Title: Among the Burning Flowers
Author: Samantha Shannon
Publication Date: September 16, 2025
Genres: Epic Fantasy
Representation: WLW
Samantha Shannon once again proves why she’s one of the most exciting voices in epic fantasy. Among the Burning Flowers is a beautifully written, richly atmospheric prequel to The Priory of the Orange Tree, filled with the same detailed worldbuilding and polished prose that's made her a must-read. Even at novella length, she makes the world feel expansive, detailed, and alive.
It should be no surprise that the strength of this story is to be found in its female perspectives. Marosa, the imprisoned princess of Yscalin, is the beating heart of the book, her story a darker take on a fairy-tale like situation. Her chapters are layered with grace, intelligence, and quiet defiance that grows into something extraordinary. Estina Melaugo’s sections add some wonderful depth, expanding the scope of the narrative while keeping women at the center of the tale. Together, their points of view are the ones that linger long after the final page, and they give the story its emotional weight.
By contrast, Prince Aubrecht’s storyline is less compelling. While it helps to flesh out the broader political stakes, his chapters lack tension and drama. Since this is a direct prequel to Priory, ending where it began, his perspective feels inevitable rather than suspenseful.
That said, this novella—and at 300 words it is a novella, at least compared to the others—succeeds as both a companion piece and an introduction to Shannon’s world. It doesn’t quite stand on its own—there are threads left dangling, and the ending slides directly into Priory without offering a full resolution—but as a glimpse into the fall of Yscalin and the origins of key players, it’s rewarding and satisfying.
Overall, this is a gorgeously crafted expansion of the Roots of Chaos universe. The female-led storylines shine the brightest, making this a must-read for fans who want more context (and more time in Shannon's world). It's not as powerful or complete as a standalone, but still a richly immersive addition.
Rating: ♀ ♀ ♀ ♀
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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