Daughters of a Coral Dawn

"Daughters of a Coral Dawn," by Katherine V. Forrest, tells the story of a collective of women who leave Earth to start an all-female society on the distant planet which they name Maternas. The book is a blend of science fiction and lesbian romance novel. Although hokey at times, it's an enjoyable book that has some effective touches of light humor.One aspect of the book that rings false is Forrest's vision of a future Earth gripped by sexism and institutional anti-lesbianism. It seems absurd that humanity could evolve to the point of having interstellar travel and still be crippled by such societal backwardness. But the book does have a copyright date of 1984, so this skewed look at the future may just reflect the reality of the time it was written.At times the romance aspect of the book is a bit too flowery for my taste. But the sweep of Forrest's overall vision really carries the tale. There are moments of real excitement and passages of genuine poetic beauty. "Daughters" is a worthy addition to that canon of sci-fi novels that explore human gender and sexuality (such as LeGuin's "The Left Hand of Darkness" and Sturgeon's "Venus Plus X").

I loved reading this book. It was impossible to put down. At first the relationships were strange, but I got over it and couldn't stop reading. Who wouldn't want to live in a new world with beautiful and intelligent women?? The main characters were very interesting and I found myself lusting after the lead character. I can't wait to read Daughters of an Amber Noon... (And I was shocked to see the 2 star review from one of the readers)

I've reread this book since I bought it a few years ago. It has enjoyable, realistic characters (within a sci-fi context), a good blend of conflict with familial and personal love conquering the dysfunctional mindset of earthly greed, lust and control over women. I'd rather live in that world anyday.

One of this author's best, "Daughters of a Coral Dawn" is a pleasant, idealistic sci-fi/fantasy for women-loving women looking for a fun light read. It's a great escape and contains just the right amount of well-placed, tasteful erotica. I definitely recommend it.

This book, Daughters of a Coral Dawn is one of Katherine's finest. She brings to life the struggles women face on a day to day basis, and enlivens them with her science fiction/fantasy type story. This is a must read and re-read for anyone who loves to be picked up and taken over by a wonderful story.