Shield of Sparrows was one of TikTok’s most viral romantasy books in 2025, and it’s regaining traction with the release of Rites of the Starling — and Devney Perry’s update that book three will be here in 2027. It’s easy to see why the first book is so loved, as it’s incredibly immersive, boasts a unique world, and offers a genuine slow-burn romance. Those enamored by its story can now officially return to it in Rites of the Starling. However, they’ll need something else to fill the void after.
There aren’t many books exactly like Shield of Sparrows, at least not when it comes to its thoroughly crafted, monster-ridden world. However, there are titles that boast arranged marriages, frequent travel sequences, witty banter, and the romance tropes that make Perry’s novel so compelling. Depending on what you love about the 2025 romantasy book, they just might scratch the same itch after you get through Shield of Sparrows‘ ending.
The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
The Bridge Kingdom‘s heroine faces a mission all too similar to Odessa’s in Shield of Sparrows. Lara is trained her whole life to marry King Aren, the ruler of the titular kingdom, then destroy both from within. Lara’s more of a warrior than Odessa, but if Mae had actually been the one to marry Zavier/Ransom, this book would basically be the result. The Bridge Kingdom forces Lara to question her mission and which side is “right” once she arrives in her new home, similar to the self-reflection Odessa must undergo. And of course, Lara and King Aren end up more enamored with each other than they expect, despite their initial enmity. Of all the books on this list, this has the premise most similar to Shield of Sparrows.
The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig
Another romantasy novel to blow up on BookTok last year, The Knight and the Moth leans more gothic than Shield of Sparrows, but it’s just atmospheric. Those hoping for a world that’s as absorbing and unique as Calandra will find it in Traum. And The Knight and the Moth‘s heroine does technically encounter monsters on her journey to locate her lost sisters; they’re just happen to be beings she once considered gods, putting a “crisis of faith” spin on this story. Sybil questioning who raised her and everything she knows feels similar to what Odessa goes through, which makes this an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys a naive heroine embarking on a self-reflection journey. And now’s the perfect time to pick up The Knight and the Moth, as its sequel, The Knave and the Moon, comes out later this year.
The Wren in the Holly Library by K.A. Linde
If Shield of Sparrows‘ monsters sold you on the romantasy book, The Wren in the Holly Library should be your next read. Be warned: the setting is more urban than high fantasy, as the book takes place in an alternate version of New York. But it’s one plagued by monsters that nearly ended the world — and are now only at peace with humans due to the Monster Treaty. The monster-filled world and treaty at the center of the story will feel familiar to Shield of Sparrows fans. The enemies-to-lovers relationship at the book’s center will also prove a draw.
A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer
Before it’s big twist, Shield of Sparrows reads like a bodyguard romantasy — and it teases a love triangle between princess, prince, and supposed bodyguard. Anyone looking for a similar dynamic might enjoy A Curse So Dark and Lonely. The book finds its heroine pulled into a magic world far from her own, where she meets a cursed prince and his loyal bodyguard. There’s a love triangle of sorts, though it fades in later installments, another commonality with Shield of Sparrows. Harper also offers a softer, quieter strength, just like Odessa. One thing readers should note, though, is that A Curse So Dark and Lonely is YA, and thus, doesn’t have the spice of Perry’s series.
Powerless by Lauren Roberts
Readers who can’t get enough of the banter between Odessa and Ransom will find plenty more in Powerless by Lauren Roberts. Paedyn and Kai have the same sort of enemies-but-not-really dynamic at the beginning of the book, and while its plot — a woman getting wrapped up in a competition among royal magic users — has been done before, the banter remains top-tier. Powerless‘ MMC is also a deadly force to be reckoned with who secretly has a heart of gold, just like Ransom. And the royal family in Roberts’ series has just as much baggage as the rulers in Perry’s book.
Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland
Shield of Sparrows is perfect for anyone who enjoys travel fantasies, as the book keeps readers on the road from beginning to end. And although the vibes are very different, Five Broken Blades offers another travel-heavy story. Its Korean-inspired world also contains daunting monsters, including carnivorous birds just as terrifying as the crux. Its heist-like plot to kill a king and morally dubious cast sets it apart from Shield of Sparrows, but it has a romance dynamic for every romantasy reader. (There are also great twists!)
The Road of Bones by Demi Winters
Viking romantasies are far too few, but The Road of Bones offers one worth reading — especially for Shield of Sparrows fans. Those who enjoy Shield of Sparrows‘ travel sequences and steady pacing will find both in The Road of Bones. They’ll also follow a softer heroine who falls in with hardened warriors, two of whom she shares a connection with. Silla is on the run in this book, and the circumstances surrounding her unexpected adventure are different from Odessa’s. However, her story ticks many of the same boxes as Shield of Sparrows, so it’s worth a shot after reading Perry’s 2025 hit.
What’s a book you’d recommend to Shield of Sparrows fans? Check back on Backtalk Books for more news, reviews, and recommendations!
