Arising

Arising is a beautifully crafted fantasy adventure that is equal parts heart and heroism. It blends political rebellion, cross-cultural healing, and a slow-burn inter-realm romance into a sweeping narrative of transformation. Laela’s courage, Mateo’s conviction, and the novel’s resounding message—that empathy can be a revolutionary act—make this story not only thrilling but deeply meaningful. For fans of books like An Ember in the Ashes, Shadow and Bone, or The Queen’s Rising, this novel delivers the emotional intensity and high-stakes drama they crave—while offering a fresh take on leadership, unity, and moral courage. Arising dares to imagine a world remade not through domination, but through understanding. And in doing so, it earns its place as a standout in modern fantasy.

Captivating chapters sparking curiosity to continue on to the next page. Great read! Highly recommend!

Lisa Perskie Rodriguez's novel, Arising, is a relevant guide for positive change, highlighting connection and unity. Drawing from her experience in global education and Indigenous communities, the book emphasises our shared humanity and the importance of compassion. It's a thought-provoking read that lingers, making it a must for those seeking a more equitable world. I truly enjoyed it and appreciate the author's contribution.

I bought this book on a whim after seeing it recommended, and I’m glad I did. Arising is a very different kind of fantasy from what I usually read. It’s more about characters and relationships than battles and quests, but the story really pulled me in. The book follows Laela, a young woman from a peaceful tree-dwelling society called the Treedles, and Mateo, a prince from the more aggressive Mergon kingdom. They meet under difficult circumstances, fall in love, and work to bring their people together in the face of a serious threat. I loved how their relationship developed — very sincere and respectful, not full of the usual forced drama you sometimes see in fantasy romance. The world-building was excellent. The author really made the Treedle culture feel alive, with its totem animals, moonline silk, and beautiful treetop villages. The contrast with the Mergon kingdom was stark and believable. I also liked how the book explored big themes like prejudice, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to change old ways of thinking. That said, the pacing did slow down quite a bit in the middle. After a fast start, there are long stretches of dialogue and Council scenes that dragged for me. I would have liked a little more action or tension in those parts. And the villain (the new king) felt a bit one-note. Still, none of this took away from the overall message and heart of the story. If you’re looking for an uplifting, character-driven fantasy with great world-building and a message about unity and hope, this is a great choice. I’m looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.

Swept me into a magical world where courage, love, and unity shine through every page. Laela's journey is powerful and inspiring—perfect for readers who love meaningful fantasy with a message. Highly recommend!