Yes, _The Warrior's Apprentice_ is an excellent starting point.
As to chronological order--most of the books stand on their own, but there is a story arc beginning with _Brothers in Arms_ and ending with _A Civil Campaign_ that I think helps to read in order. _Ethan of Athos_, _Cetaganda_, _The Vor Game_, and _Borders of Infinity_ can IMO be read at any point, because there are only glancing references to their content in other books. The last 2 books (_Diplomatic Immunity_ and _Cryoburn_) stand pretty well on their own, although backstory helps.
I hear the next book is going to feature Ivan and I can't freakin' wait.
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