If you’re on BookTok, chances are you’ve come across Silver Elite and Shield of Sparrows — two viral romantasy releases that dropped on May 6. Since hitting shelves, both books have ignited intense debate and excitement among readers, each vying for the title of fan favorite. Though they fall into slightly different subgenres — Silver Elite by Dani Francis is categorized as a dystopian romance, while Devney Perry’s Shield of Sparrows leans into classic romantasy — the online conversation around them has been closely linked, with both titles earning widespread praise and plenty of passionate discussion.
Silver Elite kicks off a new dystopian trilogy that’s been frequently described as Divergent meets Fourth Wing. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a deadly biotoxin, the story follows survivors—some of whom develop powerful psychic abilities. In contrast, Devney Perry’s Shield of Sparrows centers on a princess forced into a political marriage with a rival prince, plunging her into a realm filled with ancient magic and terrifying beasts. While both books have earned well-deserved praise on BookTok for their gripping plots and imaginative worlds, one ultimately stood out to me as the stronger read.
Who’s the Stronger Heroine: Wren from Silver Elite or Odessa from Shield of Sparrows?
Both Dani Francis and Devney Perry crafted compelling female leads in their latest romantasy releases. While I found both characters engaging, I believe Odessa from Shield of Sparrows experiences more significant growth throughout the first book, adding greater depth to her character. In Silver Elite, Wren is introduced as a confident, skilled fighter who’s already mastered her abilities. Because she starts out so capable, her journey offers fewer opportunities for personal development compared to Odessa, whose arc feels more transformative.
While Silver Elite focuses more on developing Wren’s relationship with Cross, Shield of Sparrows takes the time to evolve Odessa’s character — both in terms of her abilities and her beliefs. This gradual transformation allows readers to connect with Odessa on a deeper level, experiencing her growth alongside her. In contrast, Wren hasn’t undergone a similar shift yet, remaining largely consistent throughout the first book. That said, the ending of Silver Elite hints at major changes ahead, setting the stage for significant development in book two.
Cross Redden vs. Ransom: Which Romantasy Love Interest Stole the Show?
Both Francis and Perry excel at crafting compelling love interests for their heroines, weaving in plot twists that, while sometimes predictable, serve the story effectively. That said, when viewed through a romantic lens, I found Odessa and Ransom’s dynamic to be slightly more heartfelt. Wren and Cross share a thrilling connection—especially with the twist that their bond runs deeper than they first realized. However, much of their early romance leans more toward lust than emotional intimacy, making it feel less romantic in comparison.
I’m confident the next installment in the Silver Elite trilogy will expand on Wren and Cross’s romance, but based on the first book alone, it doesn’t quite measure up to the relationship in Shield of Sparrows. Odessa and Ransom’s connection is a slow-burn filled with tension and longing, which not only enhances the reading experience but also makes Ransom’s character even more compelling. Though they start off at odds, their witty banter and reluctant alliance contribute significantly to their growth and make their relationship feel more authentic and earned.
Which BookTok Sensation Tells the Better Story: Silver Elite or Shield of Sparrows?
After reading both, I’d have to give the edge to Shield of Sparrows in this category as well. While I genuinely enjoyed Silver Elite, the first book leans heavily on developing Wren and Cross’s relationship, spending less time fleshing out its core storyline and dystopian world. There’s clearly more to come in the series, but based on these initial releases, Shield of Sparrows offers a more balanced and fully realized story. Perry excels at crafting a unique fantasy world, developing rich characters, and introducing a captivating conflict that hooks the reader from the start.
Which Setting Shines Brighter: The Worlds of These Beloved BookTok Series?
It’s a tough comparison since these two popular BookTok hits fall into different genres. However, Shield of Sparrows offers a more immersive and expansive setting, while Silver Elite feels more confined and less dynamic, largely taking place on a military base in its first book. Perry’s novel richly details various lands, allowing readers to fully explore the world alongside Odessa and Ransom, making the setting feel vibrant and alive throughout the story.
The setting truly comes alive through Perry’s vivid writing, with the looming threat of monsters adding a palpable sense of danger to the world. From just the first book, Perry has crafted a rich, well-established environment, while Silver Elite has only just begun to explore its own world. That said, the ending of Silver Elite hints at a much broader and deeper world to be uncovered in the upcoming sequels.
Why Shield of Sparrows Stands Out as the Superior Romantasy Novel
While both books are highly enjoyable, Shield of Sparrows edges ahead as the stronger romantasy novel thanks to its well-rounded characters, immersive setting, and compelling storyline. Perry’s latest release has all the ingredients for a standout romantasy series. Though Silver Elite is equally entertaining—and definitely addictive—it doesn’t feel as balanced as Shield of Sparrows. By the end of the first book, Odessa is fully developed, and her slow-burn romance with Ransom complements rather than overshadows the main plot.
Perry’s Shield of Sparrows is perfectly paced and sets the stage for an equally thrilling and jaw-dropping second book. The first installment lays a solid foundation for the series, and its plot-twist ending is the perfect cap to an already captivating romantasy story. That said, I genuinely enjoyed both books — and while Silver Elite isn’t quite as well-rounded yet, I believe its upcoming sequels will deepen and enrich the narrative. Both BookTok favorites are incredibly entertaining, and their endings have me eagerly anticipating where Francis and Perry will take their stories in book two.
