This is a novel that changed the game for women characters in science fiction, and the women who write science fiction. A daring novel for its time that still retains that same sort of power, it is a complex and highly intelligent read about one women's quest in the far future to find her father and her own identity, to find her destiny and make a difference in her world, to be a catalyst for change. Herein Janet Morris deals with issues of women's equality to men, their sexuality, the power of it, and how, in the simplest of terms, beauty, brains and sex can make a combination as potent as any nuclear blast. If memory serves, I think this novel was first promoted as a new breed of Sword and Planet, and later it was labeled Sword and Romance. What it is at its core is speculative fiction, futurist fiction that takes a serious, hard look at the universe surrounding it, and the main character of Estri and her place in it. She is an aristocrat who becomes and outcast, then a slave, then a ruler. Like all of Morris' books, there is a lot to think about in High Couch of Silistra -- questions of philosophy, sociology, sexuality, and governmental rule. Action and adventure? There is plenty of that. But this book was also carefully devised and structured, well plotted and deeply thought out. This is not a book for kids or for readers looking for a simple, pulp-action space adventure. The issues are real, the characters are real, and you will either find yourself agreeing with the politics and point of view; themes and questions will provoke careful consideration in the reader, and the story will make you think. Is the sexual content explicit or not? I don't think so, but you be the judge of that. I think Morris has handled the violence and sexuality was just the right touch, as she always manages to do. This book was ahead of its time upon its first publication, and while we have caught up to certain aspects of this novel, society still has a long way to go, and much of what passes for science fiction these days is still lagging far behind this novel. In my opinion, it has not aged at all and holds up even better than I had expected, a fitting tribute to a writer who books never grow old or outdated.
What a remarkable feminist text. The fact that this was originally published in 1977 is absolutely astounding. I found this book to be similar and far superior to the oft praised "The Handmaid's Tale" (published in 1985). In my opinion, "The Handmaid's Tale" is a very masculine interpretation of femininity (which includes absolute sexual domination). "High Couch" on the other hand, explores the idea of female dominance through sexuality.I can only imagine what it must have been like to read this in 1977. There are some very complex scenes, where the protagonist is essentially raped (these moments are not given in graphic detail, but are merely plot elements). However, these scenes are highly ambiguous, and even the character's interpretations of these moments will have you contemplating them for days. The author, Janet Morris, has created a time capsule which demonstrates the mindset of powerful women back in 1977. The surprise is that the mindset revealed is not so different than the modern one. I think that only recently has our cultural perspective evolved enough to give this novel its due. Less perceptive readers will probably not even be able to recognize this book as a feminist text even today...much less in 1977. However, I feel that this book is even more important than "The Handmaid's Tale." Perhaps we'll see "High Couch" in college courses in another 50 years or so (that it would eventually displace "Handmaid's" is inevitable in my opinion). I also caught a bit of the same vibe I experienced when reading "Dune" (originally published in 1968). On an SF level, there is magic here and the world-building is first rate. However, I was far more captivated by a talented female author approaching a dialogue of sexuality within a novel written in the 70s. Very, very interesting work.The writing too is top notch. I read a lot of books, and usually after a couple pages I find myself skimming while keeping an eye out for the plot points I know are coming. Not the case here, this is a novel that makes you put off all other tasks so you can concentrate fully on every word. Give it a look, and prepare to have your mind blown!
What do You think about High Couch Of Silistra (1980)?
High Couch of Silistra by Janet Morris. Wow! I happily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I have to say it was uniquely interesting, and found it hard to put down. The well-written main character, Estri Hadrath Diet Estrazi, reeks of sexuality. She runs into many complex situations, some of which are quite violent. “Silistra was the catalyst to the sexual revolution in the year twenty-two thousand seven hundred and four Bipedal Federate Standard Time.” That line alone grabbed my attention right from the start. I'm not one to give out spoilers as plenty of other reviewers have fleshed it out quite well. But if you love sci-fi fantasy, eroticism, violence, and adventure, you won't want to miss this one. It will not disappoint!! This is book one in a quartet, and looking forward to book two. I give it high marks, and wish I could give more.
—Deborah McClatchey
