The Archer's Cup

Green Ember Archer #3

by S.D. Smith

A Green Ember Archer story set in the midst of the buildup to the last battles for Natalia.

In this sequel to The Last Archer and The First Fowler, Jo Shanks is charged with aiding Emma on her mission to unite the secret citadels in their fight against the Preylord slavers. Alongside Cole and Heyna Blackstar, Jo and Emma must enter into the heart of a community in confusion.

Something is wrong at Blackstone Citadel. Can Jo and his friends solve the mystery and enlist Blackstone’s aid in time to rendezvous with their allies fighting for the Mended Wood?

A citadel on the edge.

Who will target the terror?

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Middle Grade, Audiobook, Childrens, Christian Fiction, Christian

276 pages, Paperback

Published November 10, 2020

About the author

S. D. Smith is the author of The Green Ember Series, a million+ selling adventure saga featuring heroic #RabbitsWithSwords. The Green Ember spent time as the number one bestselling audiobook in the world on Audible. He is also the author of the madcap Mooses with Bazookas: And Other Stories Children Should Never Read as well as the touching throwback adventure, The Found Boys. Finally, he has co-authored two fantasy adventure novels with his son (J. C. Smith), Jack Zulu and the Waylander’s Key and Jack Zulu and the Girl with Golden Wings. Smith’s stories are captivating readers across the globe who are hungry for “new stories with an old soul.”

Though packed with old school virtue and moral imagination, Smith doesn't merely create "safe" stories, but bold, daring, truthful tales of light that help shape children who become dangerous—dangerous to the darkness.

Smith is a founder and owner of Story Warren, a publishing, events, and IP development house based in rural West Virginia. Story Warren exists to serve families as “allies in imagination.” 

S. D. Smith lives in Gran

Reviews

[Rosie Henry]

This was fun! Smith’s writing has improved tremendously over the last half-decade. The banter, especially, was hilarious! I loved finding out more about the world of Natalia. I’ve always loved Jo, although he stresses me out lol. I was a little frustrated with his lovesick attitude towards Amber. Speaking of, there was a lot of romance in this book, which was surprising and . . . just a bit unwelcome. But I did love Jo’s character development other that that! The Cole and Jo interactions were my favorite. I love their bromance. Slimmo totally got me. I trusted him 100%. We love a good plot twist :) I know I’ve outgrown the target audience, but I’m glad I’m still enjoying these books.

P.S. Happy New Year lol🥳

Pre-Review: This arrived in the mail today!! I’ve had just about the worst month ever, so it was quite a welcome surprise to have this show up a few days early. Thanks, Sam!

[Kaytlin Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Archer Books! Okay, Jo is so endearing and so much fun! I love him! He's my favorite...or one of them.🤣

Characters:
Jo is just as goofy, endearing, and lovable as always! He's so humble, and his internal struggles are sooooooo good! I love him!
Cole and Heyna are so much fun in this one, and I love seeing more of them!
Emma is such a sass but also a dear!
Lockson is a cool character. His captain gets on my nerves.🤣
I love the Bracers in this one! And I need a Lost Tale about Lockson's mission pronte!

Themes:
That we have to know what love truly is, and sometimes it's letting go. I love the quote that says love is two people finding each other in a crowd and choosing to walk out together one cannot drag the other out, or it is not love. So true and so beautifully put!
Also, if we give up on honor, then we are not ready for love. *chef's kiss* beautiful and so true!

Language:
N/A

Romance:
Jo is a bit smitten, but it's more comical than anything.

Magic:
N/A

Violence/Gore:
Some fights, nothing too descriptive. Some rabbits are poisoned and then a scene where some are almost burned alive.
Also, a creepy stalker vibe going, but nothing super intense. You can tell Smith had his intended audience in mind when writing this.

Overall:
This is such a good book, and I love it! The Archer's Cup has so much intrigue, mystery, and humor! It is an amazing addition to The Green Ember Archer Series and The Green Ember Series at large!

Recommend for age 7+

[Morgan's Endless Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I'm out of words for how much I love these bunnies with swords. Or bows, as the case may be.

[Enola Stevenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another well-paced story featuring our favourite archer. I particularly enjoyed the moral lessons and the foreshadowings of the brilliant plot twist. Lots of fun but also plenty of meaty stuff to discuss as a family.

[Sam (The Favorites Shelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

(Green Ember: Archer - book 3)

I've enjoyed the Archer trilogy as much as the main Green Ember series! Jo has become one of my favorite characters, and his personality really shines through in this book. I liked seeing him with Emma, Heyna, and Cole too. Their banter is so entertaining! (Also, I listened to this on audio, and the narrator does a great job making conversations perfectly dramatic.)

I did think certain crush/love interest situations develop pretty suddenly, but I realized it supports an overall message. Certain themes could've easily become too deep for a middle grade book, but the author handles the conclusions well. (Although, I'd still recommend this primarily for an upper middle-grade audience.)

And, of course, the archery competition is great! I was hoping it would be featured more. The main mystery is interesting, though. The plot has some twists I definitely didn't see coming right away. Once I figured things out, I could see how well all the clues fit together!

Side note: This book takes place during the events of book 3 in the main series (Ember Rising). I'd recommend reading the main series first, since there are a few small references in this story that may otherwise be missed.

*Content to note*
.....May contain minor spoilers.....
Characters face life-threatening situations (ex: trapped in room by fire/stunned from potential poisons) and receive threatening letters. Kidnapping attempt.

[Anna Scovel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book made me think maybe the Archer series as a whole is more fun than the main in series as a whole.

Very fun. I love how he writes friends teasing one another. It feels very natural an strong.

[Kaden Nimmers · Rating 5 out of 5]

it was really tricky to find out. but I still loved it.
I really want S.D.Smith to write more books about the rabbits.

[Ann Stanley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book and the theme was very well done. Jo Shanks is an amazing main character. His humorous banter with the Blackstar twins was my favorite part.

[Jared Mcnabb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun read aloud book with my boys. I had expected it to connect more to the larger Green Ember narrative than it did.

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant story by SD Smith! A thrilling tale of Jo Shanks and his comrades.

[Lydia Mesedahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really don't know where to start...
First. It took me a little bit to get into the book, but once I did, I couldn't put it down.
Second. The whole plot line of the book kept me on my toes, ready for more, and the plot twists I didn't even see coming! (which I normally do)
Third. I really wish I read this along with the original series, because it gave so much information that the original series didn't.

Some content warnings:
-has some dark parts
-multiple attempted murders
-startling plot twist

[Carolyn Leiloglou · Rating 5 out of 5]

This third installment of the Green Ember Archer series is full of mystery, intrigue, and compelling characters, and the red herrings kept me guessing until nearly the end.

While it’s a thrilling story, this book also deals with a very important theme: what is real love? Is it something you fight for? Or does it require real sacrifice? It’s a message I certainly could have benefited from when I was a young reader.

[Tori Samar · Rating 4 out of 5]

This latest addition to the Green Ember universe is a good blending of fantasy and mystery. I liked the plot, the pacing, the suspense, and (as always) the characters. Some of the humor felt forced, but it's not unbearable. Regardless, I do think S.D. Smith's writing keeps getting better with every book he releases.

[Jessica Holroyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

One to read over and over again!

A remarkable addition to a story we all know and love already. Full of adventure, wit, and humor, this was a pleasant read, but also one full of deep truths to ponder. I already feel the need to reread it!

[ValeReads Kyriosity · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice ending to this side trilogy.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I almost think this might be my favorite Green Ember book, which is . . . interesting? I loved the mystery element (I'm a sucker for a good whodunit), and I think the way the theme tied in with said mystery was very well handled. Jo's lovesickness did frustrate me a little, but it also seemed very understandable, and I think the message that comes out of it is one many people need to hear these days.

[Kirsten Manley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This spinoff series of the Green Ember story is so cute, for lack of a better word. I’m would have loved these stories as a kid. A little cheesy, but S.D. Smith does such a good job of showing character development, and also makes having character look good to kids and not feel stuffy. I love Joe’s battles with his pride, wanting to be a hero, and learning to sacrifice for something bigger than himself. These are the types of values kids need to be leading about as they grow up. Smith is definitely an author I will have laying around for my kiddos to read.

[Matthew Gasperoni · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my favorite of the three and possibly one of my favorites in the entire series. What a fun and dynamic book—filled with laughs, tears, twists, and turns (some quite unpredictable). Overall, it’s just a fantastic read. As always, I love S.D. Smith’s pacing: not too slow, not too fast—just perfect for keeping the pages turning!

[Noah Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story that deepens one’s affection for honor, bravery, and fellowship; while at the same time warns against seeking self honor and envy. These characters make you love and yearn for what is good and hate what is bad!

[Elizabeth Tuecke · Rating 3 out of 5]

it makes me smile. :)

[Janie · Rating 4 out of 5]

For some reason Slimmo (don’t know if I spelled that right 😂) really reminds me of Long John Silver from Treasure Island 😁. I really enjoyed reading this book! I love S.D Smith!

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite possibly one of my favorite S.D. Smith books that we’ve read. There was more mystery and intrigue in this one than other Green Ember stories, and it shows a lot of growth in his writing. The plot twist near the end was well done, with a hopeful ending.

[Noelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I REALLY enjoyed Jo’s character arc in this series, but I ESPECIALLY enjoyed his arc in this book.
So good!!

[Serenity · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt like this a one had a very interesting story line. Even though I’ve listened to it before i did not remember the plot twist. Great book for Green Ember fans.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Evening family read aloud by my husband. We all enjoyed this one. I wasn’t sure about the emphasis on love for a doe, but Smith wrapped it all up well and it led to some excellent discussions with the kids. He’s a master at leaving the reader on the edge of their seats and every chapter end had us begging for “just one more!”.

[Jessi · Rating 5 out of 5]

These Jo Shanks tales have become my favorites! I just love them.

[Dory · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish these books would multiply... Like rabbits 😜📚!

[Cheshers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our favorite Green Ember stories and beloved Jo Shanks, but make it a mystery! Add some romance, story telling and lots of character building! This was a joy to read, and nothing too crucial to the storyline, more just pleasure. Excellently done, as always

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing!!! I couldn't put it down, The Archer's Cup kept me guessing at ever turn. S.D. Smith had a defined talent for drawing you into a story and making the characters, places, and situations come to life. I would recommend this book for all ages, The Archer's Cup is definitely a book I will be rereading many times.

[Timothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

S.D. Smith continues to produce lovely tales of bunnies bent on winning a war. The theme of love throughout the book was interesting and creative. The undercurrent of a good-ole-fashion "who-dun-it" mystery novel just added to the enjoyment. While it wasn't entirely predictable, the kids and I did guess pretty early on who the Bane Graveheart villain was, but we didn't predict the winner of the Archer's Cup - nor did I see the end wrapping up in the way it did! I really appreciated the ending where the guy didn't get the girl or win the competition - the world doesn't always work that way, so why should all our stories! I also appreciated the fact that even though he didn't win or get the girl, he still learned a lot and still chose to be happy. Moreover, he saw a great example of what it looks like and the dangers that come from choosing to NOT let go of bitterness and jealously and how, these things can destroy a person over time. In short, Smith gave us another great book that illustrates and shares great life lessons and principles of relationships that are full of adventure, swash-buckling (whatever that is...), and bunnies with swords and bows - in other words, full of fun! I love reading these to my kids - 13, 11, and 8.