Trying to find old SF novel I read, please help ^^'

[ShameDog]

So, I am sitting up late at night, and all of a sudden am thinking back to a SF novel I read that I really liked, but I can't remember what it's called. All I remember was that the main character was captured from Earth by alien exotic pet traders. He then precedes to travel the galaxy after escaping them with other captive aliens, including a talking dog.

I'm pretty sure that it was a series of books, and the one I read involved a species that elected leaders by enacting medieval war games, and he and his companions manage to break the system and start a major coup against the current leaders. If anyone has any idea on how I could find the book, or what the name of it or the series was, I will give them an ENTIRE internet cookie. Thank you ^^

P.S. Did I also mention the main character is also a novelty chef, and he travels the galaxy entertaining alien royalty with his art? I know this sounds crazy, but it IS a real book, and I would like to finish the series if possible.

 

[Pyan]

Hi, ShameDog: welcome to the Chrons!

I've moved your post into the Book Search forum, where it's more likely to be seen and answered. In the meantime, have a fossick around the rest of the site - there's lots of interesting stuff to enjoy!

 

[TheDustyZebra]

I'm sure I've read this, whatever it may be. I'll do some thinking!

 

[ashewyntr]

Lost and Found, book 1 of The Taken Trilogy:

 

[TheDustyZebra]

Odd, I would have said my mother must have gotten me into these, but it appears the copyright is 2004-05 and that would be too late for that. I know I haven't read them in that time frame. I must have been thinking of (how on earth?) something else!

This is certainly what the OP wanted, though.