Unfortunately, this isn't one of the best entries in the series. However, given where the series has been and how Bujold has expressed the desire to show growth and change in her characters, it is inevitable that the focus had to move to other characters, and Ivan ended up being a nice choice for it. It gives a breath of fresh air to the series, and even though it's inherently more lighthearted, this hearkens back to some of the origins of the Vorkosigan saga, before Miles had kids and responsibilities (and, dare I say it, a bit of restraint).
So, how does it hold up on it's own merits?
Bujold is one of the best writers I've read lately in multiple aspect of the craft, and I can't do much but pick nits here. Here, due to the light-heartedness and the POV character (and somewhat due to the genre), we have another episode of plots threads that are driven in large part via external conflicts and circumstances. Both Ivan and Tej do have their own internal conflicts, but while they struggle with the internal ones, there really isn't much in try-fail cycles for them. Instead, we have a good rom-com in space, with events conspiring to alternately drive the couple together and then try to keep them apart.
The technical skill in the writing is excellent, and the characters are well-drawn and properly hit the right emotional notes. The circumstances flow well, and actions have consequences. Basically, all the ingredients are there... but this still falls short for me. Maybe it's overshadowed by it's more prestigious previous books (definitely true, IMO), but I also think that, considered on it's own merits, it ranks as a good story but not a great one. And, in continuing my reviews, what is needed to rank on top is a great story.
Current rankings:
1) Redshirts
2) Captain Vorpatril's Alliance
3) Crescent Moon
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