Review of Kalayla: Unraveling Tangles

[Bethel Saint Bright]

Kaylala must have had it tough as a child. She had to deal with the loss of her dad and racism. That's a lot for a little girl. I hope it all makes her better.

[Manang Muyang]

I was wondering whether this was a sequel to Kalayla. It seems the author just tweaked the title for clarity, maybe. I have not read the book in full until now, though. Perhaps it's time I did.

[Ejimma Chika Promise]

I like the fact that Lena Barzetti was there to give Kalayla some basic moral training, not minding Kalayla's resistance sometimes. Interesting review!

[Ohanele Chinonyerem]

This book sounds interesting because it shows how different people deal with life in their own ways. I like that the characters grow and learn from each other. Congrats on being chosen as BOTD!

[Janet Kimetto]

I read the first edition of this book as well, which I enjoyed. As mentioned, the story centers on the lives of Lena, Maureen, and Kalayla, and their stories touch on important topics. Congrats on BOTD!

[Gayatri Tripathi]

Thank you for such a heartfelt and thoughtful review! I appreciated how you emphasized the emotional depth of the characters and how their personal growth unfolded over time. I was particularly intrigued by how Lena influenced Kalayla’s development—your observation that children not only listen to what we say but watch how we behave really struck a chord. It’s powerful that the book explores three generations of women, each shaped by their own trauma and choices. Your point about the vague descriptions of some characters is helpful too—I imagine that could make certain scenes feel less immersive. And it’s a shame about the profanity limiting younger readers, especially since Kalayla’s story could resonate with teens going through similar struggles. Thanks again for your honest take; you’ve convinced me this is a book worth checking out!

[Xiao Baoshi]

the author tackles tough issues like racism and grief with honesty and care. I found it deeply moving and inspiring—a touching reminder that healing often comes from unexpected relationships. Also,
What I personally loved about this book is how raw and honest it feels. The characters aren’t perfect—they’re messy, complex, and real. Kalayla’s voice is full of fire and innocence at the same time, and watching her navigate a world full of prejudice and secrets is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Lena, in particular, surprised me with her depth and growth throughout the story. Her relationship with Kalayla and Maureen evolves in such a natural, touching way that I found myself rooting for them all!

[Mercy Bolo]

This is the story of three women at different points in their lives. Kalayla is a feisty mixed-race kid. Maureen, Kalayla's mother, is a white woman disowned by her family because she married a black man. Lena is their 72-year-old neighbor. Their lives intertwine as they navigate various obstacles.

[Vishal Vaghela]

"Kalayla: Unraveling Tangles" is an absolute triumph of storytelling — a novel that grabs your heart from the first page and refuses to let go. Jeannie Nicholas weaves a brilliant, emotionally layered narrative that feels both refreshingly original and deeply universal.

At the center of the story is Kalayla, a character so vividly real that you can almost hear her breathe. Her struggles, joys, and battles against life’s inevitable knots are portrayed with a raw honesty that is both painful and beautiful. Nicholas doesn’t shy away from tough subjects, yet she treats them with incredible compassion and nuance, allowing readers to confront their own "tangles" right alongside Kalayla.

The writing itself is lyrical without being overwrought, capturing moments of heartbreak, resilience, and small, hard-won victories with a deft touch. Every character feels fully realized, each interaction a careful brushstroke on a much larger emotional canvas. By the final chapters, Nicholas doesn’t just tell a story — she builds a world you truly feel.

What sets this novel apart is its ability to balance light and dark: hope never feels naive, and grief never feels heavy-handed. Instead, Unraveling Tangles shows that healing isn’t a linear journey — it’s messy, complicated, and often beautiful in its chaos.

In short, Kalayla: Unraveling Tangles isn’t just a book you read — it’s a book you experience. It's the kind of story that lingers long after you’ve turned the final page, whispering its lessons back to you in unexpected moments.

A must-read for anyone who loves powerful, character-driven fiction with heart, soul, and unforgettable honesty. Five stars, easily.

[Benita Ogarekpe]

I presently have quite a few books already on my shelf to read, but after this shining review and the excerpt of this book that I saw on Amazon, I think I’m going to have to bring this book to the top of the pile. It sounds like just what I would be into.

[Gathungu EMuthoni]

Kalayla is an interesting book about three women from different generations. I love the perspective the book takes on their life issues and struggles. Makes them relatable in a very real way. Definitely, adding it to my reading list.

[Abhi Adhikari]

Kalayla: Unraveling Tangles by Jeannie Nicholas is a powerful, emotional story about three women from different generations—Kalayla, her mother Maureen, and their elderly neighbor Lena—who grow and heal through unexpected friendship. Through themes of loss, racism, resilience, and forgiveness, the book highlights how love and understanding can untangle even the toughest lives. Though it contains some profanity, it’s a heartfelt read full of life lessons and personal growth. Rated 4 out of 5 stars — a touching, wise, and inspiring story for adult readers.