My Goodreads review: The Physicians of Vilnoc

The Physicians of Vilnoc by Lois McMaster Bujold

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Any new Pen & Des novella is a must-read for me, though I hesitated upon learning that it did feature a plague. I shouldn't have worried. This is another solid entry in Bujold's spinoff from her Five Gods world, though it definitely should not be a starting point for new readers. More than usual for this series, this one requires full background knowledge of the characters (though the author does include several helpful bits of recap along the way).

Aside from the medical plotline -- happy ending, no spoiler for anyone who reads Bujold regularly -- the main focus of this adventure seems to be the nitty-gritty of Pen's relationship with his highly talented demon, Desdemona. When Pen & Des encounter a new temple sorcerer & his very young demon, all four entities must manage their differences to save an army camp full of patients & ultimately discover the source of the disease.

Readers who crave nonstop action may not find this to be their favorite in the series. Those who enjoy seeing a magic system worked out with both logic & humor, however, will settle right in for another welcome visit.



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