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Primal Instincts #1

Primal Instincts: Volume 1

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What twenty-four-year-old recent college graduate would sign up to uncover a secret kink club rumored to be hidden within the walls of a multi-billion dollar conglomerate?

Me.

Why? Well, that’s easy. I’ve spent my entire life with my nose to the grindstone, doing the right thing, focusing on my future, and now I’m bored, which isn’t a good thing when you have an insatiable curiosity.

I probably should’ve considered the type of bait needed for a fishing expedition of this magnitude when I applied for the job at Primal Instincts, LLC, looking to uncover the secret world that exists only on the whispers of those who’ve never so much as glimpsed the dark, seductive inner workings because those who had wouldn’t dare reveal anything.

Now that I’m through the door, I’ve got my determination and single-minded focus to keep me moving forward. I will figure it out if for no other reason than to say I did.

Provided I don’t get sidetracked by not one, not two, but three men who are ridiculously good at keeping secrets.

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 2, 2023

219 people are currently reading
123 people want to read

About the author

Nicole Edwards

128 books6,070 followers
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Nicole Edwards spends her days stringing words together to make complete sentences. Sometimes not. Her best friend is coffee, and she has a love/hate relationship with sarcasm. She’s been accused of having a filthy imagination, which she admits is true.

Nicole lives in the suburbs of Austin, Texas. She proudly claims one husband, three grown children, and two bosses (better known as the dogs). When she isn’t writing, watching football or hockey, or keeping her bosses happy, you can probably find her with a book in hand.

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5 stars
249 (57%)
4 stars
131 (30%)
3 stars
42 (9%)
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7 (1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Karen ♐.
614 reviews48 followers
May 27, 2023
This is the start of a 9 book series about Journey who starts working at a company where she wants to investigate and find out if there is a secret kink club. She meets Hawk, Creed, Nick & Garrison and immediately is attracted to Hawk & Creed. This book ended on a cliffhanger and was so good, I'm immediately going to start the next book. I already bought all 9 books because I know with this author, I'll want to read them all one right after the other!
31 reviews
February 4, 2023
Best Surprise!!

I absolutely could not put this book down. I was hooked from the very first page. Very well written. I am absolutely in love with the characters. Journey and Hawk's interactions had me laughing out loud. Creed is the epitome of Alpha male. I love how this story subtlety ties into other series. Although this volume was less "sexy times" than Nicole's usual, I completely enjoyed it. The few spicy scenes were panty melting hot and expertly placed through the story. The fact that a non binary character was included in this story delighted me as did Garrison being a Walker! This surprise release was absolutely perfect! My only complaint is that I must wait for the next volume to be released.
Profile Image for Annette.
537 reviews
February 5, 2023
Unique

This is my second reverse harem and I love it. It’s fun, witty, and easy to read. You can’t help but fall in love with Journey, Creed, Hawk, and Garrison. I’m anxiously awaiting the second book.
7 reviews
February 4, 2023
I'm hooked

I am a book junkie . I could not put it down. I love all the story lines of each person. I'm look forward to reading more about each character in the next book. Love it.
Profile Image for Cheri.
2,304 reviews28 followers
February 9, 2023
What do you do when you get a text from one of your favorite authors about a surprise release? You hurry up and buy the book, of course. I had no idea this book was coming and it couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. My current read was being strongly considered to end up a DNF and I needed something I could fall headlong into stat. A few things to mention about this book before I get to my thoughts on the story: the author is still writing this story and it is, per her admission, already quite long. There will be a HEA, but because of the length, it is being released as a sort of serial every 2-3 weeks. Each volume will be at a discounted price and available on KU for the first week of the release. This volume is still almost 250 pages, so it’s not like it’s a novella. It’s a full-length story, it’s just not Journey’s complete story. Now onto my review.

I am already fully invested in Journey. She’s young and eager, but also seems to have a very good head on her shoulders. She stands up for herself and others, even when it could be detrimental to her career. Journey has a great moral compass.

The story of Creed, Hawk, and Garrison is slowly unfolding. Garrison isn’t very prominent in this story, but it’s obvious he’s an important piece of the puzzle with these three men. They, along with their friend Nick, head up the company where Journey got a job to do some sleuthing. Little does she know they are well aware of what she is up to. There are some connections that are interesting and I’m sure will shock her when she finds out. There is an instant attraction with all of the characters, but as far as Journey is concerned these are her bosses and there is no way these established, powerful, good-looking men would be interested in her. She’s wrong. Even with all of the players in this story, the author keeps that chemistry flowing and it’s unbelievable how enmeshed I got in their world so quickly.

It could be said this is a “big secret” story, which I hate. But so far that doesn’t seem to be bothering me. Maybe because they guys all know that Journey is attempting to find out if there is an underground BDSM club somehow attached to their company. It just doesn’t feel high stakes and it’s nothing she’s feeling guilt over as of yet.

There are some definite foils established so far. Other than Journey there is another new hire in her department and he is a misogynistic creep. It’ll be fun to see him get what’s coming to him eventually. I’m enjoying a lot of the side characters. Journey’s best friend is an erotic romance author who is also interested in the BDSM lifestyle and would like to learn more, and not just for research purposes.

The one thing that bothers me about this story, which almost had me taking away half a star, is that it’s called a reverse harem story. I find that term to be outdated. It’s just a harem story, no reverse about it no matter what gender the center of that harem happens to be. So far the author is doing a wonderful job with gender, sexual orientation, and lifestyles so I’m trying to overlook this one thing.

You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
Profile Image for Dawn.
442 reviews14 followers
February 21, 2023
I love Nicole’s books and it’s been a while since I’ve read one, so I knew I needed to read this one now. Although Nicole says this isn’t your typical reverse harem, it’s my first RH novel, so I wasn’t sure I what I was going to find inside this book. Nicole is releasing Primal Instincts in Volumes every two weeks, so this story will continue for a bit and I’m totally here for that. You won’t have to wait very long for the next Volume. Each will also be on sale until the end of the first week they’re released and available in Kindle Unlimited. So, very attainable. Volume 1 introduces us to many of the characters. I immediately loved Journey, the main female in this book. She’s smart, spunky, fun and quite witty. She doesn’t put up with anyone’s crap either. As I gradually met the other main characters, I came to love them too. Creed Granger, CEO of Primal Instincts, is allll hunk of an Alpha man. Hawk (Jacob Hawkins), the retired MMA fighter, could be the trouble maker since he likes to push Creed’s buttons, but he’s quite funny too as we get to see some of that humor with Journey. Garrison Walker & Nick Weston are great friends with Creed & Hawk, but we don’t get too much on them yet.
It starts with Journey landing a new job at Primal Instincts, but she’s not in it to make money, although that helps, she’s there to find out if the rumors are true about an underground BDSM club linked to Primal Instincts & ran by someone called “Alpha”. She’s there to see if she can find any secret passageways to the club. However, Creed know’s why she’s there because someone gave him a heads up. Her best friend is also interested in BDSM, not only because she’s a romance author but she’s intrigued and curious about that lifestyle. Nicole is very good in writing Ménage a trois or M/M scenes and she touches a bit on them in Volume 1, as it ended on a very hot note. I know there’s a lot more to come in the next several Volumes.
132 reviews2 followers
February 10, 2023
Volume 1

A surprise release from Nicole and an unusual way of writing for her as it is set out in volumes, this made me excited to see what she had in store for us. Well I had no reason to worry!
Primal instincts V1 is an introduction to Journey, Creed, Nick, Garrison and Hawk's story.
Primal Instincts is run by Creed, Nick, Garrison and Hawk, they have been friends for many years. Creed is the CEO, he also owns a secret sex club but not many people know about it. This is what brought Journey to the company, she wanted to see for herself if the club actually existed. Was there really secret passage ways under the building that lead to said club?
Creed recognises Journey As soon as he sees her on her first day but she has no idea that they have already met and that Creed has had a crush on her since that first meeting but he believes that she's to sweet to be with a man like him.
Then Journey meets Hawk and a relationship forms but Journey has no idea that her friendship with him leads to Hawk being punished by Creed, a punishment that Hawk is more than happy to take.
Creed finally acts on his feelings for Journey but is it an instant attraction for her, can she forget Hawk to pursue a friendship with Creed?
I have a feeling volume 2 is going to be fascinating and very hot!!
Profile Image for Chris.
1,934 reviews17 followers
February 8, 2023
Primal Instincts has everything that I have come to expect from a Nicole Edwards story! Intriguing characters pull you in and a storyline that will keep you completely mesmerized from beginning to the end!
This new series has quite a few characters that you are going to love.
I love Journey Zeplyn. She is full of sass and gives as good as she gets. She is also a new employee at Primal Instincts, LLC and she starts this journey to try and uncover the sex club hidden beneath the facade of this health and wellness company and what she finds is going to surprise her.

Creed Granger, Founder and CEO of Primal Instincts is an interesting character. He is a businessman as his public persona but he is a Dom, actually the Alpha, through and through. He has built this company with the help of his close friends, Garrison Walker, Jacob Hawkins (Hawk) and Nicholas Weston. They are all part of the BDSM kink lifestyle and I am excited to see the dynamics between all these characters develop and where this storyline is going to take us. So, get ready because there is more coming and I for one, cannot wait!

Profile Image for Jennifer Webb.
1,081 reviews7 followers
February 21, 2023
Phenomenal

There is only one word to describe this story so far…PHENOMENAL!!!!! Mrs Edwards has lit a fire inside my bratty submissive heart like no other. I am dying to get more of the sexy as sin men. The fact is I can’t wait to see how this mere five foot something woman will bring these men to their knees. In my world of BDSM kink community you don’t see someone that rules as the Alpha over everybody in a group or club. But I do however see polyamory relationships that combat this so I guess there is that. Now my Sir does enjoy some CBT and I will be searching for the milking machine to go with my Violet wand that we own. That scene right there was out of this world and created the fantasy I didn’t know in myself that needs to happen. Thank you and I’ll definitely be moving on to the other books.
Profile Image for Sue Ouellet-Cofsky.
2,569 reviews49 followers
March 8, 2023
I feel like it has been years since I've read Nicole Edwards and I'm totally regretting not having read more of her the last few years despite considering her one of my favorite authors. Volume 1 begins to set the scene. At first, I was confused because I wasn't sure how the characters all fit together (get your mind out of the gutter...not THAT way lol). I felt like I might be missing something like perhaps I should have read something else first (if there are other books that hold some of these characters, can someone point me to them because I feel like I need the Zeplyn's story lol). However, the author is feeding us the information piecemeal which is working perfectly for me. I look forward to see how this will all play out!
26 reviews
June 13, 2023
Primal Instincts: Volume 1-9

When Volume 1 came out I was intrigued, so I read it and was captivated! Since I am a fan of reading an entire saga at one time I patiently (not so patiently) collected all of them until after volume 9 was released. The story line holds your interest through out. As soon as one volume is complete you move to the next trying to figure out the newest twist and turn of all the intertwining lines. Once again, Nicole Edwards has done a wonderful job dealing not only with today's different lifestyles, but also addresses issues that have been occurring in the work place more and more frequently. Thank you!

I can not wait until the next time she releases a new book!
Profile Image for Steef.
1,023 reviews27 followers
August 30, 2023
I don’t really know how to feel about this. I’m aware of how a bdsm community works in real life and the whole Alpha stuff is a bit much to my liking. I can’t imagine people willingly submit when it’s deemed necessary to one person because he’s the proclaimed alpha of their community. Someone having a role as a leader to keep people safe, yes, but not when bdsm punishment is involved. This part of the story made it unbelievable for me.
Also the way C is behaving towards H.. I’m sorry, but you’re an asshole C. If you want respect, have respect for others and their feelings too. It just irked me.
I’m of the opinion we saw too little of G in this first part. Though his scene with H was 🔥

I’m not sure if I will read more parts.
Profile Image for Becky.
1,932 reviews65 followers
February 19, 2023
Holy hotness🔥🔥🔥

Wowzers ladies and gents get the fire extinguisher, battery operated boyfriends, husbands, boyfriends, girlfriends whomever and go to town bc this read will definitely leave you raring to go! Nicole Edwards is the mistress of ménage à trois and the queen of BDSM fantasy book boyfriends!
These books are in volumes so don't get your knickers in a bunch because of the cliffhangers, be patient and grab each volume as they are released! They are worth it from reading this book! Good character, heat, friends and interesting storyline! Free with K. U. And discounted in the beginning release so no excuses one click buy/borrow and enjoy 🔥🔥✌
Profile Image for Tanya Rae ~ TaSTy WordGasms.
2,526 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2023
Primal Instincts: Volume 1 is the beginning of this new series. This is Journey Zeplyn, yes her parents loved rock’n’roll and Creed Granger, Garrison Walker, Jacob ‘Hawk’ Hawkins and Nicholas Weston story.

This is a sexy story. I love how certain characters show up from other books that this author has written.

I love how Creed is known as “Alpha” because that is what he is. I would also say don’t mess around with him because he does punish.

I can’t wait to start Volume 2 which as soon as I get done posting this review I will be starting. It is great to be reading Nicole Edwards books again. 5 Stars
1 review
April 23, 2024
I loved the book and the concept of the plot however I absolutely despise creeds character, the repetitive insistence that ‘you can’t handle me’ undermines the main character massively and the fact that he is awful to hawk, creating this horrible discomfort throughout now reading three books, I loved the skilful writing and how the plot flowed but I really hate creed he’s almost lifeless and his whole character is built around being this alpha male walls up type so you actually can’t gage any of his personality or align with him at all unlike hawk and Garrison who have lovely depth to them creed just lacks anything for me.
Profile Image for Christine Lacombe.
292 reviews16 followers
February 6, 2023
What a lovely surprise from Nicole. This book is going to be one of my favorite tropes, ménage with a reverse harem. I am so infatuated with these 3 men especially Creed and Hawk, but I’m waiting to see more from Garrison.
And Journey as it turns out, should be off limits as they know her parents. But she’s enticed all of them. I can’t wait to see where all this is heading. So excited for the next book.
Profile Image for Joy Whiteside.
4,920 reviews114 followers
February 18, 2023
This was an amazing read that grabbed me from the first page and there was no putting it down. It moves along at a pace that is perfect for an enjoyable and relaxing read. The characters are amazing and you will fall in love with them and the story will not disappoint and keep you interested and reading until the last page. This book is a must read that needs to be on your TBR list, you will not be sorry that you did.
Profile Image for Maria.
946 reviews2 followers
Read
December 27, 2023
Epicenter - journey Zeplyn.

Dominants - Creed (& Alpha), Garrison & Hawk
Multiple-partner relationship

I’m not going to go on. As per usual, no spoiling because everyone needs to make their own decisions on a read.

Yes, we were left of a cliffhanger but leading into next instalment. What awaits the Primal 4?
How is Journey going to bide on her new path?
There will be further questions as you read into the Volumes. Will you be prepared for the road that lies ahead?
Profile Image for Jenna.
1,219 reviews
February 3, 2023
Binge worthy storytelling for the lover of unconventional romance!
Angst, wit, devotion, passion ... this book has it all!
A story that checks all the boxes of my favorite tropes!
A journey of strong, powerful men fighting their instincts to capture the attention of a woman that should be off limits.
10 out of 10
Must read.
Profile Image for Amber.
640 reviews16 followers
February 6, 2023
Perfection!

Nicole Edwards never disappoints, no matter the trope/genre. If it has her name on it, it’s guaranteed to be freakin amazing and hella hot! This book is no different. I feel like we still have a long way to go to really getting to know Journey, Creed, Hawke, & Garrison but I already know I’m gonna love their relationship. Looking forward to Volume 2.
Profile Image for Kay Pfluke.
88 reviews
February 13, 2023
Loving it!

Nicole has done it again. She has wrapped me up in characters. This book will draw you in quickly wanting more. Thank God the next one releases in a few days.

This is about Journey and the four men that run Primal Instinct. Many relations are unfolding can't wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Jade | jkreadmore.
9 reviews6 followers
March 23, 2024
What did I stumble across… omg wow… what an amazing surprise this book has been! I am absolutely hooked, I am on volume 7 and I cannot believe how invested I am in these characters, literally my life is on hold whilst I power read through this one and everyone after this.

I love it all, each book is equally as good as the last, the writing is superb, the character development, the balance of a whole heap of juicy spice without sacrificing any plot.

Amazing, what a read I can’t wait to add more from this author to my tbr!
Profile Image for Debbie Eichler.
880 reviews18 followers
February 7, 2023
Loving these characters already

Great introduction to these characters. I look forward to getting to know more of their kinks as the next volumes release and to know what the men have in store for Journey
883 reviews5 followers
February 8, 2023
A solid 4.5

Wow there is so much crammed into this first instalment I can't wait for more. The characters all hint at dark, secret desires and you just know it's gonna be explosive when they get together.
284 reviews
February 16, 2023
Great Start!

I can tell this series is going to take us on a n intense joy ride! Creed controls many businesses but can be control a fiery blond and a business partner at the same time??
336 reviews5 followers
July 16, 2023
I love all the books written by Nicole Edwards. It's a bit of a long story, but it's worth getting to the last part. Thank you for making us happy with another story. I hope there will be many more Nicole Edwards books to enjoy.
8 reviews
February 4, 2023
You Amaze me!!

I can't believe you have me hanging on every single encounter between each team..So many choices OMG!! Folks, get ready!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews

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