Leander West's debut novel Two-Spirit Rising follows Cody Greystone, a shy Indigenous seventeen-year-old cast in a major indie film, as fame unfolds around him. The book examines what it costs to be seen, with public adoration and hostility colliding as his identity is scrutinized by audiences who never met him. West aims to center Indigenous and LGBTQ+ experiences, highlighting the challenges these communities face in today’s society. As Cody’s career ascends, his identity becomes public property, triggering pressure, prejudice, and a redefinition of self under relentless spotlight. Amid the upheaval, he finds solace in a quiet connection with a musician named Kevin, a love that grounds him amid the noise. The narrative frames a coming-of-age story about resilience, grief, and reclaiming one’s voice beyond the demands of fame.