One of my favorites in the series. Bujold models the plot on a Victorian romance, and this is much less action-oriented than earlier books in the series. But with a political intrigue in parallel with the comedic butter bug storyline and all wrapped around Miles making a complete idiot of himself falling in love, it's a winning combination. It also gives Ivan a chance to become a real character and get involved in a little action too. Altogether full of great characters always in motion and never a dull moment.