“All good books are alike in that they are truer than if they had really happened, and after you are finished reading one, you will feel that all that happened to you and afterwards it all belongs to you; the good and the bad, the ecstasy, the remorse and sorrow, the people and the places and how the weather was.” ― Ernest Hemingway
Fame changed him. Pain defined him. Courage rebuilt him.
Meet Cody Stone. He’s seventeen. Native American. Gay. A talented actor on stage—and a quiet soul off it. Just out of high school and expected to choose the “safe path,” Cody instead steps into a whirlwind opportunity: a leading role in an independent film shot in Hawaii. What begins as a dream quickly becomes a test of courage, identity, and truth.
Among seasoned actors and sweeping ocean backdrops, Cody holds his own. Back home, his life begins to bloom with possibility—his first real relationship, critical acclaim, and a sense of belonging. But his hopes are shattered when his success becomes a life and death struggle.
Two-Spirit Rising is the gripping and emotional journey of a young man forced to rediscover his voice in the wake of trauma. Cody finds strength in unexpected places, including the character he once played.
With fierce tenderness and authenticity, Leander West brings to life a story that shines a much-needed light on what it means to be young, Indigenous, queer—and deeply human. Two-Spirit Rising is more than a coming-of-age novel. It’s a call to compassion, a tribute to resilience, and a reminder that healing is always a matter of rising one step at a time.
Some stories break you. Others help you rise.
A new novel by Leander West
An emotionally fearless debut that lingers long after the final page.
A powerful voice for the LGBTQ+ and Native communities—raw, real, and necessary.
A story for anyone who’s ever felt unseen—and dared to rise anyway.
Perfect for readers who love:
LGBTQ+ coming-of-age stories with heart and grit.
Indigenous representation and cultural depth.
Emotionally rich narratives about healing and identity.
Stories of young love, chosen family, and personal strength.
Why Readers are Loving Two-Spirit Rising
Begin the Journey
“Two-Spirit Rising” is just the beginning. Future novels from Leander West will continue to explore the relationship of Cody and Kevin, along with other heroes speaking their truth. Stay tuned for what’s next—but don’t miss where it all began.
👉 Available Now in Paperback, eBook, and Kindle Unlimited
"We chase the melodies that seem to find us until they’re finished songs and start to play. When senseless acts of tragedy remind us that nothing here is promised–not one day. This show is proof that history remembers. We live in times when hate and fear seem stronger.
We rise and fall and light from dying embers–remembrances that hope and love last longer. And love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love cannot be killed or swept aside."
- Lin-Manuel Miranda
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