You might look at my post for how I finally got hooked--I tried the two major entry points (Agent of Change and Pilot's Choice), and found Pilot's Choice hooked me because (I think) of the echoes of Regency romances mixed in with the feel of space opera.

I'd offer to loan you one at GaFilk, but I don't think I'll be willing to let them out of my hands that long! <g>