Rising Up by Jackson Liva ARC Book Review!

My Review: 

​I was so invested in Greg's relationship. The way Serena is done is conflictingly reflective of seemingly a good portion of our population. I loved the different philosophers, books, and spiritual ties to what was happening in Greg and Serena's relationship. 

Both characters (not to leave out the awesome side-characters) were well rounded and believably flawed. They were both toxic in their own way, but in my opinion, it was more on Serena, considering her hot and cold nature. Due to her manipulation and Greg's rose-tinted glasses, they formed this kind of co-dependency with one another, and grew addicted to the attention and the moments that connected them physically, mentally, and spiritually. 

Throughout the book, I gave both characters quite a bit of leeway--as one should for anyone they're just getting to know. But as Greg started understanding where his heart truly lied, I began wishing for him a better relationship, both for him and his little boy. Serena, on the other hand, was extremely flippant and impulsive, which, in my opinion, is fine, as long as you know how to communicate and you and your partner understand no one deserves to be in a non-communicative or verbally abusive (or abusive in general) relationship. No one deserves to be manipulated, but I think, even with time, Serena might never come around to being a better communicator, or attempt to work through her past trauma to give herself the care she needs to treat herself and others better. 

All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It's always interesting to see politics and mental disorders weaved into storylines, and this one did really well with it.

Summary: 

Can toxic relationships that leave your head spinning be a catalyst for healthy change?

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.

Amazon