I’ve recently got a lot more settled with reading outside my comfort zone and as a result, am now an avid reader of fantasy novels. Priory Of The Orange Trees was always on my radar to get to but I was slightly intimidated by the sheer size of this tome. Luckily @buddyreadbooknook hosted a buddy read where I could read a little at a time, at a fair pace that wasn’t overwhelming. Firstly, I am full of admiration for any author who can create a world such as this. This is the story of a Queen who is expected to produce a daughter (and heir) to protect the kingdom which has become divided from its neighbours. We also hear from one of the women closest to the Queen, Ead who protects her with forbidden magic but has an incredible back story and huge expectations for her own future. Meanwhile, an old and deadly enemy awakes and if the kingdoms are unable to reach a compromise all hell is destined to break loose. Everything about this story is so intricately detailed, from the complex and convoluted plot, to the extensive cast of characters to the magic system and the villains which have been beautifully drawn. It took me a while (I have to admit), to get to grips with who everyone was, their connections with other characters and at times, I did get confused as to how it was all going to come together. It’s certainly a book I would recommend giving a second reading as I think a lot more could be potentially picked up and understood. Nevertheless, this was a wild, epic ride through a fascinating world with excellent, representation and strong, memorable female leads. I’ll definitely be picking up the next book in the series. Psssst there’s dragons too!! Four solid stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 #bookstagram #scottishbookstagrammer #bookreviewsofbookstagram #prioryoftheorangetree #samanthashannon #fantasynovelseries #fantasynovelfan #bookswithdragons #fourstarread #readthisbookifyoulikefantasy #epicfantasyreads https://www.instagram.com/p/Ckgr5G1LR9K/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=