Barrayar

Extract: Cordelia is a war hero from Beta Colony and pregnant. She is married to Aral Vorkosigan, an admiral from Beta Colony's former enemy, Barrayar. The admiral becomes regent for the child emperor, plunging the couple and their unborn child into constant danger from coup and assassination attempts. Full of political intrigue, plot twists, and delicious humor, Bujold delivers a fine example of what a great space opera should be.