A review by niahraereads
Untethered by Angela Jackson-Brown

emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

Thank you to Hear Our Voices Tours and Harper Muse Books for my ARC copy! This review contains my personal thoughts and opinions.

Untethered is easily the heaviest book I’ve read this year, but it’s also one of the most profound. Angela Jackson-Brown weaves an emotionally charged tale set in the 1960s, centered around Katia, a character whose journey is as heartbreaking as it is relatable.

Katia’s story highlights the immense emotional labor carried by Black women, a weight that remains all too familiar even today. Her struggles to shoulder everyone else's burdens while trying to keep herself afloat are both poignant and eye-opening. This book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of rest, healing, and learning to lean on others for support.

Chad and Pee Wee’s stories were equally compelling, their heartbreak adding depth to the narrative. I found myself fully invested in their arcs, rooting for them even as their challenges unfolded.

That said, I did grow a bit frustrated with Katia's relationship with Seth. Her tendency to push him away felt understandable but also maddening at times, and the abruptness of how their story wrapped up left me wanting more closure.

Despite this, Untethered is a beautifully written and impactful novel that I won’t soon forget. Angela Jackson-Brown has a way of capturing both the resilience and vulnerability of her characters, making this book an unforgettable read.

Rating: 4.25/5