Devney Perry’s highly anticipated romantasy sequel, Rites of the Starling, has debuted at the top of the New York Times Combined Print & E-Book Fiction bestseller list, cementing the author’s status as a breakout star in the booming fantasy-romance genre.

The novel, the second installment in Perry’s Shield of Sparrows series, was released on April 7, 2026.

It follows a young woman thrust into a cursed realm filled with monsters, political intrigue, and a slow-burning enemies-to-lovers romance that has captivated readers.

The book’s immediate commercial success also propelled its predecessor, Shield of Sparrows, back to No. 1 on the USA TODAY Best-Selling Booklist.

The sequel has simultaneously claimed the top spot on the Sunday Times bestseller list in the United Kingdom.

Industry analysts attribute the explosive debut to the continued global surge of romantasy, a genre that blends sweeping fantasy worlds with passionate romance.

Perry, a longtime New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance, has seamlessly transitioned to epic fantasy with richly layered worldbuilding, high-stakes drama, and emotionally charged relationships that resonate strongly with fans of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros.

“Rites of the Starling is an epic, heart-pounding sequel that delivers sacrifice, strength, and destiny in a world on the brink of destruction,” said a spokesperson for the publisher.

The book has been one of the most-added titles on Goodreads for April releases.

It has dominated BookTok conversations, with early readers praising its intricate magic system and unforgettable characters.

The debut comes as other major titles hold strong on the charts.

Andy Weir’s Project Hail Mary remains a steady performer at No. 2 on the New York Times list, while Allen Levi’s Theo of Golden continues to draw significant readership.

However, Perry’s new release stands out as the clearest breakout hit of the week, underscoring how romantasy continues to dominate bestseller lists well into 2026.

Rites of the Starling is available now in hardcover, e-book, and audiobook formats from major retailers worldwide. Fans of the series can expect further installments as Perry expands the Shield of Sparrows universe.

The strong opening signals yet another victory for genre fiction in an era when romantic fiction has moved from niche appeal to a mainstream phenomenon, driving record sales across print, digital, and audio platforms.