I really enjoyed this novel about two women, decades apart, struggling with fertility, family issues and controversial new technology.

In the near future of 2027, in a world still trying to recover from a pandemic, Emily is struggling to conceive. She and her husband, Dougall, are considering using gene editing as part of their IVF. The promise of a stronger, healthier child is appealing in the face of the virus that has devastated Dougal’s life. After her husband succumbs to the virus, Emily decides to continue with the gene editing and her baby is born.

Adelaide lives in 2057 and is determined to make a positive change for genetically modified people in her role as a political strategist. 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 destroy her career and see them both go to jail.

The unique, fresh premise, and the way Gannon brought in enough from the real world for this story makes it extremely believable. She captures that feeling of uncertainty and dread that reminded me of the virus outbreaks and lockdowns Australia experienced. I particularly enjoyed the believability of the premise of possibility and how the repercussions of gene modifications from a societal point of view are explored in a thought-provoking way.

This is a well-researched, well-written and beautifully executed novel. It deals with complex issues, emotions, and the potential consequences of playing with nature. But it is also a really gripping read!

Reviewed by Nicola Skinstad

READ AN INTERVIEW WITH GENEVIEVE GANNON ABOUT INHERITANCE

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Genevieve Gannon is a senior journalist at The Australian Women’s Weekly. With a career spanning 15 years, she focuses on investigative reporting, crime, social affairs and the occasional celebrity interview.

She moonlights as an author and shares her Sydney home with her partner, a very naughty grey cat named Cricket and far too many novels (if there is such a thing).