The second book and the first step into a larger narrative. 
 Having gained a modicum of prestige Honor gets a brand new ship and a new set of orders. With the tension rising between the Republic of Haven and Manticore, the need for allies increases. Enter the strategically situated but technological backwards planet Grayson. Honor and her command are part of the military side, of the show-and- tell to impress and negotiate her way into an alliance. 
 Except there is a bit of a problem Grayson woman don't serve in the military, of politics, or any other high position.... And Honor is most definitely military and female. 
 Yet again Weber wrote an excellent book. The characters are all lifelike with their own ideas, motivations and all the strengths and weaknesses of real people. The ideological conflicts are well represented from the characters themselves and make for an awesome read. 
 Oh and there are space battles, lots and lots of battles! 
 *edit: 
 Second time just as good!