First published 1991
Cordelia Naismith's hard-won peace is shattered when her husband's home planet erupts into civil war. Caught in the crossfire, she must protect her family and forge her own path in a society that views her as an outsider. As political factions vie for control, Cordelia's courage and cunning are tested to the limit. In the midst of the chaos, she discovers that the true battles are waged not on the battlefield, but in the hearts of those she loves.
Genres: science-fiction, fantasy, political-thriller, family-drama
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, found-family
Setting: Barrayar
389 pages · Paperback · Pan Books