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Last Moon of the Timekeeper
For Cregg, Last Moon should have been a day of quiet and solitude. When he discovers a young thief hiding from the authorities in his tower, he soon learns that fate has other plans for his day.
With time against him, he embarks on a journey of reflection, tiny dragons, and a fight for the life of a boy he barely knows.
Set over the course of a single day, Last Moon of the Timekeeper takes place almost a year before the events of Orchestra of the Gods.
With time against him, he embarks on a journey of reflection, tiny dragons, and a fight for the life of a boy he barely knows.
Set over the course of a single day, Last Moon of the Timekeeper takes place almost a year before the events of Orchestra of the Gods.
95 pages, ebook
Published July 18, 2025
21 people want to read
About the author
Damien Buckley
3 books32 followersGet your FREE ebook copy of Last Moon of the Timekeeper - a prequel novella to Damien Buckley's epic fantasy novel Orchestra of the Gods - when you sign up to his newsletter at www.damien-buckley.com
Damien is 48 years old and lives with his partner in the south-east of England. He is currently self-employed, which involves a lot of working outdoors. He dreams of a full-time writing career so he can watch the wet British weather from the inside rather than out!
Damien is 48 years old and lives with his partner in the south-east of England. He is currently self-employed, which involves a lot of working outdoors. He dreams of a full-time writing career so he can watch the wet British weather from the inside rather than out!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
August 20, 2025
In such a short book being able to build already an intricate world is really good. I was intrigued from the beginning and wasn't disappointed. The characters really come to live, and their adventures worth the read. And of course, the mini dragons! I want one, now.
But really looking forward to reading the first full book in this world. Hopefully just as good as this story is
But really looking forward to reading the first full book in this world. Hopefully just as good as this story is
September 2, 2025
This is a small novella (100 pages roughly) an introduction to the world being created by author Damien Buckley. I decided to read this before book 1 in The architect series because it can be read standalone, I believe your introduced to a character that is featured in book 1.
It was a brilliant introduction to what feels like world you can really sink your teeth into. This follows an old timekeeper who at this time in his life is just going through the motions until he meets a slave, a young boy and is compelled to help in anyway he can.
The magic is subtle, you can see parts of the world and story teased and there are even flashes of what appear to be gods/goddesses or deities that I believe play a strong role in the story of book 1.
All in all this is a great novella that can be read on its own, I actually think it's a phenomenal stand alone story even if you never read the main series (please do though!) that really gives your a taste and leaves you wanting more.
Oh and there are tiny dragons! Can't forget to mention that.
It was a brilliant introduction to what feels like world you can really sink your teeth into. This follows an old timekeeper who at this time in his life is just going through the motions until he meets a slave, a young boy and is compelled to help in anyway he can.
The magic is subtle, you can see parts of the world and story teased and there are even flashes of what appear to be gods/goddesses or deities that I believe play a strong role in the story of book 1.
All in all this is a great novella that can be read on its own, I actually think it's a phenomenal stand alone story even if you never read the main series (please do though!) that really gives your a taste and leaves you wanting more.
Oh and there are tiny dragons! Can't forget to mention that.
July 22, 2025
For less than 100 pages and just under 2 hours to read, what can I say? If you haven't read fantasy before, this book is the perfect introduction to the genre, with its ups and downs, ins and outs. Suspense and awe all the way. The world-building is perfect, adding perfectly to the other book in the series, Orchestra of the Gods (which I cannot recommend more). If you love an unexpected hero who doesn't know he is a hero, you could not choose better.
July 21, 2025
A wonderful novella which provides both a first glimpse into Ryyban and some of the mysteries and magical elements to come, or as a fantastic accompaniment for those who have already read Orchestra of the Gods (OOTG).
Having already read & loved OOTG, I have been eagerly awaiting the release of Last Moon of the Timekeeper and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Damien Buckley has a way of writing characters that you feel quickly attached to, and even though this novella is less than a hundred pages long, this was no different!
Last Moon of the Timekeeper is an incredible example of finding the balance between introducing & experiencing a new world and some of the intricacies & unique elements associated with it, whilst still leaving enough mystery & questions to leave the reader wanting more. With tiny dragons, magic and unique social structures this is the perfect starting point for both old & new fantasy readers and will almost certainly be just the starting point for your journey into the world of Ryyban.
Having already read & loved OOTG, I have been eagerly awaiting the release of Last Moon of the Timekeeper and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Damien Buckley has a way of writing characters that you feel quickly attached to, and even though this novella is less than a hundred pages long, this was no different!
Last Moon of the Timekeeper is an incredible example of finding the balance between introducing & experiencing a new world and some of the intricacies & unique elements associated with it, whilst still leaving enough mystery & questions to leave the reader wanting more. With tiny dragons, magic and unique social structures this is the perfect starting point for both old & new fantasy readers and will almost certainly be just the starting point for your journey into the world of Ryyban.
January 4, 2026
✦ “May the Architects guide you and watch over you, always.” ✦
🌙 Last Moon of the Timekeeper — Damien Buckley
⭐⭐⭐⭐✧ (4.5 stars)
✧･ﾟ: * SPOILER FREE REVIEW * :･ﾟ✧
I loved this little story!!! the ending was heartbreaking, but in the most perfect, inevitable way.
At just 93 pages, Last Moon of the Timekeeper delivers rich world-building (just like orchestra of the gods ) emotional depth, and constant movement without ever feeling rushed or confusing. So much happens in such a short space of time, yet it’s written in a way that’s easy to follow.
I loved the characters in this story and felt an instant connection to them. And yes… I am still completely obsessed with the tiny dragons 🐉✨
A short but compelling read that lingers long after the final page. If you’re curious to see whether Damien Buckley’s world-building and storytelling are for you, this novella is the perfect place to start.
🌙 Last Moon of the Timekeeper — Damien Buckley
⭐⭐⭐⭐✧ (4.5 stars)
✧･ﾟ: * SPOILER FREE REVIEW * :･ﾟ✧
I loved this little story!!! the ending was heartbreaking, but in the most perfect, inevitable way.
At just 93 pages, Last Moon of the Timekeeper delivers rich world-building (just like orchestra of the gods ) emotional depth, and constant movement without ever feeling rushed or confusing. So much happens in such a short space of time, yet it’s written in a way that’s easy to follow.
I loved the characters in this story and felt an instant connection to them. And yes… I am still completely obsessed with the tiny dragons 🐉✨
A short but compelling read that lingers long after the final page. If you’re curious to see whether Damien Buckley’s world-building and storytelling are for you, this novella is the perfect place to start.
October 26, 2025
Last Moon of the Timekeeper, who knew it would keep my time? Once I finally got the chance to sit and read it properly, I had to finish this novella. I started with this as it was set almost a year before the events of Orchestra of the Gods. This book tugs on your heart strings and has many intense moments and humour. Each chapter I read, I had more quesitons that gave me no choice but to read on to find the answers. It's an amazing book, no matter the emotions I feel about the end. Would definitely recommend this book to anyone that loves a bit of fantasy!
July 21, 2025
this book isn't my normal at all, I dont read fantasy, but oh wow!!!! it may only be 93 pages but I couldn't read it quick enough!! this has been written so well! the story, characters and descriptions you really loose yourself in all aspects of the story! and the little dragon in it!! awww such a beautiful ending!! this was released to draw you into the series! it definitely works!! this book is completely reccomended by someone that doesnt even like reading fantasy!! that has to say something!!
January 6, 2026
Really enjoyed this prequel novella. It was a great set-up for Orchestra of the Gods. The emotional scene hit right, and the characters were well written.
July 21, 2025
I loved this Novella. Despite a busy life with a 2 year old I finished it in 2 days which says a lot about how good it was. Very well written and it sucked me in to this fascinating fantasy world which is so different from the world we live in. Also loved the tiny dragons. Can’t wait to read Orchestra of the Gods now, and find out more about the world of Rybban.
July 30, 2025
The Last Moon Of The Timekeeper, a novella I didn’t expect to enjoy as much as I did, especially given my rocky history with the fantasy genre.
Set in the desiccated but bustling city of Miar Lenns, the novella follows, as the title suggests, the last day of the timekeeper Clegg, overseeing the ringing of the bell in his tower to mark the passage of time and on this day the start of the new year. Think of Clegg as a human clock. Clegg’s world collides with a slave called Milo, and the novella covers a mere 24 hour period of their time together.
As is the nature of a novella, the book is short, but this doesn’t stop the author from worldbuilding. Despite the novella being in the fantasy genre, I found the fantasy elements somewhat grounded, and even when they were more fantastical, they were used sparingly rather than overbearing the reading with too much going on or too much information given at once. One lacking part of worldbuilding, however, which felt essential to the book, was why the timekeeper's job existed. Why did they have someone manually tracking time, rather than using clocks? It is my hope this is explained in a later book; however, it seems the first main book in the series follows a completely different set of characters and story.
Credit to the writer, I was apprehensive that I could be made to care about Clegg and Milo in such a short space of time. However, the author did this wonderfully. The ending was touching, and I hope that we get to see at least one of these characters in the main books.
I hate to bring this up, however there are 2 small spelling errors in the e-book version of this title. Hopefully, this can be fixed and wasn’t present in the physically printed books. Other than that the book was well put together.
If you’re looking for a short but sweet fantasy or want to dip your toes back into the genre I highly recommend you give this one a read.
Set in the desiccated but bustling city of Miar Lenns, the novella follows, as the title suggests, the last day of the timekeeper Clegg, overseeing the ringing of the bell in his tower to mark the passage of time and on this day the start of the new year. Think of Clegg as a human clock. Clegg’s world collides with a slave called Milo, and the novella covers a mere 24 hour period of their time together.
As is the nature of a novella, the book is short, but this doesn’t stop the author from worldbuilding. Despite the novella being in the fantasy genre, I found the fantasy elements somewhat grounded, and even when they were more fantastical, they were used sparingly rather than overbearing the reading with too much going on or too much information given at once. One lacking part of worldbuilding, however, which felt essential to the book, was why the timekeeper's job existed. Why did they have someone manually tracking time, rather than using clocks? It is my hope this is explained in a later book; however, it seems the first main book in the series follows a completely different set of characters and story.
Credit to the writer, I was apprehensive that I could be made to care about Clegg and Milo in such a short space of time. However, the author did this wonderfully. The ending was touching, and I hope that we get to see at least one of these characters in the main books.
I hate to bring this up, however there are 2 small spelling errors in the e-book version of this title. Hopefully, this can be fixed and wasn’t present in the physically printed books. Other than that the book was well put together.
If you’re looking for a short but sweet fantasy or want to dip your toes back into the genre I highly recommend you give this one a read.
September 18, 2025
☆☆☆☆.5
Last Moon Of The Time Keeper is a prequel novella set in the Architects world/series. This was such a fun and quick read which packed a punch with compelling and emotional storylines and characters you couldn't help but love.
The pacing was amazing and i loved that the entire book was set within a single day. It really added urgency and emphasis on time which is, of course, vital to the plot. The constant reminders of time were so effective in keeping me on the edge and eagerly waiting and rooting for the characters success. The stakes were laid out well and I felt engaged and drawn into the world and events unfolding on the page.
I felt that, despite its short length, the world building and magic system was explained and presented in an effective way and I didnt feel like I was missing information or lost at any point. The writing style in general was great. I felt the narrative voice was consistent and strong and I loved how the characters emotions and body language were written and conveyed. There is a strong theme of morality and conpassion throughout which allowed for the more emotional moments to stand out and take root.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and i cant wait to jump into the full length novel set in the same world!
Last Moon Of The Time Keeper is a prequel novella set in the Architects world/series. This was such a fun and quick read which packed a punch with compelling and emotional storylines and characters you couldn't help but love.
The pacing was amazing and i loved that the entire book was set within a single day. It really added urgency and emphasis on time which is, of course, vital to the plot. The constant reminders of time were so effective in keeping me on the edge and eagerly waiting and rooting for the characters success. The stakes were laid out well and I felt engaged and drawn into the world and events unfolding on the page.
I felt that, despite its short length, the world building and magic system was explained and presented in an effective way and I didnt feel like I was missing information or lost at any point. The writing style in general was great. I felt the narrative voice was consistent and strong and I loved how the characters emotions and body language were written and conveyed. There is a strong theme of morality and conpassion throughout which allowed for the more emotional moments to stand out and take root.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and i cant wait to jump into the full length novel set in the same world!
November 5, 2025
The Last Moon of The Timekeeper is a story of the most unlikely of friends, who’s one day journey takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions. The buildup throughout the novella draws you in, ensuring that you feel every little change in the adventure. A great short story that takes around 1.5-2hours to read that will have you hooked the whole way.
The world is beautifully crafted with very little detail left out. Your imagination is able to run wild to vision the surrounding area and these 2 characters that will have your heart.
Spoiler:
The end of the novella is an unexpected twist that will affect your emotions leaving you questions your connection to these two characters, yet you will want to come back for more. If you are easily heartbroken be warned the ending might have you crying.
I look forward to reading Orchestra Of The Gods next.
The world is beautifully crafted with very little detail left out. Your imagination is able to run wild to vision the surrounding area and these 2 characters that will have your heart.
Spoiler:
The end of the novella is an unexpected twist that will affect your emotions leaving you questions your connection to these two characters, yet you will want to come back for more. If you are easily heartbroken be warned the ending might have you crying.
I look forward to reading Orchestra Of The Gods next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2026
Set over the course of a day, Cregg, the Time Keeper charged with marking the passing of the day in his bell tower, has become stagnant. His days have become routine. But that is all about to change.
This prequel novella has the tiny dragons, touches of magic and the twist of Fate of the first full book of the series but provides a more intimate and almost domestic adventure.
When a scrawny slave crashes into Creggs life unexpectedly he is suddenly thrown into a quick paced adventure to not only save the boy, but to save himself from the sorrow and monotany that has been marked by three chimes of the bell.
This prequel novella has the tiny dragons, touches of magic and the twist of Fate of the first full book of the series but provides a more intimate and almost domestic adventure.
When a scrawny slave crashes into Creggs life unexpectedly he is suddenly thrown into a quick paced adventure to not only save the boy, but to save himself from the sorrow and monotany that has been marked by three chimes of the bell.
August 1, 2025
This novella has world-building, magic & cute small dragons in, so pretty jammed packed for a 93 page novella!
I really enjoyed the writing style & how the story built towards the ending. I definitely had a lot of questions, which I'm hoping will be answered in book 1 (Orchestra Of The Gods), so looks like that book will be bought higher on my TBR now 😀
For any one that wants a quick fantasy book, this novella is just the ticket - a great introduction to this indie author & I cant wait to read OOTG.
I really enjoyed the writing style & how the story built towards the ending. I definitely had a lot of questions, which I'm hoping will be answered in book 1 (Orchestra Of The Gods), so looks like that book will be bought higher on my TBR now 😀
For any one that wants a quick fantasy book, this novella is just the ticket - a great introduction to this indie author & I cant wait to read OOTG.
August 26, 2025
An excellent introduction into the world of Rybban, set over the course of a day, this short novella thrusts you into a new world, with mysteries and tiny dragons.
What stood out to me most was an instant connection to characters, and the worldbuilding. If you like Brandon Sanderson and his Mistborn books, there’s definitely enjoyment to be had here. I’m excited to dive deeper into this world with Book 1 of the architects trilogy, Orchestra of the gods, to have questions answered, and even more importantly, more asked.
What stood out to me most was an instant connection to characters, and the worldbuilding. If you like Brandon Sanderson and his Mistborn books, there’s definitely enjoyment to be had here. I’m excited to dive deeper into this world with Book 1 of the architects trilogy, Orchestra of the gods, to have questions answered, and even more importantly, more asked.
July 23, 2025
Wow to be back in the beautiful world of rybban again. Is truly breathtaking experience again. Incredible job you did again Damien Buckley. Well done you!!! Characters touch me again deep with the emotions again. Going through this beautiful journey was breathtaking experience again. I can't wait for book two and relive the experience all over again. Everyone please go and get both books now!!! Enjoy!
August 16, 2025
This was my first book by this author. I got the ebook for free by signing up to the authors mailing list. I really loved this story. It is an introduction to a brand new fantasy world, that continues in his debut novel orchestra of the gods. If you love reading about dragons, fantasy, gods and magic then this will be the book for you! I cant wait to read more books by this author. My next read will be of course orchestra of the gods!
November 9, 2025
A surprisingly engaging novella. Despite it's brevity, Buckley builds a world detailed enough to draw a reader in, without excessive description. The plot moves at an appropriate pace, with the tone perfectly matched by Buckley's own writing style. The language, the setting, and the story go together in such a way that it becomes impossible not to enjoy, and I found I couldn't put it down until I had finished.
A great read.
A great read.
August 16, 2025
This was incredible from start to finish. Damien Buckley weaves an intricate story of Friendship built over the course of a night.
With just enough world building to leave me wanting more I can't wait to start the Orchestra of the Gods to fall deeper into this world.
A must read and I've already sent links to buy to friends and family!
With just enough world building to leave me wanting more I can't wait to start the Orchestra of the Gods to fall deeper into this world.
A must read and I've already sent links to buy to friends and family!
September 14, 2025
This book is a brilliant introduction to the world. It does a brilliant job fitting a story into a single day whilst still making you feel connected and tied to the characters. I would definitely recommend it to people who read and also those who struggle to read long books, I finished this in 24 hours. 10/10.
October 28, 2025
An Emotional and Magical Introduction to Ryyban
I decided to start with the prequel to get a feel for the author’s writing—and I’m so glad I did. I absolutely loved it, and by the end, I was in tears.
The story gives readers their first glimpse into the world of Ryyban, along with some of the magic and mystery that I expect will unfold further in the main novel.
I immediately became attached to Cregg, an old man who has lived a quiet life since his wife passed, ringing the tower bell each day after climbing 187 steps. But one day, when he returns to the bottom, he finds a young boy—Milo—hiding. Soon after, the Tal Valar arrive. They’re the law in Ryyban, always appearing in pairs… and they’re looking for Milo. But why?
The entire story takes place over the course of a single day in Cregg’s life, but it’s filled with more adventure than he’s had in years. There are tiny dragons, subtle magic, and a wonderfully unique narrative structure.
I loved seeing the beginning of the world-building here and getting hints of the deeper lore that I’m sure will be explored in the full-length novel. If this is anything to go by, I can’t wait to continue the series.
If you’re unsure about diving into a full book, this prequel (just under 100 pages) is a great way to sample the author’s style. I flew through it—and any fan of fantasy fiction should definitely give it a go.
I decided to start with the prequel to get a feel for the author’s writing—and I’m so glad I did. I absolutely loved it, and by the end, I was in tears.
The story gives readers their first glimpse into the world of Ryyban, along with some of the magic and mystery that I expect will unfold further in the main novel.
I immediately became attached to Cregg, an old man who has lived a quiet life since his wife passed, ringing the tower bell each day after climbing 187 steps. But one day, when he returns to the bottom, he finds a young boy—Milo—hiding. Soon after, the Tal Valar arrive. They’re the law in Ryyban, always appearing in pairs… and they’re looking for Milo. But why?
The entire story takes place over the course of a single day in Cregg’s life, but it’s filled with more adventure than he’s had in years. There are tiny dragons, subtle magic, and a wonderfully unique narrative structure.
I loved seeing the beginning of the world-building here and getting hints of the deeper lore that I’m sure will be explored in the full-length novel. If this is anything to go by, I can’t wait to continue the series.
If you’re unsure about diving into a full book, this prequel (just under 100 pages) is a great way to sample the author’s style. I flew through it—and any fan of fantasy fiction should definitely give it a go.
November 2, 2025
Absolutely incredible novella, Damiens writing has such fluidity to it, it allows for complete organic and effortless reading. The small nuances and quirks of plot and character building has lent itself to create what for me has been a must read experience. It reignited my love for reading after a long spell of immersion struggle.
Thank you for the experience.
Thank you for the experience.
December 8, 2025
A single day, all this takes place in a single day, an absolute emotional rollercoaster where you find yourself getting attached to characters and feel yourself rooting for them to succeed in the mission they have tasked them selves, the author calls it a small stakes adventure, I strongly disagree, my emotions definitely disagree, so much in so little time, an absolute must read
December 31, 2025
For such a short book, this novella does an excellent job at world building and characterisation. The world feels fully realised with tiny dragons and a magic system you don’t yet fully understand. The curmudgeonly old time keeper is a favourite of mine now. Brilliant introduction to the world of The Architects.
January 25, 2026
A brilliant short novella (93 pages) which can be read either before or after Orchestra of the gods (I read it after). A quick easy read and look into this fantasy world. Small dragons included! A gripping and beautiful story with a sad ending (NOOOO!), but one I really enjoyed reading and the characters. 4/5 stars.
July 24, 2025
This novella was an amazing read from start to finish! Last Moon of the Timekeeper could easily be read before Book 1 of The Architects or after and is an amazing journey into the world of Rybban. Another fantastic read!
September 15, 2025
What an amazing novella and a glimpse into the fantastic world the author has built. To be able cram so much into 93 pages is a talent in itself. A great insight into the authors first book The Orchestra of the Gods!
November 18, 2025
So I read the first of the trilogy before reading this.
It certainly doesn't matter if you read this first but it will introduce you to what Damien wants you to see.
I loved this book and its a very short read (less than 100 pages). It has tiny dragons, eggs and magic, what more do you need.
It certainly doesn't matter if you read this first but it will introduce you to what Damien wants you to see.
I loved this book and its a very short read (less than 100 pages). It has tiny dragons, eggs and magic, what more do you need.
January 18, 2026
I don't usually read novellas, but this book pleasantly surprised me. It is written beautifully and I love the opening chapter about time. The characters were enjoyably and fun. I wanted more of the large lady! This writer has a great writing style and I will definitely be reading more.
January 21, 2026
A fantastic read, glad decided to get this in before the new year. Read in a single sitting and excited now to read the first Novel in the same immersive world Damien has created.
I was hooked from the first page to the last, desperate to read what happened next!
I was hooked from the first page to the last, desperate to read what happened next!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews