New York Times bestseller! When handsome Ivan Vorpatril reluctantly agrees to help Barrayar’s undercover security keep an eye on a young woman in danger, he is drawn into a tangled network of intrigue and unlikely romance. The job description did not include arrest warrants from the local police or being caught in the endless schemes of warring Houses from Jackson’s Whole. Returning to Barrayar with the young lady, both are faced with choices and challenges neither had expected. Booklist Starred Review (FULL REVIEW) “Bujold continues to prove what marvels genius can create out of basic space operatics.” - Library Journal “Bujold is not just a master of plot, she is a master of emotion.” - SF Site “Bujold is one of the best writers of SF adventure to come along in years.” - Locus Magazine “A superb craftsman and stylist, Ms. Bujold is well on her way to becoming one of the great voices of speculative fiction.” - Rave Reviews Caffrey “Bujold has a gift, nearly unique in science fiction, for the comedy of manners.” - Chicago Sun Times “Superb far-future saga.” - Publishers Weekly on the 'Vorkosigan' series Bujold's