Typically a dystopian fan but this one just wasn't my cup of tea. I think I prefer the YA age range for this genre.

I liked the story and the world was very interesting but this book was full of the most unlikable characters who were all so difficult. Even so I really didn’t hate the story and I even read book 2 and I liked it a little more than I did this one.

Thank you for providing me with an arc copy of this book.

Overall I gave this book 3 stars as although I don’t think this was the right book for me, I know of people who would have really enjoyed this, so I would still encourage others to try it out. This book is very much worth reading for fans of post-apocalyptic/dystopian/survival/zombie reads I just think unfortunately it wasn’t quite right for me.

I enjoyed that this book did more than your typical zombie apocalypse book by combining different types and levels of magic whilst still keeping some of the more traditional elements of ‘zombie lore’. Overall, I enjoyed the story although it was a little slow to pick up and it did seem to have quite an abrupt end (although it does set up for a second book). I would have also liked to have seen some more action, zombie fights or knowledge about the ‘pansies’ as I felt this was not developed a lot (although it seems some of the knowledge is a secret for book 2) and most of the focus was on tension between leaders and the ‘right’ way to navigate a new world.

Throughout the book we are introduced to a range of characters and are able to see a range of POVs which was effective and fitted in nicely with the story. However, the characters are described to be like family and I thought the chemistry and connection between the characters as a whole could have been developed more since they seemed to split off into pairs a little bit.

This dystopia has flashes of X-Men and an overall gritty vibe, with solid world building and some good twists. I wasn't totally sold on some of the characters, but the plot was fast paced and gripping, and I will definitely pick up any sequels!

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Thank you NetGalley, Primal Instinct Publishing and of course Nelle Nikole for allowing me to read the ARC of "Rising" in exchange for my honest review.

I haven't been reading in the dystopia genre for a while now and this was my first book "being back" in it, and I can sincerely say it did not disappoint. The book plays in an apocalyptic world, giving a lot of "The Last of Us" meets "X- Men" vibe for me.

Nelle Nikole has an intense and great gift for building her world, feeding the reading information right from the start in a heavy heap and yet, there was not one single moment where I felt overwhelmed or confused, everything was well structured and explained.

The diversity of the characters and their personality was refreshing and almost intoxicating, allowing everyone (in my opinion at least) to find someone they symphatise with. The story kept me on the toes through out the entire read, basically sucking me in.

Several plot twists had my mouth gaping and my head spinning, but in the bestest of ways.

I loved the way romance was present, yet not overbearing the actual plot line, which was the search for the truth and revenge.

I loved also the many funny, sarcastic interactions between the several characters, some had me genuinely rolling on the floor from laughter, which was a nice palette cleanser amidst all the serious topics.

I cannot WAIT to know how the story goes on.

A worldwide apocalypse, complete with elemental superpowers and zombies beginning to show sapience—makes for an excellent storyline!

Rising by Nelle Nikole is a testament to the author's mastery of world-building and character development. The intricately designed backdrop of the story is not only immersive but also balanced, allowing the diverse perspectives of the characters to drive the narrative and reveal their authentic, imperfect selves. This skillful portrayal of characters is a true marvel, making this book a visual and intellectual delight for enthusiasts of apocalyptic tales.

I could see how the author tried to cause some misdirection with a particular character introduction, adding suspense to the story. However, I could discern who and what was causing the problems reasonably early on. Despite this, guessing the climax did not detract from my enjoyment of this action-packed story. In fact, it heightened my anticipation and I read with the eagerness of a mystery investigator.

I hope the second book is written soon; I want dibs on a preorder.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Primal Instinct Publishing for the opportunity to enjoy this dystopian masterpiece. I give it five stars!

This book gave me The Last of Us and Life As We Know It vibes! Overall, a solid apocalyptic book! The characters were unique, dynamic, cunning and fiercely loyal. Nelle does a beautiful job of setting up the world, giving enough context and backstory, and allowing each main characters’ perspective to shine! I’m not usually a first person POV fan, especially with multiple POVs, but this book does it so well! I thoroughly appreciated how the loss in the first chapter shaped each character and set them on such different growth journeys!

One critique is that magic is so prevalent in this world, but I don’t think it was quite clear how the survivors developed powers. I know it’s DNA related, but I think an extra reminiscent story that adds some flair to developing powers makes that element more believable!

Wow just wow !!
I’m gonna need a minute!!
This was amazing like actually amazing I loved it !!
I don’t even know if I have the words to describe how amazing this way!!
While reading this I’ve spent the day thinking about it and getting excited for when I can snuggled up with it at night.
I adored the characters they are so well written they felt real.
The story was so creative I didn’t want to put it down.
This one will definitely be living rent free in my head.
I can’t wait for book 2 !!
This is most definitely worth a read it’s got everything you could want in a good book
Brilliant characters, a unique story, intense storytelling twists that you don’t see coming. Leaving you on edge, hard to put down.
I couldn’t love it more