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Key Trilogy #1
Key of Light
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.
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.
334 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 28, 2003
1,188 people are currently reading
18.4k people want to read
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,813Ìýbooks57.3kÌýfollowersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,400 reviews
August 22, 2012
DEAR Ms. Roberts,
I totally believe that two people who have together on a daily basis might fall in love and get married after knowing each other for only a few months.
It also seems plausible that you might fall in love with , or even possibly , but deciding to marry this random dude with an annoying dog three weeks after you met him, just because you went on some wackadoo fairy quest with him and had sex on an ugly couch?
Unplausible.
Also, stuff like, "I can walk three miles in these heels. I'm a professional female"? VOM.
No love,
Jenne
I totally believe that two people who have together on a daily basis might fall in love and get married after knowing each other for only a few months.
It also seems plausible that you might fall in love with , or even possibly , but deciding to marry this random dude with an annoying dog three weeks after you met him, just because you went on some wackadoo fairy quest with him and had sex on an ugly couch?
Unplausible.
Also, stuff like, "I can walk three miles in these heels. I'm a professional female"? VOM.
No love,
Jenne
January 29, 2012
As the first book in the series, did the job: it set the story arc up, introduced all the main characters and, in the end, wrapped up the first couple's love story in a nice HEA.
The PNR aspect of the story was interesting, with a gothic vibe that was eerie and unexpected. An old mansion named Warrior's Peak, guarded by gargoyles, sitting at the top of a hill surrounded by mist... A dark and stormy night... A woman driving alone, wondering what she was going to find at the mansion... That was on the first pages of the book and, no matter how ³¦±ô¾±³¦³óé that was, I was chilled to the bone and wondering if Malory, the heroine, would turn out to be one of those TSTL blondes whose aim in life is to step willingly into the arms of death just to keep the story going. Thankfully, it wasn't like that and the story moved along quite nicely, once Malory and her newfound friends/partners Dana and Zoe, the heroines in the following books in the series, were presented with the task they were supposed to do: find the keys that would release the souls of three demigoddesses who had been imprisoned hundreds of years ago. I'm not going into details here, but the tale about their lives was very charming and romantic - regardless of the sad ending, that is.
Flynn, Dana's brother, joined the quest for the keys in no time, even though he was skeptical about the whole thing... Well, all of them were skeptical at first, but they changed their minds when strange things started to happen. Back to Flynn... He was the all-around good guy, charming, seductive and, of course, commitment-shy. Malory was soon in love with him - who could blame her? :) - and he was in too, even though it took him longer to see it that way. There was really no conflict in their relationship, and that was a problem for me. Not that I wanted them to go all angsty or start a fight just for the sake of it, but there wasn't anything that prevented them from being together and their relationship felt kind of boring to me.
On the other hand, I think NR did a much better job when it came to showing Flynn's friendship with Jordan and Brad - not coincidentally, the heroes in the next books in the series. I actually thought that Flynn's scenes with his friends were more interesting than his scenes with Malory, and that's not a good thing in Romancelandia. Malory's scenes with Dana and Zoe were less entertaining and felt a little too juvenile to me. They would have been more fitting if they had been in their early twenties, IMHO.
There's a lot of talk about symbolism and coincidences in this book: some interesting, some confusing. I thought the "key" Malory was supposed to find was only a metaphor but it turned out to be "real" - or the next best thing, since this is a PNR story. As for the ending, I was as fooled by Malory's trick as the villain: I thought Flynn would have to rescue her with a bang, but I should have known that she was smart enough to do it by herself. Girl Power, yay! ;)
All things considered, this was an overall good, although not stellar, read for a nice and lazy afternoon/evening. And, referring to the first paragraph above, it did the job: I'm interested enough in keep reading the series.
The PNR aspect of the story was interesting, with a gothic vibe that was eerie and unexpected. An old mansion named Warrior's Peak, guarded by gargoyles, sitting at the top of a hill surrounded by mist... A dark and stormy night... A woman driving alone, wondering what she was going to find at the mansion... That was on the first pages of the book and, no matter how ³¦±ô¾±³¦³óé that was, I was chilled to the bone and wondering if Malory, the heroine, would turn out to be one of those TSTL blondes whose aim in life is to step willingly into the arms of death just to keep the story going. Thankfully, it wasn't like that and the story moved along quite nicely, once Malory and her newfound friends/partners Dana and Zoe, the heroines in the following books in the series, were presented with the task they were supposed to do: find the keys that would release the souls of three demigoddesses who had been imprisoned hundreds of years ago. I'm not going into details here, but the tale about their lives was very charming and romantic - regardless of the sad ending, that is.
Flynn, Dana's brother, joined the quest for the keys in no time, even though he was skeptical about the whole thing... Well, all of them were skeptical at first, but they changed their minds when strange things started to happen. Back to Flynn... He was the all-around good guy, charming, seductive and, of course, commitment-shy. Malory was soon in love with him - who could blame her? :) - and he was in too, even though it took him longer to see it that way. There was really no conflict in their relationship, and that was a problem for me. Not that I wanted them to go all angsty or start a fight just for the sake of it, but there wasn't anything that prevented them from being together and their relationship felt kind of boring to me.
On the other hand, I think NR did a much better job when it came to showing Flynn's friendship with Jordan and Brad - not coincidentally, the heroes in the next books in the series. I actually thought that Flynn's scenes with his friends were more interesting than his scenes with Malory, and that's not a good thing in Romancelandia. Malory's scenes with Dana and Zoe were less entertaining and felt a little too juvenile to me. They would have been more fitting if they had been in their early twenties, IMHO.
There's a lot of talk about symbolism and coincidences in this book: some interesting, some confusing. I thought the "key" Malory was supposed to find was only a metaphor but it turned out to be "real" - or the next best thing, since this is a PNR story. As for the ending, I was as fooled by Malory's trick as the villain: I thought Flynn would have to rescue her with a bang, but I should have known that she was smart enough to do it by herself. Girl Power, yay! ;)
All things considered, this was an overall good, although not stellar, read for a nice and lazy afternoon/evening. And, referring to the first paragraph above, it did the job: I'm interested enough in keep reading the series.
September 16, 2022
sure knows how to write a good romance, especially a mystical one which includes gods and goddesses and a quest to find three ancient keys.
is the first book in the trilogy and it introduces us to Malory, Dana and Zoe, the three young women who are set to try and find the three keys. Malory has the first challenge and she works her way to success with the help of her two friends and new boyfriend Flynn.
In true Roberts style the characters are delightful, there are plenty of very funny lines and there is a gorgeous dog making his presence known throughout. Plenty of magic, a spooky mansion and scary storms. I loved it.
is the first book in the trilogy and it introduces us to Malory, Dana and Zoe, the three young women who are set to try and find the three keys. Malory has the first challenge and she works her way to success with the help of her two friends and new boyfriend Flynn.
In true Roberts style the characters are delightful, there are plenty of very funny lines and there is a gorgeous dog making his presence known throughout. Plenty of magic, a spooky mansion and scary storms. I loved it.
September 28, 2019
I'd like to start by thanking my lovely friend Celeste for making me discover one of her favorite authors and feel-good series! <3
And Key of Light totally made me feel insanely good! I enjoyed it, a lot, and if I've had more free time, I'd have read it in one sitting (I felt the same during my 2nd read. Even though I knew where the story was headed, I couldn't wait to reach its climax). The writing flowed easily and told the story of Malory, Dana and Zoe, 3 passionate, dedicated women, thrown into a strange and almost impossible quest.
My favorite aspect of the book was the dynamics between the female characters. We absolutely need more of that positivity, benevolence and unconditional support, in fiction but most importantly in real life relationships. It was everything I'd love to have and see in a friendship: no wanton judgement or pettiness, no envy or unnecessary drama.
#Friendshipgoals y'all!
I know that must sound like a Utopian and naive fantasy on my part, but this comfort was exactly what I have been looking for and expecting from this series: an uncomplicated, a tad predictable, not entirely without ³¦±ô¾±³¦³óés (especially when it comes to women's perception of men, and vice versa), but most importantly light and sweet read.
As my friend Celeste says about Nora's books, in her Come Sundown review:
" Yes, her work is formulaic, but it’s supposed to be!! I don’t pick up her books to be surprised; I pick them up for their familiarity and the comfort that brings. "
Besides the touching relationships, art was a central and most beautifully described theme in this book. Nora Roberts made an excellent job at defining it and conveying the emotions it induces in both the artist and the audience. I felt a huge kinship for Malory because of her inability to create art (despite her knowledge and boundless love of it) and because of her career crisis. Man! Both struck a chord!
Overall, Key of Light was a very easy and enjoyable read! Despite the romantic aspect being too abrupt, some parts of the quest being convenient and despite the POVs switching non stop everyfew paragraps, my interest and excitement never faltered. The chemistry between the three women made me root for them and the crises they've been facing in their personal lives made them more real and extremely relatable. I can't wait to dive into the sequel and having more of bookish and sarcastic Dana's story.
And Key of Light totally made me feel insanely good! I enjoyed it, a lot, and if I've had more free time, I'd have read it in one sitting (I felt the same during my 2nd read. Even though I knew where the story was headed, I couldn't wait to reach its climax). The writing flowed easily and told the story of Malory, Dana and Zoe, 3 passionate, dedicated women, thrown into a strange and almost impossible quest.
My favorite aspect of the book was the dynamics between the female characters. We absolutely need more of that positivity, benevolence and unconditional support, in fiction but most importantly in real life relationships. It was everything I'd love to have and see in a friendship: no wanton judgement or pettiness, no envy or unnecessary drama.
#Friendshipgoals y'all!
I know that must sound like a Utopian and naive fantasy on my part, but this comfort was exactly what I have been looking for and expecting from this series: an uncomplicated, a tad predictable, not entirely without ³¦±ô¾±³¦³óés (especially when it comes to women's perception of men, and vice versa), but most importantly light and sweet read.
As my friend Celeste says about Nora's books, in her Come Sundown review:
" Yes, her work is formulaic, but it’s supposed to be!! I don’t pick up her books to be surprised; I pick them up for their familiarity and the comfort that brings. "
Besides the touching relationships, art was a central and most beautifully described theme in this book. Nora Roberts made an excellent job at defining it and conveying the emotions it induces in both the artist and the audience. I felt a huge kinship for Malory because of her inability to create art (despite her knowledge and boundless love of it) and because of her career crisis. Man! Both struck a chord!
Anything worth anything can be found in books.
Overall, Key of Light was a very easy and enjoyable read! Despite the romantic aspect being too abrupt, some parts of the quest being convenient and despite the POVs switching non stop everyfew paragraps, my interest and excitement never faltered. The chemistry between the three women made me root for them and the crises they've been facing in their personal lives made them more real and extremely relatable. I can't wait to dive into the sequel and having more of bookish and sarcastic Dana's story.
January 30, 2019
alot happened and not alot happened, it strange.
but i like it enough too read the next one.
but i like it enough too read the next one.
March 21, 2019
This book was pretty good it had a mystery element to it
January 24, 2016
What's not to love when Nora Roberts steps into the world of celtic magic?
August 25, 2012
Even though I know what's going to happen in every story written by Nora Roberts, I love reading her. Her down-to-earth writing style and humorous dialogues between characters are refreshing and very entertaining. I love a good story with a happy ending, and this one gives you all that, plus I found myself chuckling out loud. I love it when a author engages my emotions enough to make me scared, laugh, cry, get angry, etc. Nora Roberts is an excellent writer, and she can do all that. Thankfully, she doesn't fall into the category below.
I'm going to step up on my soap box for a moment. I find it annoying, sometimes extremely annoying, when while reading a book, because of misspellings, missing words, skipped sentences, and out-of-order words and/or sentences, I have to reread a sentence or a paragraph to get the meaning of the idea intended. There are too many writer's and/or publishers out there, who are lazy or just don't care enough about the reader to do a good job of proof reading and editing. It may be just me, but I don't think so.
I'm going to step up on my soap box for a moment. I find it annoying, sometimes extremely annoying, when while reading a book, because of misspellings, missing words, skipped sentences, and out-of-order words and/or sentences, I have to reread a sentence or a paragraph to get the meaning of the idea intended. There are too many writer's and/or publishers out there, who are lazy or just don't care enough about the reader to do a good job of proof reading and editing. It may be just me, but I don't think so.
March 5, 2018
bu kadar keyifli bir mitolojik serüven beklemiyordum açıkçası.
keşke daha uzun olsaydı dedim.
"Güzelliği, doğruluğu ve cesareti aramalısın. Sadece bir tanesi asla yetmez. Üçüncüsü olmadan ilk ikisi yeterli olmaz. Bilmen gerekeni kendi içinde ara ve öğren. Karanlığın en çok sakladığı şeyi bul. Işığın gölgeleri, aşkın acıyı yenilgiye uğrattığı yerlerde ara onu. Onun orada söylediği şarkıdan gümüş gözyaşları akıyor, çünkü o şarkı ruhtan kaynaklanmakta. İleriye ve arkaya bak, güzelliğin nerede yeşerdiğini ve tanrıçanın nerede şarkı söylediğini gör. Orada korku ve keder olabilir, ama doğru bir yürek ikisini de yener. Aradığını bulduğun zaman, aşk büyüyü bozacak ve yürek anahtarı yaratıp ışığa çıkaracaktır."
keşke daha uzun olsaydı dedim.
"Güzelliği, doğruluğu ve cesareti aramalısın. Sadece bir tanesi asla yetmez. Üçüncüsü olmadan ilk ikisi yeterli olmaz. Bilmen gerekeni kendi içinde ara ve öğren. Karanlığın en çok sakladığı şeyi bul. Işığın gölgeleri, aşkın acıyı yenilgiye uğrattığı yerlerde ara onu. Onun orada söylediği şarkıdan gümüş gözyaşları akıyor, çünkü o şarkı ruhtan kaynaklanmakta. İleriye ve arkaya bak, güzelliğin nerede yeşerdiğini ve tanrıçanın nerede şarkı söylediğini gör. Orada korku ve keder olabilir, ama doğru bir yürek ikisini de yener. Aradığını bulduğun zaman, aşk büyüyü bozacak ve yürek anahtarı yaratıp ışığa çıkaracaktır."
January 21, 2024
If Nora Roberts is my ultimate comfort author (which she is), then this trilogy is my ultimate comfort trilogy. Of the dozens of trilogies and quartets I’ve read from her, the Key trilogy is my favorite. There are others that I love, that I also return to again and again for comfort. And then there are those that I really respect, such as the Chronicle of the One. But this trilogy I respect and admire and love deeply. It just really resonates with me. And I can’t believe I’ve never reviewed it!
Our story begins with three very different women from the same small town being invited to a mysterious mansion on a dark and stormy night. There they are given a quest of mythic proportions: find three keys to free the souls of three demigoddesses over the course of three months, and each woman will win a million dollars. But, of course, there are stakes. Should they accept the quest but fail to deliver, they will each lose an undisclosed year of their lives. The women, Mallory, Dana, and Zoe, must believe in the seemingly impossible and band together in order to complete their task and win the prize.
Our main character of this first book is Mallory, an art dealer with the heart and soul of an artist who has always mourned the fact that she doesn’t have the gift to produce great art herself. But she takes her love for art and shares it with the world in a different way, helping others find the art that speaks to them. I love the way Nora describes art. The power of it. The making of it. The love of it. She’s had many novels featuring artists and those who work with art, and I’m always wowed by the way she weaves the love her characters feel for art, and the magic of the art itself, into her stories.
As with all of Nora’s books, there is a strong romantic element. The romantic interest in this book is Flynn, a reporter running the town’s only newspaper. He and his big mutt, Moe, don’t sweep Mallory off her feet as much as literally knock them out from under her on their first meeting. Both Flynn and Moe are charming and brimming with personality, but it takes Mallory a while to warm up to them. When she does, she falls hard. And fast. I really like the progression of their relationship, and their dynamic with one another. They just click.
I also love the friendship that buds between Mallory, Dana, and Zoe. I also absolutely adore the business venture they embark upon together in the form of Indulgence, a combination art gallery, bookstore, and salon. It just sounds incredible, and is the fictional shop I have daydreamed about the most in my life. One of Nora’s strengths as a writer is her easy way with poetic descriptions of places, and that is on brilliant display in this trilogy, not only in Indulgence, but in the houses of our various characters as well as Warrior’s Peak, the aforementioned mysterious mansion. Nora paints beautiful pictures with her words here.
While I’m sure there are plenty of legitimate critiques that could be made of this book and the rest of the trilogy, I have no notes for this story. It’s an incredibly subjective 5 stars. I just love the Key trilogy so much. It’s something I can sink back into anytime I need something cozy, and it’s a story that I think about frequently. If you’ve ever thought about reading a Nora Roberts trilogy but didn’t know which one to try first, start here!
Our story begins with three very different women from the same small town being invited to a mysterious mansion on a dark and stormy night. There they are given a quest of mythic proportions: find three keys to free the souls of three demigoddesses over the course of three months, and each woman will win a million dollars. But, of course, there are stakes. Should they accept the quest but fail to deliver, they will each lose an undisclosed year of their lives. The women, Mallory, Dana, and Zoe, must believe in the seemingly impossible and band together in order to complete their task and win the prize.
Our main character of this first book is Mallory, an art dealer with the heart and soul of an artist who has always mourned the fact that she doesn’t have the gift to produce great art herself. But she takes her love for art and shares it with the world in a different way, helping others find the art that speaks to them. I love the way Nora describes art. The power of it. The making of it. The love of it. She’s had many novels featuring artists and those who work with art, and I’m always wowed by the way she weaves the love her characters feel for art, and the magic of the art itself, into her stories.
As with all of Nora’s books, there is a strong romantic element. The romantic interest in this book is Flynn, a reporter running the town’s only newspaper. He and his big mutt, Moe, don’t sweep Mallory off her feet as much as literally knock them out from under her on their first meeting. Both Flynn and Moe are charming and brimming with personality, but it takes Mallory a while to warm up to them. When she does, she falls hard. And fast. I really like the progression of their relationship, and their dynamic with one another. They just click.
I also love the friendship that buds between Mallory, Dana, and Zoe. I also absolutely adore the business venture they embark upon together in the form of Indulgence, a combination art gallery, bookstore, and salon. It just sounds incredible, and is the fictional shop I have daydreamed about the most in my life. One of Nora’s strengths as a writer is her easy way with poetic descriptions of places, and that is on brilliant display in this trilogy, not only in Indulgence, but in the houses of our various characters as well as Warrior’s Peak, the aforementioned mysterious mansion. Nora paints beautiful pictures with her words here.
While I’m sure there are plenty of legitimate critiques that could be made of this book and the rest of the trilogy, I have no notes for this story. It’s an incredibly subjective 5 stars. I just love the Key trilogy so much. It’s something I can sink back into anytime I need something cozy, and it’s a story that I think about frequently. If you’ve ever thought about reading a Nora Roberts trilogy but didn’t know which one to try first, start here!
February 27, 2022
1.5 stars
though the treasure hunt for keys in this novel was slightly interesting the plot in general was pretty boring and stupid, the characters were all stupid (I especially hated all the love interests) and the book is just filled with weird comments about masculinity and femininity, like how the main character is a professional female because she can walk in heels. it was just very boring and eye-roll worthy. also it kept changing perspectives in the middle of paragraphs which was annoying.
though the treasure hunt for keys in this novel was slightly interesting the plot in general was pretty boring and stupid, the characters were all stupid (I especially hated all the love interests) and the book is just filled with weird comments about masculinity and femininity, like how the main character is a professional female because she can walk in heels. it was just very boring and eye-roll worthy. also it kept changing perspectives in the middle of paragraphs which was annoying.
February 14, 2015
I know Nora Roberts pretty much has a formula and I know that some of this book followed the formula but there was something about this one that I really, really loved. I love the 3 main characters and how they have formed an instant friendship, I love the 3 love interests (all have been introduced in this book), love the story, the myth behind the keys, the atmosphere, the writing. I enjoyed the romance and how it played out, too. Oh, and I can't forget Moe, the dog! He cracked me up a few times.
I can't wait to continue this trilogy.
I can't wait to continue this trilogy.
February 17, 2020
When three Celtic goddesses have their souls stolen by an evil Wizard, a trio of mortal women set out on a quest, to find the keys to unlock the box in which the souls are kept.
Reading this first book of the trilogy was such fun that I can't wait to move right along to book 2.
Highly recommended to fans of myth and magic!
Reading this first book of the trilogy was such fun that I can't wait to move right along to book 2.
Highly recommended to fans of myth and magic!
July 7, 2018
The Key Trilogy is about a very old curse and a prophecy, about three women who each in turn, have to find a key to free the soul of young goddess imprisoned for years in an other dimension.
Manager for an art gallery where things are not going so great with a new collegue, Malory Price received a mysterious invitation for an evening at the mansion Warrior's Peak. It's a little bit strange since she doesn't know anyone living there and the people she know didn't get the invitation but her curiosity lead her there anyway, where she'll meet the only other two women who were invited. Their hosts, a beautiful woman and impressive man, show them a painting and tell them a story about gods and goddesses, magic, hex, keys and explain to them why they have been choosen to try to release the three sister's souls. Malory and the two women who fast become her friends doesn't really believe in the fantasy story, but for a fortune they're ready to accept the challenge. But some people will make them believe that there's something else behind the concrete and tangible and soon, Malory, Dana and Zoe are not the only one who'll find themselves mingled in this story. A startling encounter with a smooth-talking journalist and his invasive dog will make sure that Malory's life take a complete different direction.
If the Dream Trilogy was my best contemporary series by Nora Roberts, the Key is my favorite of her in the paranormal, and I understand why because I can see a lot of similarities between the two. It's still pretty much contemporary but with just a little touch of magic so forget world building and the likes. And I think that if you're too practical and too plausibility oriented, there's a chance you won't like this book because you have to believe that the three women accepted the assignment after hearing a crazy story and didn't even believe in it or that Malory and Flynn felt in love in less than a week. I'm a pretty realistic person (too much, even) but I can be convinced to believe in the impossible from time to time ;p
I liked the laid-back and flirty attitude of Flynn and how it was almost as if his dog choose the girl for him. And one of the best part of the MC courtship was the fact he seemed to have the upper hand with the pace of their relationship at the beginning and then she turned the table on him and he was the hesitant one. I know it doesn't sound very cute nor romantic the way I put it but I like that the characters and us can be surprised. And so happy to read again the outset of the romance between my favorite Key's couple,Zoe and Brad. :)
Manager for an art gallery where things are not going so great with a new collegue, Malory Price received a mysterious invitation for an evening at the mansion Warrior's Peak. It's a little bit strange since she doesn't know anyone living there and the people she know didn't get the invitation but her curiosity lead her there anyway, where she'll meet the only other two women who were invited. Their hosts, a beautiful woman and impressive man, show them a painting and tell them a story about gods and goddesses, magic, hex, keys and explain to them why they have been choosen to try to release the three sister's souls. Malory and the two women who fast become her friends doesn't really believe in the fantasy story, but for a fortune they're ready to accept the challenge. But some people will make them believe that there's something else behind the concrete and tangible and soon, Malory, Dana and Zoe are not the only one who'll find themselves mingled in this story. A startling encounter with a smooth-talking journalist and his invasive dog will make sure that Malory's life take a complete different direction.
If the Dream Trilogy was my best contemporary series by Nora Roberts, the Key is my favorite of her in the paranormal, and I understand why because I can see a lot of similarities between the two. It's still pretty much contemporary but with just a little touch of magic so forget world building and the likes. And I think that if you're too practical and too plausibility oriented, there's a chance you won't like this book because you have to believe that the three women accepted the assignment after hearing a crazy story and didn't even believe in it or that Malory and Flynn felt in love in less than a week. I'm a pretty realistic person (too much, even) but I can be convinced to believe in the impossible from time to time ;p
I liked the laid-back and flirty attitude of Flynn and how it was almost as if his dog choose the girl for him. And one of the best part of the MC courtship was the fact he seemed to have the upper hand with the pace of their relationship at the beginning and then she turned the table on him and he was the hesitant one. I know it doesn't sound very cute nor romantic the way I put it but I like that the characters and us can be surprised. And so happy to read again the outset of the romance between my favorite Key's couple,Zoe and Brad. :)
December 28, 2024
Key of Light
3.5 Stars
Fate brings three women together for a chance to unlock their deepest desires. On the first of three dangerous quests, Malory Price, who has the soul of an artist and an eye for beauty, must find the Key of Light that could fulfill her destiny...or forever destroy her life.
The intriguing mythology and quest atmosphere almost compensate for the lackluster romance.
The paranormal elements are more low-key as compared to Roberts� other series in this genre: The Sign of Seven and Circle trilogies. There is enough detail in the mythology to whet the appetite but it is not sufficiently developed. The connection between the main female characters and the magical sisters whose souls are ensnared remains unclear by the end of the book, but will hopefully be explained by the end of the series.
While Flynn and Malory are likeable characters, their relationship lacks chemistry. It also seems to undergo a confusing role reversal halfway through with Flynn becoming quite hesitant after being the initial instigator and aggressor, as opposed to Malory, who was uninterested at first, becoming the pursuer. Moreover, Flynn’s contribution to the quest is virtually non-existent other than the fact that he is friends with the men who will feature in the sequels.
The secondary characters and the dialogue are the strong points of the book. The other two couples have more sizzle in their relationships and the witty banter, especially between Malory and her gay friend from the art gallery, make this a worthwhile read.
Key of Light is a decent beginning to the overall story arc, which is interesting enough to entice me to continue reading.
3.5 Stars
Fate brings three women together for a chance to unlock their deepest desires. On the first of three dangerous quests, Malory Price, who has the soul of an artist and an eye for beauty, must find the Key of Light that could fulfill her destiny...or forever destroy her life.
The intriguing mythology and quest atmosphere almost compensate for the lackluster romance.
The paranormal elements are more low-key as compared to Roberts� other series in this genre: The Sign of Seven and Circle trilogies. There is enough detail in the mythology to whet the appetite but it is not sufficiently developed. The connection between the main female characters and the magical sisters whose souls are ensnared remains unclear by the end of the book, but will hopefully be explained by the end of the series.
While Flynn and Malory are likeable characters, their relationship lacks chemistry. It also seems to undergo a confusing role reversal halfway through with Flynn becoming quite hesitant after being the initial instigator and aggressor, as opposed to Malory, who was uninterested at first, becoming the pursuer. Moreover, Flynn’s contribution to the quest is virtually non-existent other than the fact that he is friends with the men who will feature in the sequels.
The secondary characters and the dialogue are the strong points of the book. The other two couples have more sizzle in their relationships and the witty banter, especially between Malory and her gay friend from the art gallery, make this a worthwhile read.
Key of Light is a decent beginning to the overall story arc, which is interesting enough to entice me to continue reading.
December 11, 2013
When perfect strangers Malory, Zoe, and Dana all receive a mysterious summons to the local historical mansion Warrior's Peak, none of them quite know what to expect. But once they get talking they discover they are more alike than they realized. They are all down on their luck in terms of employment, they live nearby, and are all single. But there is something more mysterious that links them together as well. Age old secrets, legends, and destinies bind them together on a quest to rid the world of an ancient evil and set right a wrong that began long long ago. As long as the women are up to the task.
I think this is absolutely my FAVORITE Nora Roberts book I have read so far! It was fantastic! It had so many wonderful elements incorporated into it! Magic, romance, fate, suspense, mythology, quests...what more could a girl ask for? And as much as I loved the story, I really was head over heels for the characters, especially Dana. They all seemed so real and so easy to identify with, I felt myself so caught up in the story I never wanted it to end!
I am really excited about the next book in the trilogy!
I think this is absolutely my FAVORITE Nora Roberts book I have read so far! It was fantastic! It had so many wonderful elements incorporated into it! Magic, romance, fate, suspense, mythology, quests...what more could a girl ask for? And as much as I loved the story, I really was head over heels for the characters, especially Dana. They all seemed so real and so easy to identify with, I felt myself so caught up in the story I never wanted it to end!
I am really excited about the next book in the trilogy!
July 4, 2018
I finished this book for 3 days. Malory Price was such a professional and straight-to-the-point lady. But she has a wild side, and seductive. LMAO. I appreciate this kind of novel because of the mystery. The power relies on their abilities. :) love it.
September 30, 2015
Great Feel Good Book
I LOVE escaping into Nora's world. Where everyone has a quick whit and amazing sex. Who needs more then that?
I LOVE escaping into Nora's world. Where everyone has a quick whit and amazing sex. Who needs more then that?
December 30, 2020
This is easily one of my favorite series of hers, I love the characters and their relationships and this magical story line.
June 11, 2022
Great book! Somehow never had this trilogy before so it made it even more interesting. The author has a great way of bringing strangers together for a common quest.
February 10, 2023
It's a great book
September 14, 2014
Malory Price wasn't the smartest cookie in a bag of treats. Though she had a college degree and had made her mark at a prestigious art gallery, she spilled coffee on her boss's new temperamental wife. It was an accident! Uh. Huh. And she managed to get on the young woman's bad side by disagreeing with her 'improvements' that she had made within the business. To top it off she had issues with spending her paychecks and didn't have a dime to show for it. So it came as very little surprise when she was fired dismissed from her job.
But all of this was nothing compared with the very unusual evening she had just spent with Pitte and Rowena, two unusual 'people' whom offered her a hard-to-pass-up deal. And let us not forget that she made some new friendships with Dana and Zoe: her cohorts with this adventure.
Lastly, there was Flynn and Moe: an attractive man -Dana's stepbrother- and his mutant-size dog. I enjoyed Moe. He was friendly, goofy and lovable. When the story's pacing felt erratic at times, Moe gave me reason to regroup and continue reading.
And yes, there was quite a bit going on: chick-lit, paranormal fiction, fantasy-adventure, contemporary romance, mythology/magic involved and friendship-bonding were just a few of the genres. Of course, Moe gave it some light humorous moments. And for the first two-thirds of the story I was kept interested. At times, Malory came across a little too sharp with Flynn and then she was confused. That, and the same pacing I mentioned earlier caused some bumps and grinds for the last third of the book. IMHO, I thought there was just too much going on.
Did I like it? Yes, it had its moments. Could Ms. Roberts have written a smoother storyline? Absolutely. Will I give the next book a try? I am still interested. Just be sure and read this book before starting the other two: it feels like everyone has a connection. *And you may want to put little weight on my review because the majority of 30,000+ people thought this story was wonderful.*
Now it is Dana's turn to find a key.
But all of this was nothing compared with the very unusual evening she had just spent with Pitte and Rowena, two unusual 'people' whom offered her a hard-to-pass-up deal. And let us not forget that she made some new friendships with Dana and Zoe: her cohorts with this adventure.
Lastly, there was Flynn and Moe: an attractive man -Dana's stepbrother- and his mutant-size dog. I enjoyed Moe. He was friendly, goofy and lovable. When the story's pacing felt erratic at times, Moe gave me reason to regroup and continue reading.
And yes, there was quite a bit going on: chick-lit, paranormal fiction, fantasy-adventure, contemporary romance, mythology/magic involved and friendship-bonding were just a few of the genres. Of course, Moe gave it some light humorous moments. And for the first two-thirds of the story I was kept interested. At times, Malory came across a little too sharp with Flynn and then she was confused. That, and the same pacing I mentioned earlier caused some bumps and grinds for the last third of the book. IMHO, I thought there was just too much going on.
Did I like it? Yes, it had its moments. Could Ms. Roberts have written a smoother storyline? Absolutely. Will I give the next book a try? I am still interested. Just be sure and read this book before starting the other two: it feels like everyone has a connection. *And you may want to put little weight on my review because the majority of 30,000+ people thought this story was wonderful.*
Now it is Dana's turn to find a key.
April 10, 2019
The first book of an older Nora Roberts Paranormal/Fantasy trilogy. I found it slow, ponderous filled with metaphorical and esoteric stuff. Lots of space filled, but little action.
Malory Price and two other women have received invitations to Warrior's Peak, a local mansion that had long been uninhabited. She is wary, but curious about the new inhabitants, especially as the invitation comes after a horrid day that will likely cost her job as manager of The Gallery. Maybe if she can snag them as customers, she can keep her job.
The tale and proposition Malory hears is nothing short of fantasy. But all three women agree and Malory is chosen as the first to embark on the quest to free three sleeping demi-goddesses whose mortal souls placed under lock and key. The three women are tasked with finding the three keys to unlock their souls. If they also find three guys along the way, so much the better.
Malory Price and two other women have received invitations to Warrior's Peak, a local mansion that had long been uninhabited. She is wary, but curious about the new inhabitants, especially as the invitation comes after a horrid day that will likely cost her job as manager of The Gallery. Maybe if she can snag them as customers, she can keep her job.
The tale and proposition Malory hears is nothing short of fantasy. But all three women agree and Malory is chosen as the first to embark on the quest to free three sleeping demi-goddesses whose mortal souls placed under lock and key. The three women are tasked with finding the three keys to unlock their souls. If they also find three guys along the way, so much the better.
March 2, 2011
I read this book and the two others in the series over the course of a very long weekend when I hosted a garage sale, and I mostly enjoyed it because the women were sassy, the story was fun, and it didn't make me think too hard.
I don't like it when people say that they're above certain types of writing. It's fine if you prefer certain genres, but I don't think any genre should be dismissed out of hand. Admittedly, there are a lot of romance novels that are just over-the-top, plotless, and poorly written. But I think Nora Roberts manages to give her characters enough...you know, character. You have feelings about the characters and I think that's the sign of any good writer - if they can make you give a damn.
So I liked these books, and I continue to read Nora Roberts novels (of which there are many) when they come across my path.
I don't like it when people say that they're above certain types of writing. It's fine if you prefer certain genres, but I don't think any genre should be dismissed out of hand. Admittedly, there are a lot of romance novels that are just over-the-top, plotless, and poorly written. But I think Nora Roberts manages to give her characters enough...you know, character. You have feelings about the characters and I think that's the sign of any good writer - if they can make you give a damn.
So I liked these books, and I continue to read Nora Roberts novels (of which there are many) when they come across my path.
November 27, 2020
Actually 4.5 stars
Nora Roberts starts her Key Trilogy out with a bang. Malory Price is one of three women with a destiny. She, Dana, and Zoe look just like three demigoddesses who have been in a death-like coma for centuries. Once in a generation three women come along, with the ability to find the keys to the demigoddesses coffins. This is the start of their story.
Yes, Nora Roberts paranormal trilogies tend to be fairly predictable. But that doesn't mean they're still damn good. She knows how to write romantic, mystical suspense, and to bring together characters in a way that seems logical for the story (even if it wouldn't work in the real world). I love the supporting characters, too, including the adorable dog Moe. Key of Light is a great start to a great trilogy.
Nora Roberts starts her Key Trilogy out with a bang. Malory Price is one of three women with a destiny. She, Dana, and Zoe look just like three demigoddesses who have been in a death-like coma for centuries. Once in a generation three women come along, with the ability to find the keys to the demigoddesses coffins. This is the start of their story.
Yes, Nora Roberts paranormal trilogies tend to be fairly predictable. But that doesn't mean they're still damn good. She knows how to write romantic, mystical suspense, and to bring together characters in a way that seems logical for the story (even if it wouldn't work in the real world). I love the supporting characters, too, including the adorable dog Moe. Key of Light is a great start to a great trilogy.
May 4, 2019
okay, so!
This book was fun, and a nice deviation from both school work and the dark SciFi/fantasy stuff I've been super into lately. Lisa was right; it affords the reader a nice escape into a world that keeps your interest well enough, but still provides a feel good ending. The constantly changing points of view and unclear passages of time were fairly annoying, but easily overlooked by the admittedly interesting plot and romantic love scenes. The characters are somewhat cliche and the themes and messages are beat over the reader's head, but at the end of the day it was a great escape with an empowering message of self love and discovery, and who can knock that? 3/5 for an enjoyable read, but not one I feel I *need* to own a copy of or an instant favorite.
This book was fun, and a nice deviation from both school work and the dark SciFi/fantasy stuff I've been super into lately. Lisa was right; it affords the reader a nice escape into a world that keeps your interest well enough, but still provides a feel good ending. The constantly changing points of view and unclear passages of time were fairly annoying, but easily overlooked by the admittedly interesting plot and romantic love scenes. The characters are somewhat cliche and the themes and messages are beat over the reader's head, but at the end of the day it was a great escape with an empowering message of self love and discovery, and who can knock that? 3/5 for an enjoyable read, but not one I feel I *need* to own a copy of or an instant favorite.
September 2, 2018
I recommend this book to the ones that love some mistery, action and a lot of passion mixed together.
I will try to find the books in the book stores, read them and post a review later.
The book was amazing and I loved every second of it.
To all of the fans of Nora Roberts I want to say that you must read this trilogy, it’s realy breath taking.
The book is all about magic in a world that noone believes in that anymore. And in order to find the key the three women must believe in it.
December 2, 2010
The first of the Key trilogy. Set in a fictitious Pennsylvania town, three women search to free the imprisoned souls of three demi-goddesses while trying to avoid malicious vengeful Celtic gods.
Perhaps this should really get a fourth star. I loved the characters. If you disregard the gods run amok aspect, this is a great romance. The dialog had me smiling through most of the book. Fun.
Perhaps this should really get a fourth star. I loved the characters. If you disregard the gods run amok aspect, this is a great romance. The dialog had me smiling through most of the book. Fun.
November 13, 2018
4 Stars... If I could use one word to describe this book it would be "Charming"... From the characters to the setting and storyline, it all was captivating and enchanting... The romance was a nice mix of sweet and sexy with the added element of humor to lighten it and keep it relatable... I enjoyed this introduction into this fascinating story and look forward to continuing the series.:)
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April 2, 2018I don't know how I missed this Nora Roberts trilogy, but I did! Loved it. I'm a sucker for romance and Irish mythology! :)
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