Never an

Indian Bride

A Story of Shame, Guilt and
Unspoken Dark Secrets

Gyan Russell

ABOUT THE BOOK

Growing up in a traditional Indian family on the beautiful Fiji islands, all Gyan ever wanted was to finish school, become a teacher, marry an Indian man, and live a fulfilling life. But at sixteen years old, Gyan’s world shattered when she was sent away from the home she loved then at seventeen years old, to the other side of the world, forced into an arranged marriage with a man she had never met. The marriage quickly fell apart after 18 months.

Trapped between two cultures and betrayed by those who were supposed to protect her, Gyan navigated a path filled with shame, guilt and silence. But when history threatened to repeat itself with a younger family member, she knew she had to find the courage to speak up — even without her family’s support.

Through her journey of faith, healing, and self-discovery, Gyan breaks generations of silence surrounding abuse in her culture. With the love of her new family and the strength she draws from her Christian faith, she learns to transform her pain into purpose. Never an Indian Bride is more than just a survivor’s story — it’s a powerful testament to one woman’s courage to confront cultural taboos, protect others, and ultimately find her own path to healing and joy.

Gyan’s unwavering commitment to her personal growth and healing is nothing short of inspiring. Through remarkable courage and strength, she has prioritised aligning with her authentic self, embracing a heart-centred approach to life. This dedication has not only transformed her own journey but has also created a ripple effect of empowerment and healing for countless women in the Soul Space membership.

Her wisdom, authenticity, and active presence have uplifted and inspired so many of us. Now, through this heartfelt memoir, the transformative power of her story will extend even further—reaching and empowering people across the globe. I am deeply in awe of the amazing, courageous, and wholehearted woman that Gyan is. Her journey reminds us all of the boundless possibilities that come from living with authenticity and intention.

Gyan is a woman of remarkable strength, unwavering faith, and deep compassion. As a devoted Catholic, her life is a testament to the strength that comes from trusting in God amidst immense challenges. She embodies resilience, courage, and an unyielding commitment to justice, drawing strength from her faith to to challenge and shatter cultural silences that others may avoid.

Her journey from a young girl facing betrayal and isolation to a strong, empowered advocate for freedom and dignity is both inspiring and humbling. Gyan’s story showcases her unwavering commitment to protect the vulnerable, even at great personal cost.

The goodness of her heart and her readiness to help others shine through in every chapter of her life. Her faith, deeply rooted in a profound trust in God’s plan, has not only shaped her character but also empowered her to turn her pain into a source of hope and strength for others. Gyan’s courage and faith are an inspiration to all who encounter her story, making Never an Indian Bride a compelling and transformative read. In her journey Gyan shows us that through God’s grace, even the deepest wounds can lead to healing, and lives once shattered can be rebuilt with hope and joy."

Ebook and hardcover available on

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born amidst the stunning landscapes of the Fiji Islands, Gyan has embraced Australia as her home for over four decades. Her life is a vibrant tapestry of family, food, and exploration. A devoted wife of 34 years and a proud mother, Gyan’s warmth and creativity shine through in all she does—most notably in the culinary delights she shares from her lively food truck, GG’s Bhojan.

A passionate adventurer at heart, Gyan and her husband have travelled to 33 countries, immersing themselves in diverse cultures that inspire her cooking and storytelling. Gyan and her husband are also embarking on an exciting new venture, ECO Trilogy, to champion environmental care and sustainability.

Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavours, Gyan is deeply rooted in her community. She volunteers with the St. Vincent de Paul Society and actively participates in her local church, finding joy in giving back. Her life is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the simple joy of sharing good food and meaningful stories with the world. Through her writing, she seeks to uplift and inspire, weaving hope and a touch of magic into every chapter of her journey.

Contact Gyan at: gyanrussell16@gmail.com