—reminiscent of the YA dystopian heyday... but definitely for adults

—enemies to lovers with actual stakes

—rebellious girl meets "I have it SO under control" dude

—oh shit people are like... dying? for real?

Heat Index: 7/10

The Basics:

Wren spent her entire life hiding—and perfecting—her psychic abilities, in fear of an authoritarian regime that would kill her. But a single outburst has her the clutches of Command, with the only upside being that, though they don't trust her, they don't know what she is. The upside? Getting the opportunity to attempt to become one of the Silver Elite, a brutal special force, which could help her aid the Uprising from within. The downside? Her commanding officer is Cross Redden, son of the general who runs this entire thing, and very much capable of picking Wren apart. (In, like. So many ways.)

The Review:

I imagine there will be many thinkpieces at some point about the concept of "dystopian romance", and I imagine I will probably contribute something to some of them, so let's hold space for that for a moment and move on.

(Like, did I have moment where I sort of chuckled and went "I'm in danger" while reading this in 2025? Sure! But. Obviously. Anyway. Moving on!)

Everyone has already said things about this really harkening back to the dystopian YA days, and boy, does it! At first, I shall not lie, I was a little thrown off. It's been quite a while since I read any YA, let alone dystopian YA, which was something I dabbled in but was never devoted to. I wasn't like, desperate for Divergent, you know?

It took me a minute to adjust to some of the classic dystopian stuff you sort of have to expect—the slang that's like ours but isn't, the Resistance, the kickapow grrl power heroine, the military college vibes. And I shall not lie! There were moments when it was a little Much for me. Wren took some getting used to in particular, as she is... very much a rebel girl heroine. Mouthy, unsubtle, very Strong, etc.

... at first.

However, as the book went on, I realized that Dani Francis was like, pulling me into this thing. I feel like it's possible that it's going to get kicked for worldbuilding, because I didn't find it that hard to follow...? And I'm not the best at following worldbuilding. The basic setup of "psychics = oppressed, non-psychics = fascists, BUT PERHAPS SOME PEOPLE ARE MORE MORALLY GRAY THAN YOU THINK" isn't super complicated, and I was okay with that.

Because Wren actually did mature and grow with the story. She became less KICKAPOW! and more "Oh, very serious things are happening and I need to wake up and take this shit seriously"-core. And to be very fair to Wren, she is... twenty. So though this is an adult story, she's still quite literally a young adult who has a lot to learn. Is she still a bit of the Special YA Heroine in some ways? Yes, but I wouldn't call her a Mary-Sue, and I liked her journey throughout this book.

And a lot of her journey does basically take place over the course of a ton of really hard tests, many of which are violent, in this intense military-type setting. Which is how she ends up at a crossroads with... Cross! Get it? Anyway, I thought he was hot and I enjoyed how squirmy the big man got when the woman mouthed off at him. I am a simple girl.

But seriously, while I think there are definitely things you could pick apart on the Big Plot side of this book... I really enjoyed the romance. We meet Wren stumbling out of another guy's bed, basically. And then she meets Cross. I really liked that this was not an issue at all, yay for heroines who are in charge of their sex lives. At first, I thought we were going to get some standard "snark snark" banter, but... Dani Francis really knows how to write a hero who is very clearly losing his mind when he's Not That Type of Man.

Wren gets under Cross's skin as much as he gets under hers—more so, probably. And once I realized that Cross wasn't going to be one of those romance heroes who's soooo above it all, I kind of latched on to their love story. It does ramp up a good bit once they get going, but I bought into the chemistry and their "destiny" vibes.

(Which is why I'm very interested to see where Francis takes a particular aspect of the next book.)

Look, dude. You can get me when the romance is good. And though I have my nitpicks... the romance was good.

As a sidebar, I would also like to note that I love how Cross would be like "This is unethical" and do it anyway. I'm so over ethical romance heroes. It's like, if we're in a war... I want this guy on my side.

The Sex:

The sex! Is also! Good! Wren and Cross are more physically intimate before they let their guards down for emotional intimacy, which is a favorite approach of mine when it comes to love stories. You really get the sense that he is PANTING after this girl, and very aware of it, and very embarrassed about it. So many little fun things here! Chekhov's "I like it rough"! Comments about "servicing"!

You know, we may be in a dystopia, but who knows what the future holds? Maybe secret servicing?

Conclusion:

Look, there are some technical things I could critique here, and it took me a minute to get into it.... But what can I say? I had fun. I'm not going to overthink it. I've got my own dystopia to deal with. For a good time call Cross Redden.

Thanks to Del Rey and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This novel followed the well-worn tropes of the hundred teenage dystopias before it. A girl who is extra-special. A mentor. Betrayals. A rebel group that is maybe also the baddies. It was a fun way to pass the time, but I wouldn't seek it out.

I enjoyed Silver Elite! It was easy to read, with some good parts of excitement and suspense to keep the story moving at a decent pace. The Blacklands reminded me slightly of Area X in Annihilation with the mutated animals, plant life and landscape — big fan of this!

I think the initial partnering of the FMC and MMC was missing some deeper insights into their feelings when they first get together and seemed almost too soon, however I am used to the slowest of slow-burns 🥲. I was left cursing some of Wren’s decision-making at times as it came across as rash and somewhat confusing to the plot.

I am a big fan of a dystopian-style fiction and I’m looking forward to seeing where the story goes and how some of the gaps in this book are filled as it progresses; especially with Wren’s character development. That was definitely a cliff hanger! 👏🏻

Thanks to NetGalley & Random House Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this ARC.

This book took me right back to the early 2010s, during the height of the dystopian craze sparked by The Hunger Games.

It was fun, and I genuinely enjoyed myself. The worldbuilding wasn’t anything groundbreaking, but it didn’t need to be. This wasn’t new, novel, or innovative, and yeah, it was predictable in a lot of ways - but the author knew exactly what she was doing. She made me feel nostalgic, happy, fuzzy, and all the good things while reading, and that’s what mattered.

The FMC was your typical reckless, overly stubborn, and sometimes frustrating heroine - the kind that’s been a staple of fantasy/sci-fi romance in recent years. Some of her actions made me want to scream, but she was mostly fine, serviceable even, and I grew to like her more as the story went on.

The MMC was one of the many tall, dark, and handsome brooding types with a ruthless streak - think Xaden, Rhys, or any other popular male lead you can name. Again, nothing groundbreaking, but he was likable enough and I’m sure he will be crowned as a new, popular book boyfriend soon.

Where the book really shined was in its action scenes, the lore-building around the different factions and groups, and Wren’s journey as a military prospect. Watching her train, strategize, and try to outmaneuver the obstacles in her path was genuinely engaging. Those moments kept me hooked.

The romance was cute. I was a little wary of the initial insta-lust (because I like more of a slow burn), but the development was actually handled really well - slow and gradual in a way that made it work.

It’s also pretty obvious this book was written in response to Fourth Wing’s success, but honestly? It was much better and succeeded in so many aspects in which that book failed at.

If you’re feeling nostalgic for the early 2010s dystopian romance era - with Divergent, The Hunger Games, The Maze Runner, Legend, Matched - then you’ll love this.

I enjoyed the book as a whole for the main character. I enjoyed her actions and her thought processes. However for a supernatural ability book there was very little abilities shown!! It's most just a military training book where everyone can be disrespectful and it's not punished. So quite an odd thing to digest when you know a bit about military structures.

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC of this book!

I really really enjoyed this new adult, romantic, sci-fi dystopian. It was actually very refreshing to read a dystopian meant for older readers (I've read a decent amount of YA dystopian). The beginning was a little awkward, but once the story really got going, it was extremely hard to put down. One of those books where you end up short on sleep and then spending an entire weekend reading (I'm not a super fast reader).
I loved the characters. The big identity reveal I saw coming a mile away, but that was okay. It was adorable. The other twists and betrayals were a lot of fun. Ending leaves you hanging a bit with a reveal and a lot unresolved. It hasn't been published yet and I feel like I need the 2nd book now. This is a problem. I'm doomed.

Wow! I am so surprised by this book. I had never heard of this title until I got an email from the publisher. I didn’t even know if I would like this based on the summary, but as a fan of dystopian books back in the day, I decided to give it a try. I am so glad that I did! From the very beginning, this book sucked me in. The action, the intrigue, the romance! I think Cross is my new favorite MMC. I didn’t want to put this book down!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC copy.
5 glowing stars!

I literally don’t know what to say?? This is up there will my favourite books ever, by far the best i have read this year. I am SO lucky to have recieved the ARC to this. I honestly cant explain how desperate i am for the next book when this one is yet to release.

This was INCREDIBLY 6 stars if it was possible. I have been waiting forever for a dystopian book and this was exactly what i was waiting for.

First thing is first Cross Redden is the love of my life. The way he was swooning over wren he just fell so deeply for her but they could not be together. When he spoke to her, called her dove, KISSED her i was kicking my flipping legs so much they nearly fell off. Their romance was perfect, it had tension SO MUCH OF IT (THE SHOWER SCENE) ?!, yearning and spiceee and i loved it.

Wren was such an amazing character 100% one of my favourite female main characters. She is so badass and powerful and she does not let anything stop her. She is so strong for what she has been through because of who/what she is but she never lets it get to her and keeps going regardless. Her sass and humour always made me laugh.

The friendships were some of the best, i loved Wren and Kaine how their friendship formed he is so witty and flirty but he cares so much for wren and vice versa i was so happy she had someone. Lydia and Wrens uncle too were great.

Now the plot was phenomenal i was CONSTANTLY hooked after every chapter, i found myself wanting to know more like i needed to keep reading so i could watch everything unfold and my gosh was i in for a ride because the end?! The whole flipping last 20%?!!?! I was in so much shock every page my heart was racing. THE LAST FLIPPING PAGE WHAT Like Dani Francis please i need the next book so bad, you left me it like that???!! On a cliff hanger??

Oh my gosh this is going to be the next big series FOR SURE! For me this was reminiscent of The Hunger Games, Divergent and The Maze Runner, so if you loved those you are going to fall in love with this book and series.

I was gripped by this book the whole time I was reading it. So much happens and there were multiple twists and turns and betrayals that had me pulling my hair out but also enjoying it so much! It’s the perfect first book in a trilogy, as it sets up the world and characters and issues being dealt with really well but keeps you engaged the whole time.

Wren and Cross - damn that tension is literally there from Chapter 1 and it’s phenomenal. And yes it is actual enemies to lovers because they do actually want each other dead…initially. Honestly so much of Cross’ dialogue with Wren made me gasp or smile because that man is DOWN. BAD.

Wren did make multiple decisions that made me think GOD WHYYYY haha! But it made for an exciting read. She is a great FMC who I think people will love and root for.

Such a good book and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!

If you’re like me, you maybe heard rumblings that this was the next romantasy to look out for.

And honestly those rumblings were right. I had a great time reading this. The flirting was squeal worthy, the action was packed. It was reminiscent of the fun I had while reading Fourth Wing.

Not all books have to be world changing or unique. Sometimes they just need to be fun. So if that’s what you’re looking for, look no further.

Thank you to Netgalley for the arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Imagine that one book that had ur heart racing, blood pumping, fighting sleep for one more chapter, giggling blushing biting the tip of ur finger while twirling ur hair whenever the main characters interact, soo sickkk when u read a crazy plot twist, fascinated by the world building, gives u that nostalgic feeling, basically making u emo for the characters the plot the action the romance. Yeah, well, that was this book for me.

The second I finished this book I SLEPT for seven hrs straight 😭 the way this book had me losing sleep but also wide awake for it too. Like I had adrenaline pumping thru my veins I was feeling such a rush. The vibes were sooo buzzy I couldn’t get enough I was obsessed. I litch found it the worst act in history to have to put this book down to do anything else like feeding myself or talking to ppl. LIKE THIS IS NOT THE TIMEEE I NEED TO DEVOWER THE BOOK OR ILL IMPLODE

It had EVERYTHING I look for in an urban dystopian fantasy romance. The plot, the action, the romance, the tension and chemistry, the amazing world building. Everything was so perfectly balanced and distributed in the book. It all had a place and a reason. There was no dry page IM TELLING U 😩🤚 like u’d think it would be crazy amounts of info dumping but it wasn’t — the world building was so accessible and interesting while also being intricate and detailed. Gahhh pls I wanna gobble this book again I don’t feel like leaving.

Wren, the fmc, is so loveable and amazing. It’s been a BIT since I’ve loved on an fmc this much. Especially in the fantasy genre it’s harder for me to relate or her to become someone I would love or be friends with but wren?? She’s sister material. I love her so much 🥹 she’s been thru sooo much ugh I wanna protect her with my whole chest.

I’m litch not ready to move on. I can’t. I wanna reread RFN. I see the obsession taking root already.


ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This novel caught my attention right away with its dystopian setting where deception determines survival and trust comes at a high cost. Wren Darlington stands out as a compelling protagonist, not just because of her psychic abilities, but through her resilience and inner strength as she navigates the dangerous training facility of Silver Block while concealing secrets that could prove fatal.

The book creates genuine tension through its well-crafted world, showing the divisions between Mods and Primes, rebels and authorities, controllers and survivors. The combination of dystopian elements with an academy setting creates an engaging blend of strategy, competition, and constant risk that kept me reading.

The romance develops at a measured pace with meaningful tension. Cross Redden is an intriguing counterpart to Wren—observant, mysterious, and creating a dynamic filled with sharp dialogue and chemistry. Their relationship isn't simply about attraction but about navigating opposing forces that might destroy them before they can acknowledge their feelings.

What elevates the story is how it balances surprising plot developments with emotional depth. Wren's journey explores questions of freedom and risk—considerations that extend beyond herself to a potentially better future. The secondary characters have depth, the betrayals feel significant, and the ending is powerfully affecting.

This book revitalized my interest in dystopian fiction by incorporating many elements I appreciate about the genre: resistance, secrets, danger, and a compelling romance. Based on this first book, the series shows great promise. Readers who enjoy complex protagonists, sustained tension, and surprising developments should consider this book. I'm eagerly anticipating the sequel.

Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Worlds | Del Rey for providing a digital review copy of this romantic fantasy.

I absolutely loved this book! A dark, thrilling dystopian adventure that hits all of the right notes. Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Shatter Me, and the Hunger Games.

Silver Elite by Dani Franvis, published by Random House World / Del Rey, is the first installment in a trilogy
A dystopian fantasy romance. This is an enemmies-to-lovers romance, the introduction to chracters, setting and storyline.
There's a lot going on right from the start, it took me a minut to get it all sorted out in my head.
All in all an ok read, ends in cliffie and the story continues in the next book.

Wren is a silverblood. And under the general's reign, if anyone found out, she's be done for. Silverbloods have dangerous gifts. Telepathy, empathy, mind reading, and other more dangerous mind altering abilities. It's important that she and her uncle keep a low profile. But when she draws a little too much attention to herself, its not long before she's drawn into a world she never wanted to be part of of. A world that includes the too handsome son of the general, Cross Redden. Now she's working for a secret group of silverbloods while training to be a member of society's finest soldier class, the Silver Elite. Her alliances are challenged at every moment and one wrong turn could end her. Francis' world-building will draw romantasy readers in and the chemistry between the leading characters will have them unable to put the book down. With a fast-paced prose and slight dystopian theme, Silver Elite is a great read for fans of Leigh Bardugo's Shadow and Bone or Lauren Robert's Powerless.

I wan't sure what I was stepping into when I started, and it took a chapter or two to grow comfortable but once I was, the story flew. The FMC is great. Yes, there's a few occasions where you want to say "What are you doing?!" but it's just enough to build a little frustration without making you hate every move she makes. She does not often fit the trope pitfall of annoyingly stubborn FMC. The reader grows to love the MMC right along with the FMC. My distrust broke down right along with the FMC's. There are surprises along the way, and times of laughter. Joy as well as sadness. And the ending...it's a cliff hanger but you feel a satisfying excitement for more, not a feeling of dissatisfied incompleteness. I really enjoyed Silver Elite and can't wait for the next book! I will definitely be buying the trophy hard copy! (Thanks Net Galley for the ARC opportunity!!)

4.5 stars!

WOW this was fun. As I was reading this I realized it's been a while since I read a dystopian book, and I missed it! I thought this world was super interesting with the Primes vs the Mods and different types of Mods. I also liked the training/academic setting of the Silver Block Wren had to join, and I also felt that Wren was a very capable and interesting character. I also really liked the romance (calling her Dove because it's also a bird name has my heart) and I had to stop multiple times to read my friend dialogue because I was giggling and blushing.

The ONLY reason why this wasn't a five star is that the FMC makes an absolutely terrible decision that has terrible ramifications and legitimately made me feel so viscerally angry, but I will 100% be sat for this sequel, especially with that ending???

Thank you to Netgalley and Random House Worlds for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I was pleasantly surprised with this one. I normally don't seek out military/dystopian fiction but I was HOOKED on this book the entire time.

Wren definitely does some stupid stuff but she is young so the flaws reflect her age. Very emotional and decisions are based on those emotions. Her relationship with Jim was well written and that was a sad moment for me. This is how a enemies to lovers book is supposed to be. Not insta anything and we read for the journey not the ending.

I will PRAISE this author for how government/leadership is portrayed in this book. Both sides are wrong.. there is no talking one side up and both Mod and Primes make horrible decisions for the sake of winning the war. And I like how that opens Wrens eyes to how both sides are playing.

I would definitely recommend it to those who enjoyed Divergent.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Worlds | Del Rey for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.

This book was like if Fourth Wing meets Divergent and I really enjoyed it!!!
In all honesty, I struggled with the first 10% of this book. I think that I would have preferred more world building and explanations within that first 10% rather than our FMC having just finished an “escapade” with someone who didn’t add a value to the story. It also made her feel like a completely different character than who & what she actually turns out to be later in the story. After that first 10% thought I was HOOKED!! Some things I did like about this book was the dystopian style setting, the longing between the FMC and MMC was delicious, the military style setting, and the powers/ mods that some of the characters had. Some things I didn’t like was the insta lust over the FMC. At one point she said that the FMC was so beautiful that he would have been better whore which I thought was a little unnecessary. The ending of the book leaves off a a cliff hanger and I cannot wait to find out what happens next for everyone!

4.25 stars!!

i loved this so much! this was a great sci-fi/fantasy read. gave out some divergent & hunger games vibes. some good spice in there too! a certain group of people with psychic abilities (mods) are spouted as the enemy. wren spends her life in hiding with her uncle, but one day he gets captured and her whole life changes. she’s forced to join a program for elite solders. she also joins the uprising. she has some serious chemistry with the captain of the program, BUT he’s the son of the general. the reason the people she loves are dead.