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Keys of Power #1
Inheritance
In the first novel of a brand-new trilogy, Simon Brown introduces Lynan, the youngest prince of Grenda Lear. Ignored by his family, he is forced to flee his home after he's betrayed. But he vows to return to claim his inheritance-a magical key that could help him change his destiny.
432 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2000
3 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Simon Brown
131 books9 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Simon Brown wrote his first science fiction story in 1966, read his first science fiction novel in 1968, and by 1970 had decided he wanted to be a science fiction writer more than anything else in the world.
His first professional sale was to Omega in 1981. Since then he has had several short stories appear in Omega, Aurealis and Eidolon.
His first novel, Privateer, was published by Harper Collins in April of 1996. His second novel, Winter, was published by Harper Collins in 1997. A collection of short stories, Cannibals of the Fine Light, was published by Ticonderoga Publications in 1998. A new novel, Inheritor, will be published by HarperCollins in late 2000.
Simon worked as a journalist with the University of Western Sydney, and is now a full-time writer.
Simon Brown wrote his first science fiction story in 1966, read his first science fiction novel in 1968, and by 1970 had decided he wanted to be a science fiction writer more than anything else in the world.
His first professional sale was to Omega in 1981. Since then he has had several short stories appear in Omega, Aurealis and Eidolon.
His first novel, Privateer, was published by Harper Collins in April of 1996. His second novel, Winter, was published by Harper Collins in 1997. A collection of short stories, Cannibals of the Fine Light, was published by Ticonderoga Publications in 1998. A new novel, Inheritor, will be published by HarperCollins in late 2000.
Simon worked as a journalist with the University of Western Sydney, and is now a full-time writer.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 20, 2016
Not bad, I look forward to the next books.
March 7, 2013
I found this book in the library and, running out of time, picked it up on the way out just for something to read. I am glad that I did as I found it to be very entertaining. This seems to be a typical fantasy story line but has a few definite twists. An estranged prince is framed for a crime and must seek support to raise an army in order to reclaim his birthright. Along the way, the characters grow and deal with problems and challenges in their lives. I particularly liked how the author explores the feelings raging inside the characters and how they go about resolving them but does not dwell on them to a fault. He gives me a taste of what is going on without droning on. The book I read had quite a few editing errors which I can ignore if I am enjoying myself. The characters developed steadily although perhaps a bit slowly. Another complaint is that certain aspects of the various sub-plots seem to have been edited out. I will find references to something going on in the main characters life but those events had never been expanded upon. I felt that the author gave the main character a well rounded personality that makes you see him have potential as a future champion yet when the going gets tough, the main character becomes annoyingly spoiled, complaining about how everything that is going wrong. By the end of the book, we start seeing more appropriate growth toward maturity. Even with some of these gaps, the story is easy to follow and, except for some poor editing, is a very easy read. I don't see very much out there by this author but after reading this book, I see that with a little work, Mr. Brown could be a competitive author if he chose. This may not be the best read but I thoroughly enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
November 9, 2009
I read the book ages ago and unfortunately I've lost my copy. The book is a tale of fantasy and adventure. Of betrayal and friendship. Worth reading but I've forgotten most of the plot.
February 13, 2019
Although at times formulaic in his approach, Simon Brown has created an intriguing story, set in a fantastical world, with all the betrayal, excitement, espionage, politics, magic, adventure, and the perfect smattering of romance. is an enjoyable read, and I would recommend it to those who enjoy fantasy novel with a bit of meat. I appreciated that the story did not have a heavy romantic feeling to it, as this often ruins the story for me. This book is also great for those of us who don't always get enough time to read a book in a short period. The book was memorable enough that I as able to pick it back up after a one-month hiatus and still remember everything that happened prior. I just ordered the second book on Thriftbooks. Excited to read it when it gets to my house!
May 18, 2018
Take a healthy serving of royalty, blend it well with courtly intrigue and betrayal, add a dash of magic and romance and stir in 4 keys of magical power.
This novel, the 1st in the Keys of Power series, is an entertaining, if slightly formulaic read. The rather shocking act of betrayal about halfway through the book had me gasping in dismay, and I found it really difficult to put the book down.
This is my first Simon Brown novel, and the writing is really good, good enough for me to want to read more of his work
This novel, the 1st in the Keys of Power series, is an entertaining, if slightly formulaic read. The rather shocking act of betrayal about halfway through the book had me gasping in dismay, and I found it really difficult to put the book down.
This is my first Simon Brown novel, and the writing is really good, good enough for me to want to read more of his work
July 18, 2015
The three books really should be read in order.That way the reader can see Lynan's growth from an overlooked (by both his mother and the Court) youngest son to the Sovereign.But with growth comes pain and loss,both his own and of others.Such a great price had to be paid.Perspectives and motives of Areva,Lynan's sister and antagonist as well as the conspirators who framed Lynan comes clear.A really great book and thoroughly entertaining.
March 1, 2010
Not bad a little bit of swearing.
September 29, 2021
I sort of felt like it would be formulaic and mediocre from the description but the way it was written or the characters or something did pull me in. The story has a lot of familiar plot elements but the way each character has their own struggles is really well done. Theres quite a lot of foreboding stuff happening, I think I'll read on if there's a sequel.
February 23, 2026
Simon Brown is an AMAZING Australian author, this book is like the original fantasy books, hate to say new authors don't have a clue, sorta like Brian Lee Durfee ;), no offense mind you, the story grips you, Olio is a healer with his key of power. Lynam is having issues with Queen Avera, but I doubt she will be around longer (hey I'm reading the second book), it's interesting what will happen, killer read, check this out.
June 28, 2016
Hated this one. Saying it was generic is way too much praise.
August 29, 2020
Gritty, violent, almost Grecian in its tragic trajectory. I do wish it was not out of print and that I had more than Vol. 1 of this series.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews