DIT_grue wrote:
Some of the Vorkosigan books by Lois McMaster Bujold
might be suitable - I think I'm thinking of
Cetaganda. (Unfortunately I haven't read all the books in the series - started perhaps six months ago, generally have to wait a few weeks for the library hold to reach the top of the list, and then they "upgrade" their database at the end of last year.

I really hate trying to use it now...)
Definately get the whole series, I got in to it when for x-mas my husband bought me
Civil Campaign. The majority of the plots are mysteries, and she doesn't overwhelm you with the tech either. Even if your father doesn't like them, read them anyway. I have loved the whole series, and I'm the sort who tends towards the fanasty more than the sci-fi.