Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the ARC of Silver Elite!

Honestly, this one wasn’t really for me. It gave me major Divergent vibes, like an adult version with smut and an illegal psychic ability replacing the Divergent concept. The world-building was solid, and I think readers who are feeling nostalgic for early 2010s dystopian stories might enjoy it. But I just couldn’t connect with the main characters or the storyline. I also got pretty annoyed by the MMC around the 50% mark. I went into this thinking he might be the next Xaden, Four, or even Aaron Warner, especially since Wren describes him as this ridiculously attractive guy, but what I got felt more like a 20-something trying way too hard to be broody. It was like the author was aiming for an Xaden Riorson half the time, and the other half he just acted like an immature, annoying child. That said, it was interesting enough that I might continue the series, but I’d give it 3 stars to be nice

A dystopian romance at a military training base where recruits and ranking soldiers live double lives. Spice was a bit meh 🫤 and the romance between Wren and Cross was too good to be true/obvious. If you’re a fan of “academy” romances or romantasies , you’ll probably like this. It was suspenseful enough to keep me turning pages late into the night for two days.

I really liked this book. I predicted a twist from the start, but even then I still enjoyed the book. I liked the characters, the plot, the world building. I liked it all. I can't wait to read more from this author and hopefully more in this series.

It kind of had Divergent vibes but with explicit sex scenes. The twists weren't super surprising but it was a fun read

I finished this book and oh my goodness I have no words. I started and finished it in about 2 days, and to say that I'm hooked is putting it lightly.

Our main lead, Wren has been living in hiding because of her powers and suddenly she's tossed into the hands of the enemy- forced to hide her identity and try to survive Silver Block - where the most elite of the Command soldiers are weeded out. Enter Cross, our cold brooding commander, who our lovely lead had a run in with (even then the tension was tensioning) and seeing the two of them develop their relationship was SO GOOD. (he's so down bad and I love that for him) The vibes between our two leads, Wren and Cross were *chef's kiss* AMAZING.

I certainly felt like I was on a rollercoaster of emotions, and the ending has me wanting the next one!!

Some parts of the book were predictable but I still enjoyed how the author had fun plot twists after plot twists that I wasn't expecting.

Military/slight dystopian setting
THE TENSION and banter
Badass FMC who's not perfect
Psychic powers and

What more could you ask for? Thanks so much for the ARC opportunity!!

I was so excited to read this book but… I think the booktok hype really did this book no favours. While it was fine, I was expecting much more than what it delivered. It’s dystopia lite, trying to work off vibes without doing any of the work to make it a dystopian story.

Also, the marketing around it didn’t help either. It’s not a true debut author, but an established author writing in a new genre under a pen name. Why hide that? Why the initial hype around a debut author - but then having the money and effort that isn’t usually provided for debut or BIPOC authors??? That didn’t sit right with me.

Also, I don’t mind the pen name - I’ve enjoyed many books by authors writing under a pen name… but the bait and switch, the misleading marketing, and then the book actually not being what I was expecting… just really left a bad taste.

This was a good dystopian romance. Wasn’t anything exceptional about it, but it was a good story. Lots of questions didn’t get answered, and some parts were confusing. But I feel like a book 2 could clear a lot of that up.

An interesting premise although I wouldn’t classify it as Hunger Games for adults. I enjoyed majority of the book but certain parts I felt were underwhelming or underdeveloped. Overall I would still recommend the book for readers looking to get into the dystopian/romantasy genre.

“Silver Elite” by Dani Francis is a fun new edition to the romantasy/dystopian world. Although predictable, and there are several plot holes, I was very entertained throughout the whole story and had a good time reading it. So much so that I still ordered the BOTM version with the pretty sprayed edges and I’m eager to read the second book as well. The two main characters are very Fourth Wing coded. If you enjoyed the romance in that book, then you’ll like this one.
Thank you to NetGallery and Del Rey for an advanced copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.

Wren Darlington has been hiding her whole life and trying to blend in. If anyone knew she was modified, she would be in a labor camp, or even worse… dead. When she is thrown into training for the Silver Group Command, she does everything she can to fit in. Making sure she doesn’t stick out or make any wrong moves. The Commander, Cross, keeps making her life harder. But she pushes all the boundaries she can. The whole point of the Silver Group is to keep the civilians sage and weed out all of the Modified, but when Wren’s loyalty starts to falter, she doesn’t really know who is worse. The Primes, or the Modified.

Silver Elite was sold to us as a “spice Divergent Hunger Games” and I am not quite sure if they really nailed that description. However, I still loved this book. The vibes alone were KILLER. Did I see some of the twists coming? Yes. Did I see all of them coming? No. I really loved this book and everything about it. Honestly, there is not one thing I did NOT like about it. The world building, character development, tension and relationships that were built kept me on my toes and invested. I couldn’t put it down and read it in two days. TWO DAYS! I can’t wait to read the next book and hope one day our mystery author reveals herself.

This book made me so angry. In the first half, I could really see the appeal if I looked past the false advertising that was the marketing campaign for this book. This book is most certainly not a dystopian book & I’m so frustrated that it was marketed that way as that’s the main reason I picked it up. There is literally no world building or political intrigue which I’d argue is necessary in a dystopian book. This book is a military romance with some light supernatural elements. There’s this “grand reveal” at the end that I honestly didn’t even feel impacted by because there was no world building or thorough discussion of the political state of the story. They barely even discuss why the issue of mod versus prime exists & how it’s developed or why each group is out go get the other/what actions they’re taking/the purpose of their wars. It’s certainly a page turner which is likely why people are enjoying it & that I can understand, however I also found the romance to be lacking which is unfortunate as that’s the primary basis of what the book stands on. The second half of the book felt rushed & many events happened that seemed out of character for the characters involved or just straight up nonsensical. I regret not DNFing this book.

Thank you to the publisher for an eARC copy!

I have always been a huge dystopian girly when I was growing up, so when I received and ARC of this book, I was stoked! Overall, I enjoyed the *concept* of this book, but I felt like it was a bit messy and did not live up to the hype currently surrounding it.

I unfortunately was bored for about 70% of this book. Although there was a full on story happening, it felt like nothing was happening. This surprised me because dystopian, military-like books were always up my alley. Then things started to pick up around 70% and it picked up enough for me to be intrigued to know how this book was going to end, but then the last 10% fell really flat for me.

I also didn't really care for either of the main characters. Now, if I don't personally relate or connect to the characters, I don't dock points for that, but I could not for the life of me see the chemistry or connection between the two. It felt very forced and I was not buying into it. Because I couldn't see the chemistry between the two, the spicy scenes made me feel icky.

The dialogue could be very cringy at times (ex: the MMC says "I've been a bad boy" and was dead serious. Literally kill me.) In addition to being cringy, it also felt a bit juvenile, which I could totally understand if this was a YA book, but it's marketed as adult.

Now, I am still rating this 3 stars because I was entertained *enough* to not hate it. It was one of those things where you just can't look away. I also was not expecting it to be a literary masterpiece so my expectations weren't insanely high, despite the hype surrounding this book.

Was it good? Questionable. Did I enjoy it? Also questionable. But did I hate it? No.

As a vibe reader, this book completely consumed me. I enjoyed it so much, but when I looked past the vibes, I can understand how this might not work for everyone. The writing wasn't perfect but it had all the elements I love, like a sizzling romance, a strong but reckless fmc with amazing banter, a dreamy mmc, and a plot twist that left my jaw on the floor.

I was hooked. Every time I couldn't read, I was dying on the inside. I also really liked the dystopian setting. Do I wish the worldbuilding was a little more detailed? Sure, but as someone who doesn't usually read this genre, I actually found it super easy to understand and get into.

The plot was gripping and action-packed. The romance was making me feral. I lived for the slow burn enemies to lovers dynamic, and the secrets that were revealed left me gasping out loud. The ending felt like a bomb dropped on me, my emotions were all over the place.

I honestly dont know what to do with myself now that I've finished this book. I need more!

Thank you so much for the ARC

Reading Dani Francis's "Silver Elite" felt like coming home in the best possible way. As a huge fan of "Divergent" back in high school, this book scratched a very specific itch, delivering that satisfying blend of post-apocalyptic wards and a society where survival hinges on conforming to a brutal system. Unlike societies structured by "destiny," this world is fiercely dictated by the decrees of a war general, where individuals like Wren, the "aberrant," are targeted for death due to their genetic gifts. The oppressive nature of this regime, constantly hunting those with psychic abilities, immediately drew me in, offering a sense of familiar comfort from dystopian narratives while still presenting its own unique dangers and challenges.

For fans of more recent hits, the military training and school elements were incredibly reminiscent of "Fourth Wing." The rigorous trials (ops), intense competition, and bonds forged under pressure all contributed to the addictive, high-stakes atmosphere that makes those kinds of stories so compelling.

And speaking of compelling, the tension and spice were very well received! Dani Francis skillfully weaves in moments of palpable anticipation and undeniable chemistry, adding another layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.

I'll admit, the plot points and overall direction were pretty predictable from the very beginning. But honestly, that's part of its charm. "Silver Elite" isn't trying to reinvent the wheel; it's a comfort read, a delightful journey through beloved tropes executed with skill and heart. It's the kind of book you pick up knowing you're in for a good time, and it delivers.

I'm eagerly looking forward to the rest of the series and diving back into this world. If you're looking for a book that offers the nostalgic thrill of "Divergent" with a touch of "Fourth Wing" intensity and a healthy dose of comfort, "Silver Elite" is definitely worth picking up.

I love the concept this book is going for with a dystopian vibe with spice. Hooked from the beginning because I was enjoying myself. Thats it though.

I have an understanding that outside of training camp the world is under tight lock and key. People are divided into sectors placed in certain housing as if assigned. BRebels are fighting for equal treatment as the rest who can’t read minds. Thats all I got though. Once we are in the training camp…I forgot all about the outside world. We don’t get anymore feel of this book being dystopian because its not being explored more.

Second…the romance. They are enemies simply because she is part of the people he is supposed to kill. Got it. However, it feels forced trying to make this a tension filled she shouldn’t want him but does trope. Also theres a bit of immediate attraction which personally I hate.

This book was linked to popular series such as hunger games and fourth wing. Thats whats really determines whether or not you fully enjoy this book. Id suggest this for my readers out there who are looking for a good time without worrying too much with details.

It was a dystopian world and I was not able to handle it at all. It just grossed me out. To be honest, it was not worth the hype

Francis does a great job crafting a world divided by class and ability, capturing the tension and danger of Wren’s situation. The pacing is brisk, with plenty of twists, and Wren’s internal struggle to maintain her secret while stepping into a powerful role is compelling. The chemistry between Wren and Cross adds emotional depth, even if the romance occasionally veers into familiar territory.

While the world-building is intriguing, it sometimes takes a back seat to the romance and action, and a few tropes feel predictable for seasoned dystopian readers. Still, the emotional stakes and energetic plot more than make up for it, delivering a read that feels like a nostalgic throwback to early 2010s dystopian favorites.

Verdict: Silver Elite is a thrilling start to a promising series, ideal for fans of Divergent, Shatter Me, or Red Queen. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s undeniably entertaining.

Get ready to plunge into a world brimming with danger, forbidden powers, and sizzling tension, because Dani Francis's Silver Elite is the romantasy sensation you absolutely need in your life! This book isn't just hyped – it earns every single bit of that buzz, delivering a thrilling ride that will leave you breathless and desperate for more.

Our journey begins with Wren Darlington, a character you'll instantly root for. She's spent her entire life in the shadows, honing her formidable psychic abilities – a dangerous secret in a world where being Modified means certain death. Aiding the rebel Uprising, Wren is one of the most powerful Mods in existence, living every day with the weight of her secret. But one careless mistake shatters her hidden existence, throwing her directly into the hands of the very enemy she's fought against.

Forced to join the enemy's most elite training program, Silver Block, Wren suddenly finds herself with a perfect, albeit terrifying, opportunity: to strike a devastating blow from within their ranks. But Silver Block is a crucible, a place where training can be deadly, especially when you're harbouring dangerous secrets and living in incredibly close quarters with everyone who wants you dead. The stakes are perpetually high, and Wren must prove herself, navigate treacherous alliances, and keep her true nature hidden.

And then there's Cross Redden. Oh, Commander Cross Redden. He's everything you want in a morally gray, infuriatingly irresistible commanding officer who misses nothing when it comes to Wren. The chemistry between them is electric, a slow-burn masterpiece built on suspicion, forced proximity, and undeniable attraction. Their dynamic is a highlight, adding layers of intense romantic tension to the already high-stakes plot.

As war rages between Mods like Wren and those who aim to destroy them, Wren faces impossible choices. She must decide just how far she’s willing to go to protect herself, her secrets, and ultimately, how much of this war-torn Continent is truly worth saving.

Dani Francis has crafted a truly captivating romantasy that hooks you from the first page and doesn't let go. The world-building is immersive, the action is relentless, and the character development, particularly Wren's growth and her intricate relationship with Cross, is utterly compelling. If you adore high-stakes plots, forbidden powers, a dash of rebellion, and an enemies-to-lovers trope that will make you fan yourself, then Silver Elite is your next obsession.

I fully wanted to read this book because of the online hype, but sadly it didn’t connect t for me. I found this book fairly middle range - it wasn’t a bad book but I really didn’t see the hype either. I put this book in the same realms as Powerless and Bride, predictable, easy reads, light on the fantasy/dystopia and world building. Would be good entry level books for people new to the genres.

I found that I didn’t really like the FMC much, and the MMC was a bit of a simp so I missed out on any enemies to lovers claims. The twists and storyline were all predictable from early on, though I’ll admit one twist I didn’t see coming (literally the last one). But regardless this was still an easy book to read, and I will likely continue the series to see where it goes, it just won’t be a series to rush to or request the sequel arcs.

Overall I gave this book a 3⭐️ rating, I found it a bit middle if the range but not a terrible book. I struggled with engaging while reading so it’s one of those books which is more for when I want a stop gap between more epic fantasy novels.

Soooooo.... I'm so curious how books get chosen to be BOTM books. And where exactly do books gain traction and become hyped in the book community? There has to be a secret to it because the fact that people are going so wild about this book is really confusing.

This book was so silly and seemed like a complete rip-off of all the other dystopian/fantasy books around, BUT I was entertained for the most part and I did actually have a few feelings while I was reading it. I settled on a 3 rating, but honestly it was probably a bit lower. I never knew exactly what was going on. There was zero world building. I didn't know how anyone got to where they were. There was magic, but that wasn't really explained, yet it was the ENTIRE basis of why one group of people was hated and feared so badly. Some of the characters and group dynamics were interesting. And I did have a favorite character. But I didn't love it. I didn't hate it. Who is Dani Francis?