Shield of Sparrows: An Enemies-to-Lovers Epic Romantasy: 1

A very interesting premise with great world building, storyline, character arcs and Plot twists. While the writing is a bit conversational, that’s probably for the best in order to keep the story easy to consume. A good read, very much recommended.

I have been waiting the perfect time to read this and it didn’t disappoint. There was action, romance, self discovering journey m, monsters, betrayal, political intrigue and so much more. Loved Odessa and Guardian. It was clear from the beginning itself how Guardian was smitten with Odessa from early on. I enjoyed their equation. Every time he called her ‘My Queen’ I swooned! The cliffhanger wasn’t as brutal as I was thinking— thank god and will read the next book. -Marriage of convenience. -Brutal kingdom. -Monsters. -bodyguard romance (?) -TW, and recommended.

A Standout Fantasy Read! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Shield of Sparrows was such a refreshing fantasy read. The world-building is amazing, and what really made this book stand out to me was the magical creatures. They felt creative, unique, and different from the creatures I’ve encountered in many other fantasy books. The world felt immersive, and I really enjoyed discovering its different elements as the story progressed. The plot kept me interested, and there were plenty of moments that made me want to keep turning the pages. I’ve also read the sequel, Rites of the Starling and I’m happy to say that it did not disappoint. The twists throughout the series genuinely left me awestruck, and I love how the story continues to expand and surprise you. This series has definitely become one of my favourite fantasy reads, and after everything that happened in the first two books, I cannot wait for book three!

⭐ 6/5 — Absolutely Unforgettable Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry is hands-down the best book I’ve read in 2025. The plot was gripping, the characters unforgettable, and the twist left me speechless. Guardian and Odessa’s love story is so beautifully written that you feel every emotion right along with them. I was hooked from page one and couldn’t put it down — and now I desperately need Book 2. This isn’t just a book, it’s an experience. If you can, try immersive reading (book + audiobook). The dual narration made it even more addictive. Masterpiece. Perfection. Read it.

Mast Read❤️

This was a really slow-paced high fantasy novel. It was one of those books which you can play in the background while you do your chores or any other tasks. The graphic audio was really good. I felt like I was watching a movie. On that note, I heard this book might get adapted into a movie. I can't wait to see how they're going to make this new world come alive on the screen. The world is vast and quite interesting as well as unique. We are getting to discover all these creatures and secrets. I was like, what is Crux? At first, I thought it might be like a season or something like draught instead it would be a surge of monsters coming to attack everyone. But, I find out it's actually a giant bird-like thing that basically deletes anything and everything on its path. I liked the MCs - She was like a regular girl who was thrown into this scenario unprepared. It's easy to relate to her. The banter between her and the Guardian was what kept me going through the story. The mysteries/twists.... well, they didn't surprise me. I could guess a few easily. But, I think the ending made up for it. The only flaw I would say is that, I am not obsessed with this series yet. I am not dýing to jump into the next book. I could take a break and then come back. I would still recommend this though. That was scary yet cool!

Arrived in mint condition! Super happy with the Amazon packaging and also the actual book that is of excellent quality!

Loved it.

From the very beginning, Shield of Sparrows pulled me in completely. It’s the kind of book that immediately captures your attention and refuses to let go. I read all 634 pages in under 48 hours, fitting chapters into every spare moment I had. The story centres on two princesses with very different relationships to royal life. Odessa, the eldest, has spent much of her life in the background, while her younger sister Mae embraces the expectations placed upon her, including a marriage meant to uphold a magical treaty. When events unfold differently than planned, the story takes a sharp and compelling turn that sets the tone for everything that follows. One of the book’s greatest strengths is how approachable its fantasy elements are. While the world includes magic, kingdoms, and mythical creatures, the writing never feels overwhelming or overly complex. The presence of familiar, everyday details helps ground the story and makes the world easy to sink into, even for readers who don’t typically gravitate toward epic fantasy. The pacing is fast and engaging, filled with twists that kept me eager to turn the page. There are layered character dynamics and subtle hints throughout that suggest more is happening beneath the surface than is immediately clear. Even when you think you’ve figured something out, the story continues to challenge those assumptions. The monsters add both tension and intrigue, ranging from unsettling to unexpectedly memorable, and they play an important role in shaping the atmosphere and stakes of the story. Romance develops slowly, blending enemies-to-lovers tension with an arranged-marriage storyline and a strong sense of danger. The balance between plot, character development, and world-building is well executed, making the story feel both immersive and accessible. The ending leaves plenty of unanswered questions and a strong desire for the next book in the series. Highly recommended for fans of romantasy and for readers who are curious about fantasy romance but want something engaging without being overly dense. ⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5

If you’re anything like me and deep in your Romantasy Book Era, then this book is an absolute must-read! Not only does it have the most stunning sprayed edges, but it’s hands down one of the best novels I’ve read all year. From the very first page, you’re pulled into a world brimming with monsters, myths, magic—and a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance that will leave you swooning long after the final chapter. Odessa Cross, once the forgotten spare princess, is suddenly thrust into an arranged marriage and a perilous journey that forces her to navigate not just dangerous lands, but her own identity. With rich world-building, deeply layered characters, and twists I never saw coming, this book is a masterclass in fantasy romance. I’m already counting down the days until the next one!!

Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry ⭐ Rating: 5 stars 📄 Page Count: ~650 pages 🌶️ Spice Verdict: High-stakes romantasy, monsters & political intrigue (not ultra graphic, but emotionally intense) Oh my heart! I loved this book. From the moment I picked it up. I needed something that would make me feel and this delivered. The world of Quentis and Turah, monsters that feel real and deadly, betrayals, political schemes — it’s a full ride. What I adored most: Odessa is not your stereotypical whiny heroine. She’s strong, growing, courageous. She might start overlooked, but she doesn’t stay that way. And the romance? The Guardian? yes, THE Guardian! Caught me from his very first scene. I loved him from the moment he appeared. No spoilers, but you’ll know. He’s brooding, layered, dangerous, and yet kind in his own way. Then there’s Zavier, mysterious and intense, but the Guardian stole my heart. The pacing? Brilliant. The book is big, but I never once felt bored. Every chapter had something happening. Big reveals, small reveals, training, monsters, missions — it never drags. And then the ending? Wow. So many twists I didn’t see coming. But because the story never stalled, the payoff was epic. If you’re looking for a romantasy that gives you magic, monsters, a heroine you can root for, and a hero (or two) you’ll fall for — this is it. I truly don’t understand who wouldn’t like this, because for me it ticked all the boxes: original monsters, mesmerizing world-building, characters I cared about. I super recommend it. Tropes: 💍 Arranged/forced marriage 🏹 Enemies-to-lovers 🏰 High fantasy kingdom politics 👑 Overlooked princess / self-discovery 👹 Monster hunt / fantasy world-building 🔄 Twisty plot with constant surprises

I read it viciously. The rhythm is slow, but the journey is enjoyable. The universe the writer created is just so full of details, it's amazing. The plot is - CINEMA.

From the time I started reading until I got to the end, this book held me in its grasp. It's the sort of book you stay up all night reading and hole up with until you finish working through the intricate plot, gasping for breath. I've really enjoyed the other things Devney Perry has written, but this one. Wow. The depth of her writing, the characters.... A masterpiece! I'm so happy I get to start on the second book straightaway!