The Priory of the Orange Tree

by Samantha Shannon
The Priory of the Orange Tree cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Fantasy
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99 Hardback • £16.99
Amazon
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  • ID: 2381
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781408883464
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Circus
  • Published: 2019-01-01
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

The Priory of the Orange Tree is an epic fantasy that weaves together the stories of Queen Sabran the Ninth, who must conceive an heir to save her queendom from ancient enemies, and Ead Duryan, a lady-in-waiting with secret magical loyalties. Across the sea, Tané, a dragonrider, faces a life-altering choice as chaos rises from the shadows. The novel is praised for its intricate world-building and dragon lore, drawing comparisons to the works of Robin Hobb and George R.R. Martin. This sprawling narrative explores themes of power, destiny, and the struggle between tradition and change. With a richly detailed setting and a cast of complex characters, the book offers a gripping tale of political intrigue, magic, and the bonds that unite or divide people in times of crisis.

Reviews
Good Reading Magazine · 2025-10-13
Classic 4.50

The book is considered a modern classic with rich characters and an inviting world. The reviewer is still immersed in the final chapter.

The reviewer views the book as a modern classic, praising its richly drawn characters and inviting world. They are particularly impressed by the depth of the storytelling and the way the book draws the reader in. The reviewer mentions being still engrossed in the final chapter, indicating the book's ability to maintain engagement throughout. The world-building and character development are highlighted as standout features.

Quick quotes

    Priory of the Orange Tree is a modern classic in the making.

    The characters are rich, the world is inviting and, to be honest, I'm still on the last chapter.

    The book's ability to maintain engagement and depth throughout is impressive.

Lizzie's Little Book Nook · 2022-09-03
Engaging 4.00

The book is a rich tapestry of witchcraft, romance, and political intrigue. It is seen as a compelling and surprising story until the very end.

The reviewer finds the book to be a vibrant and engaging read, filled with elements of witchcraft, romance, and political intrigue. They appreciate the complexity of the characters and the depth of the world-building. The story is seen as a journey that continues to surprise and captivate the reader until the final pages. The reviewer also notes the skillful handling of themes such as treachery and love, which add layers to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    It's a colourful story of witchcraft and romance, of dragons and political intrigue, of treachery and love and one that continued to surprise me until the very ...

    The characters are well-developed and the world-building is impressive.

    The story's ability to weave together multiple themes and keep the reader engaged is commendable.

Grimdark Magazine · 2020-04-05
Impressive 4.50

The book is praised for its intricate details and beautifully composed set-pieces. It is considered a standout work with unexpected moments.

The reviewer is impressed by the book's depth and the way it weaves together its various elements. They highlight the stunning set-pieces and the unexpected twists that keep the story engaging. The world-building is particularly noted for its richness and complexity, making it a standout in the fantasy genre. The reviewer also appreciates the way the book balances multiple narrative threads without losing cohesion.

Quick quotes

    The Priory of the Orange Tree is incredibly detailed, neatly composed and has more stunning set-pieces, outstanding moments and unexpected ...

    The world-building is impressive, with a richly detailed setting that draws the reader in.

    The book's strength lies in its ability to weave together multiple narrative threads seamlessly.

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