The continuation novella to Penric’s Mission.

Publication year: 2017
Format: Audio
Running time: 3 and 25 minutes
Narrator: Grover Gardner

Penric, General Adelis Arisaydua and his widowed sister Nikys are on the run from Cedonia’s forces. Penric is a sorcerer in the Bastard’s order and he’s grievously wounded. His demon, Desdemona, is healing him but it takes time and energy. But they have to get away from Cedonia and a safe place. However, they are quite a distinct party so they have to find a way to disguise themselves. Unexpectedly, one of Desdemona’s previous hosts comes to the rescue, and so Penric disguises himself as Mira, a high-class courtesan. However, this tactic brings them some unexpected attention, too.

Another short Penric novella which ends rather abruptly and leaves personal matters unsolved. Unfortunately, this novella feels very much like part of a story instead a complete story. I also strongly suggest reading the previous novellas first.

Penric and his small party are fleeing to Cedonia’s border and to a possible safe place. However, they’re trying not to attract attention and have resorted to various disguises. Adelis’ disfigurement makes him easy to spot so he has to disguise himself pretty much all the time which frustrates him. Like in the previous novella, Nikys is a caretaker but this time more for Penric than her brother.

Mira is a delightful character; too bad that according to the title she’ll never been seen again. Penric’s discomfort with Mira’s antics was very humorous to listen to but he’s also willing to trust her completely. Nikys’ discomfort with the same was less great. Nikys’ musings about what it would be like to live with Penric are very grounded but puts obstacles in their way. Of course, it’s far better to have actual obstacles in a romance rather than those that can be solved by having a truthful conversation for 10 minutes…

Overall, this was a light and fun read with some adventure and romance.