Welcome to the Free World is riveting from the start. I had intended to just get started by reading the first chapter. Well, I was still reading a number of chapters in and still riveted. Welcome to the Free World is a compiling read. Not just for the creative and character-driven storyline but for much of the writing too. I love the lyrical and detailed descriptions of nature, the plants, the birds, and the geography.

The characters range from very flawed to less flawed human beings. While I would have liked more character development they are still interesting and psychologically, politically, and socioeconomically diverse. The dialogue at times pushes our normal standard way of confrontational communication pointing to a more compassionate and connecting/relating possibility.

The community at the heart of the story is inspirational as well as not overly idealistic. The diverse views and lifestyles keep it dynamic, real, and interesting.

And, about that creative storyline. The mix of AI and a new paradigm of consciousness is fascinating. No spoiler alerts here. You will just have to read it.

For a first-time author, Lloyd Raleigh is impressive. I’m looking forward to more from him and perhaps a sequel to this book.

This book was a medium paced fantasical read. The author did a good job with storytelling but it was nothing that rocked me to my core. It was a fun read and would recommend to some who enjoys this genre. I received this book as an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All of these opinions are my own.

An ambitious story tackling injustice on a wide scale. The writing was good, the story was unique and delightful. And I love seeing Black faces in settings that don’t usually include us. The story was a bit big, but it kept my attention.

I find it hard to believe this is the author's debut novel. What a career you have in front of you, Lloyd. You've made an instant fan of me!

I adored this book. The cover art is wonderfully bright and eye-catching. It would certainly stand out from the crowd in a bookshop. The story itself is stunning. I was completely engrossed right from page one.

Will Robin is an illegal Scalpel. He's one of an underground network. He removes artificial intelligence microchips (Auroras) from people's heads. He's giving them freedom from their AI Aurora 'friend' and their power over thought control. Will is a marked man when the government and Cirrus (the makers of the Auroras) find out. Will is doing the right thing, and nothing - not even attempted assassinations, or an Aurora friend - will stop him.

And so begins Will's journey... I won't say anything more about the storyline as it would spoil the enjoyment for other readers. This is SO good and right up my street. Well-written with strong characters and world building, entertaining, and informative. The end is magnificent - I loved it. I always enjoy when Buddhist wisdom is integrated well into a novel. Thank you, Lloyd.

I chose this ARC from a selection. I voluntarily and honestly read and reviewed this work. All opinions are my own. My thanks to the publisher, NetGalley, and the author.

All in all a good story. It reminded me of The Host but if it was AI instead of aliens. As a teacher if a student enjoyed Last Book in the Universe or The Giver I would recommend this one because it had the same dystopian theme overall. Definitely has all the elements of science fiction with twists and technology.