Sub-Majer’s Challenge by L.E. Modesitt, Jr.
Once again, Alyiakal, succeeds when carefully maneuvered into situations that are designed to see that he fails. An ethics-driven officer in a country led by a consortium of unethical leaders, Alyiakal’s successes are startling to all of his foes and accepted as normal by his consort, Saelora.
In a male-dominated society where misogyny is accepted as normal, Alyiakal, supports Saelora in her decidedly non-feminine pursuits in trade. This support leads to a bond that transcends normality, especially when Saelora and Alyiakal discover secrets from Alyiakal’s past.
Modesitt crafts a detailed and believable world in all his series. The Saga of Recluce comprises twenty-five volumes, spanning from 1991 to the present. It is well worth your time to read all of Modesitt’s work.
I highly recommend this book.