ISBN: 0-7432-3533-8 Order from: Amazon.com
An excellent, fast-moving adventure combining science fiction, politics, crime investigation and some fine characters.
Reviewed by David on May 13, 2002
Genre: Science Fiction (Intrigue, Biology, Police Procedural)
Synopsis: Miles Vorkosigan is the youngest of Barayaran Imperial Auditors. Part special envoy, part investigator, the Auditor traditionally is the Voice of the Emperor where tha latter can't travel himself.
Recently married to Ekaterin, Miles belated honeymoon trip is interrupted when Emperor Gregor sends him to straighten out a mess, this time outside the Imperial borders.
Playing the diplomat is not easy when tempers are strained, and weapons have been fired. But the situation becomes even trickier when old allies, and older enemies stir up the pot.
Full Review: Bujold has written several books about the future full of conflict, commerce, and occasional humor. Starting with the superb Shards of Honor, the captivating Vorkosigans and their loves, friends and enemies have made many fans.
In this novel Bojuld returns Miles to the more traditional role of problem solving in the middle of tense, complex, mysterious and deadly situation. Miles barely stumbles over new mysteries, unexpected old friends with conflicted loyalties, limitations and strengths of his own countrymen, and deadly plots of determined enemies. His obstacle course is as full of dangers as it is of satisfaction, and the plot suits Miles' manic, brilliant personality.
The novel is fun, both complex and streamlined, with likable, well-portrayed characters, a number of acquitances from previous novels. The characters are significantly developed, almot in passing, and the protagonist is both stressed and rewarded.
This very enjoyable novel can stand on its own, although I would recommend starting with Shards of Honor, or at least Warrior's Apprentice for those new to the Vorkosigan Saga.
Universe: Vorkosiverse
Overall: 7; Plot: 7; Characters: 7.5; Style: 7; World-building: 6.5; Originality: 6.5;
Copyright date 2002, Baen, May 2002, Cloth, 311 pages
ISBN: 0-7432-3533-8 Order from: Amazon.com