The Priory of the Orange Tree
A sweeping standalone fantasy where queens, dragons, and destiny collide.
Samantha Shannon
The Priory of the Orange Tree is a monumental standalone fantasy — a rare gem in a genre that thrives on sprawling series. It unfolds in a divided world where ancient dragons, political alliances, and hidden religions intertwine. At its heart, it’s a story about women — queens, mages, and warriors — who hold together a world threatened by returning evil. Shannon builds not only kingdoms but entire belief systems, making this a story that feels both epic and intimate.
Aug 30, 2025
Story behind the story
The book was born from Shannon’s fascination with mythological dragons and her desire to challenge traditional gender roles in epic fantasy. Instead of damsels in distress, she gives us women who wield power, wisdom, and agency. Her goal was to write a fantasy that didn’t depend on a sequel — a complete world contained in a single, breathtaking volume. It’s a bold approach that paid off: readers call it “Game of Thrones with more heart.”
Creative journey
The process took years, filled with detailed maps, timelines, and rewrites. Shannon balanced the politics of several nations, the lore of dragons, and multiple character arcs without losing emotional focus. The result is a novel that reads like the culmination of an entire series — every chapter layered with history and heart.
About the author
Samantha Shannon has carved a name for herself as one of the most ambitious voices in modern fantasy. Known for her sweeping narratives and strong female protagonists, she blends lyrical writing with worldbuilding so vast you can almost feel the air change from one kingdom to another. Her background in English literature, coupled with a lifelong love of myths and legends, gives her stories a timeless depth.
What readers will take away
Beyond the magic and dragons, this is a story about leadership, sacrifice, and the courage to bridge divides. It speaks to readers who crave complex, inclusive fantasy with real emotional weight.
Looking ahead
Samantha continues to expand her Roots of Chaos universe, promising even more mythic grandeur and deeply human storytelling.
Fun personal touch
She’s known for curating epic playlists to match each kingdom’s mood — the kind that make you want to read with headphones on.
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