Demon Daughter by Lois McMaster Bujold

In the 12^th novella featuring Penric and Temple Demon Desdemona, Penric is now married with a young family. He travels with Desdemona and his wife Nikys to a coastal village where a little girl has washed ashore and then set several fires. It turns out that Otta, about 6, last remembers being on her family’s trading ship. She has acquired a very new demon, and both Otta and the demon are scared. With few other options, Penric and Nikys bring Otta home with them until her demon can be dealt with and her family located. Their children, especially Rina, help make Otta feel at home, even though only Penric speaks her language. Penric and Desdemona have an argument over what’s best for Otta, which is rather funny as they share Penric’s body. I’ve wanted to read more about Nikys, and it was charming to read more about her daily life and to see more of their kids, and especially Otta. An unlikely solution for Otta’s problem leads to a charming ending. More, please! The first Penric and Desdemona novella is Penric’s Demon, and it’s also in a collection, Penric’s Progress. This is a very appealing fantasy series in a well-crafted world.

Brenda