Arising

by Lisa Perskie Rodriguez

ARISING
Epic tale of unity and transformation unfolds in a mythical realm. Young heroine embarks on a perilous journey to challenge prejudice and unite divided clans. A grand adventure of resilience, love, and social justice


‘Arising’ is an epic tale of teenagers from diverse clans embarking on a transformative mission to unite their world around a new vision of peace. This sequel to ‘Laela and the Moonline’ can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure.
Arising traces the journey of Laela, a brave Treedle woman from Aerizon, a land of treetop dwellers, who seeks to uncover her purpose and strains at the confines of tradition. Laela is destined to become a prophesied leader, guiding her people through the menace of persecution from the Mergon clan, who live on the forest floor and enslave any Treedle who ventures too close.
Her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes the first Treedle woman to enter Mergonland, where she encounters Prince Mateo, a compassionate soul and the son of King Malcolm. Their connection challenges deep-rooted prejudices and triggers a transformative journey for both. However, Laela's presence leads to her capture and trial for trespassing. In an unexpected turn of events, Laela’s servitude at the palace is exchanged for her life when Mateo, who doubles as a skilled doctor, saves his father from a life-threatening heart attack.
Through adversity, Laela grows stronger, and wiser and emerges as a beacon of hope for her people. The demise of King Malcolm results in Laela and Mateo fleeing Mergonland, united in their shared vision of peace between the Treedles and Mergons. However, their journey home is fraught with unforeseen challenges. The oppressive rule of the new King Marl threatens her homeland's safety, compelling Laela to rise against the odds.
In a world divided, young Mergons and Treedles band together to create a nonviolent peace movement and lead the world into a new era. Along the way, they face life-threatening challenges and embark on unexpected voyages that expand their capacities and shape their cause. They are aided and inspired by divine and interplanetary forces, empowering Laela to embrace her unique role as the bridge between worlds. The questions that arise from this tale are profound: Can love and unity catalyze social change? Or will the shadows of the past prove insurmountable?
With themes of social justice, resilience, and transformative power of unity, ‘Arising’ is a metaphysical allegory reflecting the zeitgeist of our age: brothers and neighbors at risk of war over age-old prejudices and conflicting ideologies.

Genres: Fantasy

359 pages, Paperback

Published April 29, 2025

About the author

Lisa Perskie Rodriguez, born in NYC and raised in New Jersey, has lived a life deeply intertwined with the North and South American continents. Academically trained in Art History, she found her calling in international education, serving in various roles from teacher to Executive Director. Fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, her experiences have provided rich cultural insights. Lisa's debut fantasy novel, Laela and the Moonline was published in 2022, followed by the standalone sequel, Arising. Now residing in Needham, MA, Lisa continues writing and engaging in community services. Her work reflects a profound understanding of coming of age and societal transformation.

Reviews

[Yakira Goldsberry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arising holds no qualms in setting itself up as a slow-paced story, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The book allows you to sit and take the time to absorb the story world and characters, diving deep into the world and giving us a lot of insight into how the Treedles and Mergons work. As a lover of epic fantasy, I usually find these sorts of things really interesting. I will willingly dive headfirst into a whole story of world building. However, the balance between world building and story teeters a little, with the story sometimes suffering for it.
This was especially noticeable in the beginning, when we are dropped into this world with no explanation and have to wrap our minds around what exactly we’re experiencing and looking at. I was a little lost throughout the first few chapters. As someone who tends to not read the whole description of books (I like to be surprised since I tend to be able to figure out the whole plot via the blurb), I didn’t realize that this was a sequel. I felt like I was missing a lot of details. Despite being listed as a standalone, I probably would have benefited from reading the first book to get the story straight and really understand what’s going on. (Also, just a side note, and this may be because of all the werewolf novel ads I tend to get, but the use of ‘mates’ for the main relationship threw me off. I didn’t really like it.)
Despite its flaws, Arising is still worth a read, with its philosophical tone, themes of unity and and resilience, and a unique tone from most other fantasy novels. It sits within the same area as the Dune series, a mix of prose and plot, a tangling of social issues with fantasy. With little moral ambiguity and somewhat metaphysical aspects, this story is good for those who like to read a book that makes them think. Personally, it wasn’t for me, but I’m sure these kinds of stories have their own fans.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy from the author for review purposes only. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Avril Serene · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Anca Antoci · Rating 5 out of 5]

One girl. One prophecy. One chance to unite a divided world.

Lisa Perskie Rodriguez’s Arising is a breathtakingly beautiful and timely fantasy novel about love, courage, and the quest for unity across deep-seated cultural divides. Set in a richly imagined world of treetop cities and ground-dwelling kingdoms, Arising follows Laela, a brave treadle woman, who defies tradition and danger to forge an unprecedented bond with Prince Mateo, the compassionate heir of an enemy nation. This novel continues the Laela and the Moonline series but also stands alone as an independent story. Laela, a Treedle woman, defies tradition and danger to journey into enemy Mergon territory, where she meets Prince Mateo. Their bond defies generations of distrust. After surviving political imprisonment and threats to their lives, they return to Aerizon only to find that true peace requires even greater courage.

Rodriguez masterfully crafts a story that blends epic adventure with intimate emotional growth. Laela’s harrowing journey, from a persecuted captive to a beacon of hope for her people, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Themes of inclusivity, healing, and social justice are woven seamlessly into the fantasy setting, making Arising feel urgently relevant while maintaining the lush wonder expected from high fantasy.
Read more at https://www.summonfantasy.com/reviews...

[James D. Rosenbaum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising is one of those books that reminds you why you love reading in the first place. From the opening chapters, I felt pulled into Aerizon’s treetop world, where danger and beauty exist side by side. The descriptions of the canopy villages and the forbidden borders were so vivid that I could almost see them in my mind. Laela’s decision to cross those borders was more than a plot point it felt like an act of bravery that echoed throughout the entire story.

What struck me the most was how deeply human the characters felt. Laela isn’t perfect, and that’s what made her journey so powerful. She doubts, she struggles, but she also chooses compassion even when it costs her. Her bond with Prince Mateo developed in such a natural way it wasn’t rushed, and it didn’t feel like a cliché. Instead, it grew out of trust and shared risk, which made it all the more moving. Their relationship gave the story heart while still leaving room for the larger themes to shine through.

The message of Arising is what truly stayed with me. Beyond the fantasy, it’s a book about healing, unity, and finding courage when everything around you says to stay divided. I closed the last page feeling both hopeful and reflective, and that, to me, is the mark of a great story. This is a book I’ll be recommending to friends, not just because it entertained me, but because it made me feel something deeper. Five stars, without question.

[Donald Callan · Rating 5 out of 5]

reading Arising felt like stepping into another world, and I think that’s why it would make such a great book club pick. The treetop realm of Aerizon is described with such detail that it felt almost tangible, and the idea of living above the ground, with the dangers and borders below, gave the story a unique tension. It was easy to get lost in the imagery, especially during the moments when Laela takes risks that no one else dares to.

What I loved most was how the fantasy setting never lost sight of the deeper themes. The struggle between division and unity is something we can all relate to, even if our worlds look nothing like Aerizon. Laela’s bond with Mateo becomes more than just a relationship it’s a symbol of what can happen when people choose compassion over fear. Those conversations about bridging divides, and the cost of doing so, are the kind of things that stay with you long after the book is finished.

That said, there were moments when I felt the pace moved quickly, and I wanted more time to linger in certain scenes, especially during the quieter, emotional moments. But in the end, that didn’t take away from the impact the story left on me. Arising isn’t just an adventure it’s an invitation to think, to feel, and to discuss, which is why I can see it resonating with many different kinds of readers.

[Marjorie J. Schmitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t usually pick up fantasy books, but something about Arising caught my attention, and I’m so glad I gave it a chance. From the very first pages, I was intrigued by the idea of Aerizon, a world high in the treetops where borders and rules dictate so much of daily life. The setting felt imaginative and fresh, but at the same time it was written in a way that even someone like me who doesn’t read a lot of fantasy could follow and enjoy.

Laela was a character who surprised me. I loved how she wasn’t fearless from the start but had to push herself to cross into places she was told never to go. Her courage was relatable because it came with fear and hesitation, which made her choices even more meaningful. The bond she develops with Mateo brought warmth to the story and gave the themes of division and unity a very human touch. I found myself invested in their journey together and cared about what would happen to them both.

What impressed me most was that beyond the adventure and the setting, the book touched on themes that felt personal and relevant. It asked questions about compassion, justice, and what it takes to bridge divides in a world built on separation. By the time I finished, I didn’t just feel entertained I felt moved. Arising gave me both an exciting story and something to reflect on, and that’s why it’s a five-star read for me.

[Louis D. Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arising is a story that surprised me with both its heart and its imagination. The world of Aerizon, suspended high in the treetops, felt unique and visually striking, and I found myself drawn into the dangers and divisions that shaped it. The author did a great job of showing how a setting isn’t just a backdrop but an active force that influences the characters’ choices. It was easy to picture the canopy bridges and the risks that came with crossing borders.

Laela’s journey was the part that resonated most with me. She isn’t a flawless heroine she struggles, hesitates, and questions herself but her willingness to keep moving forward made her feel very real. Her bond with Mateo was written with care, and I liked how their relationship didn’t overshadow the bigger themes. Instead, it added warmth to a story that was ultimately about courage, compassion, and bridging divides.

The reason I’m giving this four stars instead of five is mostly due to pacing. At certain points, I wanted the story to linger longer on the quieter, emotional beats rather than rushing to the next event. Still, the themes and the emotional impact of the book stayed with me after finishing, which says a lot. Arising is a thoughtful, meaningful fantasy that I’d easily recommend to readers looking for more than just adventure.

[Mary B. Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first chapter, Arising pulled me into a world that felt both magical and meaningful. The treetop realm of Aerizon was described so vividly that I could picture every bridge, every shadow, and every risk that came with stepping across forbidden borders. It’s rare that a fantasy setting feels this alive, but here it almost became a character in its own right. I loved getting lost in it and following Laela as she challenged the traditions that kept her people divided.

Laela quickly became one of my favorite heroines in recent memory. She isn’t portrayed as perfect or invincible, but her doubts and fears only made her courage more powerful. Watching her grow, and seeing the trust that developed between her and Mateo, gave the book both emotional weight and hope. Their relationship never felt forced it was built on choices, sacrifice, and understanding, which made me care even more about what happened to them.

What really earned this a full five stars from me was how much the book made me reflect. Yes, it’s a fantasy adventure, but beneath that it’s about compassion, justice, and healing. It felt like a story written to touch hearts, and it did exactly that. I closed the last page not only entertained but also moved, and I’ve already started telling friends they need to read it.

[Kimberly J. Bentley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising is one of those rare books that feels like it’s speaking directly to the reader. The world of Aerizon, with its treetop communities and rigidly enforced borders, was fascinating from the very beginning. I could picture the canopy bridges stretching between towering trees, and the tension of knowing what lay beyond the limits made every step Laela took feel even more daring. It’s a setting that immediately captures the imagination and keeps you turning the pages.

Laela herself is a character I won’t forget anytime soon. What I loved most about her was that her bravery wasn’t effortless it came with fear, hesitation, and sacrifice, which made it all the more meaningful. Watching her connection with Mateo slowly grow was another highlight for me. Their bond didn’t feel like a trope; it felt like something built on shared struggle and trust. That authenticity made their story moving in a way that stayed with me.

By the time I finished, I realized this wasn’t just a fantasy adventure it was a book about compassion, unity, and what it takes to bridge divides, even when it’s uncomfortable or risky. That message, woven through a beautifully told story, is why this book deserves five stars. Arising entertained me, but more than that, it touched my heart and gave me something to reflect on.

[Constance Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arising drew me in with its originality and heart. The world of Aerizon, set high in the treetops, is a setting I won’t forget anytime soon. The descriptions of bridges, canopy villages, and forbidden borders painted such a vivid picture that I felt immersed in this world from the very start. It was both imaginative and believable, which is hard to achieve in fantasy.

Laela’s journey was the highlight for me. Her bravery in crossing boundaries and her determination to seek unity made her a character worth following. I admired the way her bond with Mateo developed it felt earned and genuine, rather than rushed or forced. Their relationship added depth without overshadowing the bigger themes of compassion, justice, and healing conflict. This balance made the book both engaging and meaningful.

The reason I gave it four stars instead of five is because there were a few points where I wished for a little more detail or breathing space, especially in transitions between major events. Some scenes felt like they passed too quickly, and I wanted more time to sit with the emotions. Still, that’s a small note compared to the impact the story had overall. Arising is a thoughtful, heartfelt book that I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy with substance.

[Christine D. Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising is the kind of book that feels like it was made to be discussed. From the moment Laela decides to cross forbidden borders, I knew this story was going to be more than just an adventure. The treetop realm of Aerizon is described so vividly that it almost became a character itself its beauty, its risks, and its divisions all shaping the journey in powerful ways. I could easily see a group sitting around, sharing favorite moments and debating the choices the characters made.

Laela and Mateo’s bond was my favorite part. It didn’t feel like a typical fantasy romance; instead, it grew from trust and shared challenges, which made it so much more believable. Their relationship became a symbol of hope, showing that compassion and unity are always possible, even in the most divided of worlds. The story never lost its heart, and that’s what made it stand out to me.

What really makes Arising shine is the way it speaks to issues we all face today. It’s not just about Aerizon it’s about us, about what it takes to heal, to bridge divides, and to imagine a better way forward. Few books leave me with both a sense of wonder and a lot to think about, but this one did exactly that. Five stars for a story that is both moving and unforgettable.

[Paul L. Bryant · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Arising and found myself pulled into the treetop world of Aerizon right away. The imagery of villages suspended high above the ground and the rules that keep people divided gave the story a fresh and memorable backdrop. It felt different from a lot of the fantasy I’ve read, and that uniqueness made it stand out. The forbidden borders especially added tension, and Laela’s courage in challenging them made her an inspiring lead character.

The heart of the book, for me, was in the relationships and themes. Laela’s connection with Mateo wasn’t rushed it developed slowly, with trust and vulnerability at the center, and that gave the story more depth. The broader themes of compassion, unity, and justice added layers to the adventure, making it more than just a fantasy plot. It was the kind of story that makes you think about the real world as much as the imagined one.

I’m giving this four stars instead of five only because there were a few moments where I wanted the pacing to ease up so I could sit with the emotions a bit longer. At times, I felt the story jumped quickly from one scene to the next, and I would have loved more breathing room. That said, it was still a very meaningful and powerful read, one I’d gladly recommend to others.

[Annett Parke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every once in a while, a book comes along that feels like more than just a story, and Arising was exactly that for me. From the start, I was fascinated by Aerizon’s treetop world it felt dangerous, beautiful, and completely original. The sense of place was so strong that I could imagine the swaying bridges and the weight of the rules that governed life there. It created the perfect stage for Laela’s journey of courage.

What I loved most about this book was how emotional it was. Laela’s choice to cross forbidden borders wasn’t just an adventure it was a moment that carried fear, risk, and hope all at once. Her connection with Mateo developed in such a natural and meaningful way that I found myself deeply invested in them both. The relationship added warmth and humanity to the story, but it never overshadowed the bigger themes of unity and healing.

By the end, I realized that this book wasn’t just entertaining me it was making me think about the world we live in. The themes of division, compassion, and the cost of choosing unity are so relevant right now. That’s why I’m giving it five stars without hesitation. It’s beautifully written, emotionally resonant, and the kind of book that lingers in your thoughts long after you’ve finished.

[Anne Criswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t hand out five stars lightly, but Arising really earned it. At first, I thought it was going to be “just another fantasy,” but the more I read, the more it pulled me in. The treetop world of Aerizon felt so original that I kept stopping to imagine what it would be like to live there high above the ground, crossing bridges that could lead to danger or discovery.

Laela was the heart of the book for me. She’s not fearless, and that’s what makes her courage hit even harder. Her choices especially crossing those forbidden borders felt brave in a way that made me think about risks in my own life. The bond she forms with Mateo gave the story warmth, but what I loved most was that it never overshadowed the bigger message of unity and compassion.

By the time I finished, I wasn’t just entertained, I was moved. That’s rare for me with fantasy, and it’s why I’ll be recommending Arising to friends who want a story that actually makes them feel something. It’s adventurous, heartfelt, and meaningful all at once.

[Larry K. Hamlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising is the kind of story that stays with you long after you finish. The treetop realm of Aerizon was described so beautifully that I felt completely transported I could picture the bridges swaying in the air and feel the danger of crossing those borders. It’s such a unique setting, and it gave the whole story a sense of magic and tension that never let go.

Laela quickly became a character I admired. She isn’t fearless she wrestles with doubt and hesitation but she still chooses to step into the unknown, and that’s what made her bravery inspiring. Her bond with Mateo was written with so much care; it unfolded naturally, making their connection both believable and touching. It added a human layer to the larger themes of division and healing.

What I loved most, though, was how relevant this story felt. Beneath the fantasy adventure is a powerful message about compassion, justice, and the strength it takes to bring people together. Few books manage to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, but Arising did exactly that. For me, it’s an easy five-star read.

[William J. Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising is more than just a fantasy adventure it’s a book that really touched me on an emotional level. Laela’s journey across the forbidden borders wasn’t just about physical courage, it was about breaking down fear and choosing compassion in the face of division. That theme is something I think so many of us can connect with right now, which made the story feel powerful and relevant beyond its pages.

I also loved how the story wove hope into moments of tension. Even when the stakes were high and the world of Aerizon felt dangerous, there was always a thread of humanity and love running through it. The relationship between Laela and Mateo captured this beautifully it wasn’t forced or overly dramatic, but it showed how trust and unity can grow even in the most challenging circumstances.

By the end, I found myself both entertained and inspired. Few books manage to combine action, heart, and meaning in such a seamless way, but Arising did it perfectly. For me, this is a solid five-star read that I’ll be recommending to friends who love fantasy with depth.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising pulled me in right away with its vivid world of treetop cities and grounded kingdoms, and I enjoyed how easy it was to picture every part of it. It felt like i was reading a book about Avatar with all the sci-fi elements replaced by fantasy themes. The world-building feels thoughtful without slowing the pacing.

Laela’s journey is the real heart of the book. Watching her move from curiosity to courage and then something much larger felt natural, earned, and her connection with Mateo adds a gentle emotional thread without overpowering the adventure. I liked seeing how the two cultures clashed and slowly learned from each other.

The themes of unity and healing come through clearly, but the story never feels preachy. The plot follows some typical fantasy beats, but the characters' journey kept me invested. Wish the side characters got more attention though.

Overall, it’s a warm, hopeful fantasy with memorable scenery and a heroine worth following. Worth picking up if you enjoy character-driven stories set in imaginative worlds.

[Dana McKeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What drew me in most about Arising was the setting. Aerizon, with its treetop bridges and canopy world, is so vivid that I could almost hear the creak of wooden walkways and feel the height beneath my feet. The danger of crossing borders, the rules that separate people, and the risks Laela takes to challenge all of that made the world feel real and alive. It’s been a while since I found a fantasy book that built such an immersive environment.

But it wasn’t just the details of the world it was the way the setting connected to the themes. Aerizon isn’t just a backdrop, it’s part of the conflict and part of the healing. Watching Laela step beyond what was “forbidden” and into new places gave the story depth that made me think about how fear and tradition shape us in our own world. This is the kind of fantasy I want to recommend to friends, not just for the adventure, but for the conversations it sparks afterward.

[Steven Dobbins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Arising, and I’m glad I picked it up even though fantasy isn’t usually my go-to genre. The treetop world of Aerizon was such an imaginative setting, and I loved the way the author described it it felt new, yet believable. Laela’s courage stood out the most for me; her willingness to challenge what everyone else accepts made her a character worth following. The bond she forms with Mateo added heart and gave the story a personal edge beyond the larger conflicts.

If I’m being honest, there were a few moments where I wished the pacing slowed down so I could soak in the world even more. Some transitions between big events felt a little quick, but it didn’t take away from how meaningful the story was overall. The themes of unity, compassion, and healing really shine through, and that’s what makes this book worth recommending. It’s a story that leaves you thinking, and for that reason, it’s a solid four stars from me.

[Reyna Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising completely swept me away from the start. The world of Aerizon is so vividly described that I could almost see the canopy bridges and feel the danger of stepping across the borders. It’s rare to find a fantasy setting that feels this fresh and immersive, and I was hooked right away.

Laela stood out as such a memorable heroine. I loved that she wasn’t fearless her doubts and hesitation made her choices even more powerful. Watching her courage grow, and seeing how her bond with Mateo developed naturally, gave the book so much heart. Their connection felt genuine, not forced, which made me care deeply about their journey.

What I’ll remember most is the message beneath the adventure. The story doesn’t just entertain it makes you think about unity, compassion, and the risks it takes to heal divisions. It’s a rare book that can balance action, emotion, and meaning all at once, and Arising did exactly that. For me, it’s an easy five-star read.

[Kathrine Choate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising is a book that instantly drew me in with its unique world. Aerizon, suspended high in the treetops, was described so vividly that I could picture every detail the bridges, the shadows, and the constant risk of crossing forbidden borders. It created the perfect backdrop for a story that was both adventurous and meaningful.

Laela’s courage is what really made this story shine for me. She isn’t fearless, and that’s what made her bravery so inspiring. I loved watching her grow throughout the book, and her bond with Mateo added an emotional layer that felt natural and moving. Their relationship gave the story both tension and hope, making it one I was deeply invested in.

What set this book apart was the way it balanced excitement with heart. Beneath the fantasy and action was a powerful message about compassion, unity, and healing divisions. By the time I finished, I felt not only entertained but also touched by its themes. That’s why this is an easy five stars for me.

[Joseph C. Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect Arising to stay with me the way it did. Laela’s decision to cross forbidden borders felt so raw and courageous that I found myself pausing to reflect on my own choices in life. The fear, the tension, and the risk all carried real weight, and it made her bravery resonate even more. When she meets Mateo, their connection doesn’t feel forced it grows out of shared struggle and hope, which made me care about both of them even more deeply.

What really touched me was the way the story speaks about unity and compassion without ever sounding preachy. Through Aerizon’s struggles, you see reflections of our own divided world, and that makes the book feel both timely and timeless. It isn’t just a fantasy adventure it’s a story that asks you to feel, to reflect, and to imagine what healing generations of conflict could look like.

[Joyce Nau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arising had me hooked from the very beginning. Laela is exactly the kind of main character I love brave, curious, and determined, but also human enough to doubt herself along the way. That balance made her feel real, and I couldn’t help but root for her. And Mateo? His bond with Laela gave the story heart and warmth, and I found myself smiling in more than a few scenes between them. Their relationship felt natural, not forced, which made the story even more engaging.

The pacing was spot-on for me. Every chapter seemed to end with just enough tension to keep me turning the pages. The mix of danger, hope, and personal growth kept the story moving, and by the time I finished, I felt like I had gone on the journey right alongside Laela. This book is definitely one I’d recommend to friends who enjoy YA fantasy, because it doesn’t just tell a story it makes you feel it.

[Celia Seupel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Arising – it struck me a bit like reading a complex fairy tale. The story leans heavily into political conflict versus peace/tolerance/reconciliation, all within a fantasy world of clans that either live in treetops (the “Treedles”) or on the ground (the Mergons). The main character, a natural leader, is a young Treedle woman determined to break free of the subservient female role assigned by her society. It’s a winning story, but somewhat marred by uneven description and transition, monochrome evil characters, and a bit too much explaining. In fact, in the first five chapters, there’s a great deal of exposition about stuff that happened in a previous book: Laela and the Moonline – which actually sounds like a very entertaining read. Overall, this was a fun book with creative world-building, upbeat story, and romance.

[Florian Armas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is a pure exercise of imagination, building an entire world down to the smallest detail. Yet what makes it so immersive also makes it challenging to read, as the story often slows under the weight of its own intricacy.

It’s a tale of cultural intersections and the courage to cross forbidden boundaries — ultimately offering a message of hope, where love can overcome hate and build bridges between people when vastly different worlds collide. The characters are clearly divided between good and evil, with little moral ambiguity, while the magic system adds an additional layer of interest.

The pace is slow, laying the foundation for a lyrical, philosophical tone that often takes precedence over the plot. The narrative is long and complex, making it a demanding but thought-provoking read.

[Sera Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat, "unputdownable" plot, stop. Arising is not the book for you.

If, on the other hand, you are looking to savour and enjoy deep characterization, intricate world-building, fluid prose, and thematic elements that make you think, read on.

From the very moment I read the first sentence, I was in the world of Aerizon. And I loved it.

At times reading like Zilpha Keatley Snyder's Green Sky trilogy, at times like the alien world of Avatar, this novel is a beautiful and pensive exploration of "opposites attract" love and the work it takes to move past entrenched cultural prejudices and animosities.

Sometimes, tradition must be questioned.

[Brad Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arising was such an engaging read with a world that felt totally unique. The treetop setting of Aerizon immediately grabbed my attention, and I loved how the author built the tension around forbidden borders and long-standing divisions. Laela’s bravery in stepping beyond those limits made her an easy character to root for, and her connection with Mateo added a warm, human layer to the story.

The reason I’m giving this four stars instead of five is because there were a couple of moments where I wished the pacing slowed down so I could spend more time in Aerizon. That said, the themes of compassion and unity came through beautifully, and the story left me thinking even after I finished. It’s definitely a book I’d recommend to fantasy readers looking for something heartfelt.

[Elenora Corbett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Arising and thought the treetop world of Aerizon was one of the most original fantasy settings I’ve read in a while. The forbidden borders added tension from the start, and Laela’s courage to cross them made her an inspiring main character. I also appreciated how her bond with Mateo grew naturally it felt believable and added warmth without taking away from the bigger themes.

The only reason I’m giving it four stars instead of five is that there were a few places where I wished the story slowed down so I could soak in more of the details. Even so, the themes of compassion and unity came through strongly, and the ending left me feeling thoughtful and hopeful. Definitely a book worth recommending.

[Joyce Everly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arising was a really engaging read, and I loved how original the treetop world of Aerizon felt. The imagery of canopy bridges and forbidden borders gave the story a unique tension, and Laela’s courage to step beyond those limits made her an inspiring heroine. Her growing bond with Mateo added warmth and gave the book a very human touch alongside the larger themes.

The only reason I didn’t give this a full five stars is that a few parts felt a little rushed I wanted more time to linger in certain scenes and learn even more about Aerizon. Still, the heart of the story came through strongly, and the themes of compassion, unity, and healing made it a memorable read. Definitely worth recommending to fantasy fans.

[Wayne Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arising was a really strong and imaginative read. The treetop world of Aerizon immediately caught my attention it felt different from other fantasy settings and gave the story a sense of freshness. Laela’s bravery was inspiring, and her relationship with Mateo unfolded in a believable way that added warmth without overpowering the bigger themes.

I’m giving it four stars instead of five only because there were a few places where the pacing felt a little quick, and I wished for more time to sit with certain moments. Still, the emotional core of the story and the themes of compassion and unity stood out clearly. It’s a book I’ll be recommending to readers who want fantasy that also carries heart.