Zahra IbSada is a talented medicant on the planet of Irustan. In a nation where women"s rights are drastically restricted, her job allows her to see much joy-and pain-in the lives of the women she heals. A wife is brutally beaten. A prostitute suffers at the hands of her employers. And her best friend Kalen struggles to save her daughter from a cruel marriage. She begs Zahra for help. Although Karen"s plan goes against her medicant vows, Zahra reluctantly agrees. But this silent act of terrorism will have far-reaching consequences-for herself, and for all the women of her planet... --Like The Handmaid"s Tale, this brilliantly original fable transcends the sf and fantasy genre-a unique vision with great commercial appeal "A dark, richly imagined tale...a thoughtful meditation upon the dangers of fanaticism and the strength of the human spirit." -Sharon Shinn, author of Archangel "Marley makes her writing sing." -Everett Herald "Marley shows a real feel for the elements that make fantasy (and science fantasy) popular." -Locus "Louise Marley"s knowledge of music and story make for a stunning combination of talent." -Greg Bear "A writer of considerable talent." -The New York Review of Science Fiction