I also appreciated how she approached her own autonomy, particularly around her chronic illness. I found myself really admiring her character a lot.
- Tanisira and Marlowe had some insane chemistry. Like off the charts, and I loved how sensual their relationship felt. Even with the compressed timeline of their relationship, I could feel their draw to each other.
- Vee is such a sweet kid, and I really loved seeing his relationship with his mom as well as his relationship develop with Tanisira.
Some things to consider…
- While this is a science fiction book, it also has the romance as a major part of the plot. If you are looking for sci-fi lighter on the romance, this definitely isn’t that book.
Final thoughts…
I can’t tell you how many times I told my friend that I was loving this book as I was reading it. It was…. definitely a lot. I was enjoying it so much I also didn’t want to rush through it! Thankfully it was long enough that I was able to savor it some… Highly, highly recommend you pick this book up, and I cannot wait to see what else T.J. Williams comes out with. Certainly a promising new voice in the sapphic book space.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
kidnapping by a parent, blackmail, manipulation, use of a needle, on page anxiety/panic attack, chronic illness depiction, gun violence, physical assault, grief/past family trauma, ableism mention, animal harm mention, domestic abuse mention, crime/human trafficking mention, child neglect/parentification mention, alcoholism mention, gambling addiction mention, military tour mention, partial amputation mention
dnf
November 28, 2025DNF
I mostly dnfed this cause I was just bored while reading it and didn’t feel invested in the plot or the romance between the two characters, but I also had some problems with the writing and development of the romance that didn’t really help with my lack of enjoyment.
The way this book is written almost feels like it’s supposed to be a movie, where we’re not being told in detail what is happening and what actions the characters are doing, and we’re just meant to imagine what is happening and fill in the spaces. There’s a lot of inner monologue, what the characters are thinking and description of objects/explanations, but not enough telling what is actually happening in the moment and what the characters are doing while talking.
The romance was my favorite part of this book but still lackluster. The characters knew each other for less than 24 hours and were already talking and interaction has if they’ve been friends for years? Marlowe was kinda being held prisoner for infiltrating a spaceship, but walking around said spaceship with Tanisira as if it was the most normal thing ever? The way they behaved didn’t match the situation they were in. From Marlowe we got to see what she thought of Tanisira and how she started developing feelings for her, but there was a huge jump from Tanisira between being neutral and wanting Marlowe, even in her povs we barely get any feelings from her and then all of a sudden she “has always wanted” Marlowe? The proximity between them was too forced and not natural. Also didn’t love the spicy scenes at all. Again, not enough description about what was happening, they went from one moment to the other way too quickly, kinda of weird dialogue during it? Not even kinky, just genuinely weird, and everything happened too fast.
Something that bothered me a lot was the artificial intelligence assistant they had, called Kit. The presence of AI technology in this book was fine I guess, I understand it can be something common in sci-fi books, but I just didn’t like how it was always talked about in a way too positive way, as opposed to viewing it as neutral and something that they use because it helps them. There was the continuous mention of it being AI, the book would not let you forget that Kit was AI, even though we knew it had a name and the characters still used it. There’s a specific quote that really bothered *”Kit’s AI capabilities are another wildly inflated expense I’ve come to adore, and, lately, I’ve caught myself feeling something akin to affection for her. It’s a strange thing to experience”.* Maybe this is me just being extremely hateful towards anything AI, but I don’t think there needed to be this much praise around it.
Thank you to TJ Williams for the ARC.
I mostly dnfed this cause I was just bored while reading it and didn’t feel invested in the plot or the romance between the two characters, but I also had some problems with the writing and development of the romance that didn’t really help with my lack of enjoyment.
The way this book is written almost feels like it’s supposed to be a movie, where we’re not being told in detail what is happening and what actions the characters are doing, and we’re just meant to imagine what is happening and fill in the spaces. There’s a lot of inner monologue, what the characters are thinking and description of objects/explanations, but not enough telling what is actually happening in the moment and what the characters are doing while talking.
The romance was my favorite part of this book but still lackluster. The characters knew each other for less than 24 hours and were already talking and interaction has if they’ve been friends for years? Marlowe was kinda being held prisoner for infiltrating a spaceship, but walking around said spaceship with Tanisira as if it was the most normal thing ever? The way they behaved didn’t match the situation they were in. From Marlowe we got to see what she thought of Tanisira and how she started developing feelings for her, but there was a huge jump from Tanisira between being neutral and wanting Marlowe, even in her povs we barely get any feelings from her and then all of a sudden she “has always wanted” Marlowe? The proximity between them was too forced and not natural. Also didn’t love the spicy scenes at all. Again, not enough description about what was happening, they went from one moment to the other way too quickly, kinda of weird dialogue during it? Not even kinky, just genuinely weird, and everything happened too fast.
Something that bothered me a lot was the artificial intelligence assistant they had, called Kit. The presence of AI technology in this book was fine I guess, I understand it can be something common in sci-fi books, but I just didn’t like how it was always talked about in a way too positive way, as opposed to viewing it as neutral and something that they use because it helps them. There was the continuous mention of it being AI, the book would not let you forget that Kit was AI, even though we knew it had a name and the characters still used it. There’s a specific quote that really bothered *”Kit’s AI capabilities are another wildly inflated expense I’ve come to adore, and, lately, I’ve caught myself feeling something akin to affection for her. It’s a strange thing to experience”.* Maybe this is me just being extremely hateful towards anything AI, but I don’t think there needed to be this much praise around it.
Thank you to TJ Williams for the ARC.
November 20, 2025
Tethered is a soft sci-fi romance that overdelivered. The worldbuilding was unexpectedly detailed for a sci-fi romance. Earth’s been renamed, and new colonies have been established. There’s interplanetary travel, subcultures, customs based on what feels like indigenous culture, interesting food and an attempt at creating a new language as a means to explain sentiments that the English language doesn’t fully encapsulate.
Marlowe stows away on a spacecraft with the intention of reverse kidnapping her son, Vee, but she gets captured by the captain, Tanisira, after tripping on the stairs. And thus we begin the journey to freeing Marlowe and Vee from her ex-husband while watching a romance blossom amidst dealing with past trauma, secrets and messy relationships.
Ngl, Marlowe was a little difficult to like at first, but somehow, her tenaciousness becomes an endearing feature along the way. We get Tanisira's POV about a third in, and zomg, this hardened ex-soldier with all the lethal moves was already so damn englamoured by Marlowe. It’s only days, and every decision she takes already revolves around Marlowe. I can’t help but fear for her heart and root for her at the same time.
Tethered isn’t perfect. I wished the opening chapters were shorter, punchier, so that readers can get past them to where the book truly starts blooming. And there were bits of info dump, a slow burn that got me wondering if this is the meaning of “love is blind,” and a totally random mention of Mandarin, which threw me off slightly. But you can really tell how much thought went into crafting this story.
For a debut, Tethered had delivered a gratifying story that blew my expectations out of the water.
If you enjoy sci-fi, romance and a diverse cast of characters, Tethered should be on your radar.
Refer to the author’s website for trigger warnings.
Marlowe stows away on a spacecraft with the intention of reverse kidnapping her son, Vee, but she gets captured by the captain, Tanisira, after tripping on the stairs. And thus we begin the journey to freeing Marlowe and Vee from her ex-husband while watching a romance blossom amidst dealing with past trauma, secrets and messy relationships.
Ngl, Marlowe was a little difficult to like at first, but somehow, her tenaciousness becomes an endearing feature along the way. We get Tanisira's POV about a third in, and zomg, this hardened ex-soldier with all the lethal moves was already so damn englamoured by Marlowe. It’s only days, and every decision she takes already revolves around Marlowe. I can’t help but fear for her heart and root for her at the same time.
Tethered isn’t perfect. I wished the opening chapters were shorter, punchier, so that readers can get past them to where the book truly starts blooming. And there were bits of info dump, a slow burn that got me wondering if this is the meaning of “love is blind,” and a totally random mention of Mandarin, which threw me off slightly. But you can really tell how much thought went into crafting this story.
For a debut, Tethered had delivered a gratifying story that blew my expectations out of the water.
If you enjoy sci-fi, romance and a diverse cast of characters, Tethered should be on your radar.
Refer to the author’s website for trigger warnings.
December 3, 2025
I honestly don't even know where to start with this. As a lover of queer sci-fi, I was hooked by the concept of a sapphic story between women of color set in space, but this book was so much more than I expected. First of all, there's the unique setting: set on a spaceship with advanced technology, spacewalking and spacestations. Although the author called this soft sci-fi, the science honestly felt believable to me.
I love how protective Marlowe is over her son. The book opens with 'I'm going to kill my ex' (for kidnapping their son) which honestly, valid reaction. Some moments literally had me laughing out loud, like Marlowe smashing Dominik's quarters to pieces while Tanisira calmly watched. Speaking of Tanisira - she has my whole heart. She's badass, fearless, yet still has a vulnerable side. Both MC's felt really fleshed out, both with their own flaws and struggles - at no point did it feel like either of them was just there for the 'love interest' role.
Then, there's the representation. Yes it's a sapphic story between women of color, but it doesn't stop there - there's people of all backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations and disabilities, and they're all treated with so much care and respect. The way Marlowe tried to hide her disability from Tanisira because she didn't want to be pitied feels consistent with how people in the real world often feel. Though it's set in a fictional world, the way the characters approach cultural and ethnical differences was beautiful to read and feels relevant to the real world as well.
The story is character-driven and in my opinion rather slow-paced, with attention to the character development. It took me a bit longer to read than usual because I wanted to make sure to savour every detail. Overall, I was really lucky to receive an ARC for this and I'm glad I read it.
I love how protective Marlowe is over her son. The book opens with 'I'm going to kill my ex' (for kidnapping their son) which honestly, valid reaction. Some moments literally had me laughing out loud, like Marlowe smashing Dominik's quarters to pieces while Tanisira calmly watched. Speaking of Tanisira - she has my whole heart. She's badass, fearless, yet still has a vulnerable side. Both MC's felt really fleshed out, both with their own flaws and struggles - at no point did it feel like either of them was just there for the 'love interest' role.
Then, there's the representation. Yes it's a sapphic story between women of color, but it doesn't stop there - there's people of all backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations and disabilities, and they're all treated with so much care and respect. The way Marlowe tried to hide her disability from Tanisira because she didn't want to be pitied feels consistent with how people in the real world often feel. Though it's set in a fictional world, the way the characters approach cultural and ethnical differences was beautiful to read and feels relevant to the real world as well.
The story is character-driven and in my opinion rather slow-paced, with attention to the character development. It took me a bit longer to read than usual because I wanted to make sure to savour every detail. Overall, I was really lucky to receive an ARC for this and I'm glad I read it.
November 14, 2025
🌟4.5🌟 Truly such a beautiful story that has me giddy and kicking my feet!!
Thank you T.J. Williams for this arc!
In the spirit of being honest, I must say I was initially sceptical about the numerous people rating this 5 stars, but I can only say I’m not surprised now I’ve finished the book as this is up there with my favourite sapphic stories!!
Tanisira and Marlowe are such beautiful characters and most importantly, for me, they feel so real and genuine! This is only made better by the palpable feelings they have for one another and how much yearning, want and desire there is between them - it melted my heart!!
I’m also really happy about the dual pov here as I find a lot of authors like to use dual pov, but the second pov only enters the scene when it’s convenient for the plot. This, however, was not done here and I believe we got a good handful of chapters for both FMCs (I will hand on my heart say I was squealing and smiling from ear to ear every time we had a Tanisira pov 🤭)
For a debut, I think Williams should be insurmountably proud of themselves because I fear I’ve never read a debut so good!! I’d be so so happy to read more of her books in the future!!
(P.S. “Sukra malady” made me laugh so hard, the etymology for that word is perfect 😭. Additionally, the names and fictitious language in this book are the most gorgeous things I’ve ever seen, I wish I could learn the language in real life!)
TW: (A full list of content warnings can be found at the start of the book) Anxiety/Panic Attack, Kidnapping, Chronic Disability, Abduction, Blackmail, Manipulation, Gun Violence, Violence, Blood, Assault, Grief, Sexual Content, (Mentions of:) Ableism, Alcoholism, Addiction, Domestic Abuse, Human Trafficking, Medical Content, Racial Slurs
Thank you T.J. Williams for this arc!
In the spirit of being honest, I must say I was initially sceptical about the numerous people rating this 5 stars, but I can only say I’m not surprised now I’ve finished the book as this is up there with my favourite sapphic stories!!
Tanisira and Marlowe are such beautiful characters and most importantly, for me, they feel so real and genuine! This is only made better by the palpable feelings they have for one another and how much yearning, want and desire there is between them - it melted my heart!!
I’m also really happy about the dual pov here as I find a lot of authors like to use dual pov, but the second pov only enters the scene when it’s convenient for the plot. This, however, was not done here and I believe we got a good handful of chapters for both FMCs (I will hand on my heart say I was squealing and smiling from ear to ear every time we had a Tanisira pov 🤭)
For a debut, I think Williams should be insurmountably proud of themselves because I fear I’ve never read a debut so good!! I’d be so so happy to read more of her books in the future!!
(P.S. “Sukra malady” made me laugh so hard, the etymology for that word is perfect 😭. Additionally, the names and fictitious language in this book are the most gorgeous things I’ve ever seen, I wish I could learn the language in real life!)
TW: (A full list of content warnings can be found at the start of the book) Anxiety/Panic Attack, Kidnapping, Chronic Disability, Abduction, Blackmail, Manipulation, Gun Violence, Violence, Blood, Assault, Grief, Sexual Content, (Mentions of:) Ableism, Alcoholism, Addiction, Domestic Abuse, Human Trafficking, Medical Content, Racial Slurs
November 30, 2025
First off, the cover of Tethered is absolutely gorgeous. I loved both characters but Tanisira really had my heart. I love when the “stoic” characters show their soft side. Even though she said throughout the novel that she didn’t want kids, it was pretty evident that she fell in love with Vee. It was sweet to see the mother side of her come out.
The writing and evolution of Marlowe and Tanisira’s relationship was so good, it didn’t feel like it was less than a week. It felt like they had spent a lot more time together than they actually did. Usually I would be put off by the short amount of time vs the level of feelings they had, but TJ Williams does a great job at executing the build up of their relationship.
Vee is such a cute little genius. I loved getting to know him. I also loved the found family that was created with the crew. I really cared about what happened with the side characters just as much as I did with the MCs. I would honestly read a book about any of them and that’s rare because I only read sapphic books.
In the beginning of the book, I was wondering what the chronic illness/disability that Marlowe had. I think it was a good thing that the author didn’t reveal it right away. I’m not sure why, but it made it more realistic--we don’t always know or get to know what someone goes through every day/what struggles they have and why. It kept me wanting to read to find out what she has been having to deal with. I picked up on the spoons reference and loved it. (look up Spoon Theory).
I loved that we got to see so far into the future inthe epilogue! I love when we get that glimpse.
Tethered was a solid 4 stars and will definitely be a reread in the future!
The writing and evolution of Marlowe and Tanisira’s relationship was so good, it didn’t feel like it was less than a week. It felt like they had spent a lot more time together than they actually did. Usually I would be put off by the short amount of time vs the level of feelings they had, but TJ Williams does a great job at executing the build up of their relationship.
Vee is such a cute little genius. I loved getting to know him. I also loved the found family that was created with the crew. I really cared about what happened with the side characters just as much as I did with the MCs. I would honestly read a book about any of them and that’s rare because I only read sapphic books.
In the beginning of the book, I was wondering what the chronic illness/disability that Marlowe had. I think it was a good thing that the author didn’t reveal it right away. I’m not sure why, but it made it more realistic--we don’t always know or get to know what someone goes through every day/what struggles they have and why. It kept me wanting to read to find out what she has been having to deal with. I picked up on the spoons reference and loved it. (look up Spoon Theory).
I loved that we got to see so far into the future inthe epilogue! I love when we get that glimpse.
Tethered was a solid 4 stars and will definitely be a reread in the future!
November 12, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this book, and I am so happy I did. An absolutely beautiful story by T.J.Williams. I am an absolute sucker for a good found family story and this is a great one.
Tethered is a dual POV, story about the finding of friends and family in unlikely places, the ferocity of a mother's love in Space! The world-building is rich and comes through easily without feeling bogged down by a ton of lore.
Marlowe is tipped off that her ex, Dominik, is planning to abduct her son to the colony on Mars at the end of his visitation weekend. Desperate to try to find her son before take off, Marlowe becomes a stowaway on the ship the Midas, as it was actually at the end of its loading process. The ship lifts off, tossing an unprepared Marlowe about, giving her mild injuries, and she is discovered by the Captain of the ship, Tanishira.
They have a tenuous couple of days as Tanishira tries to suss out whether Marlowe is who she says she is or a hardened criminal trying to steal from her very rich and affluent employer. Seeing Marlowe and Tanishira's relationship develop and bloom throughout the book was truly delightful. As the two navigate their own complex feelings, mental health, a chronic illness, and cultural differences. It was equally rewarding to see the deepening relationships between Tanishira and her crew of the Midas.
A very fun and heartwarming read!
Tethered is a dual POV, story about the finding of friends and family in unlikely places, the ferocity of a mother's love in Space! The world-building is rich and comes through easily without feeling bogged down by a ton of lore.
Marlowe is tipped off that her ex, Dominik, is planning to abduct her son to the colony on Mars at the end of his visitation weekend. Desperate to try to find her son before take off, Marlowe becomes a stowaway on the ship the Midas, as it was actually at the end of its loading process. The ship lifts off, tossing an unprepared Marlowe about, giving her mild injuries, and she is discovered by the Captain of the ship, Tanishira.
They have a tenuous couple of days as Tanishira tries to suss out whether Marlowe is who she says she is or a hardened criminal trying to steal from her very rich and affluent employer. Seeing Marlowe and Tanishira's relationship develop and bloom throughout the book was truly delightful. As the two navigate their own complex feelings, mental health, a chronic illness, and cultural differences. It was equally rewarding to see the deepening relationships between Tanishira and her crew of the Midas.
A very fun and heartwarming read!
November 23, 2025
I thought, there's no way I can love this as much as I'm expecting too and then I ended up loving it even MORE. It just was absolute perfection in my eyes.
First, that cover. I don't think I've ever seen a cover that as perfectly reflects the main characters. They're both gorgeous, but you see Tee back there closed off while Marlowe is open and ready but no matter what they're standing together?? I mean come on, it's just so so perfect.
The story? It's really good. Non stop from the very beginning, there was never a point where I wanted to put this one down. It's not straight action, but there's so much going on (in a good way) and you never know what is going to happen and there's an inevitable course of collision so there's such good tension.
And the romance? Instant chemistry between two people who aren't looking for anything? Yeah, there's going to be some headbutting, some misunderstandings, but also so much heat. I loved how it was instant but at the same time slow as these two slowly opened up and revealed who they were and just how much they needed each other. It's sweet and spicy and just I love them so much.
And finally, the whole cast. I loved them all. I want so many more stories in this world and I trust Williams can add so many more and I'd eat it right up.
First, that cover. I don't think I've ever seen a cover that as perfectly reflects the main characters. They're both gorgeous, but you see Tee back there closed off while Marlowe is open and ready but no matter what they're standing together?? I mean come on, it's just so so perfect.
The story? It's really good. Non stop from the very beginning, there was never a point where I wanted to put this one down. It's not straight action, but there's so much going on (in a good way) and you never know what is going to happen and there's an inevitable course of collision so there's such good tension.
And the romance? Instant chemistry between two people who aren't looking for anything? Yeah, there's going to be some headbutting, some misunderstandings, but also so much heat. I loved how it was instant but at the same time slow as these two slowly opened up and revealed who they were and just how much they needed each other. It's sweet and spicy and just I love them so much.
And finally, the whole cast. I loved them all. I want so many more stories in this world and I trust Williams can add so many more and I'd eat it right up.
November 25, 2025
This book has me in a chokehold!
I have never purposely read a book slowly before, but that's exactly what I had to do with this book. Not because it was difficult to read, but because I needed to savor it. I didn't want to speed read and miss any of the small nuances. I took my time and fully enjoyed every single page of this journey.
There's also something very special about seeing yourself represented in the media you consume. My journey with queer books, like most began in the world. Choosing to read this book, was one of my first major steps towards being actively choosing diverse books, and I'm so so glad that I did.
As a single black mother, I could relate to Marlowe.
As someone who struggles to open up, I could relate to Tanisira.
As a queer woman, I could see myself in both of these woman and even some of the side characters.
This was a stunning debut. TJ manages to suck you in from the very first page and keeps you locked in, even after it ends. I will admit that I worried about it being in the sci-fi genre. That is on the line of my comfort zone. I never felt overwhelmed by the world building because it was done so smoothly.
I am fully sat in TJ's fan base, and I can't wait to see what she puts out next.
I have never purposely read a book slowly before, but that's exactly what I had to do with this book. Not because it was difficult to read, but because I needed to savor it. I didn't want to speed read and miss any of the small nuances. I took my time and fully enjoyed every single page of this journey.
There's also something very special about seeing yourself represented in the media you consume. My journey with queer books, like most began in the world. Choosing to read this book, was one of my first major steps towards being actively choosing diverse books, and I'm so so glad that I did.
As a single black mother, I could relate to Marlowe.
As someone who struggles to open up, I could relate to Tanisira.
As a queer woman, I could see myself in both of these woman and even some of the side characters.
This was a stunning debut. TJ manages to suck you in from the very first page and keeps you locked in, even after it ends. I will admit that I worried about it being in the sci-fi genre. That is on the line of my comfort zone. I never felt overwhelmed by the world building because it was done so smoothly.
I am fully sat in TJ's fan base, and I can't wait to see what she puts out next.
November 25, 2025
WHEW! T.J. Williams really hits you with the high tension right from the first sentence! Of course, given that Marlowe's son Vee is being kidnapped by his father - and taken to another planet at that, it's to be expected. What follows is a fast-paced story of love & redemption, healing trauma, and escaping toxic relationships set out in space. I'm really glad that I was accepted to receive this ARC.
I loved the sci-fi aspects and the thought that went into the world-building - not just the ones left on Earth, but the 'new' colonies on Mars, the new forms of indigenous peoples on Mars, as well as their language and culture. The character development is as rich as the world-building - the diversity, not just in sexual orientations and genders, but in body types and abilities was refreshing. I loved watching the romance between Marlowe and Tanisira develop, even if it is super quick (but I've heard relationships based on intense experiences tend to do that 😉). Tani falls hard, not just for Marlowe but for Vee as well. I loved all the humor among the crew members, especially since it works to break up the various types of friction.
And the spice is definitely nice... 😏
I loved the sci-fi aspects and the thought that went into the world-building - not just the ones left on Earth, but the 'new' colonies on Mars, the new forms of indigenous peoples on Mars, as well as their language and culture. The character development is as rich as the world-building - the diversity, not just in sexual orientations and genders, but in body types and abilities was refreshing. I loved watching the romance between Marlowe and Tanisira develop, even if it is super quick (but I've heard relationships based on intense experiences tend to do that 😉). Tani falls hard, not just for Marlowe but for Vee as well. I loved all the humor among the crew members, especially since it works to break up the various types of friction.
And the spice is definitely nice... 😏
October 17, 2025
I was lucky enough to be selected for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
From the moment I heard about this book, I knew I had to read it. I was especially interested in the space setting, sapphic romance, and neurodivergent and disability representation. And it did not disappoint!
I have never read anything like this book. From the very beginning, I was completely drawn in by the setting and characters.
I could go on and on about the two main characters, Tani and Marlowe. The character development and relationship between the two women was so tender. Watching them let their guards down bit by bit was something I could relate to and was done in such an honest and beautiful way.
I also loved the setting of this book - it takes place on a spacecraft and on multiple different planets. I absolutely loved the world building. I couldn't put this book down as I fell in love with Tani and Marlowe and couldn't wait to find out what would happen next.
This story and the characters will stay with me for a long time. Highly recommend this sapphic sci-fi debut!
From the moment I heard about this book, I knew I had to read it. I was especially interested in the space setting, sapphic romance, and neurodivergent and disability representation. And it did not disappoint!
I have never read anything like this book. From the very beginning, I was completely drawn in by the setting and characters.
I could go on and on about the two main characters, Tani and Marlowe. The character development and relationship between the two women was so tender. Watching them let their guards down bit by bit was something I could relate to and was done in such an honest and beautiful way.
I also loved the setting of this book - it takes place on a spacecraft and on multiple different planets. I absolutely loved the world building. I couldn't put this book down as I fell in love with Tani and Marlowe and couldn't wait to find out what would happen next.
This story and the characters will stay with me for a long time. Highly recommend this sapphic sci-fi debut!
November 7, 2025
ARC review.
In short, Tethered is fab, you should read it.
The book opens straight into the action, immediately building a tension that continues through the story. The world-building is top-notch, supported by developed characters with rounded, compelling personalities. TJ's main characters are plain gorgeous; they write the relationship between M and T with sensitivity and a sense of humour that makes you want to love them, or be them (or both.)
The themes of disability, single/shared parenthood, gender and sexuality, and racism/xenophobia are, by their nature, quite heavy. However, they're so well written and fit so well into the sci-fi model TJ has created that the exploration of the themes is representative, never repressive. It's so lovely to see a character living with an issue without it becoming the defining aspect of that character (and let's be real, it happens).
It was a pleasure to read, and I can't wait to read it again. Thank you for the opportunity to read the ARC.
P.S. I wish quick gel existed IRL.
In short, Tethered is fab, you should read it.
The book opens straight into the action, immediately building a tension that continues through the story. The world-building is top-notch, supported by developed characters with rounded, compelling personalities. TJ's main characters are plain gorgeous; they write the relationship between M and T with sensitivity and a sense of humour that makes you want to love them, or be them (or both.)
The themes of disability, single/shared parenthood, gender and sexuality, and racism/xenophobia are, by their nature, quite heavy. However, they're so well written and fit so well into the sci-fi model TJ has created that the exploration of the themes is representative, never repressive. It's so lovely to see a character living with an issue without it becoming the defining aspect of that character (and let's be real, it happens).
It was a pleasure to read, and I can't wait to read it again. Thank you for the opportunity to read the ARC.
P.S. I wish quick gel existed IRL.
November 15, 2025
4.5 stars! This was an interesting and fun first novel from this author! We start with Marlowe, our single mom getting a phone call telling her that her son is being put on a spaceship instead of brought home. She does what I think any desperate woman would do, she sneaks onto the ship to try to find her son before it leaves. But things do not go to plan and she isn't successful and leaves with the ship. Tanisira, the captain, is braver than I would be facing down a very angry mama bear of a woman. But she is also kind and understaning when she doesn't need to be.
This ship is filled with fun characters with all sorts of beautiful representation here. There is chronic illness, black and POC main characters, LGBTQIA, neurodivergent and typical. There is understanding and and kindness extended when needed. It was beautiful to read.
This book had more romance than I had anticipated, but it added so much to the story. And these women sure know how to swoon and add the drama just existing together in a short time frame. I look forward to what this author writes next!
This ship is filled with fun characters with all sorts of beautiful representation here. There is chronic illness, black and POC main characters, LGBTQIA, neurodivergent and typical. There is understanding and and kindness extended when needed. It was beautiful to read.
This book had more romance than I had anticipated, but it added so much to the story. And these women sure know how to swoon and add the drama just existing together in a short time frame. I look forward to what this author writes next!
October 26, 2025
Full of stunning imagery, author TJ Williams' debut novel Tethered, a captivating sapphic tale, is both a slow burn and an unplanned space voyage turned life-changing adventure.
With dynamics like found-family and supportive friendships, Tethered has unforgettable, well-rounded characters, beautiful prose, love that is healing and forgiving, and is full of representation from disability rep to ace rep. Williams really showcased their world-building abilities with this debut. The entire cast is three dimensional and the landscape is tangible! I had the privilege of reading this as an ARC, loved it, and look forward to reading more by them! Also, the short story prequel, available via their newsletter, of the side character Mae, Aligned, is an insightful peek into this world and a snapshot of two of the side characters the reader will be excited to see more of.
With dynamics like found-family and supportive friendships, Tethered has unforgettable, well-rounded characters, beautiful prose, love that is healing and forgiving, and is full of representation from disability rep to ace rep. Williams really showcased their world-building abilities with this debut. The entire cast is three dimensional and the landscape is tangible! I had the privilege of reading this as an ARC, loved it, and look forward to reading more by them! Also, the short story prequel, available via their newsletter, of the side character Mae, Aligned, is an insightful peek into this world and a snapshot of two of the side characters the reader will be excited to see more of.
October 30, 2025
Where do I start? “Tethered” is a rich, textured book full of surprises. It ticks so many of my boxes: science fiction, sapphic, romance, intrigue, humor, and, best of all, two main characters who are real women–compassionate, flawed, resourceful, strong, and just plain wonderful! And they go on space walks which is pretty cool. Marlow and Tanisira are the stars of the book, and they have an interesting cast of characters behind them. Marlow is a single mom devoted to son Vee, and she goes to the end of the earth to find him when he disappears . Well, actually she stows away on the spaceship that his rich father’s minion has brought him to. Then the story really begins as the ship heads to Mars. There’s approximately 225 million km between the earth and Mars, and Marlow and Tee have lots of time to fight their attraction .
November 21, 2025
thanks so much to the author for the ARC of this book! 🥰
i am of the opinion that the world needs more soft/cozy queer scifi. I love the expansion of cozy fantasy and we should definitely do scifi next! sometimes you just want some softness and not so much high tension all the time
this was definitely a great addition to the cozy scifi genre and I loved that the characters felt realistic with their flaws but STILL managed to figure out communication and not just hate each other in silence over a misunderstanding for ages 🤣
also absolutely loved the world building and i kinda really want more stories set in this world now, I ADORE the side characters and I would love to see more of them too 💖
i am of the opinion that the world needs more soft/cozy queer scifi. I love the expansion of cozy fantasy and we should definitely do scifi next! sometimes you just want some softness and not so much high tension all the time
this was definitely a great addition to the cozy scifi genre and I loved that the characters felt realistic with their flaws but STILL managed to figure out communication and not just hate each other in silence over a misunderstanding for ages 🤣
also absolutely loved the world building and i kinda really want more stories set in this world now, I ADORE the side characters and I would love to see more of them too 💖
November 25, 2025
I had the privilege of reading this book early and all I can say is baybee….. go read this book!!!
Sapphics in space? Umm yes, thank you!!
I definitely think this is one of my FAVORITE books I’ve read this year! 10’s across the board 🙌🏽 No notes!!
I saw pieces of myself in both of the MC’s and that caused them to pull on my heart string a little bit more. The story was soooo well written. Literally like I was watching a movie in my head as I was reading.
I was going to say if you enjoy sci-if books then you’ll definitely enjoy this, but I won’t even say that because I feel like this is a book where even if you’ve never read a sci-if book before (ahem, me 🙈) you’ll still really enjoy this books (also me 🤭).
This is how you do a debut novel!! I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
Sapphics in space? Umm yes, thank you!!
I definitely think this is one of my FAVORITE books I’ve read this year! 10’s across the board 🙌🏽 No notes!!
I saw pieces of myself in both of the MC’s and that caused them to pull on my heart string a little bit more. The story was soooo well written. Literally like I was watching a movie in my head as I was reading.
I was going to say if you enjoy sci-if books then you’ll definitely enjoy this, but I won’t even say that because I feel like this is a book where even if you’ve never read a sci-if book before (ahem, me 🙈) you’ll still really enjoy this books (also me 🤭).
This is how you do a debut novel!! I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
December 4, 2025
I never wanted this book to end!
I didn’t like sci-fi going into reading this, but maybe I do now because Tethered was incredible.
I loved how thoughtful TJ was in crafting the future: from the language, to the cultural differences, to how folks deal with chronic pain and illness.
I loved everything about this book!!!
I’m also a sucker for an autistic MC and Tanisira’s emotional truthfulness and matter-of-fact way of looking at things was lovely. Her and Marlowe are meant for each other and I’m going to miss them so much now that I finished the book 😭
I didn’t like sci-fi going into reading this, but maybe I do now because Tethered was incredible.
I loved how thoughtful TJ was in crafting the future: from the language, to the cultural differences, to how folks deal with chronic pain and illness.
I loved everything about this book!!!
I’m also a sucker for an autistic MC and Tanisira’s emotional truthfulness and matter-of-fact way of looking at things was lovely. Her and Marlowe are meant for each other and I’m going to miss them so much now that I finished the book 😭
October 13, 2025
Thank you to the author who provided me an ARC of this debut novel.
This was a unique, gripping story with complex FMCs you can't help but root for. The space setting and world building was awesome and made me feel totally immersed in the storyline. The supporting characters added a lot to the story as well - I loved them all! Overall, really impressed with this author and can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
This was a unique, gripping story with complex FMCs you can't help but root for. The space setting and world building was awesome and made me feel totally immersed in the storyline. The supporting characters added a lot to the story as well - I loved them all! Overall, really impressed with this author and can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
November 24, 2025
A Sapphic romance in a sci-fi setting starring a mom and a ship's captain, this book was so nice to read. I loved the humor and the tension between Marlowe and Tani. The crew is delightful, though it was a bit hard to keep them all apart to start with. If this is a debut, I am so excited to see what Williams comes out with next!
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read and review!
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read and review!
October 12, 2025
Amazing book that had me gripped the whole way through, I didn't want it to end. It's so well written, I felt everything the characters did while I was reading & it's so refreshing to see healthy love being modelled in the relationships within the story. I've never seen myself in characters so much, I was totally emotionally invested in them & their mission. The ending is wrapped up beautifully even though the story leaves you wanting more. I can't believe this is a debut novel, it's so good!
October 17, 2025
This was such a joy to read! The world building was wonderful, the characters were well developed, and there was a good amount of tension/drama to keep me reeled into the story. Very strong debut! Can't wait to read what's next for this author!!! Definitely one of my favorite reads this year. Sapphic Sci-Fi for the win ☺️
October 20, 2025
Thank you to the author for the ARC! Review is completely my own:
Thoroughly enjoyed; romance was written delicately. I loved the growth and the thought put into world building, specifically with language. Tani will forever be a fav of mine 🥹
Will be making a full post on release day on my instagram: aghoulsreadingrainbow!!
Would recommend preordering! A definite must-read 😁
Thoroughly enjoyed; romance was written delicately. I loved the growth and the thought put into world building, specifically with language. Tani will forever be a fav of mine 🥹
Will be making a full post on release day on my instagram: aghoulsreadingrainbow!!
Would recommend preordering! A definite must-read 😁
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