Review: Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry

Rating: 5⭐️

In a recent group of highly anticipated and majorly media-hyped romance releases, Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry is one that lives up to its promise and excitement.

I’m unfamiliar with the author and wary or is it weary now of the various books being “super pushed , highly gushed about “ on many media platforms, especially prior to release.

These books are often compared to other books and series that are well established , very well written and already have enormous fan support, rightly or wrongly.  Maybe the soon to be published books fit in the genre, maybe they don’t. But pre-slotting them into a category does the book or author any favors. 

Rant over.  Onto this amazing book. 

Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry does a fantastic job of capturing a unique world of fantasy and horror, of Kingdoms and magical beasts, of princesses marrying to maintain a balance that’s not exactly what it seems. 

And princes to die for. 

The only thing I’m upset about is I don’t have the sequel in my hands already. 

Devney Perry’s world building is extraordinary, from the perilous waters their ships sail over and the creatures that lurk underneath to the realistic, harsh and beautiful nature of the Kingdom most of the novel takes place in. 

Perry’s descriptions and locations are visually stunning, imaginative and beautifully written. They capture our imagination and its people our hearts moment by moment, as Odessa learns more about her new life and the people around her. 

The characters, especially the main character of Odessa, is engaging and wonderfully layered, leaving her fully aware of her struggles and able to develop her strengths as she grows more aware of the challenges and realities of her situation. 

Less said due to spoilers about the male characters the better as they figure greatly in the narrative plot elements and twists. I’m sure many readers will see the surprises coming but it’s still a very real moment for the story and characters. And worked through with a terrific backstory. 

Is this “spicy” romance? That’s a term I feel is being used now for a wide range of sexual content in a romance novel, including some I find offensive like SA. This story is a long novel that features a true slow burn romance with a kiss and finally some sexual romance towards the end. That’s it. 

Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry has left plenty of room for the magical elements and mythology to expand with the next novel. I can’t wait to see what the author has planned for the characters and their journey. 

Highly recommended!

Cover design by LJ Anderson Edge design by Bree Archer

Buy link 

Amazon.comhttps://www.amazon.comShield of Sparrows (Deluxe Limited Edition): Perry, Devney

Blurb 

 Now in development as a feature film with Amazon MGM Studios, with John Wick screenwriter Derek Kolstad attached to write the script!

Don’t miss out on the stunning DELUXE LIMITED EDITION while supplies last. This breathtaking collectible is only available on a limited first print run in the U.S. and Canada, a must-have for any book lover.

Shield of Sparrows is a slow-burn, high-stakes romantasy perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros―where enemies become lovers, monsters stalk a cursed realm, and a forgotten princess finds the strength to tear off her crown and become the warrior she was never meant to be.

The gods sent monsters to the five kingdoms to remind mortals they must kneel.

I’ve spent my life kneeling―to their will and to my father’s. As a princess, my only duty is to wear the crown and obey the king.

I was never meant to rule. Never meant to fight. And I was never supposed to be the daughter who sealed an ancient treaty with her own blood.

But that changed the fateful day I stepped into my father’s throne room. The day a legendary monster hunter sailed to our shores. The day a prince ruined my life.

Now I’m crossing treacherous lands beside a warrior who despises me as much as I despise him―bound to a future I didn’t choose and a husband I barely know.

Everyone wants me to be something I’m not―a queen, a spy, a sacrifice.

But what if I refused the role chosen for me? What if I made my own rules? What if there’s power in being underestimated?

And what if―for the first time―I reached for it?

• Publisher: Entangled: Red Tower Books (May 6, 2025)
• Publication date: May 6, 2025
• Language: English
• Print length: 666 pages

— Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry

Entangled Publishing LLC