Reviews

A collection of the summarised reviews received for Liberty Bound (LB) and Where Liberty Lies (WLL) in all formats. A big thank you to all who have bought/read the novels and left a review.

(For reviews of Triumphant Where it Dares Defy please visit its dedicated page.)

Current overall status on Good Reads for LB = 4.3/5 stars (60 ratings)

Current overall status on GoodReads for WLL = 5/5 stars (9 ratings)

Current overall status for LB on Amazon UK = 4.4/5 stars (28 ratings) and on Amazon.com = 4.4/5 stars (30 ratings)

Current overall status for WLL on Amazon UK = 5/5 stars (6 ratings) and on Amazon.com = 5/5 stars (5 ratings)

Plus many more from other sources!

Liberty Bound Awards

Bronze Award Winner in the Dystopia Category of the Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards 2021

Finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards 2020

Longlisted Author in the Millennium Book Awards 2021

Semi-finalist in the Indies Today Awards 2021

Liberty Bound Editorial Review Awards

Winner of a Readers’ Favorite 5 Stars Award, B.R.A.G. Medallion Honouree, Editor’s Pick Award from HUGEOrange, Gold Badge Award from The International Review of Books, 5 Stars from Wishing Shelf Book Review, 5 Stars from Book Viral Reviews, 5 Stars from The Book Commentary, 5 Stars from Indie Today, Indie Reader Approved Rating and a Silver Star Award from Literary Titan

Where Liberty Lies Awards

North American Book Awards 2023 - Winner of Gold Medal - Science Fiction and Fantasy category

Maincrest Media Book Awards 2023 - winner in the Science Fiction -Dystopian category

International Firebird Book Award 2023 - Second Place Winner - Dystopian Category

Literary Titan Gold Badge Award Winner 2023

New York Big Book Awards 2023 - Distinguished Favourite Award - Sci-fi category

New York Book Festival Awards 2023 - Honourable Mention - Sci-fi/Horror Category

Global Book Awards 2023 - Bronze Award - Sci-fi Dystopian Category

The BookFest Awards Fall 2023 - Bronze Award - Dystopian Society Category

The Royal Dragonfly Book Awards 2023 - Honourable Mention - Sci-fi/Fantasy Category

Book Viral Millennium Book Awards 2023 - Long-listed Author

Indies Today Book Awards 2023 - Finalist

Where Liberty Lies Editorial Review Awards

The International Review of Books Gold Badge Award, Readers’ Favorite 5 Star Award, Literary Titan 5 Star Award, Wishing Shelf 5 Star Award, Book Viral 5 Star review, Indies Today 5 Star review, Maincrest Media Seal of Approval, B.R.A.G. Medallion Honouree, The Book Commentary 5 Star Review.

“I hate to give another 5 stars right now, but this book deserves it. Deserves a movie series as well. Can't wait to see Finbarl and Aminatras family find Mandelton. Part 2 is where it's at! And part 3 is so action packed, you won't be able to put it down. The world created is so ugly and beautiful, and feels possible in about a million years or so. Such a great, intelligent, thought provoking book. To see the good and bad, the errors in humanity on full display and the consequences found. It was just too good.” Lea, GoodReads, 5 Star review

“Where Liberty Lies by Nathaniel M. Wrey, the second installment in the Liberty series, is a hugely imaginative and engaging sequel that immerses readers in a dystopian world… The story explores themes of trust, compassion, friendship, and the fight for survival in a hostile environment. Well-crafted surprises, engaging set pieces, and the repercussions of choices maintain the narrative's allure. Wrey is a master at crafting sparkling dialogues, creating dramatic scenes on every page. The characters come alive in these dialogues and they are wonderfully imagined and expertly executed to build tension while moving the plot forward. The narrative's unpredictability, unexpected twists, and evolving character dynamics make Where Liberty Lies a wonderful literary creation.” Matthew Novak, The Book Commentary - 5 Star Review

“Nathaniel Wrey has imagined a future world where the remnants of our own civilization can still, barely, be glimpsed. Dialects are distantly and intriguingly derived from English. Plots reflect actual history from Roman times through Europe's tragedies, but are interpreted in a thoroughly original approach. Writing style is unique, pace is fast. Wrey's book is a delight to read. The climax is deftly and satisfyingly achieved.” Scoring out of 5: Cover - 4, Title - 4, Plot - 5, Characters - 5, Dialogue - 5, Writing Style - 5, Chapters - 5, Copyediting - 5, Content Editing - 5, Formatting - 5. Awarded a B.R.A.G. Medallion

“The quickly-paced action, incidents, twists, and turns certainly declare to the reader why Wrey's masterpieces are award-winning and why this installment, though voluminous, will leave them hankering for more. The search for freedom by the three refugees creates a sense of emotional realism that keeps the tale grounded to the end. Overall, "Where Liberty Lies" is a stellar best-seller, that will delight lovers of reflective dystopian fiction globally.” Ephantus M for Reader Views - read the full review here.

“This an excellent read. Once you get into Nathaniel Wrey’s world, you simply don’t want to leave it, until the finish. Witty story with elements of intelligent humour, filled with excitement, suspense and surprises. And romance too. Both books are of outstanding quality, can’t believe this is a starting author, seems like he has written dozens of books! Wholeheartedly recommend!” Amazon Customer, 5 Star review for the ‘Liberty Trilogy’

“Where Liberty Lies by Nathaniel M. Wrey is the sequel to Liberty Bound and takes readers on a journey through a post-apocalyptic world. It combines elements of dystopia, thrill, and epic fantasy. While Where Liberty Lies can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, it also forms the second installment of the Liberty Trilogy, ensuring readers an unforgettable trilogy experience. Wrey's masterful storytelling spins a tangled web of deception and explores the depths of human resilience, making Where Liberty Lies a must-read for fans of thrilling dystopian… In this captivating novel, the spotlight shines on the compelling characters of Finbarl and his wife Aminatra… There is a multitude of captivating events and a diverse cast of characters in Wrey's epic fantasy adventure. It's a novel that will engross readers from the very opening chapter.” AuthorsReading.com Editorial Review - read the full review here.

“The characters themselves are a standout feature of the book. Readers will fall desperately in love with Aminatra, a calm, caring mother who projects love, optimism and joy, despite the whirlwind of unfortunate circumstances she is thrown into. Finbarl’s role is also noteworthy, doing whatever it takes to protect and defend Aminatra and Karlmon, no matter the cost. The thick yet quick read surprises with transport to a future shining with a whimsical veneer over firmly grounded consequences. Wrey’s masterful world-building makes Where Liberty Lies unlike any dystopian fiction novel you’ve read before. In addition, well-thought-out dialogue allows the gravitas of mass carnage to hit even harder. Hold onto each cliff-hanger chapter with all the action, adventure, and misfortune one could wish for in a dystopian novel worthy of debunking the utopian myth.” Maincrest Media 4.5/5 Review (read the full review here)

“A fantastic sequel to Liberty Bound. Well drawn characters and a gripping plot. Highly recommended.” Zoe, GoodReads, 5 Star review

“Another tremendously well-written piece of prose crafted expertly by Wrey.” John McGee, Amazon/GoodReads 5 Star Review.

“A worthy sequel, Where Liberty Lies is a meaningful novel that pushes personal boundaries, tests relationships, and speculates about the consequences of people allowing choices to be made for them. Graphic and grim only as much as it needs to be, this intelligent story is thought-provoking, engrossing, and surprisingly upbeat. Brimming with optimism in the face of every adversity, the characters are humorous and heartwarming in their conversations and interactions. A subtle hero and highlight of this novel, Aminatra is a steady presence and endless ray of light, stealing the scene at every opportunity as her radiating calm prevails over chaos. The author paints vivid pictures with his highly descriptive prose, bringing into focus the intense desperation, shock, gratitude, longing, and fear that the cast is feeling. It’s so easy to lose yourself in the fantastical world Wrey has crafted, only to realize that this is no fantasy world! This is our world, our successors, our future, or at least a dramatic dystopian version of it. Small nods to lost bits of history, such as a reference to Mark Twain, remind us that we share the same roots as these battle-scarred individuals. Packed with vibrant characters, clashes of culture, and enough warmth to stir the soul, Where Liberty Lies packages sharp societal commentary in a way that feels fearless, fresh, and so much fun!” Morgan Justice, Indies Today, 5 Star Review - read full review here.

“Where Liberty Lies is a captivating futuristic epic delicately infused with elements of the past and subtle acknowledgments of the present. Serving as Book Two in the esteemed Liberty Trilogy and a compelling continuation of the dystopian masterpiece, Liberty Bound, this remarkable sequel takes readers on a mesmerizing adventure… One of the commendable aspects of this novel lies in the poignant depiction of the profound significance of familial bonds. The writer skillfully weaves a tapestry of familial love, underscoring the enduring nature of family ties. Furthermore, the inclusion of a detailed map at the beginning of the book proved to be a valuable asset for me, facilitating a clear understanding of the various locations and their relative distances from one another. This thoughtful addition enhanced my immersion in the story, allowing for a more vivid and comprehensive experience… Where Liberty Lies by Nathaniel M. Wrey is an exceptional and suspense-filled novel. The book successfully captivated me with its engrossing plot, leaving me on the edge of my seat throughout the gripping narrative. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy books about adventures. There was nothing I disliked about this book. Hence, I gladly rate it 5 out of 5 stars.” V Gavice, Online Book Club (read full review here)

WLL “The darkly punning title’s the first hint that this inventive, engaging sequel will not find its heroes, freshly escaped from a dystopian society, entering a just civilization. Following the post-apocalyptic dystopia of Liberty Bound, in which the heroes discovered their local rulers’ terrible secrets in a fallen future Earth, this volume starts with one-time guard Finbarl, his love Animatra, and her son Karlmon braving the dangers of the wild, seeking a utopia that might not exist. After some rugged survival adventures, their journey takes them to what’s purported to be the grandest city in their land, where Animatra and Karlmon are captured and enslaved. The tale again is one of discovery—of how the world works, of how civilization is of course just as brutal and competitive as nature— as Finbarl must raise the money to pay mercenaries to get them back, with the help of possibly duplicitous cityfolk, and his new companion Maddy, one of the mute “Ferral” humans of the wild that Finbarl and company were raised to fear and hate. Maddy’s an inspired creation, the embodiment of Wrey’s wide-ranging empathy: the Ferrals are complex and human, like everyone in this series, even the princeling whose house now owns Karlmon—and who upends reader expectations. Wrey plots smart surprises and some winning set pieces, such as a brutal horse race or the unexpected method that Finbarl hits on to raise cash. Better still are the consequences of Finbarl’s choice, especially for Maddy: if Finbarl is seen as a rural rube, she’s straight-up uncivilized—an easy scapegoat when city life proves as brutal as the wilds. The novel’s long, and it feels like a middle volume, with much setting up of the cultures, politics, and relationships, at times at the cost of narrative momentum. But its people, ideas, and themes are smartly developed, updating the themes of Edgar Rice Burroughs for an age of dystopian visions and inclusive imagining.” Takeaway: Post-apocalyptic epic pits refugees against the corruptions of civilization. Comparable Titles: M.R. Carey’s The Book of Koli, David Gemmell’s Jerusalem Man. BookLife Review

WLL “This is such an intelligent read, I am struggling to post a review that does it justice. The first book was enjoyable; this book put me firmly in the Nathaniel M Wrey fan club. The words, so beautifully written, draw the reader into the lives of the characters and their dystopian reality. Beyond that, the author has obviously studied history's masters of economic and political theories and is able to seamlessly incorporate those ideas into the story. This story will leave you with a lot to think about. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, and the movie that will surely be made from such a fresh and creative tale.” TiaCher, GoodReads, 5 star review

WLL “As with all good offerings of the fantasy genre, Wrey interweaves identifiable elements of the modern day into his dystopian tale, using their familiarity to cleverly question all we live for and value, and to highlight the fragility of societal beliefs we all cling to.  His inventiveness reaches far beyond the norm as cultures haughtily rise, only to crash and burn. However, despite the depth and width of book 2, there is also a great simplicity in his plot and its trajectory, with a firm theme running throughout, as Wrey expertly weaves elements of the past, present and future into this powerfully constructed novel. A keenly awaited and worthy addition to the Liberty Trilogy, ‘Where Liberty Lies’ is another 5-star must-read.” BookViral Editorial Review, 5 stars. Read full review here.

WLL “The story itself is fantastic . The themes of action and adventure blend wonderfully, while Nathaniel M Wrey adds layers of intensity to ramp up the excitement. The narrative flowed so naturally that I had difficulty putting it down.” R Tanveer, Readers’ Favorite - 5 star review

WLL “Wrey’s description of the family’s travels was exceptional. The struggle through the elements and the constant danger they encountered built suspense… I could not stop reading until the end. I can see this series becoming a favorite for me. I recommend Where Liberty Lies to readers who enjoy emotional journeys involving a family facing adversity.” S Chapman, Readers’ Favorite - 5 star review.

“Where Liberty Lies by Nathaniel M. Wrey is a captivating continuation of the journey of Aminatra, Finbarl, Karlmon... Wrey's masterful storytelling in Where Liberty Lies delivers a gripping narrative filled with a thrilling blend of action and adventure. The plot brims with an abundance of unexpected twists and turns, provoking a sense of anxiety and excitement that sustains throughout the book. The novel's midpoint marks a significant shift in the plot, adding to the intrigue and keeping readers engaged until the end. The characters in Where Liberty Lies are equally compelling. Overall, Where Liberty Lies delivers a seamless plot that expertly progresses. The story's twists and turns are perfectly executed, and the characters are well-rounded and memorable. Nathaniel M. Wrey's writing style engages the reader and keeps them invested in the story, leaving a lasting impression long after turning the last page. Fans of adventure, fantasy, and action will undoubtedly appreciate this second installment in the trilogy and anticipate the third book's release.” Literary Titan 5 Star Review - read full review via this link.

WLL “Let me begin by saying how much I enjoyed the first book in this set entitled Liberty Bound. Also, although you could enjoy book two as a standalone novel, I wouldn't recommend it. And why would you want to? Settle down with the first book first, get to know the dystopian world the author's so cleverly conjured up, then grab book two which is just as strong - and off you go! So, to the plot. Well, in a nutshell, Finbarl and Aminatra have escaped from Athenia (see book one for all of that) and they are now on the hunt for a 'better life'. But when they finally find it, not everything is as it first seems. Yes, in terms of plot, it's not particularly complicated, although there are plenty of twists in the second half of the book that surprised me - and, I suspect, will surprise most readers too. I think, like the first book, readers will enjoy getting to know the two protagonists even better; they develop a lot as the story zooms by, along with a number of other characters (I particularly liked Maddy) who are now important to the plot. In terms of the author's strength's, he's adept with speech, using it to successfully develop the characters and the story. But it's the setting which is particularly memorable, whether it's trying to find food in the wilderness or living on a river boat. All in all, this is a strongly plotted dystopian novel which most fans of the genre will enjoy. I would particularly recommend it to older Young Adults and New Adults who are hunting for longer novels with a dark, gritty feel to them and with lots of character development. There's never a dull moment in the first two books of The Liberty Trilogy, so grab a copy now. There's even a map at the front to help you find your way!” Wishing Shelf Book Review 5 Stars!!!

“The ideas the story presents will stay with you long after you reach the last page.” TiaCher, GoodReads 5 Star Review

“Good read! Parallels a lot with life which is interesting!” Sara, GoodReads 4 Star Review

WLL “Nathaniel M Wrey has done a fantastic job of making this sequel novel both contextually rich and relevant to the first tale and detailed and gripping enough to stand on its own as an entirely different tale. I got plenty of backstory on Finbarl and the tragedy of his past, which endeared me to him as he set out on a new quest and still managed to find a lot of trouble on the way. There’s something poignant about the search for freedom and harmony in this futuristic world. That sense of emotional realism keeps the tale grounded, along with intelligent references to society's long past, old philosophies, and clever twists. Overall, Where Liberty Lies is a stellar novel that will please fans of thought-provoking dystopian fiction everywhere.” K C Finn, Readers’ Favorite - 5 Star Review

WLL “I absolutely LOVED this book. I enjoyed the first one so much, I was extremely excited for the opportunity to read an ARC for Where Liberty Lies. It did not disappoint. In fact I think it was even better than the first one (which was amazing). The writing style was even more fluid and descriptive. The characters were amazing, both the ones from the first book and all of the new characters too. They are so vibrant and the character development creates such an attachment, that the reader feels all the ups and downs. The story itself is riveting and you become as lost within Parodis as Finbarl. I both wanted to read as quickly as possible to find out what happened next AND as slow as possible to stay in the world Nathaniel created. I could go on and on but instead I HIGHLY recommend this series to everyone who loves a good adventure/dystopian story with incredibly well written characters and an intriguing plot.” Emmeline - GoodReads 5 Star Review

WLL “Highly enjoyable. Some of the descriptions are graphic, but important to the tension and realism of the story.  With such wonderful writing we are actually able to feel the air of the wilderness, the fear of the family and the degradation as their new masters attempt to bend them to their will.” The International Review of Books, Gold Badge Award

“Excellent Book! Wow once it got going it was incredible. I love finding a Dystopian story that is completely unique while still having all the qualities of a dystopian plot. Absolutely loved the theme that became so evident by the end of the story, while hints of it were trickled throughout. To an apt assessment of society and human nature all wrapped up in a fun, exciting and imaginative adventure. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves dystopian novels and insightful examinations of human societies.” Emmeline Everdeen (Good Reads - 5 Star review)

“Liberty Bound is a great dystopian read. With the combination of Wrey’s in-depth storytelling and character development and Kermode’s rich voice, that really helps you get in the head of the characters, this book is a must read and must listen for any dystopian fan.” Robert Vaughn, Book Review Blogger 4/5 Audiobook review

“With relatable, well developed characters and enough twists and turns to propel the reader through to the finish, LIBERTY BOUND is a modern dystopian novel that raises pertinent questions about our contemporary society. Nathaniel M Wrey’s eye is unwavering in his examination of cruelty and oppression and of the importance of freedom and personal choice.” Kent Lane for Indie Readers 4.1/5. Read full review here

“Liberty Bound by Nathaniel M Wrey is a captivating adventure story set in a time-forgotten dystopian world. Suited for teens as well as adult readers, Liberty Bound checks all the boxes of an intensely satisfying dystopian thriller!” Morgan Justice for Indies Today. 5 Star Review. Read full review here.

“This is a fantastic read. Being new to this genre I was unsure as to how much I would enjoy the book but I was not disappointed. It grabs you very early and all of sudden it becomes very difficult to put down and you start to become part of the mission!” Paul G (Amazon - 5 Stars)

‘A superbly plotted post-apocalyptic novel populated with memorable characters. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ Feedback from Wishing Shelf Book Awards (judged by seventeen readers)

“The sophistication in the setting and the social and political norms of this society qualifies the author's work as one of pure genius. While it is futuristic, the narrative doesn’t lack the realism and humanity that speak powerfully to contemporary readers. The characters are nuanced, the prose exquisite and featuring vivid descriptions and social commentaries that provide compelling images of the dystopian world. Liberty Bound is a rich, wild book that is as involving as an adrenalized journey towards freedom. While it is packed with pulse-pounding moments, it never lacks occasions that compel readers to think about society, humanity, and what it means to be truly free. For a debut novel, it is deftly plotted, twisty, and utterly engaging.” Daniel Rhodes, The Book Commentary 5 Star Review

“Liberty Bound is an exciting, thoughtful read, studded with well-realized, well-written action set-pieces and interesting, complicated characters who sometimes surprise readers by growing and learning from their experiences.” BlueInk Review (read the full review here)

“The characters are well portrayed and evoke all the right emotions. A very good read!” Michelle Williams (Amazon - 5 Stars)

“"Utopia with a dark underside" trope is not necessarily a bad thing when the writing is as good as it is in this book.” Astrofan (Amazon - 5 Stars)

“I’m not a huge fan of dystopian doom-and-gloom stories but this one kept my interest from beginning to end. It’s well-paced and credible with interesting characters. I enjoyed how the author laid out the complexities of leading a country/society. I very much liked his inclusion of Aminatra as a strong female lead in a male-dominated society.” Roberta R Carr (GoodReads - 5 Stars)

“An interesting story of idealism running head first into reality.” Guy Wheatley (Amazon - 5 Stars)

“This book is a page turner. It is an exploration of addiction, community and society in a dystopian world setting.” Kylene (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“Kept me spellbound during the whole read due to intense suspense at ever stage of the plot.” Syed Naqvi (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“Great read from a new artist. This is a fun read with a unique take on a dystopian future. It has a lot of elements I have not read in a story, and the author strings together his prose beautifully. If you are looking for something new, give Liberty Bound a go!” Helena (Amazon.com - 5 Stars)

“I would definitely recommend this book. This book is really important and it needs more attention. We should really read it and recommend it to others as well.” Caribbean Didi (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“Mr. Wrey, creates a dystopian world so convincingly that the reader's sense of equilibrium is thrown off. It is a mesmerizing and fascinating story... I'm not a science fiction person, but as I read books such as this, I have a greater chance of becoming one.” Chris Maddix (Good Reads - 4 Stars)

“This is indeed a great speculative novel written in a tone reminiscent of a grandfather’s story telling, but of an action adventure narrative…I personally loved the book, especially because of the ideology in it.” Alexa (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“Discussions of freedom and liberty as presented in this book would be a compelling and challenging basis for civics or social studies classes. It is thoroughly researched and wonderfully presented. Intelligent and compelling, and thought-provoking. Much more than a futuristic fantasy. Hopefully, there will be a sequel.” Carole W, AuthorsReading.com (Read full review here)

“Once I started this book, I could not put it down. It has great cohesion and the author uses his words to create such wonderful imagery - I was there with the characters in their future home and prison.” Pam Dance (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“Taking his readers on a harrowing journey to the last bastion of civilization, it’s rich in detail and masterfully paced leaving readers in no doubt that they’re in the hands of a flawless storyteller with a superb imagination. A storyteller who does more than spin a highly entertaining narrative, to cleverly explore human nature as he questions what it really means to be free.” Book Viral Reviews 5 Stars - read full review here.

“Liberty Bound by Nathaniel M Wrey is an amazing story that turns the concept of the imprisoned and the free on its head, where the meaning of freedom means something else entirely. It is a well-written book, descriptive and flowing, drawing you into Finbarl’s world and taking you along for the ride on his journey to the truth. A gripping story, Nathaniel has created a unique plot with plenty of twists and turns and some fantastic characters. In many ways, we can draw some parallels between this story and the world we are all living in right now and it will get you thinking. There are a couple of slow parts but you will be so invested in this story you won’t notice – they certainly won't affect your opinion of the story at all. Great book, and highly recommended for all fans of dystopia and those looking for something that little bit different to read.” Readers’ Favorite 5 Star Award

“Always love me an exciting dystopian tale.” Jose Popoff (Amazon - 5 Stars)

“An inspiring story set in a turbulent futuristic world. Powerfully written and totally unputdownable! This is a very cleverly plotted novel. It seemed apparent to me from the first chapter that the author knows what he's doing and where he wants the story to go. This is not simply a ‘Shoot ‘em! Kill ‘em!’ sort of book. In fact, it's rather thought-provoking. In terms of writing style, this is a bit of a gem. The author is adept at many aspects of writing, from character development to plot development, from helping the reader to fall in love with the futuristic setting, to helping the reader understand the many, MANY problems of the day. So, would I recommend this book? Yes, totally. Who to? Well if you enjoy dystopian or post-apocalyptic novels, this is very much for you. Readers of books like The Hunger Games, Winter World and Pandemic by AG Riddle, The Maze Runner or even Edge of Collapse by Kyla Stone will find this book of interest. Personally, I just finished reading The Hunger Games so I'm hoping I just discovered a new author to enjoy. What I want to know is, is there going to be a sequel?” Editorial Review - Wishing Shelf - 5 Stars (read full review on Good Reads)

 “If you enjoy books by George Orwell or Phillip K Dick, this would be the perfect addition to your favorites… As with many great science fiction books, there is a reflection on the modern world and hidden nods to today throughout. It’s brilliant and the author does well keeping the reader guessing and flipping the story throughout… It’s a unique and creative world. Rich with everything you would want from a science fiction dystopian book…  If you enjoy books that question freedom with in-depth sci-fi adventure and excellent writing, check it out. You won’t be disappointed.” HUGEOrange Editorial Review - Winner of the Editor’s Pick Award

"Liberty Bound impressed me with its portrayal of a post-apocalyptic and stratified society. It feels well-thought-out and fuels the conflict of the story. When Finbarl discovers disturbing truths, he has no choice but to rebel against a cruel and corrupt society or to abandon his values. I appreciate the way he changes and matures in his decisions and determination. As he awakens to the realities around him, he goes through a lot of feelings, including the overwhelming sense that life has lost the value that it once had. The story confronts readers with a disturbing vision of humanity. Poignant, provocative, and original, Liberty Bound is an addictive page-turner that's not afraid to ask weighty questions."  International Review of Books - Gold Star Award

“(Liberty Bound) stands as an ambitious, smartly plotted thriller as invested in ideas as it is in action…(Wrey) hasn't just found exciting new spins on familiar ideas, he's made them fully his own… Liberty Bound stands apart from most post-apocalyptic thrillers thanks to its penetrating insights about civilization and the power of secrets, and  the drama of the series of difficult choices faced by its heroes.” (BookLife Prize critique 8.5/10 - Quarter-finalist)

AUDIOBOOK: “I loved this post-apocalyptical story about a young guard who comes to question his society and everything he has always believed about life and the world around him. This one offers a well constructed fictional world, sympathetic good guys, villains you'll love to hate and a plot that will make you question the way of government and society. Liberty Bound is what post-apocalypse Science Fiction should be.” - Aurora (Good Reads & Amazon.ca - 5 stars)

AUDIOBOOK: “This is so well written I even enjoyed the "slow" portions of the book. Compare with classics such as 1984 and Brave New World, except with even more savagery and action… Highly recommended.” Jerry in CBad (Amazon.com - 5 stars)

“What an interesting story about the future. Full of suspense and intrigue throughout the story.” Tony (Amazon.com - 5 stars)

AUDIOBOOK: “An excellent read - as thought-provoking as you want it to be. Most great books come with a twist and Liberty Bound is no exception.  I admit that it’s the ‘twist’ that really brought to my attention the connections with our own modern lives and societies and kept me thinking well after the book was closed. The narration was excellent and really brought the characters to life. However, I’ll now be purchasing a Kindle copy as it deserves a place in my ‘library’.” Sarah Woods (Amazon - 5 Stars) - read the full review via Amazon or Good Reads link at bottom of page

“A creative and thought provoking read! Excellent piece of escapism with an addictive quality. Highly recommended!” Bex (Amazon - 5 Stars)

“Liberty Bound was a great read. I enjoyed the world created within this novel; a land with echoes of The Hunger Games and Game Of Thrones, but with a totally distinct group of characters and interrelationships. As I reached the end of the book, I found myself disappointed that I wouldn’t have more time with these characters. I truly hope the author is working on the sequel that is hinted at by the book’s ending.” Melise (Good Reads - 4 Stars)

“Liberty Bound is well written and flows well. I loved the descriptions, the character development, and would love to read a sequel… It was a very enjoyable read.” Barbara (Amazon.com - 5 Stars)

“I absolutely LOVED this book. The writing was fantastic and the story was gripping. I had a hard time putting it down after I had started.”  Alexandra (Good Reads/Amazon.com - 5 Stars)

“What an excellent first novel for Nathaniel M. Wrey. Wrey paints an intriguing look at a dystopian future. I love a novel that really gets you thinking. I look forward to reading more by this author.” - Lisa K (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“At the heart of this adventure is a philosophical question: what is true liberty? Wrey explores this question in an exciting story with an array of memorable characters. In this well-written novel, the plot is generally fast moving but I also enjoyed the slower, more descriptive passages. I would highly recommend it and look forward to the sequel.” - Mary Moon (Amazon - 5 Stars)

“This book changed my mindset about civilization…There was nothing I disliked about this book. I enjoyed everything in the story.” - TCG (Online Book Club - 4 out of 4 stars. Read full review via Online Book Club)

“The novel certainly brims with creativity, which stands in contrast with the rigid system that the characters live with in their lonesome city … the story excels within Finbarl’s decisions and the consequences of those choices… I could empathize with his character and that connection made the novel thrilling.” - Literary Titan (4 Stars - Silver Award Winner)

“A brilliant thought provoking read. This book was full of twists and unexpected turns until the end. A thoroughly enjoyable read. I look forward to the next book.” - Gwen (5 Stars - Amazon)

“This is a really good dystopian book. Sucks you in right away. Definitely recommend it.” Psigirl6 (4 stars - Amazon.com)

“I was captured from the first word to the last and always wanted to know what was going to happen next… This is a brilliant book and one that I would recommend you read.” An Author (Amazon - 5 Stars)

“A book written in the same vein as George Orwell's 1984 and Animal Farm and a compelling read in the current dystopian atmosphere created by the coronavirus pandemic. A book for its time.” Derek Beaugarde, Author (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“A wonderful first novel from this author. It put me in mind of 'The Hunger Games', being set in a dystopian future. I read it in a couple of sittings, as it was a real page-turner. The ending surprised me and was a great set-up for a sequel.” Zoe (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“In Liberty Bound, you will find a world that is easy to believe in (although not one you would care to live in) and a story that will keep you enthralled. A thought-provoking page turner. Highly recommended.” BBob, Author, (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“Excellent book!!!” Csimplot (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

AUDIOBOOK: “A masterpiece level of fiction… I loved it!!!” - A Savijon (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“Couldn’t put this down, wanted to find out what was going to happen next. Subject matter pertinent to what is happening in the world at the moment. Thought provoking about the human condition and how society works.” Amazon Customer (Amazon - 5 stars)

“The book is an easy read and will fit nicely onto your summer reading list.” Kris (Good Reads - 3 Stars)

“Wrey has constructed an interesting fictional but familiar world with clear references to how our own society could develop ... The book's ending is surprising and opens the way for a much needed sequel. The writing style is an easy read suitable for all ages.” Amazon Customer (Amazon - 5 Stars)

“I really enjoyed Liberty Bound. It is an exciting adventure story, with good characters, much suspense, vivid descriptions, and lots of insights.” Margaret Hall (Good Reads - 5 Stars)

“Definitely worth picking up a copy of your own!” Stephanie (Good Reads - 4 Stars)

“I really enjoyed reading this book, it was a great debut novel. I enjoyed the plot very much and getting to know the characters. I look forward to more from the author.” Kay McLeer (Net Galley Reviewer - 4 Stars)

“Wonderfully written book, I was submerged into this story and I would recommend it! The use of imagery within this book was perfect and I loved it.” Anon. (Net Galley Reviewer)

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