The Physicians of Vilnoc Audiobook By Lois McMaster Bujold cover art

The Physicians of Vilnoc

A Penric & Desdemona Novella in the World of the Five Gods

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The Physicians of Vilnoc

By: Lois McMaster Bujold
Narrated by: Grover Gardner
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When a mysterious plague breaks out in the army fort guarding Vilnoc, the port capital of the duchy of Orbas, Temple sorcerer Penric and his demon Desdemona are called upon by General Arisaydia to resurrect Penric’s medical skills and solve its lethal riddle. In the grueling days that follow, Pen will find that even his magic is not enough to meet the challenges without help from dedicated new colleagues - and the god of mischance.

©2020 Lois McMaster Bujold (P)2020 Blackstone Publishing Action & Adventure Fantasy Fiction Historical Magic
Brilliant Character Work • Engaging Medical Mystery • Intelligent Fiction • Mind-expanding Effect • Excellent Storytelling
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One of the things I like most about Lois’ books is the mind-expanding effect they have on my understanding of the world around me. I loved every word of this story. Thank you Lois!!

Another perfect escape into intelligent fiction

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Will Penric be able to handle his plague better than we have handled ours? A timely novella for Quarantine listening.

A Penric Story for Quarantine

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i am in love and must now look for more stories about Pen and Des! enjoy!

just right!!

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I enjoyed this book as an addition to the story, but it is not the story to begin on if you haven't enjoyed the others. There is much more depth to the characters if one starts this series at the beginning . If it isn't classified as YA, this series could be. I really enjoy Bujold's fantasy writing!

Good - but read this after the first books

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I love these 5 gods stories! I sympathize with Penric trying to save those that are ill, take on an apprentice, deal with military rules, solve the mystery of the disease vector . . . all while wishing so much to be home with his new baby.

What can be causing a rash of illnesses?

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Great fun. Penric and Des keep growing.

I appreciate how hard LMB works on getting medical stuff right and making it believable.

I'm not Grover Gardner's biggest fan, but he has gotten much better over the years! I can distinguish who's speaking by his tone much of the time. So, this is the first time I haven't had to take a break from an LMB audiobook just to get away from the grating boominess & lack of inflection. Entirely listen-able.

Excellent

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Lois McMaster Bujold is a master of her craft.
I did not like her style of writing at 1st ( Vorkosigan Saga). I put it down and restarted several times. Now I enjoy it.
I still have to fill my blood 🩸 lust with Martha Wells (Murderbot) tho.

Always subtle, understated, yet engrossing

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It’s Interesting to have battle against the kind of foe we face in our world.

Compelling medical mystery

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It isn’t a new story. Now was there anything unique or new added to the tale or to the main characters. Nevertheless, it was well written and I enjoyed the listen. I will likely re-listen to it someday down the road.

Solid Entry

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I was afraid this might be too much, considering current events, but I should not have worried. LMB is always exquisitely balanced.

it is a joy to see Penric growing and to see the fabric of his family and his life.

Hesitant, but I loved it

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