These two books were hands-down the best thing I have ever read in my life. Be careful though - it takes a while to get going, but halfway into the first book the universe is fully established and the thing really takes off.
Also, be extra careful as the first book ends in a cliffhanger (literally), so be prepared to read the two huge books in one go (not that you'd be able to stop anyways)
Good timing because I just started this last week after finishing Vinge's "Zones of Thought" series. I guess I'm on something of a space opera kick lately.
In that case, let me recommend the Vorkosigan saga, if you haven't read it yet. One of the best book series I've ever read, definitely the best among space opera.
Are the sequels/prequels worth reading? I read the first one last year and enjoyed it, but the follow up reviews made it seem like the others novels might spoil it.
To anyone not getting the reference, read Pandora's Star by Peter Hamilton[1]. It's a lovely read.
[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commonwealth_Saga