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A review by susanscribs
Gentleman Jole and the Red Queen by Lois McMaster Bujold
4.0
I've seen several reviews from die-hard Vorkosigan fans crying foul that Lois McMaster Bujold is ret-conning the relationship between Aral and Cordelia and betraying the series' integrity. As a casual reader of the series, I don't have such serious loyalty to Vorkosigan canon. I found this book to be a charming, beautiful reflection on grief, aging, love and parenting. The plot is heavy on relationships and light on swashbuckling action, but it is still filled with trademark Bujold humor and wisdom. And what a pleasure to read about a sexual relationship between two adults of a mature age that isn't played for laughs.
Yes, Gentleman Jole and the Red Queen provides a different perspective on the relationship between Aral and Cordelia that began in Shards of Honor and that may make some readers uncomfortable. But watching Cordelia find happiness again (not to mention having a glimpse of Miles Vorkosigan's bewilderment at being father of six) is a very satisfying experience.
Yes, Gentleman Jole and the Red Queen provides a different perspective on the relationship between Aral and Cordelia that began in Shards of Honor and that may make some readers uncomfortable. But watching Cordelia find happiness again (not to mention having a glimpse of Miles Vorkosigan's bewilderment at being father of six) is a very satisfying experience.