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A review by sueread2030
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I don't know what to write that is not already written
This was my second time reading this. I read this back in 2020 but it was a quick read
I wasn't intimidated by its size because
1- compared to a Stephen King novel, this was a breeze
2- the word count is not that high to it's 800 pages
3- yes it is over 800 pages, but the margins and the font make it a smooth read
I did my reread for my bookclub and I would like to say that, for me, this was so much better than a Day of Fallen Night
I knew back then when I started reading it that it is epic fantasy, but once I dived in from the opening chapter to the final page, I was gobsmacked not by the narrative's grandeur, the expansive setting or the intricate worldbuilding (though all were certainly noteworthy). Instead, what truly captivated me was the realization that this universe is predominantly a matriarchal society, with women at the helm across various lands. The female characters face no barriers; they are warriors, rulers, envoys, dragon riders, spies, holy women, sorcerers, intellectuals, lovers and rebels. Not only that, these women still pertain to what makes a Woman a Woman. They are compassionate and reflective, steadfast and resolute, cunning and driven; and while their actions may raise eyebrows, their gender is never the basis for doubt.
Released in 2019, The Priory of the Orange Tree unfolds an expansive high fantasy tale within a world where dragons soar and female sovereignty is celebrated. This novel distinguishes itself by challenging traditional medieval fantasy tropes, weaving in elements of queer and feminist narratives. Across various continents, the plot weaves a tale of a realm on the brink of destruction by a formidable ancient force. Unity is the only path to triumph over this darkness, requiring disparate lands to unite, champions to recover enchanted relics, and established truths to be re-examined. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestries of European, Japanese, and Chinese folklore and mythology, the story champions the transformative power of love and underscores the significance of reimagining tales through a feminist and queer lens.
While designed as a self-contained narrative, the story concludes with lingering mysteries, hinting at the potential sequel. Many questions were not answered to be honest and that is why I read ADOFN thinking it would somewhat shed some light. While you get the over-detailed description in the first half, you feel you are canoeing in a rapid river in the second half!
Overall, this was exquisite.
This was my second time reading this. I read this back in 2020 but it was a quick read
I wasn't intimidated by its size because
1- compared to a Stephen King novel, this was a breeze
2- the word count is not that high to it's 800 pages
3- yes it is over 800 pages, but the margins and the font make it a smooth read
I did my reread for my bookclub and I would like to say that, for me, this was so much better than a Day of Fallen Night
I knew back then when I started reading it that it is epic fantasy, but once I dived in from the opening chapter to the final page, I was gobsmacked not by the narrative's grandeur, the expansive setting or the intricate worldbuilding (though all were certainly noteworthy). Instead, what truly captivated me was the realization that this universe is predominantly a matriarchal society, with women at the helm across various lands. The female characters face no barriers; they are warriors, rulers, envoys, dragon riders, spies, holy women, sorcerers, intellectuals, lovers and rebels. Not only that, these women still pertain to what makes a Woman a Woman. They are compassionate and reflective, steadfast and resolute, cunning and driven; and while their actions may raise eyebrows, their gender is never the basis for doubt.
Released in 2019, The Priory of the Orange Tree unfolds an expansive high fantasy tale within a world where dragons soar and female sovereignty is celebrated. This novel distinguishes itself by challenging traditional medieval fantasy tropes, weaving in elements of queer and feminist narratives. Across various continents, the plot weaves a tale of a realm on the brink of destruction by a formidable ancient force. Unity is the only path to triumph over this darkness, requiring disparate lands to unite, champions to recover enchanted relics, and established truths to be re-examined. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestries of European, Japanese, and Chinese folklore and mythology, the story champions the transformative power of love and underscores the significance of reimagining tales through a feminist and queer lens.
While designed as a self-contained narrative, the story concludes with lingering mysteries, hinting at the potential sequel. Many questions were not answered to be honest and that is why I read ADOFN thinking it would somewhat shed some light. While you get the over-detailed description in the first half, you feel you are canoeing in a rapid river in the second half!
Overall, this was exquisite.