Among the Burning Flowers

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What to expect

Bloomsbury presents Among the Burning Flowers by Samantha Shannon, read by Patricia Allison, Gemma Whelan and Arty Froushan.

This audiobook features an exclusive interview with Samantha Shannon and Katherine Webber, bestselling author of the Twin Crowns trilogy.

With the awakening of fire-breathing dragons, Among the Burning Flowers sees the first sparks of danger that threaten to consume the world in The Priory of the Orange Tree.

Take your first steps into the epic.
Yscalin, land of sunshine and lavender, will soon be ablaze.

It has been centuries since the Draconic Army took wing, almost extinguishing humankind.

Marosa Vetalda is a prisoner in her own home, controlled by her cold father, King Sigoso. Over the mountains, her betrothed, Aubrecht Lievelyn, rules Mentendon in all but name. Together, they intend to usher in a better world.

A better world seems impossibly distant to Estina Melaugo, who hunts the Draconic beasts that have slept across the world for centuries.

And now the great wyrm Fýredel is stirring, and Yscalin will be the first to fall . . .

A story of human resilience in the face of dire circumstances, Among the Burning Flowers leads readers through the gripping and tragic events that pave the way for the opening of the million-copy bestseller The Priory of The Orange Tree.

Critics Review

No one enthralls me like Samantha Shannon
R. F. Kuang, Sunday Times bestselling author of Babel
Samantha Shannon’s writing is as fierce as the magic she conjures. I’m not convinced Shannon isn’t magic herself; her prose is ethereal, her characters captivate the heart and mind. She’s in a league of her own – truly the best fantasy there is
Saara El-Arifi, Sunday Times bestselling author of Faebound
A stunning addition to the Roots of Chaos world. With Among the Burning Flowers, Shannon offers readers a captivating glimpse into the events that precede The Priory of the Orange Tree. Perfect for fans of the series and new readers looking to dive in!
Kate Dylan, Sunday Times bestselling author of Until We Shatter
Walk through this portal into an epic series, a twist on a princess in a tower, bright as rivers of lava and dark as dragon wings. Take this as a sign: chaos is waiting!
Sarah Rees Brennan, Sunday Times bestselling author of Long Live Evil
An intricately and thoughtfully plotted wonder of a world. Shannon has woven a rich, diverse tapestry which centralises voices not often heard in fantasy. Thoughtful, inclusive and lyrical writing that makes my heart sing
Wren James, author of The Quiet at the End of the World
Revisiting the world of The Priory of the Orange Tree is like meeting up with an old friend and being reminded all over again what an amazing time you always have together. (Albeit an old friend who flies and breathes fire). Samantha Shannon's writing remains exquisite, impeccably crafted and beautifully detailed, while somehow always feeling effortless to us readers. Among the Burning Flowers feels like Yscalin has been there for centuries stretching back far beyond the first few pages, and will exist long after we turn the last page of this book. Samantha Shannon is at the top of her game, and I am always excited to spend time in her books
Alwyn Hamilton
Among the Burning Flowers is the Rogue One of the Roots of Chaos world, deepening and enriching the events to come while also serving as its own perfect slice of story. Remarkably tender and philosophical despite the backdrop of brimstone and beast-slaying, and as intricate with its lore and history as its chunkier companions, I loved every second of my time in fallen Ysaclin. And if you make it out of this tale without swearing your life and your sword to Melaugo, you’re a stronger reader than I!
Laura Steven, New York Times bestselling author of Our Infinite Fates
Among the Burning Flowers is an astonishing tale of resilience amidst horrifying tragedy. A perfect starting point for new readers that also rewards existing fans with new depth and understanding of events in The Priory of the Orange Tree
Helen Corcoran, author of Queen of Coin and Whispers
Among The Burning Flowers is an intricately drawn introduction to the continent of Edin and the world of The Priory of the Orange Tree. It's a story as breath-taking as it is beautiful, with characters who find the courage to face trials that push their faith and friendships to the limit amidst unfurling tragedy. I don't think I'll ever get over those final thirty pages
Elle Machray, author of Remember Remember
Samantha Shannon writes with the grace and majesty readers have come to expect from an author of her calibre. Her short novel is as rich in tone and as sweeping in scope as her longer works. Even those new to the series will be riveted by this gripping introduction to the Roots of Chaos. Epic fantasy at its finest
Lucy Holland
The sheer terror that befalls the Yscali people as they face Fýredel’s pure evil is both powerful and relevant. Marosa’s plight further solidifies her as a hero worth remembering; her strength and defiance shine through as hope for the future she’s dreamed of slowly flickers out. Devoted series fans will appreciate the added pieces to this expansive narrative puzzle
Kirkus Reviews
Devoted fans will be pleased by the depth it adds to beloved side characters and the lore of this lush, meticulously drawn world. For those who can’t get enough of Shannon’s worldbuilding, this will be a treat
Publishers Weekly

User Reviews

Book 5.0
Narration 5.0
5.0
5.0
Beautiful multi-person narration and atmospheric original music. Also loved the interview at the end with Samantha Shannon and Katherine Webber!
ARose 19/09/2025

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