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Instinct
After a tornado rips through the southeast of England, Leo must journey to another world in search of his brother who is amongst those who have disappeared. This search takes him to Libero, a world that was created by four people with the ability to control the elements as a place for people to find true freedom. But even freedom comes at a price. For in this world, the animal instinct that lives within you will develop the longer you are there, and so it is a race against time for Leo and his friends to rescue his brother and return home before it is too late, before they become part of the instinctive.
If you choose to come, know your life will never be the same, You leave behind your old self, all that will remain is your name. You will learn what you were born to be, Who you truly are, beneath what the eye can see. Come for the people, Leo, come for your brother, Leave behind what you think you know, Leo, expect a place like no other. For in Libero, Leo, you will find everything you think you lack, So be warned, for when you find Libero, Leo, you may not come back.
Michael Rowley (editor of The Martian, The Bear and The Winternight Series, and After Earth) compared Instinct to The Lord of The Flies, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan, and The Island of Doctor Moreau.
If you choose to come, know your life will never be the same, You leave behind your old self, all that will remain is your name. You will learn what you were born to be, Who you truly are, beneath what the eye can see. Come for the people, Leo, come for your brother, Leave behind what you think you know, Leo, expect a place like no other. For in Libero, Leo, you will find everything you think you lack, So be warned, for when you find Libero, Leo, you may not come back.
Michael Rowley (editor of The Martian, The Bear and The Winternight Series, and After Earth) compared Instinct to The Lord of The Flies, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan, and The Island of Doctor Moreau.
- GenresFantasy
364 pages, Paperback
Published February 21, 2021
7 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 1, 2021
The story starts off with Leo discovering his brother's disappearance due to a violent storm hitting the city. Upon his disappearance, Leo starts receiving weird clues that ended up transporting him to a hidden paradise aka Libero. A magical place and hidden paradise where you can find anything you lack.
Little did he know that everything comes with a price and that once you're in the Libero, the animal instinct within you will slowly manifest and take over your body binding you to this world eternally. Will Leo be able to rescue his brother and return home before it's too late?
☆
I loved the premise of the story as it has a different spin on Jumanji/ Narnia/ and The Wizard of Oz.
☆
I found my self highly entertained as I followed the characters' journey in inspecting the island and embracing their changes along the way. Each character was different on its own and I was excited to see what animalistic form hidden beneath their personas.
☆
Carter's fast paced writing makes the story intense and exciting at the same time. The world-building was extremely imaginative and totally immersive. There were many vivid descriptions of the sceneries and the creatures inhabiting the island felt so distinct. The illustration on the back cover helped me visualize the politics and power elements of this world better.
☆
All told 'Instinct' has this epic morally ground adventure that revolves around acceptance, sacrifice, and friendship. If you're looking for your next memorable fantasy read with clean content for younger readers, then you should definitely check this out!
☆
Thank you to the author for sending me a free copy.
Little did he know that everything comes with a price and that once you're in the Libero, the animal instinct within you will slowly manifest and take over your body binding you to this world eternally. Will Leo be able to rescue his brother and return home before it's too late?
☆
I loved the premise of the story as it has a different spin on Jumanji/ Narnia/ and The Wizard of Oz.
☆
I found my self highly entertained as I followed the characters' journey in inspecting the island and embracing their changes along the way. Each character was different on its own and I was excited to see what animalistic form hidden beneath their personas.
☆
Carter's fast paced writing makes the story intense and exciting at the same time. The world-building was extremely imaginative and totally immersive. There were many vivid descriptions of the sceneries and the creatures inhabiting the island felt so distinct. The illustration on the back cover helped me visualize the politics and power elements of this world better.
☆
All told 'Instinct' has this epic morally ground adventure that revolves around acceptance, sacrifice, and friendship. If you're looking for your next memorable fantasy read with clean content for younger readers, then you should definitely check this out!
☆
Thank you to the author for sending me a free copy.
June 18, 2021
This YA book is a great read! It reminds me a lot of Narnia but with more. The story starts out with Leo waking up and heading to school. On the way he meets with his friends, and notices his brother, Sam, lagging behind so much that the bus driver is waiting specifically for him. He thinks nothing of this as it is typical for Sam to be lost in his own little world. On the way to school, the bus is overtaken by a surprising weather event, leading to several children off of the bus to go missing. After months of looking and finding nothing, Leo begins noticing a pair of words appear everywhere in he goes in his world, Find Libero. This brings Leo and his friends into the mystery of Libero, who they are, and what family means to them.
The characters are really well thought-out. They all have their insecurities, their strengths and individualism. I really enjoyed seeing the world through Leo's perspective. He is strong, stubborn and prideful. This comes at a cost, but he also love with his whole heart and has the best of intentions. Kaira and Bayley take close seconds after that. Those two girls would take on the world for their friends. Dorian is so smart and I would love for James to expand this universe by including Dorian's work as a publication.
Leo, Dorian, Kaira and Bayley are all determined to find Sam and to stay together no matter what they find in Liberio. In this world, not all is what it seems. With their internal animal instinct coming forward, and politics between the realms of Libero, will Leo be able to find and save his brother/ Will his friends survive their adventure into the deadly world of LIbero? What are their instincts and will any of them decide to stay in this new world?
I will definitely be reading this trilogy and am looking forward to seeing what James plots up in the second installment of The Libero trilogy. Especially after the ending and reveals in this book!
A special thank you goes out to the author, James Carter, for providing me a copy of this book for review!
The characters are really well thought-out. They all have their insecurities, their strengths and individualism. I really enjoyed seeing the world through Leo's perspective. He is strong, stubborn and prideful. This comes at a cost, but he also love with his whole heart and has the best of intentions. Kaira and Bayley take close seconds after that. Those two girls would take on the world for their friends. Dorian is so smart and I would love for James to expand this universe by including Dorian's work as a publication.
Leo, Dorian, Kaira and Bayley are all determined to find Sam and to stay together no matter what they find in Liberio. In this world, not all is what it seems. With their internal animal instinct coming forward, and politics between the realms of Libero, will Leo be able to find and save his brother/ Will his friends survive their adventure into the deadly world of LIbero? What are their instincts and will any of them decide to stay in this new world?
I will definitely be reading this trilogy and am looking forward to seeing what James plots up in the second installment of The Libero trilogy. Especially after the ending and reveals in this book!
A special thank you goes out to the author, James Carter, for providing me a copy of this book for review!
April 24, 2021
I started this book the day I bought it & could not put it down!!!! I lost myself in the world of Libero & thoroughly enjoyed the journey. This could be the next big thing, definitely recommend everyone to have a read.
The story is so beautiful & so well written, I cannot wait for the next instalment!
The story is so beautiful & so well written, I cannot wait for the next instalment!
February 28, 2021
Amazing book, very well written and absolutely gripping, I couldn't put it down once I'd started!! Can't wait to find out what happens next!
November 28, 2021
The adventure starts with a missing family member after a storm hits a small town in Essex. Leo, Dorian, Kaira and Bailey head off in search of their missing family member but as they begin to search, they soon realise that all is not what it seems and their lives begin to change forever.
The world of Libero is imaginative and full of endless possibilities. The vivid descriptions really paint a picture of this mythical wold and the story makes you question how you would also adapt to the world of Libero.
If you enjoy fantasy worlds like Lord of the Rings and Narnia and also enjoy the journey, companionship and heroism of Harry Potter then this certainly is the book for you.
As you read on, you will be introduced to a range of interesting characters each with their own flaws that made them who they are and shape the world of Libero. Some you will like; others you will loathe.
Prepare for many twists and turns as the four friends try to bring back their missing relative.
I am already eagerly awaiting book two and finding out how Libero has again changed after the dramatic events in book one. There is so much more to come from this series - this is just the start.
The world of Libero is imaginative and full of endless possibilities. The vivid descriptions really paint a picture of this mythical wold and the story makes you question how you would also adapt to the world of Libero.
If you enjoy fantasy worlds like Lord of the Rings and Narnia and also enjoy the journey, companionship and heroism of Harry Potter then this certainly is the book for you.
As you read on, you will be introduced to a range of interesting characters each with their own flaws that made them who they are and shape the world of Libero. Some you will like; others you will loathe.
Prepare for many twists and turns as the four friends try to bring back their missing relative.
I am already eagerly awaiting book two and finding out how Libero has again changed after the dramatic events in book one. There is so much more to come from this series - this is just the start.
March 12, 2021
A truly delightful read, full of surprises and a welcomely refreshing bit of storytelling that managed to achieve a bit of a rarity with me whereby I was truly unsure as to how the events would play out by the end of the book.
The fanciful world of Libero in which the majority of the story is set is well thought-out, and the descriptive language conjures up some beautiful views for the mind to enjoy. The strange affect that Libero has on its visitors within the story (although a little bizarre to contemplate at first), was somehow mirrored in the affect that it had on this reader in that it you would continue to adjust to it as the characters did, and the idea of it becomes more appealing the longer you spend in Libero with them. It certainly made me want to continue on reading to remain in the world just a little while longer. The book would likely appeal mostly to young adults but is easily relatable to visitors to Libero of other ages as well.
Would recommend to others (and will indeed be doing so) and am very curious to see what the rest of the trilogy will bring.
The fanciful world of Libero in which the majority of the story is set is well thought-out, and the descriptive language conjures up some beautiful views for the mind to enjoy. The strange affect that Libero has on its visitors within the story (although a little bizarre to contemplate at first), was somehow mirrored in the affect that it had on this reader in that it you would continue to adjust to it as the characters did, and the idea of it becomes more appealing the longer you spend in Libero with them. It certainly made me want to continue on reading to remain in the world just a little while longer. The book would likely appeal mostly to young adults but is easily relatable to visitors to Libero of other ages as well.
Would recommend to others (and will indeed be doing so) and am very curious to see what the rest of the trilogy will bring.
November 2, 2021
I had anticipated reading this book from it's release and was very excited to be able to read it.
From the first opening of the cover, the preface included potential trigger warnings which proved the author is particularly forward thinking and showed a consideration for readers not displayed often enough. A theme that continues throughout the book, and was really appreciated
From the moment the narrative began, the author depicts every part of the story so you can truly see it unfolding like an imagine in your mind. The effect of this had me feeling invested from the very start, it was very easy to be gripped by the narrative.
The character's honest, humble backgrounds were so relatable, they will very much draw you in to the story.
The author's writing style was reminiscent of an early C.S. Lewis and I am very much looking forward to the next adventures to Libero
From the first opening of the cover, the preface included potential trigger warnings which proved the author is particularly forward thinking and showed a consideration for readers not displayed often enough. A theme that continues throughout the book, and was really appreciated
From the moment the narrative began, the author depicts every part of the story so you can truly see it unfolding like an imagine in your mind. The effect of this had me feeling invested from the very start, it was very easy to be gripped by the narrative.
The character's honest, humble backgrounds were so relatable, they will very much draw you in to the story.
The author's writing style was reminiscent of an early C.S. Lewis and I am very much looking forward to the next adventures to Libero
March 29, 2021
Instinct follows Leo, and his friends, as they search for answers about a surge in natural disasters and disappearances. Together they find Libero, and must adapt to this magical land, as it transforms them into something more..
With relatable characters, realistic conversations, and excellent pacing. Instinct will transport you into a vibrant world filled with wondrous personalities.
I’d recommend Instinct to anyone seeking adventure into a magical world, filled with life, and all that entails. I look forward to seeing where the story goes next.
With relatable characters, realistic conversations, and excellent pacing. Instinct will transport you into a vibrant world filled with wondrous personalities.
I’d recommend Instinct to anyone seeking adventure into a magical world, filled with life, and all that entails. I look forward to seeing where the story goes next.
January 10, 2022
Lovely fantasy story with some interesting and unexpected twists. Follows a friend group as they set out on an adventure that will change the course of their lives.
Super descriptive and makes it easy to immerse yourself in Libero with it's diverse inhabitants. Every reader is likely to find a character that resonates with them.
Hits some more challenging topics in a respectful and sensitive manner which is always refreshing to see in YA literature.
Have already been recommending this read to all my friends.
Can't wait for the next installment!
Super descriptive and makes it easy to immerse yourself in Libero with it's diverse inhabitants. Every reader is likely to find a character that resonates with them.
Hits some more challenging topics in a respectful and sensitive manner which is always refreshing to see in YA literature.
Have already been recommending this read to all my friends.
Can't wait for the next installment!
April 3, 2021
Amazing and magical. Join Leo and his friends Dorian, Kaira and Bayley in a race against time to save Leo's younger brother Sam. A story of secrecy and heartbreak in a fight against another world.
Highly recommend if you like Harry Potter!
Highly recommend if you like Harry Potter!
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April 12, 2021A delight to read: the story is compelling & keeps you on your toes. I genuinely had no idea where the plot was going & was surprised at every turn. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the series will play out!
May 18, 2021
Love the cover and enjoyed the description. It really painted a picture. Enjoyed the idea of the characters becoming part animal. My only thing is that I got a bit confused with the story some of the time. But still was a lovely book.
September 13, 2021
Loved this book! The author has created a magical new world and great characters which had me gripped from start to finish. Can’t wait to find out what is going on with Sam’s strange new power in the next book!
January 10, 2024
I read this whilst on holiday and it was a great read, escape into the world of Libero and find your instinct! It also tackles some hard-hitting, real-world issues, in a sensitive way that really adds to the story. Highly recommend!
October 26, 2021
INSTINCT starts in a world like our own, but where natural disasters, accompanied by sightings of mythical creatures and mass disappearances, are frequent. After Leo’s brother, Sam, is swept away in a tornado, Leo and three friends journey to Libero in their search for him. It’s a land created by four people with elemental based powers, where its inhabitants are ideally able to be free. Of course, it’s more complicated than that…
I liked this book and think younger readers of YA or middle grade will love it. I thought the world was fabulous. Learning about Libero was my fav part of the book. It’s really exciting and weird and made me think of Neverland or Oz.
You might like INSTINCT if you like…
-animals
-elemental magic
-complex brotherhood
-friends who are like family
6.83/10 CAWPIE
Characters: 5 - I didn’t feel strongly about these characters. Any direction. I appreciate their friendship and the lengths Leo goes to for his brother, even though it's not reciprocated. It didn’t feel like the main crew had changed much by the end of the story, though.
Atmosphere: 10
Writing: 7 - sometimes repetitive. I thought it could have used a bit more editing.
Plot: 8
Intrigue: 5 - once the crew arrived in Libero, I lost a fair amount of interest. I still want to know what happens next and will continue the series!
Enjoyment: 6 - I so wanted to love it, but I just don’t think it was for me. I want to be clear that this is a solid debut and think it will be a fun series!
Thanks to the author for a copy of Instinct in exchange for an honest review!
CW: death, violence, natural disasters
I liked this book and think younger readers of YA or middle grade will love it. I thought the world was fabulous. Learning about Libero was my fav part of the book. It’s really exciting and weird and made me think of Neverland or Oz.
You might like INSTINCT if you like…
-animals
-elemental magic
-complex brotherhood
-friends who are like family
6.83/10 CAWPIE
Characters: 5 - I didn’t feel strongly about these characters. Any direction. I appreciate their friendship and the lengths Leo goes to for his brother, even though it's not reciprocated. It didn’t feel like the main crew had changed much by the end of the story, though.
Atmosphere: 10
Writing: 7 - sometimes repetitive. I thought it could have used a bit more editing.
Plot: 8
Intrigue: 5 - once the crew arrived in Libero, I lost a fair amount of interest. I still want to know what happens next and will continue the series!
Enjoyment: 6 - I so wanted to love it, but I just don’t think it was for me. I want to be clear that this is a solid debut and think it will be a fun series!
Thanks to the author for a copy of Instinct in exchange for an honest review!
CW: death, violence, natural disasters
December 30, 2021
This book was beautiful. It’s the story of Leo and his friends, while looking for his brother who disappeared in a tornado they will be transported to a mysterious land full of adventures and fantastic new friends and enemies. I really enjoyed it and would recommend that you let yourself be transported to this world as well. I cannot wait for the sequel.
Find Libero.
Find Libero.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews