The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon follows four protagonists—Tané, Ead Duryan, Niclays Roos, and Loth Beck—in a divided world threatened by the return of an ancient enemy. As Western and Eastern regions with conflicting beliefs face increasing chaos and dragon attacks, heroes must retrieve lost magical artifacts and unite to vanquish the impending doom. The novel explores themes of redemption, love, and the importance of feminist and queer storytelling.

The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon is widely praised for its expansive world-building, strong female characters, and intricate plot. However, some readers feel the pacing is uneven, with a dense narrative that may be overwhelming to some. Despite this, it's a captivating read for fans of epic fantasy.

Readers who would enjoy The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon are fans of rich, epic fantasies with strong world-building, diverse characters, and intricate plots. This book will appeal to those who love A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R. R. Martin and The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss.

Fantastical / Adventurous / Mysterious / Emotional / Dark

- The Priory of the Orange Tree incorporates influences from diverse mythologies, including East Asian and Western dragon legends, crafting a unique fantasy universe.
- The novel was published on February 26, 2019, and its intricate world-building and strong female characters have drawn comparisons to popular fantasy series like Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings.
- Author Samantha Shannon spent nearly three years researching and developing the rich historical and cultural backdrop for the novel, ensuring it authentically integrated elements from various mythological traditions.

**Ead Duryan / Eadaz du Zāla uq-Nāra**  
A courageous mage and one of the novel's three protagonists, Ead possesses extraordinary powers like driving away wyrms and creating barriers. She disguises herself as a lady-in-waiting at Queen Sabran's court to secretly protect her. Ead is a member of the Priory of the Orange Tree, sworn to fight evil.

**Sabran Berethnet**  
The queen of Inys and one of the novel's protagonists, Sabran acts as a symbol of monarchy's excesses initially but evolves to demonstrate bravery and growth. Her character develops throughout the narrative, showing her complex struggles with tradition and expectations as a ruler.

**Tané**  
A protagonist from Seiiki and one of the four point-of-view characters, Tané is a driven dragonrider with a distinctive scar. As an orphan who trains rigorously, she initially appears secretive but grows significantly throughout the story, forming vital relationships with other main characters.

**Arteloth "Loth" Beck**  
A close associate of Queen Sabran and an influential character, Loth is part of Sabran's court. Initially seen as a minor character, Loth's journey showcases his growth and significance through his experiences, including dealing with religious challenges and personal losses.

**Niclays Roos**  
A disgraced surgeon and alchemist, exiled for failing to produce an immortality elixir. Niclays is notable for his resentful perspective and devotion to his departed lover. Over the course of the narrative, he experiences personal growth and aids in the fight against the Nameless One.

**Truyde utt Zeedeur**  
A headstrong and bright young woman, Truyde is driven by idealism and foresight, recognizing the need to unite East and West against greater threats. Her determination sometimes leads to questionable actions, but her intelligence and dedication to a greater cause are central to her character.

Samantha Shannon

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The Roots of Chaos

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The Priory Of The Orange Tree Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Stories of Old”

Part 1, Chapters 1-5

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 1, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 6-11

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 1, Chapters 6-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 12-16

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 1, Chapters 12-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 17-22

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 1, Chapters 17-22 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Declare I Dare Not”

Part 2, Chapters 23-28

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 2, Chapters 23-28 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 29-33

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 2, Chapters 29-33 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 34-37

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 2, Chapters 34-37 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “A Witch to Live”

Part 3, Chapters 38-42

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 3, Chapters 38-42 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 43-48

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 3, Chapters 43-48 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Thine is the Queendom”

Part 4, Chapters 49-57

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 4, Chapters 49-57 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Here Be Dragons”

Part 5, Chapters 58-65

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 5, Chapters 58-65 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “The Keys to the Abyss”

Part 6, Chapters 66-76

The Priory Of The Orange Tree Part 6, Chapters 66-76 Summary & Analysis

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The Priory Of The Orange Tree Character Analysis

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The Priory of the Orange Tree

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