Another win for inclusivity in the fantasy realm! The way queer relationships and non cisgender persons are effortlessly integrated into Samantha Shannon’s world in A Day of Fallen Night is masterful, and something I hope we continue to see in publications from more authors.

Although this piece can be read as a standalone book, as a prequel, it was nearly impossible not to compare it to The Priory of the Orange Tree. While this book is also richly detailed and includes multiple POV narrations from well-developed and diverse characters, I did not find it to be as captivating of a read. Though spanning a longer period, the plot of this tale seemed to move more slowly and to hold lower stakes. 

With this pacing, and having enjoyed both books, it would be my recommendation for future readers to enjoy the Roots of Chaos novels in chronological order rather than publication order.