The Warrior's Apprentice
It was three stars most of the way, but the ending cleared the bar. Bujold can really end a book. I have less to say about this one than [b:Barrayar|61905|Barrayar (Vorkosigan Saga, #2)|Lois McMaster Bujold|http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348837985s/61905.jpg|3036422], which was written later but comes earlier in the story, so I'm going to wait and hopefully write about that one first. I know. Pins and needles.
 - Lois McMaster Bujold)