I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A couple happy and in love find their world torn apart as tense political divides amongst the nation brings out a second side to one of them, spiraling out of control in a tense psychological thriller in author Jackson Liva’s “Rising Up”.
The Synopsis
Can a toxic relationship change your life for the better?
Serena and Greg are the perfect match: she’s a sexy, fun, charismatic yoga instructor, and he’s a laid-back regular joe with a heart of gold. And their whirlwind romance lifts them to dizzying new heights. But when the presidential election throws the country into a deep political and cultural maelstrom, one of the couple’s personalities suddenly splits in two.
Stuck in the midst of escalating psychological attacks, a steady stream of gaslighting and lies, as well as a mysterious disappearance on a tropical vacation, their tumultuous relationship slowly begins to reveal sinister secrets that bind the two together – secrets that expose lifelong wounds, as well as eerie parallels to America’s relationship with its president.
Only by rising up to their inner demons and following the guidance of their Higher Selves will both they – and their country – stand a chance of finding true peace and happiness.
Step into a deeply authentic and emotional novel that artfully weaves together astute political commentary, insightful reflections on psychological abuse, and a striking yet sympathetic picture of toxic codependent relationships.
The Review
This was a compelling and gripping read. The author does a wonderful job of capturing the thoughts, emotions, and heat of both the romance beforehand and the tension after the political strife enters the lives of these characters. The world-building was really top-notch in this book, as the author brought to life the real-world struggles of the political divide that still holds strong in many parts of the world, most strongly felt in the United States, of course.
The character development and the powerful themes of politics, relationships, and mental health were beautifully brought out throughout this narrative. The buildup of tension and toxicity throughout the main character’s evolution as individuals and as a couple drew the reader in carefully, like a bad car accident one can’t look away from. The venomous nature of politics in this day and age and how it impacts our relationships in families, friendships, and romantic entanglements has never been more pronounced than it is now, and the author weaves through these conflicts with honesty and a profound sense of reflection.
The Verdict
Memorable, honest, and engaging author Jackson Liva’s “Rising Up” is a must-read psychological literary fiction drama that readers won’t want to put down. The twists and turns in the story, as well as the shocking buildup of tension that highlights politics and mental health awareness, all into one package, made this book one people will turn to time and time again in this day and age. If you haven’t yet, preorder your copy or pick it up on July 4th, 2024!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
I’m an established novelist, and Jackson Liva is the pen name I created to protect the privacy of me and my family. If Rising Up helps others heal from a toxic relationship, or navigate through a current situation, I want to make sure it’s out there.
“You own everything that happened to you. Tell your stories. If people wanted you to write warmly about them, they should have behaved better.”
― Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
