A review by artie_reads
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon

  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

It's absolutely brilliant! I read this one a while ago - it was a gift from a neighbour who has a very similar taste in books to me - but I still recommend it whenever I get the chance! The worldbuilding is absolutely gorgeous. You will have to do some flicking back and forth to check the map at the front and the long lists of characters and fantasy words at the back but it's absolutely worth it for how richly detailed the politics, religions and history of the world are. Those themes are explored in interesting ways as well.
The twist bringing together the threads of different religions into the actual people who inspired it was brilliant and a bit mind-blowing.
The story itself is told from the perspectives of 4 very different characters to excellent effect. The plot revolves around the characters separately trying to save the world, featuring dragons, witches and fantasy court intrigue! What more could you want?
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