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Skyfold: A Fantasy Heist Novella
Rain is the tyranny of gods.
Cabbott and Riven Soh’vail have a plan — to steal the Skyfold’s source and free their people from Sovereign rule.
For centuries, the Sovereigns have used their god-like power to rule Prytarria, a world of islands floating in the clouds and caught in eternal storms.
Some, like Cabbott, suffer under Sovereign power while dreaming of cloudless skies. Some, like Riven, defy their masters and laugh in the face of a Sovereign’s curse. Still others plot and scheme, for the day humans can reclaim their glory.
And together, those with the courage to risk it all shall sow the seeds of a new age, and a world born free of the Sovereigns.
Full of thrills, adventure, and the power of love against evil, Skyfold is an epic fantasy heist you’ll never forget, with monsters aplenty and twists at every turn.
Journey where every game has a cost, and every dream a price to be paid.
To those who dare, demen pragos.
“Find purpose in play, and master your world.”
Cabbott and Riven Soh’vail have a plan — to steal the Skyfold’s source and free their people from Sovereign rule.
For centuries, the Sovereigns have used their god-like power to rule Prytarria, a world of islands floating in the clouds and caught in eternal storms.
Some, like Cabbott, suffer under Sovereign power while dreaming of cloudless skies. Some, like Riven, defy their masters and laugh in the face of a Sovereign’s curse. Still others plot and scheme, for the day humans can reclaim their glory.
And together, those with the courage to risk it all shall sow the seeds of a new age, and a world born free of the Sovereigns.
Full of thrills, adventure, and the power of love against evil, Skyfold is an epic fantasy heist you’ll never forget, with monsters aplenty and twists at every turn.
Journey where every game has a cost, and every dream a price to be paid.
To those who dare, demen pragos.
“Find purpose in play, and master your world.”
- GenresFantasy
96 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2025
7 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Tim McKay
5 books143 followersTim McKay is an author, editor, and part-time writing professor from Ottawa, Canada. A lifelong pursuer of meaning and joy through the written word — with a small helping of thrills and adventure on the side.
He has degrees in history and public policy, along with a diploma in professional writing, but likes nothing more than hiking in the woods, running along the Rideau Canal, and connecting with the people he loves.
Oh, and reading a good book.
He has degrees in history and public policy, along with a diploma in professional writing, but likes nothing more than hiking in the woods, running along the Rideau Canal, and connecting with the people he loves.
Oh, and reading a good book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 8, 2025
This was a great underdog story! Tim's writing is excellent so you really fall for the characters. The story is a simple one..our 2 main characters plot against the God-like Sovereigns rule. What makes this different is the monsters they encounter and incredibly interesting world that the author has created.
Betrayal is a central theme and our 2 main characters Riven and Cabbott unfortunately are on the bad side of things. All is not lost though but you'll have to listen to hear what happens!
Thank you to Tim for the ALC!
Betrayal is a central theme and our 2 main characters Riven and Cabbott unfortunately are on the bad side of things. All is not lost though but you'll have to listen to hear what happens!
Thank you to Tim for the ALC!
August 9, 2025
What am I always telling you?
Play the great game long enough, it tends to play back.
Fortune smiles on us!
Play the great game long enough, it tends to play back.
Fortune smiles on us!
November 29, 2025
My first book by this author and people... PHENOMENAL!!
Well done, Tim!!
Well done, Tim!!
Read
November 30, 2025This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Skyfold
Suppressed by the Sovereigns, Cabott and Riven seek to end their rule. Dark deeds maintain the Sovereign’s power, causing suffering and hardship for the people of Prytarria. Yet there are those among the Prytarri that revere the Sovereigns and would do anything to stay within their godly light.
Readers will be immersed in a nerve wracking heist as Cabbot and Riven scale their way to the Skyfold, the place of Sovereign power. The cruelties bestowed upon the world will be seen in harsh detail as creatures warped by the Sovereigns stand against the pair. And the common people’s plight will be reflected in Riven’s degrading condition. A punishment bestowed upon her, where she slowly becomes one of the creatures they have twisted.
The true focus of this novella are the characters and their personal experiences they share with the structure of their society. Readers are given a taste of the treacheries and scale of Sovereign power, but it seems there is much more to the world of Skyfold. I would love to explore more of this world and see the history of how it all came to be.
Suppressed by the Sovereigns, Cabott and Riven seek to end their rule. Dark deeds maintain the Sovereign’s power, causing suffering and hardship for the people of Prytarria. Yet there are those among the Prytarri that revere the Sovereigns and would do anything to stay within their godly light.
Readers will be immersed in a nerve wracking heist as Cabbot and Riven scale their way to the Skyfold, the place of Sovereign power. The cruelties bestowed upon the world will be seen in harsh detail as creatures warped by the Sovereigns stand against the pair. And the common people’s plight will be reflected in Riven’s degrading condition. A punishment bestowed upon her, where she slowly becomes one of the creatures they have twisted.
The true focus of this novella are the characters and their personal experiences they share with the structure of their society. Readers are given a taste of the treacheries and scale of Sovereign power, but it seems there is much more to the world of Skyfold. I would love to explore more of this world and see the history of how it all came to be.
November 11, 2025
This is the second McKay book I've come across, and I will say, I do appreciate the writing style. There is nothing that stands out in how the story is conveyed, but at the same time there is little to detract from the story. As this is a rather short novella there is little time for establishing the larger context, so we're thrown in situ and expected to pick up the pieces as we go.
I was really torn by how to gauge this book, during it's very short expanse I had thoughts of both "this is rather meh." to "Yes, that's what I'm looking for." to "Why did you do that?". So as a result I have to give the ambiguous rating in that while we have a great world, a decent story, the expected unexpected plot twist/betrayal and final push to an expected culmination, it all averages out in my opinion.
The one thing that I think could have done better is to let the story breathe. I had a similar opinion with FoS where there is a lot going on, and without a change of pace or a point of reflection, the story feels too constricted to be enjoyable. Now I understand some of you like the stories that play like punk rock (say what you need and then shut up), I feel this could have easily doubled in length with only minor character/world expansions and been able to savour the gems that McKay scattered throughout this little book.
I was really torn by how to gauge this book, during it's very short expanse I had thoughts of both "this is rather meh." to "Yes, that's what I'm looking for." to "Why did you do that?". So as a result I have to give the ambiguous rating in that while we have a great world, a decent story, the expected unexpected plot twist/betrayal and final push to an expected culmination, it all averages out in my opinion.
The one thing that I think could have done better is to let the story breathe. I had a similar opinion with FoS where there is a lot going on, and without a change of pace or a point of reflection, the story feels too constricted to be enjoyable. Now I understand some of you like the stories that play like punk rock (say what you need and then shut up), I feel this could have easily doubled in length with only minor character/world expansions and been able to savour the gems that McKay scattered throughout this little book.
October 31, 2025
Tim has written a whip-crack story that is both self contained and sets up a stunning new fantasy world that I cannot wait to read more about.
This novella is perfect for anyone looking to find a quick fantasy read.
This novella is perfect for anyone looking to find a quick fantasy read.
August 19, 2025
4.5
The worldbuilding here is really, really good. We only get a vague shape of the total world as there really isn't enough CHONK to explore everything thoroughly, but this glimpse really impressed me. There was a sense of eerie grandeur that I quite liked.
Another thing that stood out was the relationship between the two main characters, which is really what made this story fun to read page-to-page. It's still a mystery to me how this works, but whatever Tim did here worked for me. The prose is solid and confident, so I'm sure that's part of it.
I can't say I fully understood everything, though. I enjoyed the development of the story and characters, but things definitely happened toward the end that, while intriguing, had me frowning a little.
Overall, this was enjoyable and if there is some sort of sequel I shall be there! Also, I read this in one sitting lol. Novellas OP.
The worldbuilding here is really, really good. We only get a vague shape of the total world as there really isn't enough CHONK to explore everything thoroughly, but this glimpse really impressed me. There was a sense of eerie grandeur that I quite liked.
Another thing that stood out was the relationship between the two main characters, which is really what made this story fun to read page-to-page. It's still a mystery to me how this works, but whatever Tim did here worked for me. The prose is solid and confident, so I'm sure that's part of it.
I can't say I fully understood everything, though. I enjoyed the development of the story and characters, but things definitely happened toward the end that, while intriguing, had me frowning a little.
Overall, this was enjoyable and if there is some sort of sequel I shall be there! Also, I read this in one sitting lol. Novellas OP.
November 19, 2025
I picked this one up for a reaching challenge bingo spot. I can say I’m not mad about it. It was good, especially for it being so short!
This fantasy heist isn’t just about stealing. It’s about taking the Skyfold’s source and freeing their people from Sovereign rule.
Riven and Cabbott stole the show for me. Riven’s rough edges and hidden heart, Cabbott’s steady presence. It makes the perfect dynamic. The rest of the crew is chaotic, clever, and full of surprises, making the heist tense, fun, and impossible to put down.
If you love character driven fantasy with high stakes, twists, and a misfit crew trying to pull off the impossible, Skyfold is a must-read.
This fantasy heist isn’t just about stealing. It’s about taking the Skyfold’s source and freeing their people from Sovereign rule.
Riven and Cabbott stole the show for me. Riven’s rough edges and hidden heart, Cabbott’s steady presence. It makes the perfect dynamic. The rest of the crew is chaotic, clever, and full of surprises, making the heist tense, fun, and impossible to put down.
If you love character driven fantasy with high stakes, twists, and a misfit crew trying to pull off the impossible, Skyfold is a must-read.
October 11, 2025
I really enjoyed the heist - without spoiling, all I can say is that the world-building, social ladder, and relationships between the characters all build really well across the story. If you are looking for a good heist story that is a fun read, you have to check Skyfold out!
October 19, 2025
Fast paced and a ton of fun. The audiobook is great, too!
September 15, 2025
SKYFOLD is an epic fantasy heist novella that gives off Final Fantasy vibes. Terrifying, angelic-like “sovereigns” rule in this world, dangerous beasts encroach upon civilization, and falling stars bring about great calamities.
The way McKay presents a fantasy world sparked my interest. McKay’s spin on beings like sirens and angels felt refreshing and new. The floating islands and the divide between them—also what may lie below them—definitely had me intrigued. I loved the idea of a world drenched in endless rain and what that reality could look like for people on floating islands; however, that wasn’t explained much in actual scenes in this novella, so I’m guessing it will come up more in the series itself.
There are definitely beloved, classic fantasy tropes present in this tale as well, so it won’t just appeal to a more video game inclined crowd. You’ll find the underdog hero Cabbott, the sexy and dangerous Riven, and their annoying friend Merick (<—spelling?). The three make up your ragtag band of heroes set on freeing humanity from the tyranny of their conquerors. The epic fantasy heist that follows feels as familiar as a warm cup of tea.
While I do love classic fantasy tropes, I think SKYFOLD sets you up for exactly what you can expect. I wasn’t surprised by anything that happened in the novella, personally, but that may be because I read SO MUCH FANTASY and already know how most tropes play out. I can say this was especially true when it came to the women in the book, but I think the familiar tropes surrounding women in SKYFOLD will absolutely appeal to a certain group of fantasy readers. Those same readers might also enjoy the ornate writing and flowery descriptions.
A side note: I wasn’t surprised as so much confused about some of the injury descriptions. I can’t elaborate more about that without spoilers, so I’ll refrain from writing anymore. I did go back and replay certain chapters over and over to figure it out, but I was still confused after my efforts. This may be my own personal shortcoming in finding details that I missed, something that can easily happen for me with audiobooks instead of print books, so keep that in mind.
Overall, SKYFOLD is an interesting fantasy book that will appeal to a lot of classic fantasy fans and gamers alike. If heists and underdog heroes are your jam, consider giving SKYFOLD a try.
Thanks to Tim McKay for the free copy of SKYFOLD in exchange for an honest review.
The way McKay presents a fantasy world sparked my interest. McKay’s spin on beings like sirens and angels felt refreshing and new. The floating islands and the divide between them—also what may lie below them—definitely had me intrigued. I loved the idea of a world drenched in endless rain and what that reality could look like for people on floating islands; however, that wasn’t explained much in actual scenes in this novella, so I’m guessing it will come up more in the series itself.
There are definitely beloved, classic fantasy tropes present in this tale as well, so it won’t just appeal to a more video game inclined crowd. You’ll find the underdog hero Cabbott, the sexy and dangerous Riven, and their annoying friend Merick (<—spelling?). The three make up your ragtag band of heroes set on freeing humanity from the tyranny of their conquerors. The epic fantasy heist that follows feels as familiar as a warm cup of tea.
While I do love classic fantasy tropes, I think SKYFOLD sets you up for exactly what you can expect. I wasn’t surprised by anything that happened in the novella, personally, but that may be because I read SO MUCH FANTASY and already know how most tropes play out. I can say this was especially true when it came to the women in the book, but I think the familiar tropes surrounding women in SKYFOLD will absolutely appeal to a certain group of fantasy readers. Those same readers might also enjoy the ornate writing and flowery descriptions.
A side note: I wasn’t surprised as so much confused about some of the injury descriptions. I can’t elaborate more about that without spoilers, so I’ll refrain from writing anymore. I did go back and replay certain chapters over and over to figure it out, but I was still confused after my efforts. This may be my own personal shortcoming in finding details that I missed, something that can easily happen for me with audiobooks instead of print books, so keep that in mind.
Overall, SKYFOLD is an interesting fantasy book that will appeal to a lot of classic fantasy fans and gamers alike. If heists and underdog heroes are your jam, consider giving SKYFOLD a try.
Thanks to Tim McKay for the free copy of SKYFOLD in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2025
SKYFOLD is a cool fantasy heist with an impressive scope for such a short book. It’s basically non-stop action, suspense, and twists, which is exactly what I wanted from this book. That said, not everything landed well for me, and unfortunately I’m left feeling a bit underwhelmed.
Unfortunately, I just didn’t connect with Cabbott or Riven, the main characters and architects of this heist. Their goals felt too often petty, often talking about how they rebelled against the Sovereigns for the thrill of it and rarely digging any deeper than that.
The two are also in a romantic relationship, which didn’t work for me very well either. Their love came off as a bit superficial, as though the things that tied them together was a combination of lust and a shared joy in rebellion. But, again, that rebellion felt skin-deep to me, and the lust they had for each other didn’t do much to deepen that relationship.
The ending also felt a bit too clean, as well. I won’t go into that (spoilers) so I’ll just say that things felt a bit too easy.
That said, McKay is clearly a talented author. Skyfold devises some interesting fights, some amazing imagery, and a plot twist that I truly did not see coming. I can absolutely see some readers have rated this so highly, the story is exciting and fun at heart.
Ultimately the book is good, it just didn’t click with me. However, you’re looking for an action-heavy, plot-driven read, SKYFOLD might just be what you need.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ALC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Unfortunately, I just didn’t connect with Cabbott or Riven, the main characters and architects of this heist. Their goals felt too often petty, often talking about how they rebelled against the Sovereigns for the thrill of it and rarely digging any deeper than that.
The two are also in a romantic relationship, which didn’t work for me very well either. Their love came off as a bit superficial, as though the things that tied them together was a combination of lust and a shared joy in rebellion. But, again, that rebellion felt skin-deep to me, and the lust they had for each other didn’t do much to deepen that relationship.
The ending also felt a bit too clean, as well. I won’t go into that (spoilers) so I’ll just say that things felt a bit too easy.
That said, McKay is clearly a talented author. Skyfold devises some interesting fights, some amazing imagery, and a plot twist that I truly did not see coming. I can absolutely see some readers have rated this so highly, the story is exciting and fun at heart.
Ultimately the book is good, it just didn’t click with me. However, you’re looking for an action-heavy, plot-driven read, SKYFOLD might just be what you need.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ALC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 25, 2025
Funny story: While I was reading, for some reason, I began to think of a playlist in my head. This is not something I normally do. So I have to share it:
It would start with some Mission Impossible theme music, infused with 'Just the way you are' by Bruno Mars, rolling over to the most intense part of 'I Dovregubbens hall', and then fading into a nice, enchanting version of 'Morning Mood' by Edward Grieg. There we go... half four in the morning.😂
Ok, I digress again. Let us head over to the review.😂
We are jumping right into action with this one as Riven and Cabbott are breaking into the Sovereign citadel.
Their plan? To steal Skylfold's source of power so the people will be free of the Sovereign rule.
Of course, this heist does not go to plan. This tale would be six sentences long! 😉
However, Tim is taking us on an adventure, which also contains danger.
Trying to navigate through the citadel, they stumble upon things from below and things they should not know.
🔹️
"Their lives had been an adventure ever since."
🔹️
I really enjoyed the potential of worldbuilding here. Tim, will there be another book or two coming?😊
Riven is my kind of gal. She might seem totally carefree. She is still complicated.
Witnessing betrayal made me gasp, not to mention how intense it got inside the citadel.
There was even a "Oooooh!".
A sober feeling as the beauty of a storm turned to sadness.
🔹️
"Tel'bhan edara."
🔹️
May you never see a Krassa for yourselves, my lovelies.💙
It would start with some Mission Impossible theme music, infused with 'Just the way you are' by Bruno Mars, rolling over to the most intense part of 'I Dovregubbens hall', and then fading into a nice, enchanting version of 'Morning Mood' by Edward Grieg. There we go... half four in the morning.😂
Ok, I digress again. Let us head over to the review.😂
We are jumping right into action with this one as Riven and Cabbott are breaking into the Sovereign citadel.
Their plan? To steal Skylfold's source of power so the people will be free of the Sovereign rule.
Of course, this heist does not go to plan. This tale would be six sentences long! 😉
However, Tim is taking us on an adventure, which also contains danger.
Trying to navigate through the citadel, they stumble upon things from below and things they should not know.
🔹️
"Their lives had been an adventure ever since."
🔹️
I really enjoyed the potential of worldbuilding here. Tim, will there be another book or two coming?😊
Riven is my kind of gal. She might seem totally carefree. She is still complicated.
Witnessing betrayal made me gasp, not to mention how intense it got inside the citadel.
There was even a "Oooooh!".
A sober feeling as the beauty of a storm turned to sadness.
🔹️
"Tel'bhan edara."
🔹️
May you never see a Krassa for yourselves, my lovelies.💙
October 7, 2025
Skyfold sweeps you up from the very first chapter—a world of storm-lashed skies, floating islands, and god-touched rulers. It’s equal parts rebellion, wonder, and heart. The pacing never drags, and the imagination behind it all feels truly original. A fantastic read for anyone who loves daring worlds and high-stakes fantasy.
September 1, 2025
The best new voice in fantasy does it again. Like most heist stories, things go off the rails pretty quick. McKay is able to keep you vested in this novella as we walk through the madness to a satisfying conclusion.
September 18, 2025
Skyfold is a fast-moving tale Centered on a single mission. Tim weaves the backstory into the action, and provides clear narration.
For a novella, the story packs a punch, twisting love, adventure, unknown stakes revealed at the end, constant danger, with a brilliant fantasy - Sci-Fi world.
For a novella, the story packs a punch, twisting love, adventure, unknown stakes revealed at the end, constant danger, with a brilliant fantasy - Sci-Fi world.
December 21, 2025
Rating to be added later (after SFINCS Round 1)
Skyfold is a tale of treachery set in a fantasy world of rain-soaked floating islands, with a human maiden sacrificed to godlike Sovereigns every year. Meteor showers rain down occasionally, and magic is wielded by the enormous, faceless, winged Sovereigns to keep the humans in line.
In this novella, a friend turns traitor during a heist with tragic effect. His envy of his foster brother’s wealth and lifestyle leads to a despicable act.
Set in an imaginative world, I felt that the worldbuilding really suffered from the short length of this novella and deserved a lot more description, since it seemed so unique. The location was intriguing, but I found it hard to visualise without more information. The antagonists, the Sovereigns, were also difficult to picture. Were they armoured dragons or large bipedal winged humanoids? I may have missed this detail, as I felt like a lot of information was being thrown at me at the beginning of the story without there being enough time for any of it to take hold.
The use of multiple terms in the native language was a little jarring for me. Yes, a glossary was provided at the beginning, but I find leaving the story to go and look something up always ruins the flow of a story. I usually try to grasp meaning from context rather than looking up words, but these were at times confusing to me.
The emotions and feeling of peril could have been heightened during the action sequences. Cabbott and Riven were undertaking brave feats of climbing, using their rugal spikes to scale Sovereign metal walls, with a huge drop beneath them into an abyss and yet I didn’t feel fearful for them, perhaps because they were confident of their success and maybe also because these sequences happened very quickly when they could have been drawn out further and made more of in a longer novel.
I love a heist story and enjoyed that part of the story immensely. I also really liked Riven’s curse and how it manifested itself. Her ending was somewhat confusing and felt a little “tacked on”, as if it were simply there to introduce an important player in a coming series.
I think this would have been a really amazing story if given more space to explore the world and its history in greater depth. I really hope this is a prequel novella and that there will be more stories set in this unique world! If there are, count me in.
Skyfold is a tale of treachery set in a fantasy world of rain-soaked floating islands, with a human maiden sacrificed to godlike Sovereigns every year. Meteor showers rain down occasionally, and magic is wielded by the enormous, faceless, winged Sovereigns to keep the humans in line.
In this novella, a friend turns traitor during a heist with tragic effect. His envy of his foster brother’s wealth and lifestyle leads to a despicable act.
Set in an imaginative world, I felt that the worldbuilding really suffered from the short length of this novella and deserved a lot more description, since it seemed so unique. The location was intriguing, but I found it hard to visualise without more information. The antagonists, the Sovereigns, were also difficult to picture. Were they armoured dragons or large bipedal winged humanoids? I may have missed this detail, as I felt like a lot of information was being thrown at me at the beginning of the story without there being enough time for any of it to take hold.
The use of multiple terms in the native language was a little jarring for me. Yes, a glossary was provided at the beginning, but I find leaving the story to go and look something up always ruins the flow of a story. I usually try to grasp meaning from context rather than looking up words, but these were at times confusing to me.
The emotions and feeling of peril could have been heightened during the action sequences. Cabbott and Riven were undertaking brave feats of climbing, using their rugal spikes to scale Sovereign metal walls, with a huge drop beneath them into an abyss and yet I didn’t feel fearful for them, perhaps because they were confident of their success and maybe also because these sequences happened very quickly when they could have been drawn out further and made more of in a longer novel.
I love a heist story and enjoyed that part of the story immensely. I also really liked Riven’s curse and how it manifested itself. Her ending was somewhat confusing and felt a little “tacked on”, as if it were simply there to introduce an important player in a coming series.
I think this would have been a really amazing story if given more space to explore the world and its history in greater depth. I really hope this is a prequel novella and that there will be more stories set in this unique world! If there are, count me in.
January 9, 2026
“If you’re reading this book without the audiobook, God help you.”, yes, this is in the book on the pronunciation guide. HAHAHAHHAHAHA, typical of Tim, and yes, you will totally need the pronuncation guide because of the very “intricate” names that can and WILL confuse you as you read this book, but don’t worry, it’s part of the experience.
IF this is your first book by Tim J. Mckay, then, WELCOME and buckle up because there is no easy-ride with this author (his other books here), although he promised us that this is a “light-hearted” book, (we will have to read it to believe it).
OH, btw, you want to read the glossary in the first pages, it will help you understand a lot more and faster too.
The book starts with a young, delinquent and frisky couple, that, like all other great love stories, fell in love for one another after one of them was basically dared to throw himself off a cayon and survive the order, and he accepted, because, you know, he was your regular teenager.
Welcome to Tim Mckay’s latest book, and no, I wasn’t expecting this as well. HAHAHAHAHAHAH.
This same couple, apparently our main characters, have a grudge on the elites of society and are trying to destroy an entire city by simply stealing a magical prism that holds everything together and creates torrential rains that destroy everything in its wake once a year, because they were cast out. Intersesting…
In their quest to steal the prism of power, the book starts to develop and open up the many plotlines it has, but before we explore that, there is something awesome about the whole dynamic:
So when the third MC is presented, (right after they almost get turned into magic-infused kebabs) this very gray, cunning and manipulative MC will serve as the balance to the other two main characters that are always trying to (and many times succeeding in) hump each other, but the thing is, you will not like, nor dislike this character, but, at the same time you will hate him and love him.
Why is this the case? Because, he is, gray in nature, and he is one of those types of characters that you read about and your first instinct screams: “JUDAS!” but you don’t have a concrete proof why. It’s like Detective Doakes in the series Dexter.
Yeah, you will feel like Doakes every time the third MC does something.
Why is this character a pain in the ass but needed? Because he grounds the book. He is the logical one, he is the one that is aware of himself, and does not bow to the powers and charms Raven, and actually dislikes her (or does he…?) and that creates either a good trio, or a very fucked-up love-triangle to be, but which one is it? We will have to read to know.
There are two perspectives inside this book and story, one from the kingdom below, the “Blighted World”, and one from the kigdom above “The Skyfold” or the place of the Sovereigns, and both apparently are at war with one another, because of monsters that want to eat all humans, or so they say….
Tim Mckay did purposefully tune up the humour in this book because this is too funny. Of course, we are not going to tell you exactly what is too funny because of the no-spoiler rule that we never break, but we’re going to tell you an analogy so you know what we are talking about:
Imagine a situation where you are already in the straights, right? Things are going badly and your luck just starts to run dry, and you escape by an anemic rat’s whisker. You sigh in relief, only to 10 seconds later you realize that shit was just thrown to the fan and you cannot escape this time. And then, Destiny has it that a “but wait, there’s more” uno-reverse card must be slammed into the plot table, and shit is thrown in the fan AGAIN and you are covered head-to-toe on that without a way to save yourself and you just have to accept that. HAHAHAHAHHAa, genius!
After 3 or 4 chapters that the author gives to get ourselves acquainted to the book, the scenarios and the characters, alonside one and two laughs, it seems like Tim McKay cracks his fingers and says: “Alrighty, time to bring the chaos” and just starts to make more and more thriller scenes for the remainder of the book.
Tim, you said that this was going to be a “light” book. You said “light”.
Why do I say this dear reader?
Well, all I can tell you is that the sky starts to fall in a shower of flames and rock and magic while our characters climb a city in the freaking sky while there is a torrential rain pouring down. Yeah, this is the definition of a “light” book by Tim McKay ladies and gentlemen.
Elden Ring level bosses, dark magic, an elite that is powered by lies and spells that make people forget things, a couple that is too damn stubborn to quit even facing very powerful odds, an unseen double pair of plot twists, the death of one “god”, the reshaping of a family rivalry and the author slipping a “Kratos”-style moment for one of the main characters.
This tiny novella packs a punch, and for you to realize that is just the start one a whole new series? THAT, is impressive, and this book is another certified banger by Tim McKay folks. Solid stuff right here.
If you are looking for a short, “I’ve probably never read stuff like this” fantasy book that doesn’t dissapoint and makes you think “this is a series that I look forward to read”, while also being pretty “relaxed” and exciting read, then this is the book for you.
Pros:
Lots of plot twists for such a tiny book
The characters are solid and fully developed even though there are only 90-ish pages in the book
It’s a great balance between a romance, a thriller and a fantasy book.
Excellent narrative
Consistent flow of the book
The villain makes you, at times, you nod your head and say: I understand you
Cons:
Luck is the MC best friend in one particular scene
Lesson of the book: Allow your mind to believe what your eyes see and what it warns you off, no matter how much you wish it wasn’t true.
Book rating: 8.4/10
IF this is your first book by Tim J. Mckay, then, WELCOME and buckle up because there is no easy-ride with this author (his other books here), although he promised us that this is a “light-hearted” book, (we will have to read it to believe it).
OH, btw, you want to read the glossary in the first pages, it will help you understand a lot more and faster too.
The book starts with a young, delinquent and frisky couple, that, like all other great love stories, fell in love for one another after one of them was basically dared to throw himself off a cayon and survive the order, and he accepted, because, you know, he was your regular teenager.
Welcome to Tim Mckay’s latest book, and no, I wasn’t expecting this as well. HAHAHAHAHAHAH.
This same couple, apparently our main characters, have a grudge on the elites of society and are trying to destroy an entire city by simply stealing a magical prism that holds everything together and creates torrential rains that destroy everything in its wake once a year, because they were cast out. Intersesting…
In their quest to steal the prism of power, the book starts to develop and open up the many plotlines it has, but before we explore that, there is something awesome about the whole dynamic:
So when the third MC is presented, (right after they almost get turned into magic-infused kebabs) this very gray, cunning and manipulative MC will serve as the balance to the other two main characters that are always trying to (and many times succeeding in) hump each other, but the thing is, you will not like, nor dislike this character, but, at the same time you will hate him and love him.
Why is this the case? Because, he is, gray in nature, and he is one of those types of characters that you read about and your first instinct screams: “JUDAS!” but you don’t have a concrete proof why. It’s like Detective Doakes in the series Dexter.
Yeah, you will feel like Doakes every time the third MC does something.
Why is this character a pain in the ass but needed? Because he grounds the book. He is the logical one, he is the one that is aware of himself, and does not bow to the powers and charms Raven, and actually dislikes her (or does he…?) and that creates either a good trio, or a very fucked-up love-triangle to be, but which one is it? We will have to read to know.
There are two perspectives inside this book and story, one from the kingdom below, the “Blighted World”, and one from the kigdom above “The Skyfold” or the place of the Sovereigns, and both apparently are at war with one another, because of monsters that want to eat all humans, or so they say….
Tim Mckay did purposefully tune up the humour in this book because this is too funny. Of course, we are not going to tell you exactly what is too funny because of the no-spoiler rule that we never break, but we’re going to tell you an analogy so you know what we are talking about:
Imagine a situation where you are already in the straights, right? Things are going badly and your luck just starts to run dry, and you escape by an anemic rat’s whisker. You sigh in relief, only to 10 seconds later you realize that shit was just thrown to the fan and you cannot escape this time. And then, Destiny has it that a “but wait, there’s more” uno-reverse card must be slammed into the plot table, and shit is thrown in the fan AGAIN and you are covered head-to-toe on that without a way to save yourself and you just have to accept that. HAHAHAHAHHAa, genius!
After 3 or 4 chapters that the author gives to get ourselves acquainted to the book, the scenarios and the characters, alonside one and two laughs, it seems like Tim McKay cracks his fingers and says: “Alrighty, time to bring the chaos” and just starts to make more and more thriller scenes for the remainder of the book.
Tim, you said that this was going to be a “light” book. You said “light”.
Why do I say this dear reader?
Well, all I can tell you is that the sky starts to fall in a shower of flames and rock and magic while our characters climb a city in the freaking sky while there is a torrential rain pouring down. Yeah, this is the definition of a “light” book by Tim McKay ladies and gentlemen.
Elden Ring level bosses, dark magic, an elite that is powered by lies and spells that make people forget things, a couple that is too damn stubborn to quit even facing very powerful odds, an unseen double pair of plot twists, the death of one “god”, the reshaping of a family rivalry and the author slipping a “Kratos”-style moment for one of the main characters.
This tiny novella packs a punch, and for you to realize that is just the start one a whole new series? THAT, is impressive, and this book is another certified banger by Tim McKay folks. Solid stuff right here.
If you are looking for a short, “I’ve probably never read stuff like this” fantasy book that doesn’t dissapoint and makes you think “this is a series that I look forward to read”, while also being pretty “relaxed” and exciting read, then this is the book for you.
Pros:
Lots of plot twists for such a tiny book
The characters are solid and fully developed even though there are only 90-ish pages in the book
It’s a great balance between a romance, a thriller and a fantasy book.
Excellent narrative
Consistent flow of the book
The villain makes you, at times, you nod your head and say: I understand you
Cons:
Luck is the MC best friend in one particular scene
Lesson of the book: Allow your mind to believe what your eyes see and what it warns you off, no matter how much you wish it wasn’t true.
Book rating: 8.4/10
January 2, 2026
An amazing Novella well worth the price.
The world building is fantastic as you can expect from Tim, and the characters are well made even within the 23k word span.
To me its very reminiscent of one of my favorite video games, Final Fantasy 13, with a story that keeps you pulled in as the characters fight against protecting overlords that are all that they seem.
Loved every second of it, and read it while at work, so its a quick read. I cannot wait for more in the series.
The world building is fantastic as you can expect from Tim, and the characters are well made even within the 23k word span.
To me its very reminiscent of one of my favorite video games, Final Fantasy 13, with a story that keeps you pulled in as the characters fight against protecting overlords that are all that they seem.
Loved every second of it, and read it while at work, so its a quick read. I cannot wait for more in the series.
November 8, 2025
It’s not about the kingdom or the battle or even the prophecy - it’s about the quiet, trembling courage of being seen when the world would rather you stay silent and small.
Some books roar, and some books quietly hum -Skyfold belongs to the latter.
Its beauty doesn’t come from grand speeches or flawless heroes, but from the places where the world cracks and something tender still insists on growing underneath. You can almost feel the intensity of the world settle on your skin. It’s so precisely described -
a world that smells faintly of fear, and somehow, faith.
“Beauty born of sorrow, and our greatest hope, born of pain and loss.”
That line could have been written for anyone who’s ever had to rebuild themselves quietly. The story lives in the ache of endurance - not in having survived it, but in what that survival costs. There’s no false triumph here, only the steady stream of people who refuse to vanish.
The author (I’ve even chatted with him!) writes resilience the way it exists in real life: raw, unspectacular, and holy in its persistence. It’s the kind of hope that doesn’t shine brightly all the time and instead, flickers, stubborn and fragile.
Every page feels inhabited by ghosts of what was and what could be. Even the light in this world has weight - violet, fractured, bruised, but still standing
“From behind the traitor, violet light announced Lutara’s arrival.”
A simple line, but it feels like a revelation: light choosing to return, not because it was invited, but because it must. It always has. It always will.
There’s something profoundly human in that choice. The characters stumble and bleed, their courage unpolished, their victories uncertain. Yet in every defeat there’s the suggestion of something sacred - not redemption exactly, but recognition. A reminder that we’re made of the same strange material as the world itself: fragile, breakable, endlessly becoming something else different than today.
The emotional texture in this book isn’t for comfort; it’s for connection. It asks you to keep looking, even when the beauty is buried under ruin. It whispers that endurance itself is a kind of prayer that keeps us all going, looking under rocks for magic.
McKay doesn’t just build a world - he resurrects one. Every sentence carries the ache of remembering, the insistence that even after collapse, something luminous can remain. It’s that delicate truth - the way resilience feels like both scar and salvation - that lingers long after the last page. The reason we all keep going.
In the end, Skyfold isn’t about triumph or prophecy or bad guys dying or good guys living. It’s about what happens when the light finally learns to stay.
TL;DR - Still standing by the “baby Tolkien” moniker. McKay’s ability to build and describe worlds so beautifully while layering emotional texture is nothing short of remarkable.
Well done.
September 11, 2025
All around, I love this book and am really looking forward to more from this saga.
This is only a short little book and only so few characters, but each of them felt so well developed and thought-out. Right from the start, I was hooked when I realized that one of the main characters is a siren and that she's cursed.
There were a lot of new words and I referred a few times to the index, but they're fairly straight-forward for the most part to understand in context. The new vocabulary flows so naturally that it didn't take me away from the story.
I'll be honest, I'm not particularly big on heist plots in general, and I tend to not get into them as much, but this didn't feel like your typical heist at all. And I was definitely invested in this story. I actually forgot that it was a heist until I was nearly finished reading it, and then realized, oh yeah, hey, the thing they're stealing.
It was just the perfect amount of heist for me. And of course, throw in some beasts and monsters and I'm all in.
As with Tim McKay's previous work, the world-building is grand and full. It feels real, and I found it easy to envision the setting. One thing I love is that there's no listing of names of who all the Sovereigns are or no layout of the land. I even actually like that there's no map (gasp!) Sometimes it's just plain fun to leave it up to the imagination (To be clear, I love maps too—just saying I appreciated the lack of one in this story).
A few times, I thought, "How many Sovereigns are there and just how big is this place?" But that's what's so perfect about it. The story is so closely focused on these characters, and the world is a huge part of it, but they're just existing in it. It needs no explanation because it's the norm.
I don't need to know every little detail. I know they're there and that they exist. As the reader coming into this world, I'm trusting the author to take me on an adventure and introduce me to characters I can care about. And Tim McKay certainly does all that.
Can't wait to see where things will go from here.
Demen Pragos. 😉
This is only a short little book and only so few characters, but each of them felt so well developed and thought-out. Right from the start, I was hooked when I realized that one of the main characters is a siren and that she's cursed.
There were a lot of new words and I referred a few times to the index, but they're fairly straight-forward for the most part to understand in context. The new vocabulary flows so naturally that it didn't take me away from the story.
I'll be honest, I'm not particularly big on heist plots in general, and I tend to not get into them as much, but this didn't feel like your typical heist at all. And I was definitely invested in this story. I actually forgot that it was a heist until I was nearly finished reading it, and then realized, oh yeah, hey, the thing they're stealing.
It was just the perfect amount of heist for me. And of course, throw in some beasts and monsters and I'm all in.
As with Tim McKay's previous work, the world-building is grand and full. It feels real, and I found it easy to envision the setting. One thing I love is that there's no listing of names of who all the Sovereigns are or no layout of the land. I even actually like that there's no map (gasp!) Sometimes it's just plain fun to leave it up to the imagination (To be clear, I love maps too—just saying I appreciated the lack of one in this story).
A few times, I thought, "How many Sovereigns are there and just how big is this place?" But that's what's so perfect about it. The story is so closely focused on these characters, and the world is a huge part of it, but they're just existing in it. It needs no explanation because it's the norm.
I don't need to know every little detail. I know they're there and that they exist. As the reader coming into this world, I'm trusting the author to take me on an adventure and introduce me to characters I can care about. And Tim McKay certainly does all that.
Can't wait to see where things will go from here.
Demen Pragos. 😉
September 29, 2025
Skyfold by T. J. McKay is a fun fantasy heist story where the stakes are bigger than they first appear.
I love how the story starts in media res, with the author artfully doling out exposition when the story needs it, without dramatically slowing things down.
The main leads are great and interesting characters, each with their own motivations for this heist. Like any great heist story, the narrative throws plenty of problems at the MCs, and I enjoyed seeing our characters overcome them while their actions revealed more about who they are as people in this fantastical world.
Speaking of the world, the worldbuilding is awesome, though I probably should’ve paid more attention to the glossary, as a lot of fantasy titles, creatures, and terms show up in the story.
I also want to mention his prose. I can’t quite put my finger on how he does it, but it just perfectly fits the story it’s telling. It’s not overly simplistic, yet it never veers into purple prose. There are just these moments—little flourishes, a line here or there—that evoked the setting the characters were in so well.
The ending is solid, bittersweet, and promises big things to come if he continues to tell stories with these characters in this world.
I love how the story starts in media res, with the author artfully doling out exposition when the story needs it, without dramatically slowing things down.
The main leads are great and interesting characters, each with their own motivations for this heist. Like any great heist story, the narrative throws plenty of problems at the MCs, and I enjoyed seeing our characters overcome them while their actions revealed more about who they are as people in this fantastical world.
Speaking of the world, the worldbuilding is awesome, though I probably should’ve paid more attention to the glossary, as a lot of fantasy titles, creatures, and terms show up in the story.
I also want to mention his prose. I can’t quite put my finger on how he does it, but it just perfectly fits the story it’s telling. It’s not overly simplistic, yet it never veers into purple prose. There are just these moments—little flourishes, a line here or there—that evoked the setting the characters were in so well.
The ending is solid, bittersweet, and promises big things to come if he continues to tell stories with these characters in this world.
August 27, 2025
Skyfold by Tim McKay felt like walking into a world of epic stakes and amazing world building. This story has twists and turns and truly felt like a heist that was going to change everything. The characters felt fresh and fleshed out. By the end of the book I was gasping over the twists the story took. The world felt amazing, and I could see everything that the author was expressing.
My favorite character would have to be Riven, she’s amazing. Her personality really stuck with me. There is so much about her character that I wish I could talk about, but it would go into spoilers.
And then there are the sovereigns. These tall and terrifyingly glorious beings really made the stakes higher. Powerful and with their own motives, I could tell there was more to this story, and the sovereigns, then the author was telling us.
In three words I would call this story, Epic, exciting, and powerful.
If your looking for an epic story that is more than just a set up but a story about love, friendship, and twists that will lead you to gasp and clutch your chest in shock. Then this story is for you. Also, it has massive wolves in it. You all know how much I like wolves.
Skyfold is out now, and it is an excellent novella to read. 10 out of 10 recommend!
My favorite character would have to be Riven, she’s amazing. Her personality really stuck with me. There is so much about her character that I wish I could talk about, but it would go into spoilers.
And then there are the sovereigns. These tall and terrifyingly glorious beings really made the stakes higher. Powerful and with their own motives, I could tell there was more to this story, and the sovereigns, then the author was telling us.
In three words I would call this story, Epic, exciting, and powerful.
If your looking for an epic story that is more than just a set up but a story about love, friendship, and twists that will lead you to gasp and clutch your chest in shock. Then this story is for you. Also, it has massive wolves in it. You all know how much I like wolves.
Skyfold is out now, and it is an excellent novella to read. 10 out of 10 recommend!
August 25, 2025
4.5 only because I wanted more. No spoilers, short review. The central cast and the relationship between the two main characters, are what made me turn the pages on this amazing story as you're introduced to a world with some phenomenal potential, which will hopefully be explored in the two books planned by the author.
I genuinely don't want to spoil any of the story, but the blurb doesn't do the story justice, if you've got unlimited, then it's a must read, and if you're picking it up for Kindle then it feels wrong only paying £0.79p for this introduction to a cast that will stay with you long after you finish and a world and it's lore that you'll know so much about, but will have so many questions.
I genuinely don't want to spoil any of the story, but the blurb doesn't do the story justice, if you've got unlimited, then it's a must read, and if you're picking it up for Kindle then it feels wrong only paying £0.79p for this introduction to a cast that will stay with you long after you finish and a world and it's lore that you'll know so much about, but will have so many questions.
September 20, 2025
McKay’s Skyfold is a fun little story revolving around Cabbott and Riven, and their quest to change their people’s lives for the better. The way Tim writes relationships is so realistic, and I felt like I knew all of the characters really well by the end of the book. I desperately wanted to know more about the world of Skyfold, and I loved the fact that this introduction to the wider world was so accessible. I had so much fun listening to the audiobook, and I could tell through Tim’s voice how much he loved the story and how excited he was about it. It was a gift to read.
August 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. I read through the whole book in 2 days. The characters were deep, their mission and their backgrounds made their relationships feel real. A well put together back story. I'm excited to see what happens next in this series. I can't wait to learn more about the characters and their future.
September 13, 2025
I listened to the audiobook in one go. Start to finish, while I split wood. He has a beautiful world, with relatable and well-times character stories, written in a way that makes me work harder on my writing. I was glad he did the narration himself, it’s a deeper meaning when it is the author, for me at least. Well done!
September 30, 2025
Skyfold was a heck of an adventure. In-depth and immersive world-building, as is the way with McKay. The characters were given a lot of depth for such a short tale. With a plot that doesn't let up, I was hooked from the start and certainly surprised at every twist and turn. The world McKay created is fascinating, and I cannot wait to see what's next!
October 10, 2025
Tim McKay has created a highly entertaining and fun story! I found myself absorbed and didn't stop until I finished reading this wonderful book! I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves great stories!
August 23, 2025
Great fantasy heist novella that hit all the feels! The prose was crisp, dialogue believable, and the imagery was grand.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for a fun escape!
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for a fun escape!
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