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Inheritance
From the author of The Mothers comes a propulsive family drama that explores the possibilities and dangers of designing the perfect child.
In 2027, Emily is deciding whether to take advantage of a new health service that promises a healthier, stronger baby through gene editing. There's plenty in her family tree that she would like to protect her unborn child against.
But not everybody loves the so-called designer baby technology.
Decades later, Adelaide is an ambitious political staffer trying to make a difference. Adelaide and her husband are working towards a goal they've called The Cyprus Project, but their plans risk being derailed when an unexpected threat looms.
Told across two generations, and two continents, Inheritance is about the legacies we leave our children, the bonds between mothers and daughters, and how it's never too late to fix our mistakes.
In 2027, Emily is deciding whether to take advantage of a new health service that promises a healthier, stronger baby through gene editing. There's plenty in her family tree that she would like to protect her unborn child against.
But not everybody loves the so-called designer baby technology.
Decades later, Adelaide is an ambitious political staffer trying to make a difference. Adelaide and her husband are working towards a goal they've called The Cyprus Project, but their plans risk being derailed when an unexpected threat looms.
Told across two generations, and two continents, Inheritance is about the legacies we leave our children, the bonds between mothers and daughters, and how it's never too late to fix our mistakes.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2024
12 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 19, 2024
Wow, this book absolutely took me by surprise. When Pantera Press reached out and asked if I would like a copy to read I thought it sounded good so I said yes. I did. It expect to get so deeply invested in the story. If you are sitting on the fence I say grab it, you will be pleasantly surprised.
A dual timeline story of motherhood. There is Emily in 2027, who is having a baby and is considering the new controversial health service, gene editing. You can change pretty much anything you want to have the perfect baby. Make they stronger, make them have a beautiful singing voice, whatever you want. But it is not a popular choice. People are protesting against these clinics, believing nature should be left alone. Then we have Adelaide in 2057 who is desperate to have a baby. She will do anything, but will she push too far?
This book makes you think about what you might do given this choice. Will this be our future? Would you want to change anything? What this story shows that even a child with edits won’t be perfect. It is emotional and addictive.
Thank you Pantera Press for having me along on this tour and the chance to read this book.
A dual timeline story of motherhood. There is Emily in 2027, who is having a baby and is considering the new controversial health service, gene editing. You can change pretty much anything you want to have the perfect baby. Make they stronger, make them have a beautiful singing voice, whatever you want. But it is not a popular choice. People are protesting against these clinics, believing nature should be left alone. Then we have Adelaide in 2057 who is desperate to have a baby. She will do anything, but will she push too far?
This book makes you think about what you might do given this choice. Will this be our future? Would you want to change anything? What this story shows that even a child with edits won’t be perfect. It is emotional and addictive.
Thank you Pantera Press for having me along on this tour and the chance to read this book.
February 21, 2025
**4.5 stars**
Wowza, this book was fascinating from start to finish, as well as being extremely thought-provoking. It switches between two timelines, one in 2027 and the other in 2057. In both, pandemic health issues are very high but more controversial is the existence of gene editing technology whereby future parents can edit the genes of their babies both for physical and skills traits. In 2027 we follow Emily who is looking into it to conceive and hoping to give her baby a better chance against the pandemic virus and its consequences. In the 2057 timeline we learn that the technology has now been banned after a number of negative unforeseen consequences and in general genetically modified people are restricted with much of society fearing them. Hard to put this one into a particular genre; could be classified as science fiction given the topic, with family domestic drama also being applicable.
Overall: highly recommend, I think this is one of those books that provokes a lot of discussion and will stay with readers for a long time after finishing.
Wowza, this book was fascinating from start to finish, as well as being extremely thought-provoking. It switches between two timelines, one in 2027 and the other in 2057. In both, pandemic health issues are very high but more controversial is the existence of gene editing technology whereby future parents can edit the genes of their babies both for physical and skills traits. In 2027 we follow Emily who is looking into it to conceive and hoping to give her baby a better chance against the pandemic virus and its consequences. In the 2057 timeline we learn that the technology has now been banned after a number of negative unforeseen consequences and in general genetically modified people are restricted with much of society fearing them. Hard to put this one into a particular genre; could be classified as science fiction given the topic, with family domestic drama also being applicable.
Overall: highly recommend, I think this is one of those books that provokes a lot of discussion and will stay with readers for a long time after finishing.
September 1, 2024
Absolutely brilliant - a real page turner! Two women! Two eras, one desire - to be mothers. In a post pandemic world Emily wants the best for her child, and if that means preventing that baby from suffering in the future, and you have the means to make that happen, why wouldn’t you. Adelaide is desperate to have a baby but has suffered many losses and can’t go through that again- she will risk everything to become a mother.
I’ve read all of Gens books and they are all brilliant. I highly recommend you pick up this one, I couldn’t put it down!
Big thanks to Pantera Press and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review - I am very grateful.
I’ve read all of Gens books and they are all brilliant. I highly recommend you pick up this one, I couldn’t put it down!
Big thanks to Pantera Press and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review - I am very grateful.
October 3, 2024
*
🤱The Mothers put Australian writer Genevieve Gannon in the spotlight and once again she captivates her audience with her latest composition, a dystopian-inspired tale titled Inheritance. A dual timeline narrative that takes the reader to 2027 and 2057, issues of motherhood, family, creation, health, survival and perfection take the floor.
🤱Imagine you could create a child of your own who is almost perfect in every way? This is the scenario put forward in Genevieve Gannon’s new novel. Emily is a woman who wants to start family in the best way possible by utilising a service that allows a child to be created using a gene editing process. It is controversial but this new technology offers so much to families. Years into the future we learn of a project that is under fire from a surprise threat. Inheritance sees the collision of the past and the future with unexpected eventualities, making us all think deeply about our future generations.
🤱Inheritance takes on a pretty bold and topical subject matter. Technology, health, politics, research and fertility all come into play in this morally charged novel from Genevieve Gannon. I do love to sink my teeth into a social dilemma-style novel and this one comes with some side dystopian themes. I appreciated the opportunity to put myself in the characters' shoes and the problems they face in this tale. It was uncomfortable, perplexing, divisive and emotional at times, but definitely challenging. I think Gannon makes a number of good points here around motherhood, personal rights, the place of technology and society. It is almost a tad nightmarish to think that the world presented here in this novel may actually be a real possibility some time soon. Scary indeed!
🤱Take an ethical quandary and add in realistic characters along with emotionally charged writing with a critical lens and you have Inheritance. Inheritance is a recommended read.
🌟🌟🌟🌟4 stars, out now!
Thank you to @panterapress for the review copy.
🤱The Mothers put Australian writer Genevieve Gannon in the spotlight and once again she captivates her audience with her latest composition, a dystopian-inspired tale titled Inheritance. A dual timeline narrative that takes the reader to 2027 and 2057, issues of motherhood, family, creation, health, survival and perfection take the floor.
🤱Imagine you could create a child of your own who is almost perfect in every way? This is the scenario put forward in Genevieve Gannon’s new novel. Emily is a woman who wants to start family in the best way possible by utilising a service that allows a child to be created using a gene editing process. It is controversial but this new technology offers so much to families. Years into the future we learn of a project that is under fire from a surprise threat. Inheritance sees the collision of the past and the future with unexpected eventualities, making us all think deeply about our future generations.
🤱Inheritance takes on a pretty bold and topical subject matter. Technology, health, politics, research and fertility all come into play in this morally charged novel from Genevieve Gannon. I do love to sink my teeth into a social dilemma-style novel and this one comes with some side dystopian themes. I appreciated the opportunity to put myself in the characters' shoes and the problems they face in this tale. It was uncomfortable, perplexing, divisive and emotional at times, but definitely challenging. I think Gannon makes a number of good points here around motherhood, personal rights, the place of technology and society. It is almost a tad nightmarish to think that the world presented here in this novel may actually be a real possibility some time soon. Scary indeed!
🤱Take an ethical quandary and add in realistic characters along with emotionally charged writing with a critical lens and you have Inheritance. Inheritance is a recommended read.
🌟🌟🌟🌟4 stars, out now!
Thank you to @panterapress for the review copy.
July 17, 2024
Inheritance by Genevieve Gannon is about two woman decades apart struggling with fertility, family issues and controversial new technology.
First we meet Emily, who is struggling to conceive in the near future of 2027 in a world still trying to recover from a pandemic, and considers the help of the newest baby tech, gene editing, which promises a stronger, smarter, more elite and advantageous child. Then we meet Adelaide, who 30 years later, is determined to make a positive change in her role as a political worker. She is also struggling to conceive after several miscarriages and has a secret goal with her husband called The Cyprus Project that is risky and threatens to fall apart.
I loved this - the world creation, the unique, fresh premise, and the way Gannon brought in enough from the real world for this story to be extremely believable. She really captured that feeling of uncertainty and dread that reminded me of the virus outbreaks and lockdowns Australia experienced during covid times. This was well researched, well written and executed beautifully. Deals with complex issues, emotions, and the potential consequences of playing with nature.
It reminded me very much of The Handmaids Tale, and I chucked to myself when it was even mentioned in the book.
Thank you Pantera Press and NetGalley for my ARC. Inheritance is due out 03/09/24.
First we meet Emily, who is struggling to conceive in the near future of 2027 in a world still trying to recover from a pandemic, and considers the help of the newest baby tech, gene editing, which promises a stronger, smarter, more elite and advantageous child. Then we meet Adelaide, who 30 years later, is determined to make a positive change in her role as a political worker. She is also struggling to conceive after several miscarriages and has a secret goal with her husband called The Cyprus Project that is risky and threatens to fall apart.
I loved this - the world creation, the unique, fresh premise, and the way Gannon brought in enough from the real world for this story to be extremely believable. She really captured that feeling of uncertainty and dread that reminded me of the virus outbreaks and lockdowns Australia experienced during covid times. This was well researched, well written and executed beautifully. Deals with complex issues, emotions, and the potential consequences of playing with nature.
It reminded me very much of The Handmaids Tale, and I chucked to myself when it was even mentioned in the book.
Thank you Pantera Press and NetGalley for my ARC. Inheritance is due out 03/09/24.
September 11, 2024
Thank you Pantera Press for sending us a copy to read and review.
Genevieve Gannon creates and writes gripping reads.
Stories that are topical, compelling and interesting.
Her latest work is truly another to add to that list.
Inheritance is thought provoking, unique and one that will definitely initiate discussions.
A controversial new technology for planning the creation of the perfect child.
Years in the future, 2027, Emily and her husband Dougal are discussing a baby.
A new clinic is offering gene design for an ideal kid.
But some are not happy with this.
Another thirty years on, Adelaide is working for a change in her job.
With the help from her husband, Ollie, they want to make a difference but something gets in the way.
What to know what happens next, then get a copy and devour�..
A tale that may completely surprise the reader.
There’s many issues, emotions and situations to unfold and the relationship between mother and daughter is explored as well.
It asks the question “would you or wouldn’t you�, leaving you with much to think about.
Add to your reading pile now!
Genevieve Gannon creates and writes gripping reads.
Stories that are topical, compelling and interesting.
Her latest work is truly another to add to that list.
Inheritance is thought provoking, unique and one that will definitely initiate discussions.
A controversial new technology for planning the creation of the perfect child.
Years in the future, 2027, Emily and her husband Dougal are discussing a baby.
A new clinic is offering gene design for an ideal kid.
But some are not happy with this.
Another thirty years on, Adelaide is working for a change in her job.
With the help from her husband, Ollie, they want to make a difference but something gets in the way.
What to know what happens next, then get a copy and devour�..
A tale that may completely surprise the reader.
There’s many issues, emotions and situations to unfold and the relationship between mother and daughter is explored as well.
It asks the question “would you or wouldn’t you�, leaving you with much to think about.
Add to your reading pile now!
May 19, 2025
3.5 stars out of 5
This was one of the more interesting storylines I’ve read in a while!
What would you do if you could engineer the perfect child? Virus resistant, photographic memory, unbreakable bones and even athleticism and singing talent? Would you play god, or let nature take its course? Cue moral dilemmas, emotional fallout and some top shelf family drama.
Set in a not so distant future, parents are now able to genetically modify their future babies. However, these come with some not so nice unforeseen consequences down the line.
A miracle for those who cannot naturally conceive, but when morals and medical ethics come into question, these genetically modified people become ostracized and on the outskirts of society.
As our society gets increasingly entangled in bioethics and reproductive tech, ancestry apps that casually reveal secret siblings, Inheritance feels less like fiction and more like a cautionary tale.
With COVID barely in the rearview mirror, the looming pandemic of EpsilonX will bring back a lot of fun memories for readers with borders closing, flights cancelled and an overall atmosphere of dread.
An incredibly though provoking read.
I really enjoyed this, however I felt it really stumbled at the end what with the jumping off a cliff into a river to escape guards, and Emily appearing at the eleventh hour to be the hero and no mention of the looming outbreak of EpsilonX. Some plot threads felt a little too neatly tied up, but overall, an enjoyable read.
This was one of the more interesting storylines I’ve read in a while!
What would you do if you could engineer the perfect child? Virus resistant, photographic memory, unbreakable bones and even athleticism and singing talent? Would you play god, or let nature take its course? Cue moral dilemmas, emotional fallout and some top shelf family drama.
Set in a not so distant future, parents are now able to genetically modify their future babies. However, these come with some not so nice unforeseen consequences down the line.
A miracle for those who cannot naturally conceive, but when morals and medical ethics come into question, these genetically modified people become ostracized and on the outskirts of society.
As our society gets increasingly entangled in bioethics and reproductive tech, ancestry apps that casually reveal secret siblings, Inheritance feels less like fiction and more like a cautionary tale.
With COVID barely in the rearview mirror, the looming pandemic of EpsilonX will bring back a lot of fun memories for readers with borders closing, flights cancelled and an overall atmosphere of dread.
An incredibly though provoking read.
I really enjoyed this, however I felt it really stumbled at the end what with the jumping off a cliff into a river to escape guards, and Emily appearing at the eleventh hour to be the hero and no mention of the looming outbreak of EpsilonX. Some plot threads felt a little too neatly tied up, but overall, an enjoyable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2025
3.5 rounded up - for making me consider the ethical arguments.
Set and told over two timelines and POVs this book raises some really interesting questions about gene editing. Told in 2027 and 2057 the parallels and conflicts seemed real and believable. The writing was solid but I found more value in the conundrums being raised.
Definitely an interesting topic.
Set and told over two timelines and POVs this book raises some really interesting questions about gene editing. Told in 2027 and 2057 the parallels and conflicts seemed real and believable. The writing was solid but I found more value in the conundrums being raised.
Definitely an interesting topic.
December 13, 2024
There were some interesting ideas in this two timeline story about Emily and Adelaide. Set during pandemic frenzies in both timelines, in the first Emily is considering IVF with genetic modifications for her baby (viral resistance primarily plus a whole lot of added features). In the second timeline 30 years later, Adelaide works for a state government minister. In this future timeline, GM humans are discriminated against as no ‘normal� person should have to compete with someone with genetic advantages. There was a lot of interest in the first half of the novel with regards to the ethics of modifying humans beyond just correcting disorders but the end was a disappointment as it becomes just a race for privileged people to get what they want. (The rights of children seemed to not matter.)
So a promising start that lost it for me.
So a promising start that lost it for me.
December 18, 2024
Kinda went a bit left at the end for me with the whole trip to Belarus and Ukraine and the mother turning up to save the day. But enjoyed before that, definitely an interesting premise for a story.
January 30, 2025
LOVED! giving me lots of biomed and covid flashbacks though
August 29, 2024
This is a dual timeline book, with one storyline tracing Emily's journey to becoming a mother, and another tracing Adelaide's 30 years later. I loved the first three quarters of this book. It focussed on the ethics and reasons for fiddling with the human genome, and on the question of what is a human, and who should have rights. It showed complicated and real feeling mother daughter relationships and the challenges we can face. I loved the fact is was set in Melbourne, my city, a city that felt very real - even 40 years from our future. I wasn't expecting a pandemic book, but it was well done. Until
That part felt fake and silly and forced, and unnecessary given the weighty emotional content of the novel.
That part felt fake and silly and forced, and unnecessary given the weighty emotional content of the novel.
March 9, 2025
I loved the first two-thirds of this and found the premise and examination of motherhood interesting. Towards the end, it kind of lost me as it god way too political for my liking. I read for escapism, and this made my brain hurt. I was a dystopian girlie in my teens, but not too much now I'm finding.
May 25, 2025
Gripping and thought provoking post-pandemic dystopian novel. At a glance the story is about gene editing and social/ political responses to human diversity, but it is also an exploration of motherhood and the lengths parents go to for their children. I was really interested in the political discussion and wish this wasn't so rushed in the end.
September 14, 2024
I loved reading this book. I really connected to the characters. It was thought provoking and though set in the future, it felt like the things that were happening could really play out. I read this in 3 days as I had to find out what happened.
January 28, 2025
Interesting concept. Complex characters and issues. Made for some interesting conversation when I brought the topic of gene editing up at dinner with the family.
September 22, 2024
4.5 stars.
In 2027, Emily is considering a new health service that promises a healthier, stronger baby through gene editing. But not everybody loves the so-called designer baby technology. Decades later, Adelaide is an ambitious political staffer trying to make a difference, given the consequences of decisions made by the previous generation. Adelaide and her husband are working towards a goal they’ve called The Cyprus Project, but their plans risk being derailed when an unexpected threat looms.
This book tells a near-future, somewhat dystopian story, but it’s not really a sci-fi. There’s a little bit of superhuman ability involved, but it’s not really a fantasy. There’s definitely heightened suspense too, with high-stake action scenes, but it’s not ‘just� a thriller. Basically, you can’t put this book in one genre box easily, and I absolutely loved it because of that.
At the end of the day, it’s about motherhood - the subject that Genevieve Gannon’s superior writing seems to always go back to. As I was reading, I kept thinking to myself how much I understood the dilemma it portrayed. It was a great tug-o-war between wanting the next generation to survive and excel vs. the fear of the unknowns. With politics and human egos added in, it was the perfect brew that went back to the same divisive reasons that made human beings act nasty towards others.
This was such a powerful story that made me think. I felt the ending a bit rushed, but that was probably because I was fully hooked and I didn’t want it to end. All in all, another great book from Genevieve Gannon. One that is underrated and should be hyped more!
(Thanks to Pantera Press for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my review.
In 2027, Emily is considering a new health service that promises a healthier, stronger baby through gene editing. But not everybody loves the so-called designer baby technology. Decades later, Adelaide is an ambitious political staffer trying to make a difference, given the consequences of decisions made by the previous generation. Adelaide and her husband are working towards a goal they’ve called The Cyprus Project, but their plans risk being derailed when an unexpected threat looms.
This book tells a near-future, somewhat dystopian story, but it’s not really a sci-fi. There’s a little bit of superhuman ability involved, but it’s not really a fantasy. There’s definitely heightened suspense too, with high-stake action scenes, but it’s not ‘just� a thriller. Basically, you can’t put this book in one genre box easily, and I absolutely loved it because of that.
At the end of the day, it’s about motherhood - the subject that Genevieve Gannon’s superior writing seems to always go back to. As I was reading, I kept thinking to myself how much I understood the dilemma it portrayed. It was a great tug-o-war between wanting the next generation to survive and excel vs. the fear of the unknowns. With politics and human egos added in, it was the perfect brew that went back to the same divisive reasons that made human beings act nasty towards others.
This was such a powerful story that made me think. I felt the ending a bit rushed, but that was probably because I was fully hooked and I didn’t want it to end. All in all, another great book from Genevieve Gannon. One that is underrated and should be hyped more!
(Thanks to Pantera Press for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my review.
September 27, 2024
Would you use a health service that promised a healthier, stronger baby through gene editing?
It is 2027, and the choice to use gene editing technology is in the hands of Emily and Dougal. It is also a time when there was a lot of backlash about using this kind of technology any aftermath of the Epsilon virus were still wreaking havoc amongst the community. There's a lot of strength in the arguments for and against using gene editing to create children of the future in these flashbacks to this time period with Emily and it's balanced quite well.
Thirty years later, Adelaide is working with a prominent politician, trying to push forward new ideas and make a difference. Adelaide and her husband have their own secret project after years of trying for a child as part of the Cyprus Project. She is also in the midst of a time where people who had been born through modified gene technology ostracised and treated like the worst of the worst. We learn more about Adelaide who she is and how she came to be and the impacts of this on her life and her body and also her thoughts about the rights of people who had been genetically modified all those years ago.
The research and storyline around ethics and ‘playing god� with genes was thorough and highlighted the complexities around this, especially thinking about where the work would be in five to thirty years from now. The political struggles that Adelaide was going through in relation to her workplace and her own future were created quite well you know I was surprised that so many of her actions veiled to her government employer. The slogans of “better dead than red� were revived in this era, because of the popularity of red or ginger hair chosen for modified babies were unsettling, and an interesting nod to the past.
It is 2027, and the choice to use gene editing technology is in the hands of Emily and Dougal. It is also a time when there was a lot of backlash about using this kind of technology any aftermath of the Epsilon virus were still wreaking havoc amongst the community. There's a lot of strength in the arguments for and against using gene editing to create children of the future in these flashbacks to this time period with Emily and it's balanced quite well.
Thirty years later, Adelaide is working with a prominent politician, trying to push forward new ideas and make a difference. Adelaide and her husband have their own secret project after years of trying for a child as part of the Cyprus Project. She is also in the midst of a time where people who had been born through modified gene technology ostracised and treated like the worst of the worst. We learn more about Adelaide who she is and how she came to be and the impacts of this on her life and her body and also her thoughts about the rights of people who had been genetically modified all those years ago.
The research and storyline around ethics and ‘playing god� with genes was thorough and highlighted the complexities around this, especially thinking about where the work would be in five to thirty years from now. The political struggles that Adelaide was going through in relation to her workplace and her own future were created quite well you know I was surprised that so many of her actions veiled to her government employer. The slogans of “better dead than red� were revived in this era, because of the popularity of red or ginger hair chosen for modified babies were unsettling, and an interesting nod to the past.
October 9, 2024
Inheritance by Genevieve Gannon is a compelling dystopian novel about gene editing and motherhood. It raises some interesting questions to ponder, and I’ll be thinking about this book for some time.
The novel is set in two timelines, seamlessly intertwining the stories of two different women fighting to become mothers.
In 2027 Emily is considering using gene editing on her child. It’s a new technology and the possibilities seem endless. Surely, she’s doing the right thing by her child by giving her as many advantages as she possibly can. The protestors are scary and violent, making her cautious about telling people that her child is genetically modified.
Thirty years later, Adelaide is working as a political staffer and saving her money for something she and her husband have called the Cypress Project. After years of issues culminating in a genetically modified man fatally shooting up a university campus genetically modified people are now reviled. They can only have certain jobs and live in the fringes of society. Adelaide is trying her best to make things better for genetically modified people through her job but faces serious backlash every time she tries.
Inheritance is a thought-provoking novel and I went back and forth in my thinking about gene editing. Protecting your child against viruses and illnesses seems like a wonderful thing to be able to do. But what about modifying looks or intelligence? And what happens if things don’t go according to plan? What if there is a down side to certain modifications?
I also loved the Melbourne setting for this novel. It felt very Melbourne and I loved recognising the places that were mentioned.
Highly recommended reading for all dystopian fans and those who like a novel that makes them think!
The novel is set in two timelines, seamlessly intertwining the stories of two different women fighting to become mothers.
In 2027 Emily is considering using gene editing on her child. It’s a new technology and the possibilities seem endless. Surely, she’s doing the right thing by her child by giving her as many advantages as she possibly can. The protestors are scary and violent, making her cautious about telling people that her child is genetically modified.
Thirty years later, Adelaide is working as a political staffer and saving her money for something she and her husband have called the Cypress Project. After years of issues culminating in a genetically modified man fatally shooting up a university campus genetically modified people are now reviled. They can only have certain jobs and live in the fringes of society. Adelaide is trying her best to make things better for genetically modified people through her job but faces serious backlash every time she tries.
Inheritance is a thought-provoking novel and I went back and forth in my thinking about gene editing. Protecting your child against viruses and illnesses seems like a wonderful thing to be able to do. But what about modifying looks or intelligence? And what happens if things don’t go according to plan? What if there is a down side to certain modifications?
I also loved the Melbourne setting for this novel. It felt very Melbourne and I loved recognising the places that were mentioned.
Highly recommended reading for all dystopian fans and those who like a novel that makes them think!
November 17, 2024
Very likely my Book of the Year, Inheritance got me hooked with sympathetic characters, a realistic world with allusions that everyone can relate to and/or understand (on a global level, hint hint...), and a sci-fi premise that is as believable as it is exciting and interesting.
The Australian touches adds the topping to what was a thoroughly entertaining, suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat experience. While the latter stages does have a few conveniences that were a tad plot armour-ish and/or eyebrow raising, the rest of the book was quality enough that you can largely forgive its very few shortcomings. Without spoiling anything, I especially enjoyed the exploration of the events that occurred on 'the Day' which is pretty rare to find in an Australian-written book, alongside the many real life allusions that was prevalent only a few years ago, and in some aspects, very much prominent still today. While it's clear that the author had an agenda with all of these included allusions, they are not ham-fisted or preachy but grounded in reality. It's akin to the view some has that the best villains are not the ones that are the most evil but instead are the ones that have an agenda or goal that you can at the very least sympathise and/or understand.
I finished the book wishing there was a sequel so I could see what happens next with characters I've grown fond of and in a world that I want to explore further. If that within itself isn't a sign that this book is pretty fantastic, I don't know what else is.
The Australian touches adds the topping to what was a thoroughly entertaining, suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat experience. While the latter stages does have a few conveniences that were a tad plot armour-ish and/or eyebrow raising, the rest of the book was quality enough that you can largely forgive its very few shortcomings. Without spoiling anything, I especially enjoyed the exploration of the events that occurred on 'the Day' which is pretty rare to find in an Australian-written book, alongside the many real life allusions that was prevalent only a few years ago, and in some aspects, very much prominent still today. While it's clear that the author had an agenda with all of these included allusions, they are not ham-fisted or preachy but grounded in reality. It's akin to the view some has that the best villains are not the ones that are the most evil but instead are the ones that have an agenda or goal that you can at the very least sympathise and/or understand.
I finished the book wishing there was a sequel so I could see what happens next with characters I've grown fond of and in a world that I want to explore further. If that within itself isn't a sign that this book is pretty fantastic, I don't know what else is.
January 15, 2025
In the very close future, the Australian government has legalised then genetic editing of embryos to protect them against the waves of viruses that are killing people all around the world. But, opportunistic doctors also offer further genetic enhancements, like super strength or a beautiful singing voice. However, these edits come with unforeseen consequences and 30 years later, these edited children have grown up and are segregated from the non-modified.
This book follows Emily and Dougal as they grapple with the decision to edit their baby and, 30 years later, Adelaide, a staffer for the deputy state premier, as she advocates to remove discrimination against modified people.
I enjoyed the first two thirds of this book, which dealt with interesting issues around the consequences of genetic editing and the tendency of society to discriminate against those it sees as 'other'. However, the book jumps the shark a little in the final third, which reads more like an action adventure. Additionally, I found it a bit gross that the book was so considerate of the issues of genetic engineering but then handwaved away the real, current, ongoing issue of people from rich countries exploiting women from poorer countries as surrogates.
This book follows Emily and Dougal as they grapple with the decision to edit their baby and, 30 years later, Adelaide, a staffer for the deputy state premier, as she advocates to remove discrimination against modified people.
I enjoyed the first two thirds of this book, which dealt with interesting issues around the consequences of genetic editing and the tendency of society to discriminate against those it sees as 'other'. However, the book jumps the shark a little in the final third, which reads more like an action adventure. Additionally, I found it a bit gross that the book was so considerate of the issues of genetic engineering but then handwaved away the real, current, ongoing issue of people from rich countries exploiting women from poorer countries as surrogates.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2024
The book you really hope is made into a Netflix series.
I loved The Inheritance.
It’s told across two generations, in 2027 and 30 years after that, which makes it really pacey and engrossing.
The way different moments are timed throughout the book is clever and takes the reader on several engrossing journeys, I found myself attached to the main characters quickly as a result.
The story has a subtle dystopian vibe, it’s fascinating, and concepts that aren’t real - yet - feel plausible, and leave you wondering what you’d do if faced with the questions and challenges facing the characters.
I loved the ethical questions it raised, the head vs heart dilemmas, the strength of the female leads and reading descriptions of Melbourne 30+ years from now.
Genevieve Gannon writes with brevity that allows the story to pack in so much action, but with attention to detail so vivid that maybe I don’t need a Netflix series, having devoured such a rich and entertaining book that pained the pictures for me.
I loved The Inheritance.
It’s told across two generations, in 2027 and 30 years after that, which makes it really pacey and engrossing.
The way different moments are timed throughout the book is clever and takes the reader on several engrossing journeys, I found myself attached to the main characters quickly as a result.
The story has a subtle dystopian vibe, it’s fascinating, and concepts that aren’t real - yet - feel plausible, and leave you wondering what you’d do if faced with the questions and challenges facing the characters.
I loved the ethical questions it raised, the head vs heart dilemmas, the strength of the female leads and reading descriptions of Melbourne 30+ years from now.
Genevieve Gannon writes with brevity that allows the story to pack in so much action, but with attention to detail so vivid that maybe I don’t need a Netflix series, having devoured such a rich and entertaining book that pained the pictures for me.
September 18, 2024
This book is one that I could not put down. There was plenty of tension, family drama and ethical dilemmas in this immersive dystopian read.
Set across two generations, we follow Emily in 2027 and Adelaide in 2057 in Melbourne. In the background is the constant viral threat, which is never named, but certainly echoes our recent pandemic experiences. Scientists have discovered they can edit an embryo to make babies resistant to the virus, as well as a multitude of other upgrades. The story explores motherhood and what a person would do to have a child. The gene editing is of course very divisive and had me thinking about what I would do if faced with some of these choices and wanting the best for my future child.
Inheritance was so thought provoking with its confronting possibilities for designing the “perfect� child. There were also some really quite terrifying moments of peril and threat which made this book an addictive page turner.
My only criticism was I felt the ending was wrapped up a bit too quickly, but otherwise it was a fabulous read which addressed some very real and concerning issues through a propulsive story and relatable characters.
Set across two generations, we follow Emily in 2027 and Adelaide in 2057 in Melbourne. In the background is the constant viral threat, which is never named, but certainly echoes our recent pandemic experiences. Scientists have discovered they can edit an embryo to make babies resistant to the virus, as well as a multitude of other upgrades. The story explores motherhood and what a person would do to have a child. The gene editing is of course very divisive and had me thinking about what I would do if faced with some of these choices and wanting the best for my future child.
Inheritance was so thought provoking with its confronting possibilities for designing the “perfect� child. There were also some really quite terrifying moments of peril and threat which made this book an addictive page turner.
My only criticism was I felt the ending was wrapped up a bit too quickly, but otherwise it was a fabulous read which addressed some very real and concerning issues through a propulsive story and relatable characters.
March 29, 2025
I was totally engrossed by this dystopian pandemic world of GM people and never ending viruses for 80% of the book. It all fell down with the traipsing around Europe surrogacy silliness and the happy families. Not sure what I was hoping for, but it wasn't that ending.
What happened to Charlie? Did anything happen to JJ squirrelling away a staffer to Prague under Mabel's nose? If GM people were so obvious, why was Ralph the only one to ever suspect Adelaide? EpsilonX and yet it's all over and done with in mere weeks? So much material to work with and explore, I expected more than the ending we were given.
I think the charm of this book is the ethics and pondering questions that it leaves you with, rather than the storyline itself.
What happened to Charlie? Did anything happen to JJ squirrelling away a staffer to Prague under Mabel's nose? If GM people were so obvious, why was Ralph the only one to ever suspect Adelaide? EpsilonX and yet it's all over and done with in mere weeks? So much material to work with and explore, I expected more than the ending we were given.
I think the charm of this book is the ethics and pondering questions that it leaves you with, rather than the storyline itself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2025
In post-virus 2027 Emily is deciding whether to take advantage of new gene editing technology in IVF to create a healthier child. 30 years later, Adelaide and her husband are racing against another global lockdown to complete their family.
Quite a good story, and the exploration of the ethics around IVF was really thought provoking, especially in the first half of the book. The second half deteriorated a little for me, and I was a little bemused by the fact that gene editing was (deservedly) highly critiqued and yet the story's heroines had no qualms about the concept of paid international surrogates! Overall it was slightly better than average for me.
Quite a good story, and the exploration of the ethics around IVF was really thought provoking, especially in the first half of the book. The second half deteriorated a little for me, and I was a little bemused by the fact that gene editing was (deservedly) highly critiqued and yet the story's heroines had no qualms about the concept of paid international surrogates! Overall it was slightly better than average for me.
September 1, 2024
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this story, set in dual timeframes in the near future of 2027, and then another 30 years in the future. We follow Emily in 2027, when gene editing is new and Emily is thinking about having the procedure to ensure the health of her baby, then Adelaide in the future where those who are genetically modified are living as second class citizens and Adelaide is doing all she can to try and help these people.
The story was futeristic with science advancements, but also real enough that it felt realstic. I enjoyed both timelines equally and was interested to find out if/how they were connected. Some parts of the last quarter did seem a little unrealistic, but still a very enjoyable read.
Thank you to Pantera Press and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. Highly recommend.
I really enjoyed this story, set in dual timeframes in the near future of 2027, and then another 30 years in the future. We follow Emily in 2027, when gene editing is new and Emily is thinking about having the procedure to ensure the health of her baby, then Adelaide in the future where those who are genetically modified are living as second class citizens and Adelaide is doing all she can to try and help these people.
The story was futeristic with science advancements, but also real enough that it felt realstic. I enjoyed both timelines equally and was interested to find out if/how they were connected. Some parts of the last quarter did seem a little unrealistic, but still a very enjoyable read.
Thank you to Pantera Press and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. Highly recommend.
October 9, 2024
A captivating new novel by Genevieve Gannon, I thoroughly enjoyed Inheritance. Like The Mothers (which is a brilliant book!!), this enthralling read is captivating and thought provoking as it explores some very topical themes, moral dilemmas, relationships and unintended consequences in a very clever fashion. Told from two perspectives, across two generations it is an engrossing read, with a cast of supporting characters, all of which add depth and layers. I highly recommend!
March 12, 2025
In interesting read that intertwines the ethics of genetically modifying human babies and the extrapolation of a society facing the continuous threat of the virus similar to covid, called 'Epsilon'. There are lots of things about this book to like. The start was a little slow but then the pace picked up and suddenly I was halfway through! The messaging was pertinent, the characters interesting, the writing engaging. But overall it just fell a little flat for me.
September 25, 2024
A well written, fascinating read on a subject I feel will be a legitimate question in the not too distant future, as this book suggests. The entire time I was reading it, I was asking myself, what would I do?
Gannon is a brilliant writer and this book will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions and moral questions. Highly recommend.
Gannon is a brilliant writer and this book will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions and moral questions. Highly recommend.
December 28, 2024
Another Did Not Finish. I got lost with the different characters and was not enthused to continue. Maybe it is mostly to do with my state of mind a.t.m., rather than the novel. Interesting concept that explores the possibilities and dangers of designing the perfect child. Told across several generations.
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