The Twin Arrows

Arrows and Archers #1

by Kate Willis

Two children. Two journeys. Twin arrows.

Ryla follows her father's parting instructions as closely as she carries his gift. Her protectors are kind, and safety is certain inside the convent's strong walls. But now she must leave and what lies ahead is uncertain...

Her brother Drewin won't wait any longer. The knight promised to escort him isn't coming, and gossiping neighbors threaten to reveal his identity. He strikes out on his own, sure he can outrun the danger...

Genres: Fantasy, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Middle Grade, Adventure, Short Stories, Historical Fiction

123 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2017

About the author

Kate (Willis) Hoppman is a follower of Jesus and lover of words. She enjoys quiet afternoons reading or watching movies with her nerdy husband, baking tall cakes, and cuddling her dogs.

Reviews

[Kate Willis]

2018 Re-read
Just read this to take notes so I can ensure continuity in books #2 and #3. ;)

Original Review
Look, a book! This kingdom adventure story is targeted at readers ages 8-12 but has been enjoyed by a wide age group. ;) I can't wait to share it with you!

[Sarah Grace Grzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply lovely!

I adored this short, fantasy read. Growing up, I really didn't read *any* fantasy, as it was just so hard to find anything clean for the age range. THIS is what I wished I could read when I was 8-14. Entirely clean of any magic, violence, langauge, or other explicit material, this book is one I would highly recommend. Extremely well written, gripping story, great characters, just awesomeness.

[Allison Tebo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the privilege of being on Kate’s team of beta-readers for the Twin Arrows and it was a truly enjoyable experience and a lovely book.

Middle-grade fiction is often an underappreciated and overlooked age range, but it was one of the most important phrases of reading in a person’s life. Kate does a wonderful job creating clean, exciting books for this age-range that NEVER talks down to the reader. There is quite a bit of story packed into this book with a very definite and lovely sense of setting. Good characters moving at a good pace through a fun and insightful adventure that is woven around Truth.

This is exactly the sort of story I would love to share with a younger reader. It is fun, exciting, clean and with great themes woven throughout. It is the sort of book that you keep to share, a book that becomes better with the sharing.

It was a delight to read, and I look forward to sharing the delight with others.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I knew from snippets shared during NaNo that this was going to be a good book, but it’s even better than I hoped. Full five stars for this well-written, enjoyable quick read about two siblings caught in a medieval conflict and whose father has provided for their safety—but they have to do as he has said to survive.

A clean story, suitable for the whole family but also complex enough to be enjoyable to adults.

[Rebekah Morris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Even though I’m not usually fond of medieval stories, I did enjoy this one. It was short and I wanted to know more, but it was a fun read. The siblings were different and acted according to their own way of thinking, but the message of it all was good. A delightful read for anyone looking for a short, fun, action filled story complete with knights, danger and trust.

I received this book free for my honest review.

[E.F. Buckles · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful read with a fun, dramatic adventure, touching moments, and characters I would enjoy seeing more of. I especially liked that it featured a healthy brother/sister relationship, which is something that is sadly lacking in much of today’s fiction. My only complaint is that it was short.

[Karis · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I signed up to beta read The Twin Arrows by Kate Willis, I was eagerly looking forward to it, having heard good things about the author but having never read anything by her. Well, let me just say, I have never enjoyed beta reading as much as I did while working with this fabulous group of betas and an equally awesome author who was always quick to get back with our comments and suggestions, asking us once she changed it, “How does this work?” It was an absolute delight and honor for me to help beta read this story, and I am looking forward to its publication.

Their country torn apart by revolution and war, Ryla and Drewin are placed hidden into safety by their father, an important lord, and given matching gifts—silver arrows (whose significance they cannot fully understand)—to help protect them. Months pass, and when discovery seems imminent to Drewin, he makes a decision that may prove to be disastrous and not just for himself.

The tale of Drewin and his sister Ryla, along with that of the knights charmed me from the beginning, and the strong theme of the value of obedience and forgiveness added a sweet richness to the entire story. When I had finished, I immediately wanted to read more. Sir Larkin and the various more minor characters peaked my interest, to say the least, and I found myself wanting their back stories and curious to know who would win the war. I loved the beautiful descriptions and word pictures that Kate Willis slipped in throughout, as well.

The Twin Arrows is targeted for readers ages twelve through sixteen, but I believe readers of all ages can enjoy this clean adventure story. I love, love, loved it, and I am sincerely hoping that Kate will write a sequel. (Please, Kate!)

[Allyson]

The Twin Arrows is a short, enjoyable tale for any age.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

My overall feeling? "Awwwwwww!"

This story is just pure sweetness, with just the right amount of action. The author weaves in a thread of faith and redemption effortlessly. Honestly, the writing is just beautiful and mellifluous. I so enjoyed just the way Kate described everything and brought me into a different place.
That being said, the characters were just wonderful. I loved Ryla and Drewin AND THE KNIGHTS. Y'all.

My only complaint? I want MORE!!!! I felt like this was a slice out of what could be an absolutely FANtastic full-length novel or short-length novels series. Not really a bad thing. I would read the fire out of either if the author decided to do more with Ryla and Drewin. Oh, and I caught a minor error in word selection, but I see that kind of thing in a lot of indies?

OH! And if you read this book (which, if you're reading this PLEASE DO), get a paperback copy, even if you already have the e-version!!! I was *disclaimer* sent a copy as a prize from a summer reading contest (thank you, Sarah Grace & Kate), and it is absolutely the most adorable little book that I own (minus the vintage mini pop-up books my grandmother gave me). It is small; you could slip it in your purse, and has the prettiest cover. It's just cuteness. I can't help but smile when I look at it.

[Angela R. Watts · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Twin Arrow by Kate Willis is a very clean, sweet, and refreshing story. The messages were the ones that I think too many people simply forget- honoring your parents, obeying God, and the power of love. Nowadays, it seems so many people just lack these basic commandments of God. It was very exciting to see a book that took these lessons and wove them into an interesting story!
The characters in this book were well-rounded. The characters were all realistic- even the younger characters and teens. The lessons they all learned were very realistic and strong (definitely relatable ha). It was amazing to see them all see the Truth…. And if we’re talking about favorites (which is impossible, because they’re all so lovely); Sir Larkin was pretty epic. Just saying. Not to mention Ms. Willis herself called me a ‘Sir Larkin advocate’ so…. ;) But yes: the characters were all well-thought out, and I could empathize with them all. And Sir Larkin was very lovable.
Overall, The Twin Arrows is a book I’d love to read again. I would recommend it to anyone, of all ages. The action was good and clean, the lessons were messages EVERYONE needs to be reminded of, and the characters were amazing.
* I received a free advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review.*

[Victoria Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

A charming short book! This novella was something I would have loved to read when I was 12-16. I wish there were more books like this when I was younger. It is still something I enjoyed today, though a little short. A quick medieval read that is lovely and enjoyable while fraught with suspense and enough excitement to keep a younger boy interested. I think this is the perfect book for girls and boys because the siblings are a brother and sister. The boy seeks adventure and the girls has struggles with her life. Each character offers something that either gender will enjoy. It’s biblical lessons were also sweetly woven in.

Likes:

~ Sir Larkin. I love the wise, but awesome knights in these type of stories. You tell ‘em sir!

~ Rilla. TOTALLY RELATABLE

~ Drewin. . . also relatable, a normal teen.

Quibbles:

~ It was too short! *wails* I want more. Although, I can’t really say that that is much of a complaint as it is a compliment. Open-mouthed smile

~ There were also a few minor errors that weren’t a big deal and didn’t draw me out of the story at all.

Overall:

An enjoyable book that I would recommend without reservation!

[Kaytlin Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really enjoyable MG fantasy read! The book is pretty short but I really enjoyed it! The message behind it was powerful and well presented! Loved getting to read it!
Plus if you order the paperback...omgoodness! It is so cute and tiny and just...oh, it's the cutest little book ever! I love it!

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Twin Arrows is a short story about two siblings. It was super sweet and I really enjoyed it. Ryla and Drewin have the sweetest brother/sister relationship that had me smiling throughout the whole book. The story line was well thought out and I loved seeing how the story unfolded. I loved reading about both siblings, but especially enjoyed reading about Ryla.

I really enjoyed the authors writing style. She is very talented! Her wring is very enjoyable to read. I would recommend this to anyone.

"I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review"

[Lydia Howe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why I Choose this Book:

I've been following Kate's blog, Once Upon an Ordinary, for a while, and I'm always impressed by her writing. Her style draws me in and is quite interesting. When I moved over to Wordpress from Blogger last year she graciously answered many questions I had via email, and ever since then we've kept up a correspondence. She's told me a little bit about Twin Arrows over the last several months, so when the chance came to read the book, I jumped at it. 

(Last week I reviewed her brother's book; you can read the review here.)

What I Thought about this Book:

On my lands, people. The writing is simply, downright, undeniably beautiful. It captured me from the first page and didn't let me go. It's the kind of writing that I want to read over and over again because the descriptions are spot-on, the words flow together, and scenes burst off the page and into real life. 

I don't know if it was the cadence of the sentences, or the setting of the words, but even though the book was an "adventure" type story it felt peaceful to me. There are times that I want books to make my heart beat faster, but when I was reading this book I just wanted to relax and be entertained, and the book did it's job phenomenally well. 

The plot of the book wasn't something that I would have found to be completely exciting or captivating on it's own, but paired with the writing I enjoyed it a lot. Sibling stories are the best, and The Twin Arrows was a sibling story - flipping back and forth between a separated pair of brothers and sisters. 

The author did a great job of making the two main characters unique, and it was easy to tell who's point of view the story was coming from. The character arch for the brother was also well done, and I liked the sister right from the very start. 

Conclusion:

The one complaint I have about the story is that it's quite short. I wanted to read more and stay in the world that the author had developed longer. I am hoping that she'll do a full-length novel some day soon. 

Rating:

I’m giving Twin Arrows Four out of five stars.

*I received a free ARC of this book from the author. I was not obligated to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
 

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Age Appropriate For: All Ages
Best for Ages: 9-15

Read on Kindle Unlimited.

Isn’t it nice when you can sometimes find a book that you know you would have adored as a child? I know that this would have been exactly what eleven-year-old me would have wanted in a story, adventure, siblings, and kids getting to do cool stuff.

If I were to classify this book, I would call this an old-fashioned moral tale. It isn’t truly fantasy or history, it is a sweet, well-written story to convey a message to young hearts. That isn’t to say that the take beats you over the head with a message, far from it. It only makes the story sweet and nostalgic feeling.

Ryla and Drewin both are lovable characters who must overcome their own obstacles and fears to face their future. Even though the story is short, I loved them and would love to read more stories with them in it.

This story didn’t take long to read. Some might not love the shortness, but I thought it lent itself very well for younger audiences to read quickly and enjoy over and over again.

I highly recommend this book for young people (or young at heart), those who enjoy nostalgic feeling stories, and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted shorter story.

[R.A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting read!!!! Adventurous too!

The Characters:
Ryla - she was very sweet!! The nun thing was a bit odd, but I didn't feel uncomfortable reading about it!!
Drewin - I really liked him!!!!
Sir Larkin - ah yes! Everyone likes a young knight! He was great!!
Sir Wystan - a sweet old knight!!

The Story-line:
Really liked it!!! So neat as well!

All-in-all:
Loved it!!!! I've been wanting to read this story for a while and I'm glad I got to now!!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review

[Mary Herceg · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved this wonderful little book so incredibly much! There was so much goodness and skilled writing packed into the short format. By turns sweet, adventurous, heartwarming, sad, exciting, and humorous, I highly enjoyed everything about this amazing story.

The characters were my favorite part - no surprise with me. Even in only a few pages, each character was extremely vivid, complex, and well-developed, especially the point-of-view characters, Drewin and Ryla. The main characters, the supporting characters, and even the minor characters each felt alive and real because of their dialogue, actions, and well-chosen descriptive details. I was endeared to and invested in each of the major characters and their journeys from the start, and I felt like I knew them well despite the short amount of time the author had to develop them. I absolutely loved Ryla, Drewin, the parents, Sir Wystan, Sir Larkin, and the nuns.

The plot was on point and pretty nearly perfect, at least in my eyes! From the very first, the conflict and events engaged me and left me with suspense and questions that kept me reading and were fulfilled at just the right moments. The pacing was just right, and I was kept riveted throughout. The action scenes kept me on the edge of my seat, fearing for the characters on just the right level. There was never a dull or boring moment. It would be easy to neglect proper plot structure in a work this small, but the author handled it with great skill and mastery.

I loved the writing style and the author's wordcraft. The descriptions were vivid and gorgeous without being too much, and they made me feel like I was present with the characters.

The themes and faith element were well-drawn and deep without ever being preachy or blatant. They felt natural and were integrated as an essential part of the story, never feeling forced. I loved watching the characters grow and mature in a realistic, natural, and relatable way.

Other things I loved:
-The family relationships in the story were wonderful, both sibling and parental, as were the friendships and mentorships.
- The story made me smile and laugh at and with the characters. And it made me feel fear and heartbreak for their sakes. I loved the emotions packed into this little book, and they overcame me on more than one occasion.
-The setting and worldbuilding was realistic and interesting, feeling like a real place and events.
-The cover design and formatting are gorgeous and fit the book so well! I was privileged to read my family's copy of the small paperback, which is so adorable and pretty!

One thing I disliked was that the writing style ended up occasionally sounding clumsy and stilted in places instead of old-fashioned like it was supposed to - mainly in parts of the dialogue. Most modern authors, especially young ones, can't pull off an old-fashioned style while still sounding smooth and timeless. I've seen many young fantasy authors try to make their characters sound medieval or historical by doing this, but it doesn't usually work because no one talks like that these days. However, this problem was not frequent, and it did not take away one bit from the wonderful story and writing.

Besides the fact that it was short and I want more (!!!), the only other slight negative comment I have is that there were few very minor grammar errors, but they were ones only a grammar nut like me would nitpick. They were not noticeable and did not detract from readability or flow in the slightest, even for me. The writing, editing, and proofreading was incredibly polished, more than almost any other indie book I've read, and I applaud the author and her team for their work.

I love the genre of nonmagical fantasy that feels historical - it's one of my very favorites, yet it's hard to find wholesome books that for that bill. I'm grateful to the author for writing one that is so wonderful! I would've loved to have had this book as a young girl, when I wished for such books but could find very few. But I'm very glad it exists now and that I can read it and share it with my siblings! I hope the author will write more books to fill that void.

I look forward to reading more works by this masterful young author, including a sequel if there is one! I've been wishing for one during my reading and was delighted to find out from a friend that there is a possibility of one in the future. I'm so excited for that, and I'd love to read more of these characters and their journey! The Twin Arrows was at once far too short and just the right length, but I would have loved it as a full-length novel and hope to see it become a series.

The Twin Arrows is a fantasy adventure that I recommend to readers of all ages and preferences - but especially to lovers of fantasy and historical fiction. I will undoubtedly be reading it again and again - and sharing it with friends and family!

4.5 stars

[Mikayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Twin Arrows was a very sweet short story. I loved how clearly the characters came across. Though this book was very fast, I still enjoyed seeing the different places the characters went. I mean who wouldn’t love how Sir Larkin got to drag Drewin around? It was awesome. But I loved Ryla's part best, she was awesome.
Overall, a very sweet book with a good message. It would be perfect to read aloud to younger siblings.
I always appreciate this authors style and her messages.

*I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.

2020>> I wanted a story I could sit down and read quickly, and this was perfect. Somehow I had forgotten how deep the characters' struggles were and how much I appreciated how they changed. This book is amazing. <3

[Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story with beautiful prose and lots of heart. Very glad I read it!

[Els · Rating 3 out of 5]

Note: I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for my unbiased review.

Hmmm.... that was very, very short.

And me and short stories generally do not get along. My favorite books are all over 500 pages long.
Perhaps I wouldn't have had such a problem with the shortness if it hadn't been for the two perspectives, often switching 3+ times in a chapter. Add frequent time skips to that, and... At a certain point I really wanted to sit down and hear a little backstory. We're here in this world with two siblings and two knights, all of whom I really like- can we hear a bit of their story? What is the revolution about? What does this world look like?

Kate, Kate- we love reading what you write! So write us some more!

And then, being the history nut I am, I had a few problems with historical inaccuracies. Of course this is not historical fiction, but all my author-friends who write fantasy can tell you that this does not stop me from whining every time they alter something in their stories. In fact, if you are reading this review, you have probably seen them whine about my whining. Thus the circle continues.

And I've never seen a bow that comes in two pieces, can be snapped together, and yet maintains its structural integrity.

On the other hand, though- this was a sweet story, and I will be recommending it to a friend who likes short, let-not-words-be-wasted books. My down-rating is more personal preference than anything- I just think the book could use a little fleshing out.

Besides, it was the first time I've been mentioned in the 'thank-yous' at the end of a book. I mean, it was the whole Camp NaNo cabin, but I'm part of that, right? RIGHT.

~2.5 stars~

[Sarah Briel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve been wanting to read this book ever since I knew it existed. I’m constantly searching for good Christian books and this satisfied it with the Christianity woven in beautifully with the adventure.

I feel in love with …

- the writing style. Everything flows perfectly, and there was there was the perfect balance of action, dialog, and description.
- the description itself. It added so much to the story without being overwhelming. I could picture everything perfectly in my head.
- the first chapter (because it’s honestly the most perfect set up). It made me want to get into the story and read and love it. It made me seriously reminded me of several series that I loved when I was a wee bit younger and seriously into middle-grade. (Think: The False Prince series as a major one, though more so The Scourge by the same author.)
- the setting. I seriously liked the general vibe of the setting. It was very fantasy and it worked out well with the hints of war, royalty etc.
- the characters. I liked Drewin and Ryla’s distinct personalities.
- the Christianity. Oh my word, guys. This was amazing. The book is a fantasy-type book that’s packed full of adventure so I wasn’t quite expecting it to have an actual faith in it.
Sadly enough, in most books besides say … historical Christian romance books,
books specifically “Christian” as … basically the genre, or allegorical fantasy, there really isn’t that much Christianity in books these days. This had the adventure I was seeking and the Christianity in one smol pretty package. It didn’t feel preachy (though, like I’ve said before, I honestly have no idea what’s preachy anymore…), and just brought the whole thing together. It fit in perfectly, not feeling like it was shoved in just because the book wanted to be “Christian”.
- and the cover. Like seriously, folks. Look at that beauty.

There were, however, just couple things which disappointed me a wee bit.

- It was seriously short. The first chapter fleshed out a book I thought could have been much longer than this ended up to be. Although I appreciated the shortness because I didn’t have a lot of time to read this because I was so busy (*headdesks at self*) my reader brain was craving more.
- The plot honestly just felt … lacking to me. I think part of the problem here is that I didn’t actually read the summary before I read the book … *coughs awkwardly* mea culpa. From the first chapter I was honestly expecting such a longer book with a much deeper, more fulfilling plot.* The rest of the book didn’t really deliver this for me. I think I like things more direct so I can say “Oh yeah, this is what they were trying to do and what an adventure it was.” And … I’m not quite sure what it was in here? They were just … running mostly. I couldn’t really tell what the main conflict was, and thus the tension, though there was plenty didn’t pack a powerful punch for me.
*Apparently I just really, really like the first chapter …

Overall, there were some parts I liked and some parts I wasn’t particularly fond of. The book had a lot of potential and personally I think it fell short of the potential a wee bit. I’m really hoping for a sequel here, which I would snatch up in a heartbeat. And if not, the author has so much potential that I’ll be sure to keep my eyes peeled for anything else she puts on the market.

**I was given a free ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review**
Review originally posted at Penumbra Reviews.

[Erika Mathews · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book started very quickly and I wasn't able to follow all the background details, but I loved the style, story, and message! It wasn't what I expected when I picked it up, but it was a page-turner that kept me reading to find out how it all resolved! What an enjoyable little story!

[Sunshine Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. This is the first book of Kate that I read and it was awesome. The Twin Arrows is a wonderful story about siblings and their faith and trust in God in the most dangerous of situations. The story itself reminded me of the Huguenots. I will continue to reread this story. Love the story. If I could rate this story a ten, I would.

[Matthew Platt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate did a fabulous job on this novella!! I really like how she portrayed so many different truths through so little words - that shows skill. Well done. :)

[Abigail Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This little story is quite a sweet one! I love reading medieval fiction with siblings, and the sibling ties in this one were perfect! I highly recommend this for all ages!

[Angie Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-written and enjoyable story!

I would recommend this book for preteens, advanced younger readers, and anyone of any age who appreciates a simple story with a great message.

What struck me from the moment I started reading was the parallel between the characters' journey and the Christian's walk of faith. The difference between the ways that Ryla and Drewin received and obeyed (or not) their father's instructions made me ponder how often I struggle to trust my heavenly Father when his help or his plan seems delayed. I also found myself marveling again at the unexpected ways that He continues to provide, even in the middle of my doubt and failure. I certainly hope I'll remember this story the next time I'm tempted to try to take things into my own hands instead of waiting on God's plan.

The writing style was simple, but not overly so, with fresh and engaging metaphors that flowed well and didn't distract from the story. Very well edited, too! 4.5 stars

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Kaitlyn S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read this before, but never reviewed it :O With the upcoming release of the second book. I figured I would reread -- and actually review -- before starting the beta version of the second book, just so I can remember all the characters and what happened. =)

This is a book that is quick to read, but so very profound. It follows the tales of two children -- a brother and a sister -- in a revolutionary, war torn, country. Their father has given them a gift and specific instructions. He has appointed two guardians for when the time is right. All the children have to do is trust his wisdom and follow his instructions.

Through a series of interesting events, the brother, Drewin, fails to trust his father's instructions, and has to deal with the consequences that follow. Needless to say, he learns his lesson and repents. Ryla is a sweet soul, trusting explicitly in what her father had told her, and the protection of those she was placed under.

The ending is sweet. The story is good. The characters are amazing.

I would definitely recommend reading this one, ASAP. And read it out loud to your younger siblings -- I can pretty much guarantee they'll love it :D

[Eva-Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Twin Arrows was a surprise for me in that I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Medieval fiction has always been a favorite of mine but I'm also a bit wary of self-published books (which The Twin Arrows is). But TTA is well-formatted, clear of errors (that I can remember), and very well written.

In a nutshell, it tells the story of two siblings who have been separated for their own safety...and who must now find each other and work together to keep the kingdom safe. The characters were easy to root for and I even shed a few tears. Additionally, this book has a strong faith element (while not being preachy) and, as a Christian reader, I really appreciated that.

Overall, a short novella that doesn't skimp on narrative depth or character development. And the medieval worldbuilding is rich and visceral enough to make any medieval fiction fan happy.

[serena482* · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good, and interesting story. I really enjoyed it. :) There was enough action to keep you reading and interested. I would recommend it to ages 10-up. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very engaging novella. I found the plot intriguing and the characters loveable. Not the mention that adorable cover! A very sweet story for all ages.