Memory (Bujold novel)

Memory is a science fiction novel by Lois McMaster Bujold, first published in October 1996. It is a part of the Vorkosigan Saga, and is the eleventh full-length novel in publication order.

Plot summary

While leading the Dendarii Mercenaries on a hostage rescue mission, Miles has a seizure -- which results in his accidentally severing the rescued hostage's legs. Terrified of the consequences if Simon Illyan finds out, Miles falsifies the mission report. However, Illyan has spies among the Dendarii, and Miles is forced to resign from Imperial Security (ImpSec).

Meanwhile, Emperor Gregor, after years of refusing to marry any of the tall, slim, eligible Barrayaran ladies paraded in front of him by Alys Vorpatril, unexpectedly falls in love with a short, voluptuous Komarran, Laisa Toscane, a wealthy heiress and member of a Komarran economic delegation.

When Illyan suffers a sudden, crippling mental impairment, Miles suspects it is not natural. His attempts to investigate are blocked by ImpSec's acting chief, so he asks Gregor to assign an Imperial Auditor (a top-level troubleshooter with practically unlimited authority and answerable only to the Emperor). Gregor unexpectedly makes Miles himself a temporary Auditor.

After Miles unravels the devious crime in remarkably quick time, his appointment is made permanent.

Awards

Memory was nominated for the Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Awards in 1997.^[1]

References