Masterful Dystopian Delight
A masterful exploration of a dystopian future where genetic modifications and corporate greed have driven humanity to the destructive brink, Minerva Hart’s “Primal Instinct” is set at the end of the 21st century, vividly depicting a world devastated by climate change, toxic oceans, extinct species, and a bankrupt US government.
The story centers on Freddie Molloy, who works at Gaia Corporation alongside his father, Dr. Martin Molloy, the head of the genetics department. They are pressured by the elite Mr. York to make rapid progress on a project to create human-animal hybrids capable of living underwater. Freddie, a former test subject turned geneticist, is reluctantly drawn deeper into this world of ethical and moral quandaries as mega-corporations dominate this harsh reality, while the middle class struggles for basic necessities.
Freddie’s life takes a dramatic turn during a visit to Briny Beach with his friend Gwilym, where they are ensnared by the mesmerizing song of a mysterious woman in the water. Despite his asexuality, Freddie is captivated by her glowing blue eyes and dark hair. This enchanting encounter quickly becomes nightmarish as the woman reveals a monstrous visage, dragging Freddie and Gwilym into the depths, where Gwilym meets a gruesome end. The creature, later captured and taken to an experimental facility, becomes central to Gaia’s genetic experiments. As Freddie, coerced into handling the mermaid, deceives her with promises of freedom, he finds his moral compass shifting.
Author Hart’s narrative delves deep into the ethical dilemmas faced by Martin and Freddie as they grapple with their involvement in these experiments. Her ability to weave a dark, cautionary tale with moments of human resilience and compassion makes this novel a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction as vivid descriptions and complex characters bring to life a world that feels alarmingly plausible. Hart’s storytelling not only entertains but also challenges readers to ponder the boundaries of science and ethics, making “Primal Instinct” a gripping and thought-provoking novel, rich with tension, ethical questions, unexpected twists and an outstanding addition to the dystopian sci-fi genre. A definite 5 Star read!
