The Pride of Chanur

Great start to this series! Cherryh's world building is always fantastically layered, diverse and full of detail. It shines again here in another corner of the Alliance-Union universe. Several alien species that form the "Compact" are introduced. Most of the action revolves around the Hani, a sentient large cat matriarchal society (too cool!!), and the really dastardly, backstabbing Kif as they make first contact with humanity. Lots of great political intrigue, machinations and conflict takes place, both on and off planet.