Barrayar

By Lois McMaster Bujold,

Book cover of Barrayar

Book description

Sick of combat and betrayal, Cordelia Vorkosigan is ready to settle down to
a quiet life. But when the Emperor dies, her husband Aral becomes guardian of
the infant heir to the imperial throne of Barrayar and the target of high-tech
assassins in a dy

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Barrayar as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Shards of Honor and Barrayar form a duology within the wider Vorkosigan Saga, and starting with them both is the best way to become acquainted with the wider series universe and with the origins of Miles Vorkosigan. All of the later books refer back to events that happen in Barrayar, and one of the core conflicts of the novel is the struggle between the conservative isolationists who don’t want to integrate with the rest of the galaxy, and the liberal reformists who do. The political intrigue is extremely well done, and the adventure is superb.

From Joe's list on large galactic empires.

If you love Barrayar...

Ad

Book cover of Unreachable Skies

Unreachable Skies by Karen McCreedy,

This book (and its sequels) are about overcoming the odds; about learning to improve the skills and abilities you have, rather than dwelling on what you can't do. Conflict, plague, and scheming politicians are all featured along the way–but none of the characters are human!

Want books like Barrayar?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 99 books like Barrayar.

Browse books like Barrayar

Book cover of Dune
Book cover of Foundation
Book cover of On Basilisk Station

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,735

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in galactic empires, women in the sciences, and nobility?

Galactic Empires 12 books
Nobility 88 books