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A review by greatgodbird
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
4.0
I read The Priory of the Orange Tree this year, as it was both popular and had a beautiful cover - I wanted to see what all the fuss was about!
This book is just as beautiful inside as it is out. It tells the evolving tales of several characters (of varying genders!) as they cross continents, navigate political intrigue, relationships, and the Big Bad. I make note of the genders in the narrative, as I was so amazed at how interesting each character was; I often find one gender neglected in storytelling above others, especially in YA. There was real character development throughout the book, and I could easily pick out the major plot devices that evolved the protagonists. I would have liked to see more evolution of the plot itself, though, as the Priory did not take as prominent a role as I thought it might, given the title.
The prose is thoughtful and thought-provoking, and there is a pervading sense of urgency throughout the book. With only brief moments of reprieve, I was on the edge of my seat for most of this book. Samantha Shannon (the author) is an excellent craftsperson, and I can't wait to read more of their books.
This book is just as beautiful inside as it is out. It tells the evolving tales of several characters (of varying genders!) as they cross continents, navigate political intrigue, relationships, and the Big Bad. I make note of the genders in the narrative, as I was so amazed at how interesting each character was; I often find one gender neglected in storytelling above others, especially in YA. There was real character development throughout the book, and I could easily pick out the major plot devices that evolved the protagonists. I would have liked to see more evolution of the plot itself, though, as the Priory did not take as prominent a role as I thought it might, given the title.
The prose is thoughtful and thought-provoking, and there is a pervading sense of urgency throughout the book. With only brief moments of reprieve, I was on the edge of my seat for most of this book. Samantha Shannon (the author) is an excellent craftsperson, and I can't wait to read more of their books.