How does history lie at the heart of fantasy? Bestselling authors Lucy Holland and Samantha Shannon sit down for a conversation about how exactly real-world history and legends lay the foundations for exhilarating fantasy reads.
About Samantha:
Samantha Shannon is the million copy bestselling author of The Bone Season and The Roots of Chaos series. Her work has been translated into twenty-eight languages. She lives in London and her latest book Among the Burning Flowers will be available with signings at our bookstall!
Richly illustrated with magical artwork by Rovina Cai, Among The Burning Flowers is a mesmerising standalone novel which sees the first sparks of danger that threaten to consume the world in The Priory of the Orange Tree.
Praise for the Roots of Chaos:
‘No one enthralls me like Samantha Shannon’ - R.F. KUANG, Sunday Times bestselling author of Babel and Yellowface
‘Samantha Shannon’s writing is as fierce as the magic she conjures... 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...perfect for fans of the series and new readers looking to dive in!’ - KATE DYLAN, Sunday Times bestselling author of Until We Shatte
About Lucy:
Lucy Holland is an author working across the fields of history, mythology and fantasy. Her current interest lies in re-imagining folktales and Celtic myth, with a view to re-situating the stories of queer people and uncovering the complex regional histories of early medieval Britain. Her novel, Sistersong, was a finalist for both the Goldsboro Books Glass Bell Award and the British Fantasy Award for Best Novel in 2022.
Her second historical fantasy, Song of the Huntress, was published by Pan Macmillan in 2024. Both books are set in the West Country where she lives, and were inspired by its rich local folklore and history.
Praise for Song of the Huntress:
‘Magic, myth, political intrigue and a fierce and unique love story . . . I devoured it!’ - Cassandra Clare, author of Sword Catcher
‘A beguiling blend of Dark Ages history, strong heroines and magic . . . Captivating’ - Daily Mail
