The Green Ember by S.D Smith

After their home is raided by wolf soldiers, young rabbit siblings, Heather and Pickett, find shelter in a mountain enclave of rabbits. There they learn more about their world, and the surprising part their family has played in the history of their kind.

An epic fantasy in the tradition of Tolkien, except all the characters are animals. If you like the idea of rabbits with swords, you will love this book.

Wow! This is an amazing book. I thought I’d like it because I love animals and the thought of bunnies with swords fills me with delight, but I didn’t expect it to be so epic or that I’d love it so much! There were two scenes in this book that were so awesome, I was exceptionally moved by them.

The characters in this book are incredible. The main characters – Heather and her brother Picket – are so layered, so real, so lovable, relatable, and infuriating. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. 

The plot – going from sweet country home to all out kingdomwide serious story – blew me away. It was not what I expected it to be. It’s complex and engaging and well thought out. 

The setting is a living world, with plausible scenarios for rabbit kingdoms and their enemies the wolves and hawks. It’s neither totally human nor totally animal, but a new world somewhere in between that’s beautiful and imaginative. 

The writing drew me in from the first page. With beautiful descriptions and excellent pacing, I was so absorbed I forgot I was reading a book. I love when fiction draws me into its world to such a degree. 

I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Zach Franzen’s cover art and illustrations are so beautiful and suit the epic nature of the book to perfection.

I award The Green Ember…