Scan barcode
A review by somberliving
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
adventurous
slow-paced
- 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? No
4.0
Let’s start with the good stuff.
I enjoyed the LGBTQ+ representation, something I have yet to experience in fantasy. For those out there worried it’ll trigger anything - there were no qualms or homophobia surrounding the relationship. No one batted an eye. I think this will be a good read for anyone wanting to escape to a world where being part of the LGTBTQ+ community isn’t a “burden” on a relationship.
Of course the feminism/women at the forefront of fantasy was amazing too!
But all in all, I felt like it was a bit slow… but also a bit rushed? It felt like the end happened so fast I didn’t have time to cheer on our main characters. That, plus I didn’t really established a connection with any of them because they seemed so dull. So when it came time to cheer them on I felt nothing, lol.
There was also so much lore that you needed to follow in order to understand the plot… which I personally found confusing, which removed me from properly understanding the actions/decisions of the main characters. So if you aren’t down to understand, then I don’t recommend.
All in all it’s an interesting read and definitely one I recommend if you’re into strong women powered fantasy.
I enjoyed the LGBTQ+ representation, something I have yet to experience in fantasy. For those out there worried it’ll trigger anything - there were no qualms or homophobia surrounding the relationship. No one batted an eye. I think this will be a good read for anyone wanting to escape to a world where being part of the LGTBTQ+ community isn’t a “burden” on a relationship.
Of course the feminism/women at the forefront of fantasy was amazing too!
But all in all, I felt like it was a bit slow… but also a bit rushed? It felt like the end happened so fast I didn’t have time to cheer on our main characters. That, plus I didn’t really established a connection with any of them because they seemed so dull. So when it came time to cheer them on I felt nothing, lol.
There was also so much lore that you needed to follow in order to understand the plot… which I personally found confusing, which removed me from properly understanding the actions/decisions of the main characters. So if you aren’t down to understand, then I don’t recommend.
All in all it’s an interesting read and definitely one I recommend if you’re into strong women powered fantasy.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Miscarriage, Pregnancy, and Religious bigotry
Moderate: Infertility
Minor: Sexual content, Sexism, and Incest