I liked A Civil Campaign at the time, but I agree with your criticisms. I have no comments on Diplomatic Immunity because I'm not even sure I can remember thing one about the story--it just left no impression on me at all.
I deeply dislike Bujold's handling of Dono, which is so "Oh gosh! Look at the shiny trans* person! Let's treat the sex change and gender role problems in Barrayar and role adjustments as an opportunity for juvenile humor!" I look at that character and mostly I feel stabbed, although I realize Bujold doesn't know I exist and has no reason to care.
no subject
Date: 2012-06-23 01:39 am (UTC)I deeply dislike Bujold's handling of Dono, which is so "Oh gosh! Look at the shiny trans* person! Let's treat the sex change and gender role problems in Barrayar and role adjustments as an opportunity for juvenile humor!" I look at that character and mostly I feel stabbed, although I realize Bujold doesn't know I exist and has no reason to care.