The Priory of the Orange Tree

The Priory of the Orange Tree (2019) by Samantha Shannon is an epic fantasy novel set in a world divided by ancient conflicts and the looming threat of an ancient dragon called the Nameless One.

The story revolves around several key characters, including Queen Sabran IX of Inys, ruler of a queendom that believes in the power of the House of Berethnet to keep the Nameless One at bay.

Ead Duryan is a member of the Priory of the Orange Tree, a secret order of powerful women who safeguard the realm from the dragon’s return. Ead, in the guise of a lady-in-waiting, is protecting Sabran from assassins while also trying to uncover the truth about the dragon and the history of the world. Ead spends years with Sabran, and over time, she develops a real affection for the queen.

Under intense pressure to produce an heir, Sabran marries and falls in love with High Prince Aubrecht II of Mentendon. Although she was not initially thrilled at the prospect of being married, she does seem to have truly fallen in love with her husband. However, her happiness doesn’t last long, as Aubrecht is murdered.

Throughout the novel, Ead and Sabran continue to grow closer and eventually develop a romantic connection. Their slow-burning romance is set against the backdrop of warring nations, double crosses, religious conflict, political intrigue, and the looming threat of an ancient dragon. There are other queer characters and although not every culture is welcoming of them, it seems likely that Sabran is not the only bi character in the universe.