Epic Fantasy Meets Heart-driven Revolution—A Review of Arising

Today I'm sharing with you my thoughts on Arising by Lisa Perskie Rodriguez. I'm grateful to have had the privilege of reading this gem before it was published. If you love books that focus on challenging prejudice, and social justice with a YA female lead, you are in for a treat, so keep reading.

At A Glance

The Story

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.

World-building

The author’s world-building is exquisite. Aerizon’s treetop culture, with its moonline silks and sacred gardens, contrasts vividly against the harsher, earthbound Mergonland. Prophecies, spirit totems, and ancient medallions enrich the narrative with mystical depth without overshadowing the personal stakes at the heart of the story.

What sets Arising apart is its focus on building bridges rather than burning them. The relationship between Laela and Mateo feels authentic, full of tenderness, doubt, bravery, and sacrifice. It offers a refreshing vision of change—not through conquest, but through mutual respect, empathy, and a shared dream of peace.

Final Thoughts

Arising is a deeply moving, thought-provoking fantasy that will resonate with readers who crave stories of transformation, healing, and hope. It’s a triumph of character-driven storytelling and a shining testament to the power of love and unity against the forces of fear and division.

Highly recommended for fans of rich fantasy worlds, strong heroines, and uplifting tales of social change.