Status
Available
Call number
Publication
Baen (1989), Edition: Reissue, Mass Market Paperback
Description
Lead by Admiral Naismith (a.k.a. Lord Miles Vorkosigan), the Dendarii Mercenaries have pulled off the daring interspace rescue of an entire Cetagandan POW camp. But they have made some deadly enemies. Having finally outrun the infuriated Cetagandans, the Dendarii arrive on Earth for battle, shuttle repair, and a well deserved rest. But Miles realizes he's in trouble again. First the Mercenaries' payroll doesn't arrive on time, and then someone tries to murder him. Now Miles must juggle both his identities at once to unravel the complicated plot against him -- and to reveal an unexpected ally. Just who is trying to assassinate which of his personas, and why?
User reviews
LibraryThing member fyrefly98
Summary: Miles Naismith Vorkosigan is used to living a double life. On his home planet of Barrayar, he’s Lord Miles Vorkosigan, a member of the elite ruling and military class, and son to the second-most powerful man on the planet. Off-world, however, he’s Admiral Miles Naismith, commander of
After a nasty run-in with Cetagandan forces, the Dendarii put in at Earth for repairs. This much-needed downtime also gives Admiral Naismith the chance to lie low for a bit, considering the Cetagandans have put a substantial price on his head. But Miles isn’t used to switching back and forth between his two personas quite so often, and the strain is starting to show. And to make matters worse, a rumor – started by Miles himself in an attempt to deflect attention from his dual roles – seems to be coming true, with consequences more widespread than even Miles could have imagined.
Review: I’ve already gone on at length elsewhere about how much I enjoy Lois McMaster Bujold’s novels, both in general and the Vorkosigan Saga in particular. She creates marvelous science fiction that focuses on the people, and creates marvelous people to fill her worlds. She’s wickedly funny, with a great ear for dialogue, and can write a tight novel that contains plenty of twists and turns with minimal filler. All of that, it almost goes without saying, remains as true for Brothers in Arms as it is for the series as a whole.
One thing that I thought Brothers in Arms did particularly well, however, was show off Bujold’s skill at character development. She’s not starting from scratch; Miles is already an established character by this point in the series, and Brothers in Arms wouldn’t really work as an entry point. However, in this book, Bujold takes the character of Miles and makes him deeper and rounder, giving him layers to his personality that hadn’t been visible before, but are perfectly in tune with what we had already seen. Watching him try to maintain his multiple identities like shells around himself, while simultaneously trying to crack those shells enough to let the people he loves see the real him, was completely fascinating.
I also really enjoyed the storyline. The Vorkosigan Saga has been called space opera, but there’s really very little space to speak of in Brothers in Arms; almost the entire book is spent planetside on Old Earth. The plot’s got a definite touch of Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors about it, but it’s tempered with a sizeable dose of pathos, a few helpings of psychology, and some well-done but not overwhelming internal politics. The ethical issues about identity and personhood and individual rights that Bujold addresses in several of her other books are present as well, although they emerge naturally from the premise of the story, rather than being shoehorned in as The Moral.
Grover Gardner did his usual excellent job with the narration, with the slight exception that he’s changed his pronunciation of “Dendarii” since The Warrior’s Apprentice (he’s now pronouncing the second “i"). He’s perfectly consistent within each book, but until I got used to it, I found the switch somewhat distracting. 4 out of 5 stars.
Recommendation: As I said, Brothers in Arms is not a place to start with the series, but it was a great continuation, especially for those who – like me – prefer their science fiction with as few space battles as possible. I’m excited to see what Bujold does next with the possibilities raised in this book.
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the Dendarii Free Mercenary Fleet. Although the Dendarii are secretly funded by Barrayaran intelligence, it’s critical that Miles keep his two identities separate – not always the easiest thing when a prenatal gas attack left him with a crippled physical appearance and brittle bones that are distinctly memorable.After a nasty run-in with Cetagandan forces, the Dendarii put in at Earth for repairs. This much-needed downtime also gives Admiral Naismith the chance to lie low for a bit, considering the Cetagandans have put a substantial price on his head. But Miles isn’t used to switching back and forth between his two personas quite so often, and the strain is starting to show. And to make matters worse, a rumor – started by Miles himself in an attempt to deflect attention from his dual roles – seems to be coming true, with consequences more widespread than even Miles could have imagined.
Review: I’ve already gone on at length elsewhere about how much I enjoy Lois McMaster Bujold’s novels, both in general and the Vorkosigan Saga in particular. She creates marvelous science fiction that focuses on the people, and creates marvelous people to fill her worlds. She’s wickedly funny, with a great ear for dialogue, and can write a tight novel that contains plenty of twists and turns with minimal filler. All of that, it almost goes without saying, remains as true for Brothers in Arms as it is for the series as a whole.
One thing that I thought Brothers in Arms did particularly well, however, was show off Bujold’s skill at character development. She’s not starting from scratch; Miles is already an established character by this point in the series, and Brothers in Arms wouldn’t really work as an entry point. However, in this book, Bujold takes the character of Miles and makes him deeper and rounder, giving him layers to his personality that hadn’t been visible before, but are perfectly in tune with what we had already seen. Watching him try to maintain his multiple identities like shells around himself, while simultaneously trying to crack those shells enough to let the people he loves see the real him, was completely fascinating.
I also really enjoyed the storyline. The Vorkosigan Saga has been called space opera, but there’s really very little space to speak of in Brothers in Arms; almost the entire book is spent planetside on Old Earth. The plot’s got a definite touch of Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors about it, but it’s tempered with a sizeable dose of pathos, a few helpings of psychology, and some well-done but not overwhelming internal politics. The ethical issues about identity and personhood and individual rights that Bujold addresses in several of her other books are present as well, although they emerge naturally from the premise of the story, rather than being shoehorned in as The Moral.
Grover Gardner did his usual excellent job with the narration, with the slight exception that he’s changed his pronunciation of “Dendarii” since The Warrior’s Apprentice (he’s now pronouncing the second “i"). He’s perfectly consistent within each book, but until I got used to it, I found the switch somewhat distracting. 4 out of 5 stars.
Recommendation: As I said, Brothers in Arms is not a place to start with the series, but it was a great continuation, especially for those who – like me – prefer their science fiction with as few space battles as possible. I’m excited to see what Bujold does next with the possibilities raised in this book.
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LibraryThing member fuzzi
Miles continues to successfully juggle his dual roles until a familiar face causes all sorts of problems...including deadly ones.
I liked this installment of the Miles Vorkosigan series, especially the family aspect (I hesitate to spoil the tale with more details than this).
I liked this installment of the Miles Vorkosigan series, especially the family aspect (I hesitate to spoil the tale with more details than this).
LibraryThing member sheherazahde
The Sixth novel of the Vorkosigan Saga. It takes place immediately after the events of the short story "Borders of Infinity".
Miles and the Dendarii Free Mercenary Fleet are recovering on Earth from their last mission. There is something holding up the Dendarii payroll and it might be a Komarran
Miles and the Dendarii Free Mercenary Fleet are recovering on Earth from their last mission. There is something holding up the Dendarii payroll and it might be a Komarran
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rebel plot. Miles is having to switch back and forth between his identities as Admiral Naismith and Lieutenant Vorkosigan to sort things out. Show Less
LibraryThing member iayork
Miles Comes Down to Earth: In a hurry to escape the price the Cetadangan's have set on Admiral Naismith's head, and an ever increasing bill for repairs to ship damages and payment to personnel, Miles decides to head to Earth for a little down time. After all, what harm could there possibly be in
Soon, there are complications. The promised payment from the Imperial headquarters does not arrive. Is it Galeni's fault or is something else going on.
On top of it all, Miles has fallen head over heals for Elli Quinn. She's one of the few who know the truth behind Naismith and Miles Vorkosigan. But Miles feels his grasp of his dual character is slipping, and even starts to see and feel like a double.
A bit of an unexpected twist in this story makes it feel like McMaster Bujold is reaching somewhat. Of course we'd all have liked a bit more of her view of what Earth has become, but there's precious little of that. Still, her writing is as skillful as ever, and the characterisation and dialogue, as always, are superb. A move forward in Miles' private life is long awaited and a welcome read.
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hiding out on this old, forgotten planet?Well, for one, Earth has a Barrayaran embassy. And, lo and behold, Miles' handsome cousin Ivan just happens to be there. Miles reports into the chief of staff, Captain Galeni, who just happens to be from Komarr and whose family was butchered during the Komarr revolution. Walking on eggshells is something Miles was born to do, and he has ample opportunity to do just that.Soon, there are complications. The promised payment from the Imperial headquarters does not arrive. Is it Galeni's fault or is something else going on.
On top of it all, Miles has fallen head over heals for Elli Quinn. She's one of the few who know the truth behind Naismith and Miles Vorkosigan. But Miles feels his grasp of his dual character is slipping, and even starts to see and feel like a double.
A bit of an unexpected twist in this story makes it feel like McMaster Bujold is reaching somewhat. Of course we'd all have liked a bit more of her view of what Earth has become, but there's precious little of that. Still, her writing is as skillful as ever, and the characterisation and dialogue, as always, are superb. A move forward in Miles' private life is long awaited and a welcome read.
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LibraryThing member LisaMaria_C
Brothers in Arms is marked as the 8th work in Bujold's Vorkosigan Saga and most definitely is not the place to start. I definitely recommend the series as a whole. Miles Vorkosigan, the primary character in most of the books is a literary heart throb, and this series is about as good as space opera
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gets. I like that Miles isn't the usual handsome or brawny hero you find in this genre. Rather, like his nautical counterpart and literary ancestor Horatio Hornblower, Miles succeeds on his wits--underlined by physical disabilities from birth he's had to overcome. This book in particular depends on a recurring theme that runs through the series about identity. In the first novel featuring Miles, The Warrior's Apprentice, Miles created another persona, as the head of a mercenary space fleet. In this novel that role and the one as a Barrayar officer are clashing that goes to the heart of how Miles defines himself. Add to that Miles discovers he has a clone--one meant to replace him by his enemies--and that he has to try to make a brother. There are plenty of hints at the end that this new brother may cause plenty of problems in the future. As usual, an entertaining story, which given his double sometimes plays close to farce. Show Less
LibraryThing member satyridae
Liked this one, didn't love it. Don't get me wrong, I do in fact love Miles with all my heart, but this story wasn't quite as involving as the previous ones. I like the Elli twist, of course. And am interested to see where the Mark storyline goes.
LibraryThing member JenneB
Well, I liked that Miles finally got some real romance, and the whole clone thing was amusing, but otherwise this one was pretty forgettable.
I thought she could have done a lot more with Earth in the far future, but instead she had him locked up in the embassy most of the time--I guess so she
I thought she could have done a lot more with Earth in the far future, but instead she had him locked up in the embassy most of the time--I guess so she
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wouldn't have to figure out what it would be like. The parts we did see seemed to be not much different than now, actually. Show Less
LibraryThing member MrsLee
Mile's mercenary fleet is recuperating at Earth, set to rest and restore after a very trying and painful mission. Things will not be that easy for Miles though. Thinking he is a lone child, events will soon prove otherwise. He creates a crazy story of a renegade clone of himself to throw a reporter
I love this story arc, so much potential for the future. Miles was his usual delightful self and I found it to be a relaxing romp through future London.
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off the scent of his identity and finds out that he isn't the only one who has thought of that idea.I love this story arc, so much potential for the future. Miles was his usual delightful self and I found it to be a relaxing romp through future London.
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LibraryThing member sageness
A reread since I couldn't remember where I left off in the series. Still totally fun.
LibraryThing member StigE
The pacing in this book was a bit off and it feels a bit like a serve for the following book. Still enjoyable.
LibraryThing member jimmaclachlan
Another fun adventure with Miles. This one is set in London, on Earth, which is a bit of a backwater. Other than that, it was pretty typically Miles - kind of crazy, a bit spastic, irreverent, & definitely twisty. As usual, none of Miles' superiors are very happy with him as he undermines & usurps
There wasn't anything really new & improved in this novel though, so I can only give it 3 stars. It's probably time to take a break from the series for a bit.
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their authority through sheer intelligence, energy, & force of personality. How he does this is most of the fun.There wasn't anything really new & improved in this novel though, so I can only give it 3 stars. It's probably time to take a break from the series for a bit.
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LibraryThing member ShiraC
Not the strongest book in this series. Reminds me a bit of one of those costume comedies where the maids dress as their mistress and nobody is sure who anybody is... only not as funny. Except for the nonstop recitation of Richard III. That was funny.
LibraryThing member DeltaQueen50
It’s been some time since I last read one of Vorkosigan books and I had forgotten how much I enjoy them. Brothers In Arms follows Miles and his mercenaries as they arrive on Earth for much needed repairs and R & R. Miles drops his Admiral Naismith identity and reports to the Barrayar Imperial
When his payroll of eighteen million marks disappears his suspicion falls upon his immediate superior, Captain Galeni. Upon further investigation it appears that Galeni could be connected to a Komarran rebel force. This book brings Miles a love interest and a newly found relative that could (and I hope does) lead to many further storylines.
With humor, science and an exciting plot, the author brings us another great story. The books in this series are a mix of science fiction, political thriller, romance and mystery in various amounts depending upon the storyline. Brothers In Arms is I believe a pivotal book and I am interested in finding out in what direction the series will go from here. If you are thinking of reading this series don’t let the ghastly covers put you off, they are excellent.
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Embassy as Lieutenant Vorkosigan. Much to his surprise his cousin Ivan is also currently assigned to this embassy.When his payroll of eighteen million marks disappears his suspicion falls upon his immediate superior, Captain Galeni. Upon further investigation it appears that Galeni could be connected to a Komarran rebel force. This book brings Miles a love interest and a newly found relative that could (and I hope does) lead to many further storylines.
With humor, science and an exciting plot, the author brings us another great story. The books in this series are a mix of science fiction, political thriller, romance and mystery in various amounts depending upon the storyline. Brothers In Arms is I believe a pivotal book and I am interested in finding out in what direction the series will go from here. If you are thinking of reading this series don’t let the ghastly covers put you off, they are excellent.
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LibraryThing member bemidt
Once again, I am awe struck by the brilliance of Lois McMaster Bujold. No other sci-fi author, that I have read at least, has such a strong grasp on human emotion.
Also, I love Miles Vorkosigan. A hero who uses chaos as his main tool for getting things done? Wonderful.
Read it. Read it all!
Also, I love Miles Vorkosigan. A hero who uses chaos as his main tool for getting things done? Wonderful.
Read it. Read it all!
LibraryThing member AltheaAnn
Admiral Miles Naismith is back from an extended and successful mission leading the Dendarii mercenaries. Now, at the legendary home planet, Earth, Miles expects to be able to collect six months' pay (plus expenses) for his fleet, and do some tourism.
Unfortunately, there seems to have been a
Unfortunately for Miles, his wild story doesn't end up being nearly as far-fetched as he thought it was... and soon he's in yet another imbroglio of action and politics.
Unfortunately, there seems to have been a
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breakdown in communication regarding the position of his 'real' identity as Lord Miles Vorkosigan and his covert work for the Barrayaran Empire. No pay seems to be forthcoming, and he finds himself confined to the embassy. But would Miles obey orders meekly when he hears his men are in trouble? Of course not! He sneaks out and ends up having to concoct a ridiculous cover story about the clone who looks just like him.Unfortunately for Miles, his wild story doesn't end up being nearly as far-fetched as he thought it was... and soon he's in yet another imbroglio of action and politics.
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LibraryThing member zyphax
WOW! To awesome. This series continues to amaze.
LibraryThing member SirCrash
Classic adventure yarn where the underdog figures out how to out-clever the enemy instead of just out-shooting him. Lots of humor, but serious bits too.
LibraryThing member Tip44
reread (for the bazillionith time). This is my second most favorite Vokosigan book.
LibraryThing member Andorion
Just as good the second time around.
LibraryThing member Phrim
In Brothers in Arms, Miles gets stuck on Earth as his Dendarii fleet gets repairs and his mercenary payment from Barrayar seems to have fallen through the cracks. He is oddly reassigned in a Barrayaran capacity back to their embassy, and is forced to juggle his two personas as Admiral of the
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Dendarii and Lieutenant of Barrayar simultaneously. At one point, he comes up with a cockamamie story that the two personas are actually clones, which turns out to be prophetic as an actual secret clone of Miles shows up as part of a Komarran resistance plot. I found Miles to be a lot more relatable in this book, as I could understand why he was clashing with his Barrayaran superiors both before and after the plot was revealed. A good read. Show Less
LibraryThing member kcollett
In Brothers in Arms, Miles applies his usual forward momentum to juggling his two personae: Lieutenant Miles Vorkosigan, far down in the chain of command in the Barrayaran embassy on Earth, and Admiral Miles Naismith, commander of a highly sought after mercenary fleet with temporary cash-flow
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problems. Show Less
LibraryThing member caedocyon
Reread for the nth time. The plot is a glorious tangled mess and it all comes together beautifully. If you are into mistaken identity and comedies of errors, this is gold. Also a good precursor to Memory because we start to see how Miles' conflicting identities are affecting him.
The cover is absurd
The cover is absurd
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and kitschy, as are most of the covers for this series, and now I'm thinking about how I would design it. Show Less
LibraryThing member bemidt
Once again, I am awe struck by the brilliance of Lois McMaster Bujold. No other sci-fi author, that I have read at least, has such a strong grasp on human emotion.
Also, I love Miles Vorkosigan. A hero who uses chaos as his main tool for getting things done? Wonderful.
Read it. Read it all!
Also, I love Miles Vorkosigan. A hero who uses chaos as his main tool for getting things done? Wonderful.
Read it. Read it all!
LibraryThing member grizzle
A mission against the Cetegandan Empire in Dagoola leads to to deaths, injuries, and damage to the ships, and Miles Varkosigan is forced to stop at old Earth while the Dendarii mercenaries recover. While on Earth, Miles is required to check in with the Barrayaran Embassy and ends up for the first
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time having to juggle the roles of Admiral Naismith and Vor. To account for the similar appearances of his two personalities, Mile invents the story of a clone created by the Cetegandans. When the fiction turns out to have a grain of truth, things begin to get extremely complicated. Show Less
LibraryThing member quantum.alex
DNF'd: Characterization is solid, but world-building is too light for my taste.
Subjects
Language
Original publication date
1989-01
Physical description
338 p.; 6.6 inches
ISBN
0671697994 / 9780671697990