This was stunningly beautiful. I want to say upfront that there is animal harm and death throughout this story. However, if you can get through that, then I highly recommend this.
Untethered Sky is an amazing story of tragedy, obsession, and the very human quality of ownership and love for a creature. Ester is a Rukher, which means she is part of a group that trains Roc’s (huge, magnificent birds of prey) to hunt Manticores.
The story begins with the tragedy that befell Ester’s family when a Manticore attacked. Ester and her father survived, but she was still very much estranged from love and family. When she becomes a Rukher and cares for her Roc, Zahra, she finds a whole new reason to live and to love.
As much as she loves Zahra, though, Ester’s Roc is still somewhat captive. She has much freedom and a good life, but she doesn’t have natural freedom. So, no matter how devoted and enthralled Ester is to her Roc, she is in constant fear of losing her.
This was gorgeous storytelling. Not unexpected from Fonda Lee, of course. A very meaningful and beautiful story.
Out April 11, 2023!
Thank you, Netgalley and Tor, for this opportunity.
Book Oracle 