"A literary science fiction novel that is quite good"
In a future Morocco, slavery is legal, an institution
deeply ingrained into the fiber of society. Slaves are
jessed, given mind-altering drugs that make them loyal and
eager to please their master. Hariba, born into poverty in
the NEKROPOLIS, actually lived with her family in adjoining
crypts until her brother was caught in the sin of
adultery. He was flogged and sentenced to thirteen years
in prison. Hariba fearing any deep emotion sold herself into
slavery and was jessed to her new master Mbarek. She
becomes a housekeeper in his home where she meets the
biological construct Akhmim. Despite herself, and knowing
any relationship between them is illegal, she falls for
him. When she is resold, she runs away from her new
masters, taking Akhmim with her. Unless they can find a
way to be smuggled into a country where slavery is illegal,
even for Chimeras like Akhmim, the two risk capture and
death at the hands of the authorities. Maureen F. McHugh has written a literary science
fiction novel that will be enjoyed by fans of Ursula
LeGuin. The story line is riveting, but what makes this
work so very special is the way slavery is accepted by both
slave and master alike. The subcultures of the biological
constructs raise interesting social and ethical issues,
especially what constitutes humanity. This is a novel that
makes readers think and ponder their own values system.
Ms. McHugh is going to be a giant in the science fiction
genre. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted August 19, 2001
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