Set in mid-1990s London, Quietly, I'm Leaving follows Yimo, a single mother in her early thirties pursuing a PhD. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she learns from her father in Beijing that her young son, Xiaoxiao, has been diagnosed with cancer. As she prepares to return to China, a phone call urges her to stay in the UK for her son's future. This decision propels Yimo into a challenging journey of survival and self-discovery in a foreign land.
 
Navigating the complexities of immigration, financial hardship, and the search for love, Yimo's story is a poignant exploration of resilience and hope. The book's narrative offers a heartfelt portrayal of the immigrant experience, capturing the emotional depth of a mother's sacrifice and the enduring quest for belonging.