Mira's Last Dance

In this sequel to Penric's Mission, Bujold's hero leads the betrayed and blinded General Arisaydia and his widowed sister Nikys through war-torn Cedonia into the Duchy of Orbas. As they enter the town of Sosie, however, Penric's own injuries and lack of funds force them to seek refuge in a house of ill repute. When delays cause the group to come under more scrutiny, Penric turns to his chaos demon, Desdemona, for further assistance. In particular, he calls up the courtesan Mira of Adria, one of the dead women whose imprints make up Desdemona's personality. At the same time, Nikys must decide if the growing feelings between her and Penric can overcome the other women so enmeshed in his life. Bujold's nuanced writing vividly shows the unique relationship between Penric and Desdemona and their journey that continues to grow in action-filled ways.