The Frostflower duology by Phyllis Ann Karr
E-book covers
Frostflower and Thorn (1980) begins with a problem and proposal. The warrior Thorn is racking her brains to afford a "borter" to evict an unwanted resident from her uterus. Frostflower, a sorceress, offers to use her power so Thorn can complete the pregnancy and give birth within an afternoon, in exchange for getting to keep the resulting baby. It should have been a simple transaction. Instead it kicks off events that will test both women to the limits of their endurance, resourcefulness, and devotion. Despite pacing issues it's a worthwhile read with unique worldbuilding elements, unforgettable characters, and harrowing yet nuanced depictions of human suffering. Fans of gritty and/or feminist fantasy will like it, I think.
In Frostflower and Windbourne, published two years later, there is a murder mystery surrounding a priest's death. This becomes an occasion for Frostflower to develop her powers, rethink her faith, and reach an understanding that may presage far-reaching changes in the world of the Tanglelands. Windbourne was there. Okay, he does undergo significant changes, but for me they never rose to the level of development. They just seemed to happen. Overall Windbourne is the quieter, more introspective work, and i found it interesting for character and world-building reasons if not for the action.
Full review available at my journal.