Enchanting to the last page, Archer has the feel of an epic saga in the making and is sure to find an enthusiastic following amongst younger readers. Definitely deserving of a place on your bookshelf, it is highly recommended.
Archer is a boy after my own heart. A little shy, wickedly clever (when he feels words are necessary), and loyal to the bone. The author does a great job in teaching the reader about the medieval world, all the while making it accessible and interesting information. But I think the best part of this book is how human and endearing all the characters are.
The jousting event at the start of the book takes the reader into the thick of the action. As the story moves ahead, more magical and fantasy elements make their presence felt in the narrative. And the attention to detail in creating a unique civilization is quite brilliant. There’s something very likeable about Archer. His earnestness, his fighting skills, his loyalty and his code of honor all make for a very interesting character.
Although targeting a teen boy audience, this story felt just right for me too, and would be right up the alley for many adults who read classics. The detail regarding archery is impressive, so if you have a Hunger Games fan in the house, this book can--using a fun story--enhance their knowledge of the lost art of bowmaking and {gasp!} shooting without using a sight.