Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree has taken the fantasy world by storm since its publication, and for good reason. This epic novel is not just another entry in the crowded world of dragons, magic, and political intrigue. Instead, it offers a unique, fresh perspective that combines high fantasy with a progressive, feminist twist. Let’s dive into what makes this book stand out, and why it has captured the imaginations of so many readers worldwide.
A World Divided by Old Fears
The setting of The Priory of the Orange Tree is one of its most intriguing aspects. The story unfolds in a divided world where East and West have been at odds for centuries. In the West lies the realm of Inys, a queendom ruled by the House of Berethnet. However, Queen Sabran the Ninth, the current monarch, faces a dire predicament: she must conceive an heir to protect the realm from the imminent return of an ancient enemy, a dragon god known as the Nameless One.
Meanwhile, in the East, a different world exists, one where dragonriders have been trained to battle wyrms. Among them is Tané, a young woman whose fate intertwines with the survival of her people and the very future of the world. Across these realms, different characters face personal dilemmas, conflicting allegiances, and the ever-present threat of the ancient forces stirring to life.
Strong Female Characters at the Core
What sets The Priory of the Orange Tree apart from other high fantasy novels is the way Shannon weaves feminism into the very fabric of the story. The central characters in the novel are complex, diverse women who drive the plot forward, rather than serving as mere plot devices or secondary characters to their male counterparts.
At the heart of the novel is Queen Sabran, who is thrust into the difficult position of needing to produce an heir to ensure her kingdom’s survival. She is not just a passive figure; she is a ruler facing political intrigue, assassination attempts, and the constant pressure of carrying her kingdom’s legacy. Her loyalty, wisdom, and inner strength make her a compelling and multi-dimensional character.
Another standout character is Ead Duryan, a lady-in-waiting to Queen Sabran who secretly belongs to a society of mages. Ead’s role is a blend of protector and conspirator, as she uses her forbidden magic to shield the queen from the many threats surrounding her. Her loyalty to the queen and her magical abilities add depth to the story and elevate the stakes for both the characters and the reader.
Tané, a fierce dragonrider from the East, also embodies the feminist themes of the book. She has been trained all her life for a singular purpose: to become a dragonrider and defend her people. However, she must navigate a series of tough decisions that challenge her sense of duty, honor, and her very identity.
Dragons and Magic: The Tension Between Chaos and Order
The presence of dragons in The Priory of the Orange Tree is not merely a fantastical element but rather a symbol of the larger thematic battle between chaos and order. The ancient dragons, particularly the Nameless One, represent a destructive force that could undo the delicate balance between the realms. These dragons are not just beasts of power but are also integral to the story’s examination of how the forces of nature and civilization intersect.
Magic is another pivotal element in the novel. From the hidden magic of the Priory, the secretive society that Ead belongs to, to the dragonriders’ mastery of their own mystical abilities, magic plays a crucial role in the shaping of this world. But Shannon also explores the moral implications of power—who gets to wield it, and who must suffer from its abuse. These layers of political and personal stakes elevate the narrative beyond a typical fantasy plot, encouraging readers to reflect on the ways power and influence affect societies and individuals alike.
A Massive, Yet Intimate Story
Despite its grand scale—spanning continents, political intrigue, and multiple cultures—The Priory of the Orange Tree is also a deeply personal story. Shannon takes great care in developing her characters and their relationships, ensuring that the novel never feels too distant or impersonal. The personal stakes of each character’s journey, particularly Queen Sabran’s desperation to preserve her rule and Ead’s quest to protect her queen, make this epic tale one that resonates on an emotional level.
A Comparison of Themes and Structure: The Priory of the Orange Tree vs. Game of Thrones
A common comparison that has been drawn between The Priory of the Orange Tree and George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones is the complexity of the world-building and the morally grey nature of its characters. Both books feature political intrigue, complex female characters, and epic conflicts between different factions. However, while Game of Thrones often focuses on male-driven power struggles, The Priory of the Orange Tree centers its narrative around female protagonists and explores themes of unity, trust, and sacrifice.
Here’s a quick comparison chart:
| Feature | The Priory of the Orange Tree | Game of Thrones |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Divided world with distinct East & West | Westeros, a kingdom with many factions |
| Main Protagonists | Strong female characters (Sabran, Ead, Tané) | Male and female characters, often in power struggles |
| Central Themes | Feminism, power, dragons, magic | Power, politics, family loyalty, war |
| Dragons | Integral to the plot, powerful & symbolic | Dragons are central, but used more for destruction and power struggles |
| Magic | Magic as a form of resistance & protection | Magic exists but is often seen as a tool for power |
| Tone | Epic, yet deeply personal and intimate | Grim, morally ambiguous, and often tragic |
Why Should You Read The Priory of the Orange Tree?
Whether you’re a fan of high fantasy, looking for strong female characters, or simply interested in a well-crafted story full of dragons, magic, and complex relationships, The Priory of the Orange Tree is a must-read. The novel offers a refreshing and diverse take on the fantasy genre, breaking away from traditional tropes and delivering a compelling narrative that is both broad in scope and deeply personal in its execution.
The world-building is top-notch, and the characters are ones you’ll remember long after you’ve turned the last page. If you love complex, multi-layered stories and are seeking something that challenges the conventions of the genre, The Priory of the Orange Tree is a book that will undoubtedly captivate you.
Watch the Book’s Trailer on YouTube
To get a taste of the world of The Priory of the Orange Tree, check out the official trailer on YouTube here for a visual teaser into this epic world of dragons, queens, and magical intrigue.
Conclusion
Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree is an outstanding feminist fantasy novel that blends magic, political intrigue, and powerful female characters into a captivating narrative. With a diverse world, intriguing conflicts, and strong character development, this book offers a new kind of epic fantasy that challenges traditional storytelling conventions. Whether you’re a die-hard fantasy fan or a newcomer to the genre, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.
