Monday, September 14, 2015

A Reader's Opinion: KEY OF LIGHT by Nora Roberts

AMAZON
The Book
The first novel in the unforgettable Key Trilogy. Fate brings three women together for a chance to unlock their deepest desires. This is Malory’s journey…

Malory Price’s life plan has hit a snag. She’s in danger of losing her job managing an art gallery in Pleasant Valley, Pennsylvania. A welcome distraction comes in the form of an invitation to a cocktail party at Warrior’s Peak, an infamous estate overlooking the town. But no one else she knows has been invited…

There are only two other guests: Dana Steele, a librarian, and Zoe McCourt, a single mother. On the surface, it seems the women have nothing in common, until their mysterious hosts tell them a story—and offer them a challenge.

Legend has it that the souls of three demigoddesses—one an artist, one a bard, and one a warrior—have been locked in a box that has three keys. Now it’s up to Malory and the others to find the keys. Their reward: a million dollars each.

It all seems too bizarre to be true. But none of them can ignore the financial windfall they stand to gain. And now Malory—with her soul of an artist and eye for beauty—must find her key first. She soon discovers that whatever locked the souls away is dark, powerful, and greedy…and it doesn’t want the women to win.

A Reader's Opinion
I originally read the key trilogy not long after they came out, and I've had the books in my collection for a few years. However, when I came across the re-releases with the deckle edges (love that look), I couldn't help but pick up the books and read them again. 

In Key of Light, we're introduced to all of the major players who you'll see through the series, and in a rare event, I happen to like all of them. Usually there's one main character in a Nora Roberts series that I feel so-so about, but not this one (and the Irish Born trilogy). Malory Price is the type of woman I'd probably call a friend if I met her in real life. She's put together, tougher than she seems, has a subtle sense of humor, and great taste in men. Michael Flynn Hennessy, or Flynn as he's called throughout the series is an absolute charmer. Add in his big, slobbery and lovable dog, and you have a winning combo. I like everything about their characters, including how they interact with their close group of friends. 

The story moves along at a nice pace, is an fun escape from everyday life, and an all around enjoyable book. 

As a side note, I also have listened to the audiobook version—abridged version—and although I enjoyed it because I could fill in the gaps, I'd recommend either an unabridged version (if you can find one) or reading the books so you don't miss out on any of the story. 

Book Source: Reader's collection
Book Edition: Paperback (Deckle Edge)