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Gil Mason #3
Feral Instinct
Book Three in the Gil Mason Sheepdog Series. Where it all began. Go back with Gil and experience where and how it all started.
284 pages, Paperback
Published March 20, 2020
About the author
Gordon Carroll
18 books82 followershttps://www.facebook.com/pg/OfficialG...
Gordon Carroll is the author of GUNWOOD USA. Gordon was raised at the foot of the great Rocky Mountains in Colorado. He joined the United States Marine Corps at eighteen and served for seven years achieving the rank of sergeant (selected for staff sergeant). After that he became a police officer in a small (wild) city nestled snugly in the middle of Denver Colorado before moving on to become a sheriff’s deputy. Because of his love for dogs he became a K9 handler, training and working three separate dogs over two decades (a hundred and twenty pound German Shepherd named JR, a ninety pound Belgian Malinois named Max and a fifty-six pound Belgian Malinois named Thor.
After years of telling stories to his children and friends his wife insisted he start writing some of them down. After that he was bitten by the dreaded writing bug and started sending stories to different publications. He was quickly published in several magazines in genres ranging from Sci-Fi to horror to mainstream and Christian before writing GUNWOOD USA, a fictionalized compilation of real life scenarios that he has seen, heard of or been involved with over his years in law enforcement and military service.
Gordon is a member of Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers (RMFW) and served on speaking panels for three years as well as performing K9 demos at the annual conferences.
Gordon Carroll is the author of GUNWOOD USA. Gordon was raised at the foot of the great Rocky Mountains in Colorado. He joined the United States Marine Corps at eighteen and served for seven years achieving the rank of sergeant (selected for staff sergeant). After that he became a police officer in a small (wild) city nestled snugly in the middle of Denver Colorado before moving on to become a sheriff’s deputy. Because of his love for dogs he became a K9 handler, training and working three separate dogs over two decades (a hundred and twenty pound German Shepherd named JR, a ninety pound Belgian Malinois named Max and a fifty-six pound Belgian Malinois named Thor.
After years of telling stories to his children and friends his wife insisted he start writing some of them down. After that he was bitten by the dreaded writing bug and started sending stories to different publications. He was quickly published in several magazines in genres ranging from Sci-Fi to horror to mainstream and Christian before writing GUNWOOD USA, a fictionalized compilation of real life scenarios that he has seen, heard of or been involved with over his years in law enforcement and military service.
Gordon is a member of Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers (RMFW) and served on speaking panels for three years as well as performing K9 demos at the annual conferences.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
November 21, 2024
Audiobooks edition was very poorly narrated. Pretty much ruined the book for me although there were other things about this book that I did not like.
May 16, 2020
Awesome!
What can I say about this series? I am a very avid reader. I am sure I have read thousands of books. Usually a book a day. These books are at the top of my favorites. It’s been a long time since a book actually made me angry and made me cry. I am also a dog lover so that didn’t hurt. If you love a good story and love good characters, this is the series for you. All three are must reads.
What can I say about this series? I am a very avid reader. I am sure I have read thousands of books. Usually a book a day. These books are at the top of my favorites. It’s been a long time since a book actually made me angry and made me cry. I am also a dog lover so that didn’t hurt. If you love a good story and love good characters, this is the series for you. All three are must reads.
November 22, 2020
This book is a flashback to the events before books 1 and 2. Frankly, if I had read this first, I would never have read the other 2 books. Than would have been a pity, because I very much enjoyed those.
The story in this one is repetitive, sappy, and much too God-centered for me, a devout (?) atheist.
The story in this one is repetitive, sappy, and much too God-centered for me, a devout (?) atheist.
April 17, 2023
I read the 3rd installment in the Sheep Dog detective Agency adventures.
it was as enjoyable as the first two books in the series.
there was a lot of action and Gordon writes action well. you can see the fight going on in your head like a Bruce Lee movie or something that Fuqua or Woo, would put on the screen.
you learn what happened to Gil's wife and little girl. it's tragic, so be prepared when you read it.
Pigrim is the K9 star of this entry because it happened before Max comes onto the scene.
the end of the book is the beginning of Gil's new journey as a P.I.
i do enjoy the faith involved in the books. even with all the terrible things that happen to Gil, and some of the terrible things that he has to do himself; his faith is there helping him through the aftermath.
i am going to start reading the 4th installment of the Sheep Dog Detective Agency soon as i can; and will share my thoughts/feelings on it after i am through.
it was as enjoyable as the first two books in the series.
there was a lot of action and Gordon writes action well. you can see the fight going on in your head like a Bruce Lee movie or something that Fuqua or Woo, would put on the screen.
you learn what happened to Gil's wife and little girl. it's tragic, so be prepared when you read it.
Pigrim is the K9 star of this entry because it happened before Max comes onto the scene.
the end of the book is the beginning of Gil's new journey as a P.I.
i do enjoy the faith involved in the books. even with all the terrible things that happen to Gil, and some of the terrible things that he has to do himself; his faith is there helping him through the aftermath.
i am going to start reading the 4th installment of the Sheep Dog Detective Agency soon as i can; and will share my thoughts/feelings on it after i am through.
April 22, 2024
Hard to Read
These books are great!!! First two were so impressive, great stories, great characters. Especially our guy, Gil, and Max, the dog who wants to be, no deserves to be, Alpha. Couldn't get enough of them!! Can't wait to get back to them!
But, this one was tough to read. Telling us the story of how Gil lost his family. So much pain... But, the author is thorough and won't let you look away. The author is also a Christian and understands the truth of God's Word, that with God all things are possible. You can get through the toughest times, brutally devastating events. Turns out His grace is sufficient, just as God promised it would be! Also, we got to know Pilgrim as a young fella', tough as nails, and loving too. Such a contrast to Max, though Max is learning. Baby steps...
So wish this author was in Kindle Unlimited. But, on to the next adventure!
These books are great!!! First two were so impressive, great stories, great characters. Especially our guy, Gil, and Max, the dog who wants to be, no deserves to be, Alpha. Couldn't get enough of them!! Can't wait to get back to them!
But, this one was tough to read. Telling us the story of how Gil lost his family. So much pain... But, the author is thorough and won't let you look away. The author is also a Christian and understands the truth of God's Word, that with God all things are possible. You can get through the toughest times, brutally devastating events. Turns out His grace is sufficient, just as God promised it would be! Also, we got to know Pilgrim as a young fella', tough as nails, and loving too. Such a contrast to Max, though Max is learning. Baby steps...
So wish this author was in Kindle Unlimited. But, on to the next adventure!
May 21, 2020
What an exciting book. I had to read it in two sessions. I made the mistake of starting it in the evening and then had to stop at 1 a.m. But I finished it next day. Wow! That is all I can say. The author puts you right in the action and I do mean action. It is violent because gangs are violent. Pilgrim is the ultimate partner. It almost puts an end to the awful murder in book 2. Not quite because nothing can bring peace when you go through such a loss BUT it helps when you can make the bad guy pay. And now we know how the Sheepdogs came about. I am hooked on Gil Mason. I hope we see many more books about him and his dogs. That you Gordon Carroll for your writing ability and for sharing it. Start with Book 1 so you will know how Gil’s mind works and why.
December 28, 2021
They Messed with the Wrong Man
This book is an awesome addition to the series. This series really should be read in order because the background details are very important to the storyline. This book is more like a prequel. It covers the events that made Gil the man he is in the first 2 books. This story is violent and bloody. It did not cause me to have nightmares, but it could trip some triggers for others. In having read this book, I may go back and re-read the first 2 books before I read book 4. I am really enjoying the K-9 parts of the story, but it is like an action movie all of the way through. I highly recommend this series.
This book is an awesome addition to the series. This series really should be read in order because the background details are very important to the storyline. This book is more like a prequel. It covers the events that made Gil the man he is in the first 2 books. This story is violent and bloody. It did not cause me to have nightmares, but it could trip some triggers for others. In having read this book, I may go back and re-read the first 2 books before I read book 4. I am really enjoying the K-9 parts of the story, but it is like an action movie all of the way through. I highly recommend this series.
March 23, 2023
I love books with police dogs and when Carroll sticks to that theme his books have been pretty good. But this book was simply awful. No mystery, nothing on procedure, just murder, torture,mayhem, interspersed with chapters on the “Glory of God”. Gimme a break! The last straw for me though was when Carroll went on a rant about how good people have it once they are inmates on death row. Good grief! I honestly have a problem imagining anyone eager to attain a spot on death row so as to have a life of leisure. Done at 48%.
July 11, 2023
My least favorite of the three books so far, but I still enjoyed it a lot. It's a prequel, so you do have some idea of the events about to take place and, of course, that the heros live. (That helped get me through the really worrisome parts.) Unlike the first two, there is no Max yet, and we don't get a lot of Pilgrim's thoughts. I enjoyed feeling the events from the unique dog pov, and missed that in this installment. There's a lot of gore, and some insight into true gang violence.
All that said, I can't wait to start book #4!
All that said, I can't wait to start book #4!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2026
Feral Instinct
The narrative surrounding Gil's backstory was profoundly moving and deeply enriching to the narrative's complexity. The character's journey evoked genuine emotional depth, revealing intricate layers of human experience. The storytelling demonstrates remarkable nuance and empathy, creating a compelling exploration of character development. No God doesn't want dolls, he wants people to freely choose him and love him back. A highly charged series that I can't wait to read the next. I highly recommend.
The narrative surrounding Gil's backstory was profoundly moving and deeply enriching to the narrative's complexity. The character's journey evoked genuine emotional depth, revealing intricate layers of human experience. The storytelling demonstrates remarkable nuance and empathy, creating a compelling exploration of character development. No God doesn't want dolls, he wants people to freely choose him and love him back. A highly charged series that I can't wait to read the next. I highly recommend.
June 26, 2020
Feral Instinct
This, the third book in this series, was awesome to read. It portrays what every human goes through...good vs evil. Why did God let this happen? So many question, so much rage. Gil finds his answers, but it sure was a roller coaster ride getting the end of this book! My hands are still gripping the edge of the proverbial ride, my mind saying...I don't want to get off this ride! Well written, strong characters, many emotions!
This, the third book in this series, was awesome to read. It portrays what every human goes through...good vs evil. Why did God let this happen? So many question, so much rage. Gil finds his answers, but it sure was a roller coaster ride getting the end of this book! My hands are still gripping the edge of the proverbial ride, my mind saying...I don't want to get off this ride! Well written, strong characters, many emotions!
September 30, 2020
The Sheepdogs introductory 3 books are impossible to put down
Lots of backstory left to be revealed. Satisfactory conclusion reached. And Old Yeller doesn't die. If you enjoy dogs and crime action novels you need these guys on your shelf. The author has a nice touch in presenting inner monologues of necessary characters to inform their actions. Very enjoyable reads and might even leave you smarter.
Lots of backstory left to be revealed. Satisfactory conclusion reached. And Old Yeller doesn't die. If you enjoy dogs and crime action novels you need these guys on your shelf. The author has a nice touch in presenting inner monologues of necessary characters to inform their actions. Very enjoyable reads and might even leave you smarter.
November 28, 2023
Action, Justice, Believeability
If you have a strong stomach for gore,love righteous action,justice, and believability - this book is for you! This author's ability to paint a clear and detailed picture of good and evil ranks high with writers like Dean Koontz, and James Patterson. I loved the insertion of spirituality and his battle with God. Difficult to put down this book. Well done!
If you have a strong stomach for gore,love righteous action,justice, and believability - this book is for you! This author's ability to paint a clear and detailed picture of good and evil ranks high with writers like Dean Koontz, and James Patterson. I loved the insertion of spirituality and his battle with God. Difficult to put down this book. Well done!
October 20, 2025
Background for the series
Kind of a prequel, Feral Instict, book 3 in the series, tells us what makes Gil Mason tick. He was a cop, chasing the evil Mojoqui Cabrera, trying to stop the killing. Cabrera was equally committed to killing Gil Mason, but settled for murdering Gil's wife and daughter as he watched, helpless. Many bodies stacked up (I forgot to count). It was a very exciting book, but not to be read by the faint of heart.
Kind of a prequel, Feral Instict, book 3 in the series, tells us what makes Gil Mason tick. He was a cop, chasing the evil Mojoqui Cabrera, trying to stop the killing. Cabrera was equally committed to killing Gil Mason, but settled for murdering Gil's wife and daughter as he watched, helpless. Many bodies stacked up (I forgot to count). It was a very exciting book, but not to be read by the faint of heart.
April 25, 2020
Gordon Carroll brilliant, this last book left me wanting more of Gil, and his k9 family. Great story line . I can't wait to read more of his books. I recommend if you haven't read one of his books , i urge you to pick up a copy of Sheepdogs. The first in the trilogy and you will be hooked before you finish the first chapter 💕💕💕
May 24, 2020
This book is so much more than a action thriller.
Excellent characters with a excellent plot that keeps you reading until the very end. But, for me, it was much more that the characters and plot. It has given me insight into questions that I have been dealing with since Vietnam. Thank You Gordon Carroll.
Excellent characters with a excellent plot that keeps you reading until the very end. But, for me, it was much more that the characters and plot. It has given me insight into questions that I have been dealing with since Vietnam. Thank You Gordon Carroll.
June 1, 2020
This is an amazing read, and it explains so much that the first two books in the series refer to. Yes, it's violent, but it deals with gangs. Yes, it's hard to read because of the grief Gil is saddled with. But there is redemption. Plus the dog chapters in all three books are amazing! I don't think I've ever read a series so quickly....finish one, start the next immediately!
July 10, 2020
Read all three and highly recommend!
This is the 3rd book I've read
in this series. I didn't want to read it since it was like a prequel to the other books. But I was hooked and it kept surprising me with the plot. I just wish they were free with Amazon prime, but still think it was money well spent. Emails from Gordon Carroll marketing were interesting.
This is the 3rd book I've read
in this series. I didn't want to read it since it was like a prequel to the other books. But I was hooked and it kept surprising me with the plot. I just wish they were free with Amazon prime, but still think it was money well spent. Emails from Gordon Carroll marketing were interesting.
July 13, 2020
The start
When I am able to read a book of this size in a day it says something about it being able to grip me from page one. In a week I have read 3 Gordon Carroll books this the last takes the reader back to the formation of the series. It also in the end gives you an insight on possibly something that happened in your life
When I am able to read a book of this size in a day it says something about it being able to grip me from page one. In a week I have read 3 Gordon Carroll books this the last takes the reader back to the formation of the series. It also in the end gives you an insight on possibly something that happened in your life
August 8, 2021
DIDN'T DISAPPOINT!
After reading Sheep dogs I was hooked, this book came at the right point in the story line. It filled in the backstory of what made Gil Mason, Gil Mason.The stories are riveting not matter how gruesome some scenes are. I had to turn to the next page. Great read, not for the faint of heart at times. Enjoyed!
After reading Sheep dogs I was hooked, this book came at the right point in the story line. It filled in the backstory of what made Gil Mason, Gil Mason.The stories are riveting not matter how gruesome some scenes are. I had to turn to the next page. Great read, not for the faint of heart at times. Enjoyed!
October 28, 2023
Interesting to learn about Gil's background
It was interesting to learn about Gil's background, but I'm definitely also keying into the fact that he's pretty violent, even with his faith restored. I like the excitement and thrill and the dogs, but I find the violence intense, even painful to read. It doesn't mean I'll stop reading the series, just something to keep in mind...
It was interesting to learn about Gil's background, but I'm definitely also keying into the fact that he's pretty violent, even with his faith restored. I like the excitement and thrill and the dogs, but I find the violence intense, even painful to read. It doesn't mean I'll stop reading the series, just something to keep in mind...
December 14, 2023
I just couldn't finish this. Got about 36% and I had to put it down. It's not that the writing is bad as I totally enjoyed the first two books in this series. It's just too violent, I knew what was coming and I just didn't want to read it anymore. I will try another Gil Mason book but I just couldn't finish this one at this time. Maybe later.
September 27, 2024
Gordon Carroll has written another page turner! This book goes back in time to share Gil's story and knowing what was going to happen to his family made this a difficult read.
I did feel the violence got amped up a bit, especially the acts perpetrated by the villain. This was a book I couldn't put down but I didn't enjoy it as much as the first two.
I did feel the violence got amped up a bit, especially the acts perpetrated by the villain. This was a book I couldn't put down but I didn't enjoy it as much as the first two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2025
Back to hurting time.
This was the most painful to follow the story of the night mare time in Gils life. We read it in the first 2 books. But this whole story is one hurt after another. And then the anger at God he has to deal with. No fun. But then life isn't always fun or good. Free will is difficult to live with.
This was the most painful to follow the story of the night mare time in Gils life. We read it in the first 2 books. But this whole story is one hurt after another. And then the anger at God he has to deal with. No fun. But then life isn't always fun or good. Free will is difficult to live with.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2025
Wow! This author doesn’t know how to write a bad story!!
I am so glad I discovered him! I, very seldom, pay $10.00 for an ebook, but so far I have bought 6 of this series.
I read them so voraciously that there is very little put it aside time, usually it’s because I am in bed and I fall asleep (usually after 2 am). Don’t be afraid to try his books, you will be hooked too.
I am so glad I discovered him! I, very seldom, pay $10.00 for an ebook, but so far I have bought 6 of this series.
I read them so voraciously that there is very little put it aside time, usually it’s because I am in bed and I fall asleep (usually after 2 am). Don’t be afraid to try his books, you will be hooked too.
May 4, 2026
Not Your TV Cops and Robbers Story
An inside depiction of law enforcement officers, their families, their K9 s. Along side the criminals
They encounter . The author explicitly describes the physical conflicts and weapons used as well as the resulting physical and emotional injuries.
An inside depiction of law enforcement officers, their families, their K9 s. Along side the criminals
They encounter . The author explicitly describes the physical conflicts and weapons used as well as the resulting physical and emotional injuries.
June 20, 2020
The Beginning *******
This tells the story of Gil Mason’s life as a policeman and family man. Should have listed as book 1 in this series. Exciting action, gang activities and one very nasty villain.
This tells the story of Gil Mason’s life as a policeman and family man. Should have listed as book 1 in this series. Exciting action, gang activities and one very nasty villain.
June 28, 2020
I have read all 3
Of this series.... PLEASE, PLEASE TELL ME WHEN THE 4TH ONE IS COMING!!! They are well written, fast paced and I LOVE the chapters written from the dogs point of view. Excellent, excellent series!
Of this series.... PLEASE, PLEASE TELL ME WHEN THE 4TH ONE IS COMING!!! They are well written, fast paced and I LOVE the chapters written from the dogs point of view. Excellent, excellent series!
September 2, 2020
Couldn't put it down
This series is fast paced and explores a gamut of emotion. The relationship between dogs and man is shown with rare insight. The life of a cop and PI both are shown with gritty reality. It also shows the power of faith. It is a great series.
This series is fast paced and explores a gamut of emotion. The relationship between dogs and man is shown with rare insight. The life of a cop and PI both are shown with gritty reality. It also shows the power of faith. It is a great series.
Read
January 16, 2021Love, love, love this series!
I was reeled in from the very first book. The characters, including the dogs, were written with such feelings as love, conflict, and good vs. evil. Hope another book in this series will be written soon.
I was reeled in from the very first book. The characters, including the dogs, were written with such feelings as love, conflict, and good vs. evil. Hope another book in this series will be written soon.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews