Kyri was raised a fletcher but after finding a new home and family with the Telequire Amazons, she discovers a desire to take on more responsibility within the tribe. She has skills they desperately need and she is called to action to protect those around her. But Kyri's path is ever-changing even as she finds herself altered by love, loyalty, and grief. Far away from home, the new Amazon is forced to decide what to sacrifice and who to become in order to get back to all that she has left behind. And she wonders what is worse, losing everyone she's ever loved or having those people lose her?
Award winning author and Michigan native, K. Aten writes sapphic heroines into existence one story at a time.
As a writer: I've published 16 novels since 2018. I write across the romantic genres, including science fiction, fantasy, historical, contemporary drama, paranormal romance, dystopian, rom com, and adventure. However, my primary output is speculative fiction.
Please see my website, Amazon, or anywhere my books are sold for book descriptions & updates.
SOME WORDS END THE SILENCE, OTHERS BEGIN IT _____________________________________________
As a reader:
My Ratings 5 Stars-The book made it into my heart and if I had to make a top 50 list of all time this book would shimmy its way in. 4 Stars- I loved the book, it was amazing. However, it's not on the elite 'favorite of all time' list. 3 Stars- This is the broadest category. I liked the book all the way to it was average. This should be a 2.5 to 3.5 section. 2 Stars- I read the book all the way through but did not like it. 1 Star- I only give a 1 if I can't finish the book because I dislike it so much. There are a few reasons for DNF. Poor plot line, poor grammar and/or spelling, or maybe just a subject I don't care for. I DO ROUND UP!
4.5 Stars. This is book two in the Arrow of Artemis series. I loved book one, The Fletcher, and am happy to say this was an excellent book two. This is a fantasy series with a touch of historical fiction thrown in. I highly recommend reading these books in order. This is going to be a three book series and it would just not pack the same punch if you didn’t start at book one.
I’m a big fan of Aten’s; her writing really clicks for me. When I read her books, I want to carefully read every line, every word. I care about the characters she writes and in this series I am immersed in her Amazon world. While I would normally be writing a summary here, I want to be careful not to ruin anything for people who have not read book one yet. What I will say is these books are about a young woman, in her early 20’s, trying to make her way as a new Amazon.
I was really happy to see this book have a good romance in it. In the previous book you knew there were feelings, but there wasn't a romance. While the characters clearly have chemistry, there was a ton of emotion involved. When the L word was being considered, I 100% believed it. Besides loving these two characters, I love them as a couple. I was also happy about how some of the secondary characters lives were progressing.
I have to address the elephant in the room, the ending. Others have mentioned the ending and Aten even gives a little warning about it. I felt okay about it for a few reasons. One, I was prepared. Two, the third and final book will be put out this year. I’m very particular about endings but I forgive them more in a series, when the author doesn’t make us wait. Which is the case here, so I’m okay with it. I do have to admit when I saw the direction the book was heading, I was not happy. I was ready to curse Aten. Once I calmed enough to continue reading, I got back into the story. Then I started to realize something that dissipated my anger. While I really like Kyri (the main character) she has some flaws. She is very skilled but so weak in self-confidence. While she has her tricks, is she badass enough to be a true Amazon warrior? Well let’s just say the ending meant Kyri was about to become an absolute badass. My point, I actually liked the ending! It got me pumped up for what is to come in the finale book. As long as Aten comes full circle (and doesn’t take all that long to do it) I will be a happy camper.
If you have read the first book, absolutely read this one. If you are new to the series, start at book one The Fletcher. It really is an excellent fantasy series. I cannot wait to read the finale book. Aten has quickly become one of my new favorite authors and I will absolutely read anything she writes next.
More of a page-turner than the first book in that things actually happen that have consequences. There's lots of relationship development. Lots of character growth for our fletcher. The queen, though, occasionally comes across as rather needy, insecure and well...unqueenly.
After the initial excitement, the pacing slows down considerably during the middle part of the book, as the "romance" takes center stage. And then the shockingly dark turn of events in the last fifth of the book. Took me completely by surprise. Mainly because I've been lulled into a false sense of "nothing terribly bad's gonna happen" by the feel-good tone of both books thus far. I thought the author wouldn't go there. Oh there were hints at the dangers and darkness of the outside world, and the fletcher did have to fend off vicious invaders. But overall, I got the feeling that the author was going for a positive, feel good experience for the reader. So imagine my shock when everything suddenly went south.
Well the worst thing that could possibly happen did, and we finally have something worth sitting up for. Here's the thing though. There's so much internal drama and emotion that can be mined from that particular situation. But I kinda felt like it all went too fast and not deep enough. Even before this reader had time to start feeling dread and despair, a way out had already been proposed. And that's when I'm firmly reminded that, yep, this is definitely a romance. G.O.T. this ain't.
4.25 stars
P.S. Still no clue as to the source of the fletcher's secret power. And that ending...its so TV. :)
Ms.Aten, your decision to let Kyri grow by testing the water outside of her comfortable/safe home, is absolutely spot on. I intend to return to present time entertainment after finishing The Archer but the world that Kyri stepped into by the end of the book is among my favorite part of history, thanks to The Adventures of Asterix and Ridley Scott's Gladiator. So I canceled Steamboat Tomyam dinner, looked for a replacement for the Ready Or Not movie and jumped into The Sagittarius.
In the first book, Ms.Aten's immediate attack on my kryptonite by writing one of the most beautiful story between a father and daughter had me in all sorts of emotional mess. What a start to a great series and she maintained/increased the momentum throughout 8O3 pages.
I enjoy reading acknowledgment and noticed the spoiler, but I honestly don’t care that I will be left hanging. I rather read an amazing book and take a brutal cliffy than read a bad book with a resolved, yet unsatisfying ending. Ms.Aten's addictive, velvety, writing was rich in action, adventure, and romance in The Fletcher, but the author really takes it up a couple notches in this second book, The overall feel of the story was whimsical, quirky, and unique, and the dynamic characters, intricate plot, as well as the lyrical writing, made it easy for me to get lost in the book.
Oh, how good it must be to fall in love before the 21st century, without the existence of smartphones. I truly love the courting element in The Archer through poetic - swoony - conversationS
- "Never! I would gladly die each day for nothing more than a smile.”
- "She had just shown me colored sky after rain."
There were brief moments of insecurity and jealousy, sure, but they were a team. You couldn’t find a couple more in sync than this one, who matched each other in heart and mind, body and soul.
There is an underlying sadness within the story but when pitted against these irresistible, charming, strong and hilarious women, it’s a perfect match. This series should not be missed, and if you are still not convinced even with strong/convincing recommendations by the Lesfic Warriors then maybe Pat Benatar can perform some sort of miracle.
If my Science text/reference books received the same amount of bookmarks, highlights and side notes as The Fletcher/Archer, I would have been a nurse💕
This was even better than book one. Aten is doing a great job of developing Kyri’s character. Lots of action and so much pain and suffering that Kyri is going through. My heart aches for her. On to book 3 and I know that I don’t want the series to end.
I’m enjoying the side characters, some are funny others are supportive. And Ori is wonderful, so beautiful, strong and wise.
➤ A worthy sequel to the first book ➤ Amazon life is really engaging to read about again ➤ Some page-turning scenes in this book and it ends on a strong note ➤ The lovely characters from first book return and they're just as great
Cons
➤ Some pacing issues ➤ The big n' fluffy cat is always sent away before the action happens. ➤ Cliffhanger (which is barely a con because book 3 is out now! Buy it!)
Overall a good and worthy sequel to the first book. We get some relationship progress, and the characters are just as great as they were in the first book. Amazon life is equally compelling to read about too.
But I felt the first two-thirds of the book dragged a bit too long with either of the two relationships being stuck where they were in the first book until the last third of the book where things started to move at a pace that was a bit too quick in my opinion. That last part especially could've used more development.
And then there's the soul of the book Gata the Leopard who I wish had a more meaningful role. I wanted her to kick some ass, yet her involvement in the overall plot was pretty inconsequential in this second book when compared to the first. Let's hope the best character in the book will get more screen time in the sequel.
The Archer ends on a strong note though, and I'm happy I camped out until book 3 which is out now because I have to know what happens next!
So during the first part of the book, I was a walking-around, grinning fool, feeling carefree, reveling in the burgeoning love between Ori and Kyri. Passion, heat, and every star sparkling in the broad, indigo sky, yes, that kind of deliriously happy story. Kyri is growing into a top notch Scout leader, better romantic partner, becoming the woman she envisions her parents would have been proud to see. But what kind of adventure book would this be if our hero didn’t have to fight through fire and tribulation? Grrrr, so onto book 3.
“Before either of us could change our minds, I threaded long fingers through her hair and crushed our lips together. One would think we had not just spent all the candle marks of the night together. One would think that I hungered sorely and that Ori was my only food. The world disappeared and there was only my queen. I lost track of time until the present crashed down on us as Ori pulled away. I whimpered because I could not help myself.”
Hmm. How to review this one while remaining objective. This is my 4th time through this manuscript. As the author states in the very beginning, the ending is not an easy thing. And thank stars book 3 is close on the horizon.
So instead of addressing that 800 beast I'll touch briefly on the progression of Kyri from book 1 through book 2. Something that can be difficult to write is character progression. We, as readers, root for our protagonist. And this is something that is intensely apparent to me in this book specifically is the growth of Kyri as a person. She evolves physically, emotionally, romantically in a way that is tangible and meaningful. The romance arc in this book was really well done especially. There's even a side rom arc between secondaries that is touched on periodically that is *very* hard not to root for.
But still, the 800 beastie sits in the corner... The first time I went through this I threw a fit. But I also had the opportunity to read book 3 not soon afterwards. This isn't a brag, it's just that for those out there who might wonder, book 3 is absolutely amazing. So sit tight till they can get it off the press and into everyone's grubby hands. The wait will be worth it.
Trust me.
But in my opinion, don't let that stop you from reading Fletcher and Archer. You won't forget Kyri any time soon. I know I won't.
OK Ok, K. Aten, I see what you did there. You introduced Kyri in book 1, gave a glimpse into her life pre-Amazon, and focused on her journey of identity and family. It was a slower pace, but I see you saved the action and the steam for book 2. Holy shit The Archer was great! We follow Kyri as she settles into her life as an Amazon, finds her steps as a Scout, igniting her passion with the Queen, forging stronger bonds with her sisters, and even facing some exciting battles. There's love and heartbreak, intensity and tenderness, often in the same breath. Damn. I had a feeling the story would divide Kyri and Ori apart, but I absolutely loved this turn of events even thought it shattered my heart. I am ITCHING to start book 3!
It’s been ages since I read The Fletcher so picking up book two in the series felt at times like a walk down memory lane. Kyri charmed me in book one with her honesty, innocence and bad ass archery skills. She took baby steps into a new life with her Amazon sisters while remaining true to herself and not fully submitting to this Goddess Artemis the Telequire nation all worship. In The Archer we see Kyri mature as a warrior and finally realize her desires with the woman of her dreams. Sweet moments but Aten hints at troubles for the nation which will spoil her HEA. Nice dramatic ending and thankfully a hint at a positive outcome in book three.
4.25 stars | So this was a solid 5 stars for me until I got to the last 3 chapters. It's not the book or the author's fault, but if there's one thing I don't like and avoid at all cost is themes. At this point I'm not sure if I'll read the last book in this series considering how the second book ended :(
Struggling to find a way to express my happiness with the book (because I did really like it) but also my extreme frustration with the ending and the need for book three to be released ASAP without giving away the plot. It’s not so much that the ending was bad but I fear that it will lead to a completely different book three as compared to the first two (I hope I’m wrong) and, to me, that will be disappointing as I’ve loved the Amazonian environment developed in one and two. Anxious to see what everyone else has to say...those of you much more eloquent that I. 😉
4.8 I surelry didn't expect all of this. And I'm really happy about it. I really can't wait to see Ori and Kyri together again (hopefully). I love this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I loved the first book in this series and I very much enjoyed this second one. We spend time with Kyri as she settles in to life in the Amazon tribe and continues her romance with . I found the pace of this book quite slow compared to the first one. Not a lot seems to happen for most of the book, so you sort of expect something dramatic to happen at some point. And it sure does. Right at the end. I am glad that I am not reading this whilst waiting for the third book in the series... I don't do well with cliffhangers. When I was reading this I was really reminded of the second movement in many concertos and symphonies. They don't have the excitement of the 1st or the 3rd, are usually very slow and quiet for the most part, before a quick cadenza takes you into the 3rd. It'd be tempting to skip the 2nd movement altogether, but without it the 1st and 3rd would be far less beautiful. So, in that sense, if you enjoyed the first book, then definitely read this. If you haven't read the first one yet, read it before this. You have a treat in store.
This was a great sequel to The Fletcher, packed with all the wonderful characters and even more action. I especially enjoyed the fact that Kyri had barely changed, even though she is now an Amazon she still carries all her charms from before. She also developed greatly in this story and is even more loveable.
The growing love between her and Ori was adorable and it was great to see everything all coming together, but not without drama! And this book was filled with exciting action and drama that kept me intrigued until the (very unexpected) ending!
Very much looking forward to the third instalment of The Arrow of Artemis Series, and By Artemis! I cannot recommend this enough.
Wowww.... This second book is awesome. I love Kyri's story from the beginning and I strongly recommend it. I loved the first book and the second is even better. I'm looking forward to reading the third part because the ending took my breath away.
Book 2 in the Arrow of Artemis series. Read book 1 (The Fletcher) first! Then read this one immediately after!! Only knock on this book is that there is not an HEA - that comes in Book 3. So plan on reading the final installment of this series too!!!
Kyri is beginning to settle into her life with the Telequire Amazons. Her skills as an archer and a tree runner, as well as her maturity and trustworthiness, lead her to a Scout Leader position. And her romance with Queen Orianna continues to grow.
Tradegy strikes when Kyri visits a port city on a routine trading mission. Soon she finds herself separated from tribe and love, forced to do things she would never have imagined with the hope of some day finding her way back home.
Arrow of Artemis series (brief version) - READ THEM!! Book 1 - The Fletcher - joins Amazons, finds community, purpose and love Book 2 - The Archer - finding place in community, tragedy tears her away Book 3 - The Sagittarius - fighting (physically and mentally) to find her way back
I accidentally spoiled myself with the ending for this book, so it took me much longer to bring myself to read it. I am happy to say that despite knowing the ending and the beginning starting off a little slow, it had a lot of charm and really won me over in the end. Just be prepared for lots of Amazon world building.
If you liked the first book, then I highly recommend this one. It has kind of a Xena feel, except if Xena was younger than Gabriel and coming into herself. I would recommend not reading the synopsis of book 3 so that you can just follow the book along and not worry about a cliffhanger ending (that wasn't very cliffhangery, more like a very good season ender that tells you exactly where things will pick up next).
I immediately read this after Book 1. I loved how Kyri developed and grew with the Amazons. K. Aten's books are very character driven and this helps you get attached to the characters. I do recommend that you read the books in order. Also, do not throw any books across the room or threaten the author. Just read them all.
Whew this was intense. It's poetic, deep, wholesome. Kyri is fast becoming of my favorite characters - she's loyal, tender, yet fierce when pushed. And Ori..whew, the bond between the two sizzles. Now on to the third book!
This is an epic tale of a girl, who leaves her childhood home, and dying father, to fulfill her destiny. A destiny that was created by the goddess Artemis, herself. A tale of loss, of home, of family, and of innocents, but it’s also one of discover. Discovery of the potential within ones own being, of a family and home of ones own making, and of finding the other half of ones soul. A tale of overcoming all that is put into ones path, to come out the other side enlightened, and yes scarred, but also gifted of ones own self worth and love. I highly recommend this series. I am saddened and uplifted by its completion. Sadden, because I will miss the characters within, but uplifted to know their stories, triumphs, losses, and love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This ratchets up the tension as Kyri settles into her role in her new Amazon tribe. The story continues to focus on Kyri's relationships with her new family, and her slow but sure romantic one with her queen, Orianna. Kyri is still a bit unsure of herself, and is still a gentle sole, so when the Roman Empire finally makes its way into the story, it tests Kyri more than ever. We don't see too much of this, as it will continue into the third book, but it is a good emotionally fraught ending that demands the reader to pick up the third book right away.
There's a reason why this story is so highly regarded - it is very character driven, with multidimensional characters and a lead that has a lot to work through. Even though Kyri is so talented, she is still very young (being about 20 years old) and has a lot of problems with self confidence. It also happens that she's an adorkable nerd, especially around Orianna, a person she has decided to put all her faith in. She just can't help being a bit of a mess around Orianna, and it makes her feel more human, because she does seem to be preternaturally gifted with her bow. I'll be interested to see how their relationship evolves in book three.
I don't want to give a lot away, but I do recommend this series. It is highly detailed, creative, and has some excellent character moments. It mashes a lot of genres together, so most people will find something to love about this series.
This story delivers much more hope, fire, passion and sadness from the first book in the series. I enjoyed every word of Kyri’s growth and I was cheering her on all the way as she began to find the balance she so desperately craved. The ending, however, caused me to experience a myriad of emotions... I have so many intense feelings and I really don’t know what to do about them but I do know this, I am determined to follow Kyri’s journey to the end. I am anxious to read the next installment in this captivating series because I have become so invested in Kyri’s world!
What a beautiful series ! Top 5 of my favorite book with When Women were warriors, Breaking legcies and Dragonoak !! Can't wait for new stories of K. Aten