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Althuria Chronicles #0.6
The Time Guardian
Fourteen-year-old Audrey enjoys her peaceful life in the royal castle. She loves avoiding her tutors, planting flowers in the gardens, and going on wild adventures with her younger sister, Lilith. But when she discovers that she has a rare ability, the future crashes down on her with a deadly weight.
She's seen everything. She knows how she will die. But can she prevent her terrible fate?
Or will she seal it?
This short story complements the four-book Althuria Chronicles series.
She's seen everything. She knows how she will die. But can she prevent her terrible fate?
Or will she seal it?
This short story complements the four-book Althuria Chronicles series.
55 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2024
About the author
Ryver Knight
17 books86 followersRyver Knight is a YA Fantasy author from Ontario, Canada. When she’s not studying alchemy with goblins or drinking tea with elves, you can find her crafting nonsensical stories in her writing cave. She’s an avid reader (duh) who eats an unhealthy amount of sugar, loves listening to rad tunes, and may or may not be lacking in vitamin D.
Smoke and Spells is her debut novel.
Subscribe to her newsletter using the following link to receive the prequel to the Althuria Chronicles, Daggers and Destiny: https://ryverknight.com/welcome/
She’d always love to hear from you! Feel free to shoot her a message at contact@ryverknight.com, or any of her social media platforms (Facebook, Goodreads, Instagram, Twitter, and Bookbub).
And oh, I almost forgot!
Her greatest joy is knowing that people are reading and enjoying her work. Every single purchase, review, and download she gets makes her day a little brighter. You’re the best!
Smoke and Spells is her debut novel.
Subscribe to her newsletter using the following link to receive the prequel to the Althuria Chronicles, Daggers and Destiny: https://ryverknight.com/welcome/
She’d always love to hear from you! Feel free to shoot her a message at contact@ryverknight.com, or any of her social media platforms (Facebook, Goodreads, Instagram, Twitter, and Bookbub).
And oh, I almost forgot!
Her greatest joy is knowing that people are reading and enjoying her work. Every single purchase, review, and download she gets makes her day a little brighter. You’re the best!
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
February 28, 2025
When I received this book I couldn’t believe that it was only 50 pages long, I couldn’t work out how a author could produce a story only using that amount of pages, well after reading this I have found that it is possible.
I have read one other book in this series but you could read this book as a standalone, and it’s really easy to understand what is happening.
There was so much details about the characters that you can very quickly understand what they are like. I’m hoping that these characters will be appearing in future books
The writing was brilliant and you can easily imagine the world. I look forward to reading this author again.
I have read one other book in this series but you could read this book as a standalone, and it’s really easy to understand what is happening.
There was so much details about the characters that you can very quickly understand what they are like. I’m hoping that these characters will be appearing in future books
The writing was brilliant and you can easily imagine the world. I look forward to reading this author again.
April 26, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Your review touches on several interesting points, but it could benefit from some refinement for clarity and coherence. Here's a revised version:
"We reap what we sow" — a timeless adage that finds resonance in the heart of this poignant narrative. Delving into the complex interplay between foresight and action, the story underscores the peril of glimpsing into the potential future. The allure of foreknowledge is potent, yet it often leads one down a treacherous path of self-fulfilling prophecies, where attempts to avert fate unwittingly seal it.
At its core, this tale is a poignant exploration of the bond between two sisters turned adversaries by the capricious gift bestowed upon Audrey. Is this ability a boon or a bane? The answer lies in the eye of the beholder, in the contrasting perspectives of the sisters.
The symbolism embedded in the name Lilith, "belonging to the night," serves as a profound metaphor. Darkness, though oft vilified, is merely the absence of light, devoid of inherent malevolence. It is the choices we make in its embrace that imbue it with virtue or vice. Audrey's journey, marked by moments of cruelty towards her own flesh and blood, serves as a sobering reminder of the weight our decisions carry.
In unveiling the intricate dynamics between Audrey and Lilith, the narrative lays a sturdy foundation for the ensuing series. It offers insight into the genesis of Lilith's character, elucidating the roots of her eventual transformation. The alternating perspectives of the sisters provide a compelling narrative rhythm, inviting readers to empathize with both protagonists.
In sum, this tale is a captivating exploration of fate, choice, and the enduring bonds of sisterhood. It leaves an indelible impression, setting the stage for a series brimming with promise.
Your review touches on several interesting points, but it could benefit from some refinement for clarity and coherence. Here's a revised version:
"We reap what we sow" — a timeless adage that finds resonance in the heart of this poignant narrative. Delving into the complex interplay between foresight and action, the story underscores the peril of glimpsing into the potential future. The allure of foreknowledge is potent, yet it often leads one down a treacherous path of self-fulfilling prophecies, where attempts to avert fate unwittingly seal it.
At its core, this tale is a poignant exploration of the bond between two sisters turned adversaries by the capricious gift bestowed upon Audrey. Is this ability a boon or a bane? The answer lies in the eye of the beholder, in the contrasting perspectives of the sisters.
The symbolism embedded in the name Lilith, "belonging to the night," serves as a profound metaphor. Darkness, though oft vilified, is merely the absence of light, devoid of inherent malevolence. It is the choices we make in its embrace that imbue it with virtue or vice. Audrey's journey, marked by moments of cruelty towards her own flesh and blood, serves as a sobering reminder of the weight our decisions carry.
In unveiling the intricate dynamics between Audrey and Lilith, the narrative lays a sturdy foundation for the ensuing series. It offers insight into the genesis of Lilith's character, elucidating the roots of her eventual transformation. The alternating perspectives of the sisters provide a compelling narrative rhythm, inviting readers to empathize with both protagonists.
In sum, this tale is a captivating exploration of fate, choice, and the enduring bonds of sisterhood. It leaves an indelible impression, setting the stage for a series brimming with promise.
July 7, 2024
received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I want to preface this by saying that I have not read any of the other books in this series, however I still thoroughly enjoyed the story and I think it works as a stand alone as I didn't have any trouble understanding what was going on.
Even though it is a short story I grew attached to the characters, which is a hard thing to achieve within 50 pages or so. I do think I will probably read the other books in the series, to see what more happens in this world as I found this short story so intriguing. I also imagine that the two sisters will appear in the later novels, however I don't know if that's the case.
The writing style was quite beautiful. At some points I did not like it as much but that's purely my own preference and nothing against the author. Overall I still loved it and I think most people would. The author is definitely very talented and worth reading.
Overall I'd recommend this book as it's a beautiful story about two sisters and discovering new magic that changes the dynamic between relationships. My opinion would still have been the same even if I did not receive this as an arc.
I want to preface this by saying that I have not read any of the other books in this series, however I still thoroughly enjoyed the story and I think it works as a stand alone as I didn't have any trouble understanding what was going on.
Even though it is a short story I grew attached to the characters, which is a hard thing to achieve within 50 pages or so. I do think I will probably read the other books in the series, to see what more happens in this world as I found this short story so intriguing. I also imagine that the two sisters will appear in the later novels, however I don't know if that's the case.
The writing style was quite beautiful. At some points I did not like it as much but that's purely my own preference and nothing against the author. Overall I still loved it and I think most people would. The author is definitely very talented and worth reading.
Overall I'd recommend this book as it's a beautiful story about two sisters and discovering new magic that changes the dynamic between relationships. My opinion would still have been the same even if I did not receive this as an arc.
May 2, 2024
I'm not good at writing reviews for short stories, so I apologise in advance for how my words probably won't do this one justice.
This was such a beautiful way to be introduced to this universe. We get to meet the two sisters and get a taste of what the future might hold, and while I first couldn't understand what would make sweet Lilith take the turn the future said she would I quickly changed my mind as I saw how her situation was handled by her family, and I now feel for her and want to know how her life will unfold.
This took me a lot longer to finish than it should have, and I apologise to the author for requesting your book and then making you wait this long for my review. Life got in the way, but when I finally had the time to sit down and read it I instantly became invested and I now can't wait to see what will happen next.
Lovely introduction to the universe.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such a beautiful way to be introduced to this universe. We get to meet the two sisters and get a taste of what the future might hold, and while I first couldn't understand what would make sweet Lilith take the turn the future said she would I quickly changed my mind as I saw how her situation was handled by her family, and I now feel for her and want to know how her life will unfold.
This took me a lot longer to finish than it should have, and I apologise to the author for requesting your book and then making you wait this long for my review. Life got in the way, but when I finally had the time to sit down and read it I instantly became invested and I now can't wait to see what will happen next.
Lovely introduction to the universe.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 7, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and BookSirens for providing me with an arc for an honest review.
This was a very short quick read, which I believe was a novella from the Althuria series, which I haven't read before. It mainly followed Audrey, and gave some history on her and Lilith, and seems to be a solid buildup for the series.
I really enjoyed reading the novella, and it was an interesting insight into a story that I haven't experienced, but the amount that I did gave me a pretty good idea on what the rest of the series will be like. Audrey as the main POV had a very strong voice, and learning about her history made me very curious into what her full arc may be.
I will definitely be picking up the rest of the series, and am looking forward to learning about them in their present day!
This was a very short quick read, which I believe was a novella from the Althuria series, which I haven't read before. It mainly followed Audrey, and gave some history on her and Lilith, and seems to be a solid buildup for the series.
I really enjoyed reading the novella, and it was an interesting insight into a story that I haven't experienced, but the amount that I did gave me a pretty good idea on what the rest of the series will be like. Audrey as the main POV had a very strong voice, and learning about her history made me very curious into what her full arc may be.
I will definitely be picking up the rest of the series, and am looking forward to learning about them in their present day!
April 16, 2024
I didn't realise that this was a short read, but nevertheless, I thought it was lovely. The beginning of this story sees the birth of a princess, and I felt that from the first couple of paragraphs, the author already created an atmosphere to draw in the reader. I really felt the magic of the moment.
Princess Audrey has magical powers, and as the story progresses, we see her explore these powers. I thought this was beautifully written. In places, it reminded me a little of traditional Hans Christian Andersen. I enjoyed it, but I think it is something I'd be more likely to read as part of a collection of stories rather than by itself. I'd possibly like to read a longer story featuring Princess Audrey as a protagonist.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Princess Audrey has magical powers, and as the story progresses, we see her explore these powers. I thought this was beautifully written. In places, it reminded me a little of traditional Hans Christian Andersen. I enjoyed it, but I think it is something I'd be more likely to read as part of a collection of stories rather than by itself. I'd possibly like to read a longer story featuring Princess Audrey as a protagonist.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2024
It all begins with two sisters Audrey and Lilith.
They are both inseparable until Audrey discovers her new ability.
From that moment forward their bond begins to break and a conflict grows between them.
The Time Guardian is a short story that is apart of the Althuria Chronicles.
It is a YA Fantasy that has you wanting more.
The contrast between the characters Audrey and Lilith is just brilliant. They are complete opposites that counteract each other making the story line both entertaining and intriguing.
Overall I enjoyed this book and would definitely read the rest. Granted it is a short story I think Ryver Knight has done a good job at keeping the reader interested without overpacking or stretching out the story.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
They are both inseparable until Audrey discovers her new ability.
From that moment forward their bond begins to break and a conflict grows between them.
The Time Guardian is a short story that is apart of the Althuria Chronicles.
It is a YA Fantasy that has you wanting more.
The contrast between the characters Audrey and Lilith is just brilliant. They are complete opposites that counteract each other making the story line both entertaining and intriguing.
Overall I enjoyed this book and would definitely read the rest. Granted it is a short story I think Ryver Knight has done a good job at keeping the reader interested without overpacking or stretching out the story.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2024
I finished it in a day.
4 stars
Favourite blurb: "Because that night, a Queen was born."
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Do note that I never read the rest of the books in the series before commenting. This is a short book about how Audrey deals with her magic, how it affects people around her and how she tries to change the future she sees with magic. The plot focuses on the future she saw with magic and her efforts to change what future she saw.
It is action-packed and fast-paced.
The tension of the story is there throughout.
The climax is not in the middle but rather at the end.
I find that the story can elaborate more on how the magic will affect her family and the other important character, her sister, Lilith. There is a sudden change in character for both Audrey and Lilith in the middle of the story after Audrey sees the future. I find Audrey's words and actions towards Lilith change suddenly without any confusion or dilemma on Audrey's part.
My favourite part is when Audrey fights with her sister because it shows the main conflict, the difference in personality and the difference in opinion between these two characters.
Mainly, I give this book a 4 stars because it is a compelling read and I absolutely enjoy it. Despite that, it can still be improved. BookSirens did warn me that there is a cliffhanger ending for this book which can be frustrating.
Overall, it can be developed into a better, longer story and I see the potential this book has to be even better.
Thanks to BookSirens for this copy of ARC.
4 stars
Favourite blurb: "Because that night, a Queen was born."
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Do note that I never read the rest of the books in the series before commenting. This is a short book about how Audrey deals with her magic, how it affects people around her and how she tries to change the future she sees with magic. The plot focuses on the future she saw with magic and her efforts to change what future she saw.
It is action-packed and fast-paced.
The tension of the story is there throughout.
The climax is not in the middle but rather at the end.
I find that the story can elaborate more on how the magic will affect her family and the other important character, her sister, Lilith. There is a sudden change in character for both Audrey and Lilith in the middle of the story after Audrey sees the future. I find Audrey's words and actions towards Lilith change suddenly without any confusion or dilemma on Audrey's part.
My favourite part is when Audrey fights with her sister because it shows the main conflict, the difference in personality and the difference in opinion between these two characters.
Mainly, I give this book a 4 stars because it is a compelling read and I absolutely enjoy it. Despite that, it can still be improved. BookSirens did warn me that there is a cliffhanger ending for this book which can be frustrating.
Overall, it can be developed into a better, longer story and I see the potential this book has to be even better.
Thanks to BookSirens for this copy of ARC.
May 8, 2024
The Time Guardian – 4 stars
The Time Guardian is a short novella, part of the Althuria series. It is a dark story about relationship between two sisters Audrey and Lilith through their growing up. I didn’t realise that this is a short reading, but I enjoyed every page of it. The story has nice writing, decent build up of the world and characters.
The Time Guardian is a good introduction to the Althuria series for those who is not familiar with this world.
Author: Ryver Knight
GPV Publishing
Pages: 55
Thanks to BookSirens for this copy of ARC.
The Time Guardian is a short novella, part of the Althuria series. It is a dark story about relationship between two sisters Audrey and Lilith through their growing up. I didn’t realise that this is a short reading, but I enjoyed every page of it. The story has nice writing, decent build up of the world and characters.
The Time Guardian is a good introduction to the Althuria series for those who is not familiar with this world.
Author: Ryver Knight
GPV Publishing
Pages: 55
Thanks to BookSirens for this copy of ARC.
April 11, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I did enjoy the beginning of this book. The way it was written was beautiful. It felt like I was reading an old fashioned fairy tale. Them somewhere along the way it started to feel very juvenile and less interesting. I wish this was long because it has a lot of potential but it felt like so much was skipped and skimmed through for time sake which was a little disappointing.
I did enjoy the beginning of this book. The way it was written was beautiful. It felt like I was reading an old fashioned fairy tale. Them somewhere along the way it started to feel very juvenile and less interesting. I wish this was long because it has a lot of potential but it felt like so much was skipped and skimmed through for time sake which was a little disappointing.
September 6, 2024
This introduction novella into the Althuria Chronicles is a quick read. And although it is part of a series it reads well as a stand alone book. Ryver Knight has a beautiful writing style and quality and I enjoy her books. The series this leads into is wonderful and this short novella just adds to the enjoyment of the other books.
I received a free review copy from StoryOrigin and the author in exchange for an honest review
I received a free review copy from StoryOrigin and the author in exchange for an honest review
April 13, 2024
Solid fantasy prequel story or a standalone novella (depending on how you read it). I always love the see the future, try to stop it, but actually cause what you are trying to stop plot lines, and this one was well done, though a bit predictable. I will definitely read on in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2024
Fantasy novella prequel to the Althuria Chronicles. Ryver’s authorship shines through. Read this for a starting glimpse into this entertaining fantasy series. Or, as I did, gaining an idea of the story’s origins after having enjoyed and finished all this series’ books. Thank you to Ryver Knight for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
May 4, 2024
Great book. I couldn’t put it down as I was on the edge of my seat. It was addicted and the suspense was a fantasy of romance. It was a power play between them all. And they were going to save the world.
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Trina Jones
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Trina Jones
June 20, 2024
Just finished up reading "The Time Guardian" which is part of the Althuria Chronicles. This was a quick, action packed read. The character development, even in such a small book, was quite deep! My only issues were that this book confused me right off the bat. I didn't quite understand what was going on... right off the bat.
June 27, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! The character development was insightful and deep, but if the book had been longer. I feel like it wouldn’t have felt so rushed. Another pro is it felt like a traditional fairytale. I can’t wait to find out more about Aubrey and Lilith!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2024
A beautifully written tale of two sisters!
It’s really difficult to review this short story without spoilers. So, instead, I will say this—this is a beautifully written tale of two princesses, three years apart in age. The story flows well and I felt myself drawn into the lives of both of the sisters, feeling empathy with both as well.
It’s really difficult to review this short story without spoilers. So, instead, I will say this—this is a beautifully written tale of two princesses, three years apart in age. The story flows well and I felt myself drawn into the lives of both of the sisters, feeling empathy with both as well.
April 7, 2024
This book is about friendship and complements. Is that a lie? Is the trust strong enough to overcome the difficulties?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2024
Short dark story. This starts off as a sweet story of two princesses. Both will reveal what magic they have, but one will bring the dark destruction that she tried to avoid. I enjoyed reading this story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 21, 2024
This was an interesting short story, it kind of speeds up the girls growing up. It gives us a lot of information in a short amount of time but is done very well. The story is very much an opening for something a lot bigger and I can't wait to see where this story is going.
June 29, 2024
ARC review:
Although the prose of this story felt juvenile, the plot made me race to turn the page. Was excited to read more and disappointed to find it was only a short story!
Captivating world. I love that the author trusted the reader to figure out the magic - showing, not just telling.
Although the prose of this story felt juvenile, the plot made me race to turn the page. Was excited to read more and disappointed to find it was only a short story!
Captivating world. I love that the author trusted the reader to figure out the magic - showing, not just telling.
April 20, 2024
A great short story about two sisters who are very close to begin with and end up worlds apart. Great world and and character building. Loved the story. I definitely recommend this book.
May 1, 2024
The best education is found outdoors
Oh! If I could only tell you of the grand adventures I had growing up with my younger brother and cousins. Exploring and experiments galore! But nothing compares to what’s in store for sisters Audrey and Lillith…
Fave line:
‘It was a space between breaths and the magnificence of eternity, wrapped into a single strand of dark smoke.’
That last line – whoa!
I’ve previously enjoyed the other books in this series (and others by the author).
Oh! If I could only tell you of the grand adventures I had growing up with my younger brother and cousins. Exploring and experiments galore! But nothing compares to what’s in store for sisters Audrey and Lillith…
Fave line:
‘It was a space between breaths and the magnificence of eternity, wrapped into a single strand of dark smoke.’
That last line – whoa!
I’ve previously enjoyed the other books in this series (and others by the author).
June 8, 2024
This is another world of magic or a mix of science and fantasy I would say… The words, the scenes, the descriptions… The feelings that I had felt while reading are Indescribable. Ryver's ability to use words is beautiful. I totally recommend reading it, whether you love fantasy or science fiction!
Note - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Note - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 19, 2024
An excellent short story that nicely complements the Althuria Chronicles series. Some great characters on both sides of the good/evil coin. Nicely plotted story that gives a good reason to read the full series
May 22, 2024
I loved this... for such a short prequel it has me hooked... I am now on my way to get the series! Cannot wait to find out more about Audrey and Lilith and how their story will develop. I am in love with both characters and can envision my loyalties may flit between the two of them as I read more of their story from each point of view... I'm truly excited about this series!
January 7, 2025
What a wonderful introduction to the world of the Althuria Chronicles series. This short story sets the stage for the series. We meet two sisters, one with a powerful and rare ability, and one without. After seeing a vision of her own death and the horrifying future that awaits their world, the older sister is determined to find a way to prevent it all, but may end up hastening the inevitable.
This was a fast-paced read, that really pulled me in and left me wanting to know more.
I love when authors give us a sneak peek into their series with just enough to whet our appetite, and this story did exactly that. If you are considering reading the full series, I would highly recommend beginning with this quick, exciting read.
Thank you to the publisher, author and Booksirens for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This was a fast-paced read, that really pulled me in and left me wanting to know more.
I love when authors give us a sneak peek into their series with just enough to whet our appetite, and this story did exactly that. If you are considering reading the full series, I would highly recommend beginning with this quick, exciting read.
Thank you to the publisher, author and Booksirens for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 2, 2025
I really liked this. I kind of wanted more depth and space to breathe between things that happened, but it's a prequel, and it's short, so it makes sense. It does get me excited to read the series, as I'm excited to see how the things the older sister saw will play out.
A few conversations felt somewhat stiff, but I think that's my brain getting in the way.
I enjoyed this a lot! Great prequel, and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
A few conversations felt somewhat stiff, but I think that's my brain getting in the way.
I enjoyed this a lot! Great prequel, and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
October 23, 2024
I liked this book, wish there was more. Writer quickly makes you feel like you know the characters like you are friends with them. Want their stories to end happily
Felt like the world building was rushed. Felt the story was lacking. Great start but needs more
Felt like the world building was rushed. Felt the story was lacking. Great start but needs more
April 14, 2024
Audrey and Lilith's lives were pretty normal but things started to change when Audrey experienced something where it would change both their lives forever. A great and interesting short story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews