science fiction with a reassignment backfire plot

[sixbeforelunch]

I'm looking for science fiction novels that have an element of reassignment backfire (TV Tropes warning) where a protagonist is sent to a backwater or otherwise given an undesirable assignment and ends up coming up on top in some way or another. I'm open to (but by no means specifically asking for) Star Trek books.

Comments

[themis]

I think most of the Moist Discworld books fit this description. And the latest Watch/Vimes book, too - Snuff (maybe The Fifth Elephant and Jingo?). Although with Vimes it's less, "here's a shitty situation, you're in charge!" and more stumbling into it when you're out of your comfort zone.

[sixbeforelunch]

Thanks! I remember trying a Discworld book once a very long time ago and not being into it, but I might give them another shot.