Common Sense Media Review
Tearjerker romance mixes deep emotion with mature content.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
ARCHER'S VOICE follows Bree Prescott as she moves to the small town of Pelion, Maine, hoping for a fresh start after her Deaf father passes away. Shortly after arriving, she bumps into Archer Hale, a nonspeaking man who has been isolated and misunderstood by the people of Pelion after a tragic accident when he was just 7 years old. Driven by curiosity and a desire to learn more, Bree spends time with him and discovers that Archer knows sign language—a language she already knows well. As their bond deepens, Archer begins opening up in ways he never has before, stepping outside his isolated routine to experience parts of life he'd long avoided. At the same time, Bree must confront the painful night from her past that continues to resurface through flashbacks.
Is It Any Good?
Author Mia Sheridan perfects the art of a powerful love story that combines healing, growth, and the meaning of soulmates. Archer's Voice will undoubtedly bring a sting to the eyes. From learning about Bree and Archer's pasts and how much self-blame each carries, to witnessing Archer communicate with someone through sign language—which he taught himself, but had no one to use it with until Bree—readers witness a beautiful, genuine connection. Sheridan builds their relationship gradually so that the emotional payoff feels more realistic than rushed, and she doesn't shy away from depicting trauma in gut-wrenching detail. The book's dual perspectives allow readers to sit with both characters' in-the-moment thoughts.
That said, the writing can be questionable at times. For instance, Bree repeatedly refers to Archer as her "strange, silent boy." Sex is also highly glamorized. Physical intimacy starts to feel like the primary force driving Bree and Archer's connection. Despite that imbalance, the vulnerability and tenderness Archer displays is enough to warm the heart. The book veers away from typical romance novel clichés and embodies how love is more than solely the act of loving someone else.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Archer's Voice approaches difficult topics like trauma and violence. Do you think stories about trauma need to deliver a hopeful message? Why, or why not?
Bree and Archer connect deeply without relying on spoken words. What does their relationship teach us about the different ways people can communicate and understand one another? What are some ways that you communicate with loved ones without verbal speech?
Archer faces judgment from others simply because he's different. How does the book explore the gap between how someone is perceived and who they actually are? Have you ever misjudged someone before getting to know them?
Bree and Archer carry painful experiences from their pasts. How do they handle their pain differently, and what does the story say about the healing process? How does trauma show up in their relationship?
How do Bree and Archer display courage, communication, and self-control? Why are those important character strengths?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Romance
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Self-control
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Forever
- Publication date : January 25, 2014
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 18
- Number of pages : 400
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : August 14, 2026
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