Following on the recent George R.R. Martin recommendation here is a sci-fi series with a similar feel. Piers Anthony, better known for his light Xanth fantasy series, spins an emotional yarn with twists that are difficult to predict. One novel will end leaving you distraught while another ends on glorious upbeat note. Be prepared to have your heart strings tugged as you are sucked into a space opera with serious plot twists.

[ Note - Apparently this is out of print! Hustle on down to your local used book store! -Rek ]