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The third book in the series, ‘Inara�, prepares the reader for the aftermath of Godfrey, and his friends success in defeating the Mainframe. With it’s iron grip choked out of existence, Tarquin’s control over the androids had been removed forever.

But the death of a human subsequently gave rise to the question. Would the masses ever trust Artificial Intelligence again?

When Nine and the other androids voted to leave Llar behind, the rioting started shortly after their departure. Where it would lead to was anyone’s guess.
Except for one man, and an ethereal green hologram in the Grand Plaza.

As Godfrey reflected on his excursion into the future, he knew. And there was nothing he could do to stop it. While the old hologram stood and watched the hoards destroying their heritage, the clock was ticking.

Time was running out.

351 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 23, 2024

2 people are currently reading
24.2k people want to read

About the author

A.R. Merrydew

5Ìýbooks1,995Ìýfollowers
Anthony Richard Merrydew was born in Dorking Surrey, England. His was educated at Andrew Cairns Secondary Modern school in Littlehampton, and several colleges in West Sussex.

He wrote his first manuscript ‘Malakoff�, during the early seventies, when he lived and worked in Besancon, France. For reasons best known to him, this remains to this day a work in progress.

His first published work, ‘Our Blue Orange�, was a light hearted Science Fiction story, which revolved around his fascination for automation, and in particular Artificial Intelligence. The novel took eight years to complete in his spare time, whilst working world-wide.

‘The Girl with the Porcelain Lips�, (second novel) was completed in Dunoon, Scotland, on a friends farm. Their support will always be remembered while recuperating from an accident in France.

Published on October 20th, 2023, and has been well received. It continues the story, however the theme has become more serious. As our own society changes with AI expanding it’s influence, so has the story.

The third novel in the Science Fiction series, ‘Inara� was published on the 24th of June 2024. Whilst it still maintains the humour and consistency with the characters, it presents a daunting prospect for the future.

At the time of altering this bio, Book Four has started to develop. If progress continues unabated, then a publishing date in the spring of 2025 maybe achievable. There is no working title at present.

Anthony has also published a compilation of his poetry, ‘From the Pen of an Aquarian� in 2023. An audio version of his book is available from Audible.com.

Anthony currently lives alone, and travels in his motor home named ‘Vera2�, full time, promoting his writing, poetry, and AI Artwork on social media platforms.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for Ssteve23.
12 reviews
July 24, 2024
The captivating book, Inara goes deeply into a society on the verge of anarchy, making it a fascinating addition to the series. Because of Merrydew's great writing, devotees of the genre should not miss reading this book. After Tarquin loses authority over the androids, the novel examines a society with newfound independence. When an AI-related fatality casts doubt on its reliability, tensions reach a breaking point. Merrydew skillfully combines suspense and passion to create a thought-provoking book that explores technology and the destiny of mankind. Good read.
11 reviews6 followers
August 2, 2024
Deeply riveting, Inara by A.R. Merrydew is a spellbinding and thought-provoking novel with a well-thought-out plot and engrossing characters, resulting in a must-read for fans of the genre. I was duly impressed with A.R’s narrative skills and entranced from the beginning. I would like to read more of A.R’s work and expect an equally original and wonderful reading experience! Considering the current obsession society has with A.I., Inara couldn't have come at a better time; the novel tackles concerns and questions that everyone has and also serves as an escape into a different world. A must-read, indeed!
Profile Image for Dotty.
3 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2024
In Inara, world-building is skilfully done, which made me feel as if I was understanding the intricacies of the characters and their world on a personal level. This story delves deep into the characters� lives and the challenges they face during the integration of developed AI into their world. It is, now more than ever, such a relevant story in our present reality and has truly made me consider the future of our world now, and the influential power technology has over us. It is emotional, action-packed and fast-paced story. I generally find it difficult to get hooked on a book I’m reading, but this one kept me immersed in the plot the whole way through. This book is a real testament to the author’s skill in writing this genre, and I look forward to reading more in the future.
Profile Image for Rajnish Kumar.
50 reviews1 follower
September 8, 2024
A.R. Merrydew's "Inara" novel is masterfully constructed from start to finish. I understood the nuances of the personalities or main characters and their universe because of the author's excellent and deft world-building. The main characters' lifestyles and the obstacles they encounter integrating advanced AI into their reality are significantly explored in this novel.
This story is more important than ever in today's environment, and it has made me think about how technology will affect our lives in the future. It's a dramatic, action-filled, and swiftly moving tale. While I usually have trouble getting engrossed in a book, this one kept me interested. I am immensely impressed with the apt and vivid descriptions that made the book close to my imagination. This novel is an authentic tribute to the author's talent as a writer of this genre, and I would like to encounter more of her work in the future. Although this is the third part of the series, I would suggest you pick this up directly as it's independent
Profile Image for Dolly.
8 reviews2 followers
October 30, 2024
'INARA' the third, exciting book in the series by Anthony Merrydew takes readers on a journey to unexpected corners of a world on the edge of chaos where society is dealing with the effects of freedoms of a different kind.

The gripping and suspenseful narrative will leave readers questioning humanities future in a world where the fragile balance between artificial intelligence and humans could collide with disastrous consequences.

This deeply riveting novel is the perfect escape into a world far removed from our own where the author's masterful construction will ensure that readers are immersed from start to finish.

Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Grady.
AuthorÌý49 books1,819 followers
July 10, 2024
‘Do you often talk to empty spaces?� � a fascinating and innovative world!

British author Anthony Merrydew has served as an electrical engineer, owning an electrical consultancy for such clients as Google, Facebook, and Emerson, and made his literary debut with OUR BLUE ORANGE, followed by THE GIRL WITH THE PORCELAIN LIPS, and now INARA - novels that survey a strange region of androids in a manner that seems completely reasonable and possible. In addition, his skills as a poet are apparent in FROM THE PEN OF AN AQUARIAN: LOVE, HOPE AND DARKER MOMENTS.

Inviting the reader into this hauntingly strange sci-fi novel that comprises part three of a series, the author focuses on the primary character Godfrey, providing some background for the series: ‘The outcome of that weekend had been exactly as Godfrey had expected. More precisely, exactly as he had seen the future unfold for his family, friends and for the colony, when he had fast-forwarded into the future� Despite the old inventor’s ability to change all of their lives, in the single action of pressing a button, he had chosen not to. During the past three years, he had seen his society spiral into an almost mirror image of life under the President’s questionable regime.�

This episode, in the author’s summation, presents ‘the aftermath of Godfrey, and his friends success in defeating the Mainframe. With its iron grip choked out of existence, Tarquin’s control over the androids had been removed forever. But the death of a human subsequently gave rise to the question. Would the masses ever trust Artificial Intelligence again? When Nine and the other androids voted to leave Llar behind, the rioting started shortly after their departure. Where it would lead to was anyone’s guess. Except for one man, and an ethereal green hologram in the Grand Plaza. As Godfrey reflected on his excursion into the future, he knew. And there was nothing he could do to stop it. While the old hologram stood and watched the hoards destroying their heritage, the clock was ticking. Time was running out.�

Merrydew capitalizes on our present preoccupation with the known (and unknown) parameters of AI and offers a scintillating novel that continues the evidence that this is a very significant author of today. Both highly informative � and extremely entertaining, this book deserves a very wide audience. Highly recommended
Profile Image for Lucyreads.
16 reviews
March 28, 2025
Author Anthony Merrydew brings an uncommon blend of technical expertise and literary vision to his writing. Before turning to fiction, he ran an electrical consultancy serving major clients like Google, Facebook, and Emerson. That sharp, analytical mind now fuels his growing body of work, including Our Blue Orange, The Girl with the Porcelain Lips, and now Inara—the third installment in a thought-provoking sci-fi series that delves into a world of androids in a way that feels chillingly plausible. His poetic sensibilities also shine through in his collection From the Pen of an Aquarian: Love, Hope and Darker Moments.
In Inara, Merrydew draws us deeper into the strange, evolving world he’s created, centering this time on Godfrey, a character burdened with knowledge of the future. The novel picks up after the fall of the Mainframe—a regime-shifting event led by Godfrey and his allies. Though they succeeded in freeing the androids from Tarquin’s control, their victory raises a troubling new question: can humans ever truly trust AI again?
Godfrey, who once glimpsed the future through his time-bending technology, now watches helplessly as that vision unfolds. Despite his ability to change the course of events with the press of a button, he chose restraint. But the consequences are massive. When Nine and the remaining androids decide to leave Llar, riots erupt. Chaos spreads. And while most are blind to what lies ahead, Godfrey knows exactly where it’s going—because he’s already seen it.
Merrydew masterfully blends the speculative with the political, exploring the fragile line between control and freedom, innovation and fear. The tension is palpable, the narrative smart and unsettling. With Inara, he further proves himself a distinctive voice in modern science fiction—one that deserves far more attention. It’s timely, imaginative, and deeply human. Don’t miss it.
8 reviews
February 26, 2025
A Space Opera Having to Do with Various Characters.

What. An. Interesting read this was for me. This is the third installment in A.R. Merrydew’s “Godfrey Davis� series and it is typically a science fiction tale set in space among a group of humans and technological as well as reptilian characters. Their issues are realistic and that makes the reader engaged and riveted. A minor problem I had with this is that I need to read the first two books to fully understand what is going on (unfortunately, I can’t knead the whole series� plotline from this book’s background details).
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One of the main themes of this brilliant story is the futuristic Android beings numerically named Nine and Seven. It is their assistance and our reliance on them that is explored in here. There is also the issue of the world’s uneasiness with them especially when an accident that seems to be in connection with them occurs and that leaves the people question the AI and what they mean for the future.
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There is a reptilian race of beings that are featured throughout this book. Particularly characters called Amercron, Siranan, and various unnamed creatures described as green and humanoid in emotions and mannerisms.
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Finally, there are the human characters: Jake Marsden, Miranda Short, and Missouri with the counterfeit money. They are involved in some kind of trek around the Earth, visiting a casino in Las Vegas; vacationing at a hotel in another unknown area, and getting rejected by Missouri’s own brother. That is my humble review of this ambiguous science fiction tale. Enjoy!
Profile Image for Ray.
183 reviews9 followers
February 26, 2025
This is another interesting yet different take on a book than what I’ve read in a while.

It starts off with Godfrey, who knows exactly what will happen in the future but refuses to reveal anything—because even the smallest change could lead to catastrophic consequences. So the surprise is� reading and finding out! Meanwhile, the capital, Llar, is in crisis, and an AI has taken over (it sounds like a lot is happening, which makes it even more entertaining). The question remains: will they save the universe, and the capital, and will everyone make it out alive?

This is an extremely fast-paced book that keeps you on your toes. It feels exactly like something I would imagine as a sci-fi movie. But beyond the action, I also liked how it tackles serious topics like political corruption, AI control (which is an interesting point), and even time manipulation.

The characters are extremely entertaining, and I enjoyed learning about all of them—though there is a lot to keep up with! I also wish the time manipulation aspect had more scientific depth, as it would have made it feel a bit more authentic.

Nonetheless, it was a good read. I haven’t read the previous two books in the series, but I still felt like I caught on to the characters, events, and world. I’m sure I would have gained an even deeper understanding if I had read the earlier books.
Profile Image for Swati Tanu.
AuthorÌý1 book578 followers
July 7, 2024
Inara is an exciting addition to the series, giving readers a fascinating look into a world on the edge of chaos. Merrydew's writing is both gripping and emotional, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre.

In 'Inara', readers enter a society dealing with the effects of new freedom. With Tarquin no longer controlling the androids, the story looks at the fragile balance between humans and artificial intelligence. The turning point comes when a human dies, making everyone wonder if AI can ever be trusted again.

Merrydew skillfully mixes suspense and emotion, making 'Inara' an exciting read. The characters' challenges and the chaos in their world are clearly shown, keeping readers hooked. This thought-provoking novel leaves a strong impression and asks deep questions about technology and humanity's future.

You might like to check out more similar books
Profile Image for Soochi Sandhiya.
294 reviews22 followers
September 2, 2024
The author, A.R. Merrydew, has done a commendable job in bringing the central characters and scenarios to life by utilizing vivid descriptions and intricate details. This was a fascinating story and very difficult to predict what would happen next. Although reading the previous books in the series might have given hype for the characters and the storyline, it is definitely optional. This works decently as a standalone with all the necessary details in one place. The introduction prologue gives a good whereabouts of important previous events, so as long as you read it, you’ll do just fine.
GivenÌýtheÌýcurrentÌýAI issue,ÌýthisÌýalsoÌýseemsÌýpretty apt and relevant. You may occasionally recognize a tensionÌýfromÌýexperiencingÌýoutsideÌýtheÌýnovel,ÌýwithÌýtheÌýworldÌýonÌýtheÌývergeÌýofÌýcollapseÌýandÌýAIÌýbeingÌýsoÌýsophisticatedÌýyetÌýstillÌýviewedÌýwithÌýsomeÌýsuspicion. All the facetsÌýconsidered,ÌýthisÌýisÌýanÌýexcellentÌýscienceÌýfictionÌýbookÌýthatÌýwillÌýprobablyÌýtouchÌýaÌýnerveÌýwithÌýsomeÌýreadersÌýandÌýmakeÌýothersÌýlook more closelyÌýatÌýartificialÌýintelligenceÌýthanÌýtheyÌýhaveÌýinÌýtheÌýpast.
Profile Image for Snowboyz.
12 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2025
I recently finished reading Inara by A.R. Merrydew, I was moved by the depth and complexity of this novel. It takes you into a world teetering on the brink of chaos, where the delicate balance between artificial intelligence and humanity is at risk. The author does a great job of leaving me questioning the future of our society. The character development is exceptional. I found myself deeply connected to the protagonist, Godfrey Davis, whose journey is both compelling and relatable.

The intricate plot kept me engaged, and the unexpected twists added excitement. What stood out to me was the author's ability to create a vivid and immersive world. The setting felt real, and the issues in the story were both relevant and timely.

If you're a fan of science fiction that explores the potential consequences of technological advancements, Inara is a must-read. It offers a fresh perspective and will leave you contemplating its themes long after you've turned the last page. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Lily.
3,183 reviews106 followers
August 16, 2024
This was an engaging story, and very difficult to set down. Although reading the earlier books in the series may help, it’s definitely not required. This works decently as a standalone. The prologue gives you a good summary of important previous events, so as long as you read it, you’ll do just fine. Merrydew does an excellent job of bringing both characters and setting to life, with vivid descriptions. This also feels somewhat timely, with all the controversy currently surrounding AI. With the world on the brink of falling apart, and AI being so integrated yet somewhat mistrusted, there’s a sense of tension that you might recognize as feeling outside the book at times as well. Overall, a brilliant sci-fi novel that will likely hit a nerve with a few, and have others looking at AI a little harder than they ever have before.
Profile Image for Pegboard.
1,797 reviews9 followers
September 4, 2024
Inara is the third book in its series by Anthony Merrydew. It begins with Godfrey knowing what is about to happen in the future but refuses to change one thing. His resolve to be unmoved by friends and family to even indulge their curiosity is commendable. Can he stand back as the future unfolds?

I love an author who exhibits love and skill for the written word; Anthony Merrydew is one of those authors. This story is mesmerizing as the pieces fall together. You know, to some degree, where the plot will take you, but the journey has many corners you never expected. As other reviews have mentioned, Inara can be a standalone novel if you read the Prologue first. That gives insight into what happened in the previous books. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys an AI or Sci-fi novel.
Profile Image for Grymm Gevierre.
204 reviews9 followers
September 5, 2024
I jumped into this series late, starting with the second book late last year. I had a great time reading that book and was excited to get a start on Inara, the 3rd in this series. I loved how the story blossomed and even more how well Merrydew continued the journey Godfrey is on while not trampling on the concepts of AI growth outlined previously in the series. We see how great this technology and the complications (and dependency) have grown in real life, and Merrydew keeps true to the universe while playing on the tension in the real world.

The specific struggles in this book, a society thrown into self-perpetuating chaos, really feel like the stakes are higher and that there is a clock on if it can be saved. The parallels to the real world and our problems aren’t lost on me. It is very clever writing and, as before, solid characters. Definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Lorna Enslin.
44 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2024

5.0 out of 5 stars Gripping and suspenseful must - read.
Reviewed in the United States on October 27, 2024
'INARA' the third, exciting book in the series by Anthony Merrydew takes readers on a journey to unexpected corners of a world on the edge of chaos where society is dealing with the effects of freedoms of a different kind.

The gripping and suspenseful narrative will leave readers questioning humanities future in a world where the fragile balance between artificial intelligence and humans could collide with disastrous consequences.

This deeply riveting novel is the perfect escape into a world far removed from our own where the author's masterful construction will ensure that readers are immersed from start to finish.

Highly recommended.
13 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2025
I really enjoyed reading Inara, The author did so well telling the story, the author did amazing describing the setting and characters.

It made me feel as if I was understanding the characters and their world on a personal level. This story really gets into the characters� lives and the challenges they face during the development of AI in the world.

There was action and suspense which kept me reading, and it leave you questioning the future of humans in a world where artificial intelligence and humans could collide with disastrous consequences.
Definite must read for people who enjoy this genre, it will keep you hooked from the beginning right till the end.
7 reviews1 follower
September 13, 2024
Ready to get uncomfortable in a good way? A.R. Merrydew writes in such a thought provoking way, like in Inara the mix of technology and suspense keep the reader wanting more. The story comes alive right out of the gate making the read fast, with such description and excellent character building. Perfect book for those who enjoy this genre!
Profile Image for Ash.
32 reviews4 followers
March 27, 2025
Boy do I love to constantly get recommended AI swill by Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ.
Obvious fake ratings & reviews, pure slop.
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