The Warrior's Apprentice

In this lively coming-of-age story, 17-year-old Miles Vorkosigan faces a series of unexpected challenges after failing his military academy entrance exams and dealing with personal loss. Sent to visit his grandmother on Beta Colony, Miles adopts the guise of a mercenary leader, gathering a diverse crew and navigating political intrigue. As rumors of his activities spread, he must return home quickly to confront a looming threat to his family and his world.