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The Drunken Dragon
The Drunken Dragon is a satire of epic fantasies told from the dragon Draco’s perspective.
His observations on knightly codes and the whole business of questing will leave you chuckling even as they provoke mature reflection on why people would want to do that sort of thing and how did we get into that business anyway …
If Groucho Marx had done GOT from a dragon’s perspective it might have turned out like this.
His observations on knightly codes and the whole business of questing will leave you chuckling even as they provoke mature reflection on why people would want to do that sort of thing and how did we get into that business anyway …
If Groucho Marx had done GOT from a dragon’s perspective it might have turned out like this.
458 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 10, 2024
More than the title lets on
Even though the summary suggests it, I didn't expect this book to deliver that much in many aspects.
The comedy is an obvious part, served by competent writing peppered with witty retorts all in pace with the crazy situations the protagonists end in.
But more than that, it doesn't prevent the story from involving the reader in more than just the funny moments it is generous with.
We have a parodic fantasy world with all its fancy names for places and characters, over-characterized villains, or last but not least, an alcoholic main character and narrator who gets himself into all sorts of mishaps so that he eventually should know better... any of which could easily spoil the seriousness of some topics, but they don't.
Rather, they lighten a tale that has its somber or tense moments, and keep an overall optimistic tone.
There is also the reason why the dragons need gold; some others authors made efforts to explain it beyond "it's just greed".
This one is pretty good and fits perfectly with many other elements of the book's lore, also a reminder to not judge things at face value.
Very good story that successfuly blends humor with a bit of drama and nice character progression.
Even though the summary suggests it, I didn't expect this book to deliver that much in many aspects.
The comedy is an obvious part, served by competent writing peppered with witty retorts all in pace with the crazy situations the protagonists end in.
But more than that, it doesn't prevent the story from involving the reader in more than just the funny moments it is generous with.
We have a parodic fantasy world with all its fancy names for places and characters, over-characterized villains, or last but not least, an alcoholic main character and narrator who gets himself into all sorts of mishaps so that he eventually should know better... any of which could easily spoil the seriousness of some topics, but they don't.
Rather, they lighten a tale that has its somber or tense moments, and keep an overall optimistic tone.
There is also the reason why the dragons need gold; some others authors made efforts to explain it beyond "it's just greed".
This one is pretty good and fits perfectly with many other elements of the book's lore, also a reminder to not judge things at face value.
Very good story that successfuly blends humor with a bit of drama and nice character progression.
December 10, 2024
The Drunken Dragon tells a tale about a ‘young’ (I say this with quotations because our protagonist is centuries old, but is still considered to be young by dragon years) dragon named Draco, who after being kicked out from his lair by his mate, and after getting cursed by an evil wizard to obey their every command, Draco goes on a grand adventure to find a way to break the terrible curse.
Along the way, he meets a knight named Wilbur, who he tags along with to assist on a quest. Together, the duo travel the world surviving deadly foes, and each other, in a quirky, humor-filled adventure with tongue-in-cheek dialogue, lots and lots of alcohol, and action-packed fights
If you enjoyed Vainqueur the Dragon, or want a fantasy story with both humor and dragons, look no further than this book
Along the way, he meets a knight named Wilbur, who he tags along with to assist on a quest. Together, the duo travel the world surviving deadly foes, and each other, in a quirky, humor-filled adventure with tongue-in-cheek dialogue, lots and lots of alcohol, and action-packed fights
If you enjoyed Vainqueur the Dragon, or want a fantasy story with both humor and dragons, look no further than this book
February 27, 2025
Ever wondered what it's like to be a dragon? Well, this book takes you through the trappings of being a dragon, but with a twist. The entire book takes the piss out of the trope, through a Drunken Dragon's POV.
Being a dragons isn't what it seems, and this book gives a take on not judging a dragon by its scales, through Draco Mundani's POV. Though the story is full of satire and has a light-hearted approach to the life of an "ordinary dragon" (literally the Latin translation of our protagonist name), it has an undercurrent of how tough it actually is to be a magical creature, especially one as feared, admired, and hated as dragons.
Personally, I have always thought that being near immortal won't be all fun and games, because it leaves you with a long memory of all the terrible things that can happen in life over and over and over again. In this story the dragons have taken to alcohol to dull the emotions from a life of strife and misunderstandings, they otherwise don't know how to cope with.
I recommend this book to everyone who likes to read about dragons, to those who likes reading a a beloved trope turned on its head, and to those who likes stories that tackles heavy subjects (alcoholism) in an satirical fashion.
This book redefined my perception of dragons, and I'm going to go read more dragon stories with this book in mind!
4.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley, Tennin Books LLC, and George Morrison for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Being a dragons isn't what it seems, and this book gives a take on not judging a dragon by its scales, through Draco Mundani's POV. Though the story is full of satire and has a light-hearted approach to the life of an "ordinary dragon" (literally the Latin translation of our protagonist name), it has an undercurrent of how tough it actually is to be a magical creature, especially one as feared, admired, and hated as dragons.
Personally, I have always thought that being near immortal won't be all fun and games, because it leaves you with a long memory of all the terrible things that can happen in life over and over and over again. In this story the dragons have taken to alcohol to dull the emotions from a life of strife and misunderstandings, they otherwise don't know how to cope with.
I recommend this book to everyone who likes to read about dragons, to those who likes reading a a beloved trope turned on its head, and to those who likes stories that tackles heavy subjects (alcoholism) in an satirical fashion.
This book redefined my perception of dragons, and I'm going to go read more dragon stories with this book in mind!
4.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley, Tennin Books LLC, and George Morrison for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2025
George Morrison's The Drunken Dragon offers a lighthearted fantasy satire with a surprisingly serious core. Narrated by a dragon battling alcoholism, the story follows his quest to break a terrible curse. While the premise is whimsical, the narrative delves into the harsh realities of addiction. Readers will find themselves invested in the dragon's journey as he confronts his personal demons and struggles against the story's antagonists.
However, the portrayal of the dragon feels less like a majestic creature and more like a caricature of an irresponsible alcoholic. His negligence and self-destructive behavior, driven by his dependence on alcohol, create a sense of tragic inevitability. While this realism adds depth, it also strips away any sense of the formidable dragon one might expect.
The book's light tone is sometimes undermined by an over-reliance on slang, particularly in the early chapters. Phrases like "din-din," "woolies," and the ambiguous "ninnie" feel forced and detract from the narrative's wit. Similarly, the inclusion of modern references like Texas Hold'em, the Darwin Award, and pig-latin clashes jarringly with the fantasy setting, even within a satirical context, and disrupts immersion.
Despite these issues, The Drunken Dragon ultimately delivers a compelling story that effectively blends humor and drama, showcasing the dragon's compelling character arc.
However, the portrayal of the dragon feels less like a majestic creature and more like a caricature of an irresponsible alcoholic. His negligence and self-destructive behavior, driven by his dependence on alcohol, create a sense of tragic inevitability. While this realism adds depth, it also strips away any sense of the formidable dragon one might expect.
The book's light tone is sometimes undermined by an over-reliance on slang, particularly in the early chapters. Phrases like "din-din," "woolies," and the ambiguous "ninnie" feel forced and detract from the narrative's wit. Similarly, the inclusion of modern references like Texas Hold'em, the Darwin Award, and pig-latin clashes jarringly with the fantasy setting, even within a satirical context, and disrupts immersion.
Despite these issues, The Drunken Dragon ultimately delivers a compelling story that effectively blends humor and drama, showcasing the dragon's compelling character arc.
November 18, 2024
This is a fascinating novel. Billed as humour, with all the trappings of an Action Fantasy, it also manages to draw us in emotionally on a deeper level.
Let’s put this story into perspective. It has towns called Spittlesburg, Whatadump, and Bristol. (What does the author have against Bristol?) It has a Province of Malevolentia, Googlalps and a Befuddlemount Range.
The egotistical but self-deprecating hero stumbles through this ersatz fantasy setting, raising typical dragonish mayhem, rationalizing all the way…when he’s sober enough to put two thoughts together. In his wake follows a slew of fascinating characters of varying degrees along the realistic/stereotypical spectrum. The key to the conflict is that the good guys are more realistic, well-rounded and sympathetic, while the bad guys are exactly what you expect in Humorous Fantasy.
This is not laugh-a-minute comedy. It is wry, subtle humour that slides in without disturbing the more important elements to the story. Because despite the light tone, this story has a serious theme. As the tale progresses, we get quite attached to this dragon, and his progress becomes important to us as he suffers the evils of the antagonists and comes to terms with his alcoholism.
The personality flaws in our hero give plenty of scope for conflict and suspense, because no matter how powerful he is or how well-planned his ploys are, he is quite capable of screwing up the whole thing on his own. Meanwhile, those who know him and see his inner worth toddle along behind, picking up the pieces (and Draco himself, if they’re able) and setting everything up for him to smash in the next debacle.
A well-written novel with a bit of everything: humour, adventure, intrigue, suspense and even a touch of romance. It’s a bit light on emotional intensity, but that’s unavoidable, given the blasé attitude of the main character.
Highly recommended for all Fantasy fans.
This review was originally posted at Reedsy.com:
Let’s put this story into perspective. It has towns called Spittlesburg, Whatadump, and Bristol. (What does the author have against Bristol?) It has a Province of Malevolentia, Googlalps and a Befuddlemount Range.
The egotistical but self-deprecating hero stumbles through this ersatz fantasy setting, raising typical dragonish mayhem, rationalizing all the way…when he’s sober enough to put two thoughts together. In his wake follows a slew of fascinating characters of varying degrees along the realistic/stereotypical spectrum. The key to the conflict is that the good guys are more realistic, well-rounded and sympathetic, while the bad guys are exactly what you expect in Humorous Fantasy.
This is not laugh-a-minute comedy. It is wry, subtle humour that slides in without disturbing the more important elements to the story. Because despite the light tone, this story has a serious theme. As the tale progresses, we get quite attached to this dragon, and his progress becomes important to us as he suffers the evils of the antagonists and comes to terms with his alcoholism.
The personality flaws in our hero give plenty of scope for conflict and suspense, because no matter how powerful he is or how well-planned his ploys are, he is quite capable of screwing up the whole thing on his own. Meanwhile, those who know him and see his inner worth toddle along behind, picking up the pieces (and Draco himself, if they’re able) and setting everything up for him to smash in the next debacle.
A well-written novel with a bit of everything: humour, adventure, intrigue, suspense and even a touch of romance. It’s a bit light on emotional intensity, but that’s unavoidable, given the blasé attitude of the main character.
Highly recommended for all Fantasy fans.
This review was originally posted at Reedsy.com:
February 24, 2025
This was a perfect read in between things when you want to take a break from high fantasy or books that you have to focus intently to catch things. This was such a unique story and I can't say that I have read anything remotely similar. There is a ton of satire in this book and while not all of it hits the mark, I think it is consistent.
The story follows Draco who is an alcoholic that often finds himself in difficult situations from being too inebriated. One of the worse mistakes he makes is letting a wizard cast the "German Spell of Obedience" on him after Draco is passed out from drinking too much. I think some of the stories felt a little insignificant to the overall story and sometimes things seemed a bit repetitive. Such as him stealing food or getting arrested for a crime. Seriously, how does a dragon get arrested so many times?! Regardless, it was still such a fun read and I loved that it was from a dragon's perspective.
While there are hints to some serious topics like alcoholism, I think the satire does a wonderful job of keeping things from getting too dark. Draco has to learn to fight his battles and become the dragon he is always meant to be. Thank you to Netgalley, Tennin Books, and George Morrison for an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion.
The story follows Draco who is an alcoholic that often finds himself in difficult situations from being too inebriated. One of the worse mistakes he makes is letting a wizard cast the "German Spell of Obedience" on him after Draco is passed out from drinking too much. I think some of the stories felt a little insignificant to the overall story and sometimes things seemed a bit repetitive. Such as him stealing food or getting arrested for a crime. Seriously, how does a dragon get arrested so many times?! Regardless, it was still such a fun read and I loved that it was from a dragon's perspective.
While there are hints to some serious topics like alcoholism, I think the satire does a wonderful job of keeping things from getting too dark. Draco has to learn to fight his battles and become the dragon he is always meant to be. Thank you to Netgalley, Tennin Books, and George Morrison for an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion.
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January 2, 2025DNF- potential for humor
I see the potential. I really do. However, by the end of chapter 2 (didn't make it far, I know) I lost my taste for the humor.
This felt less like a tale of a dragon and more of a trumped up wino. He's irresponsible, negligent, and heedless. He shows almost every sign of a chronic and self-destructive alcoholic. It ruins his life and he turns to it immediately to soothe the resulting woes. It's a train wreck. No majesty. Nothing formidable.
I get that it's a subversion of expectations. In my opinion, there still needs to be an element of what's expected for that. As it is, this is just setting a low bar from the get go that possibly begs the rest of the setting into question.
I'll assume there's more there than I've seen. Three stars, instead of two.
**spoilers**
Within just over 2 chapters he got snuck up on thrice (which he states that he's wary of), Enslaved, and robbed. These are several seperate instances. Each one a call for more caution or attention that goes unheeded. The ineptitude and/or incompetence abounds. So thick, I can't see the story.
I see the potential. I really do. However, by the end of chapter 2 (didn't make it far, I know) I lost my taste for the humor.
This felt less like a tale of a dragon and more of a trumped up wino. He's irresponsible, negligent, and heedless. He shows almost every sign of a chronic and self-destructive alcoholic. It ruins his life and he turns to it immediately to soothe the resulting woes. It's a train wreck. No majesty. Nothing formidable.
I get that it's a subversion of expectations. In my opinion, there still needs to be an element of what's expected for that. As it is, this is just setting a low bar from the get go that possibly begs the rest of the setting into question.
I'll assume there's more there than I've seen. Three stars, instead of two.
**spoilers**
Within just over 2 chapters he got snuck up on thrice (which he states that he's wary of), Enslaved, and robbed. These are several seperate instances. Each one a call for more caution or attention that goes unheeded. The ineptitude and/or incompetence abounds. So thick, I can't see the story.
March 2, 2025
For whatever reason, it took me a long time to get into this book. Maybe it was a lack of romantic elements and I’ve been on a romantasy kick for a bit. However, this was really fun and entertaining. I laughed out loud a few times even, so I did enjoy the book, it just didn’t suck me in as much as I thought it would.
The plot is a little squiggly and has a couple of different main trails, but it’s easy enough to follow and understand what is happening with the two and how they connect. It’s an interesting concept, and unique to me as I’ve never read from the dragon’s perspective. The characters are pretty hilarious at times, but can seem a bit one dimensional, but that’s entirely because of how Draco sees them. It’s obvious they have more than just one facet to them. The writing is pretty easy to read, but not “fluffy” really. This is pretty typical in my experience reading male authors. Women tend to be a bit more flowery and descriptive, while men seem to be a bit more dry. It isn’t an issue at all, just an observation I’ve had.
All in all I did enjoy this, especially the last 25% of it. 3.75⭐️
The plot is a little squiggly and has a couple of different main trails, but it’s easy enough to follow and understand what is happening with the two and how they connect. It’s an interesting concept, and unique to me as I’ve never read from the dragon’s perspective. The characters are pretty hilarious at times, but can seem a bit one dimensional, but that’s entirely because of how Draco sees them. It’s obvious they have more than just one facet to them. The writing is pretty easy to read, but not “fluffy” really. This is pretty typical in my experience reading male authors. Women tend to be a bit more flowery and descriptive, while men seem to be a bit more dry. It isn’t an issue at all, just an observation I’ve had.
All in all I did enjoy this, especially the last 25% of it. 3.75⭐️
December 20, 2024
The Drunken Dragon really hit all the right notes for me in fantasy and humor that felt very refreshing for both genres. As the story follows the plainly named protagonist Draco, Morrison explores many of the common fantasy tropes along the way of Draco's efforts to free himself and realize his lot in life. Humor was used in all the right places and Morrison's creativity and thoughtfulness is evident in each character we meet throughout Draco's various and hilarious adventures.
But you really have to appreciate how well the story progresses in just the right way that you can't help but sympathize and root for Draco step by step as he faces his struggles within and without. Heavy moments served their purpose in pulling at your emotions without taking away from the overall lighthearted entertaining tone of this book.
This is truly such an unusually fun book. I recommend to all fantasy fans looking for something a little more refreshing in between reads.
But you really have to appreciate how well the story progresses in just the right way that you can't help but sympathize and root for Draco step by step as he faces his struggles within and without. Heavy moments served their purpose in pulling at your emotions without taking away from the overall lighthearted entertaining tone of this book.
This is truly such an unusually fun book. I recommend to all fantasy fans looking for something a little more refreshing in between reads.
June 10, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for supplying me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review. (Can I still call it an ARC if I was approved several months after publication?) All thoughts are my own.
3.5 Stars
What happens when a dragon drinks too much? Apparently he blacks out and is bespelled by an evil wizard! Thus starts an epic and somewhat ridiculous adventure involving an alcoholic dragon, a sorry excuse for a knight, and a very strange squire.
The story is light and fun. Draco’s drinking leads to a lot of shenanigans and situations that dragon and co need to get themselves out of. I have an incredibly dry sense of humor, so some of the jokes were a little too in-your-face for my tastes, but it was an enjoyable read nonetheless. It’s something silly to read between heavier books.
What I was honestly surprised to see was the amount of character growth throughout the book. I was not expecting it. Sir Walter slowly turns from frankly pathetic to a worthy knight. Draco cuts back on his drinking habits. The worry his companions show for him is honestly quite heartwarming. He thinks they are nagging, but they honestly care a lot about him. Dobbins the squire stays an odd duck, but he has his place in the group. In similar books I’ve read in the past, characters tend to stay stagnant throughout to further the joke, but I enjoyed seeing them evolve with the story. It was refreshing.
Again, it’s a humorous read. Draco is sassy and spiteful and almost certainly about to fly straight into another misadventure at any moment. If you go in expecting the outrageous, you are going to have fun with it.
3.5 Stars
What happens when a dragon drinks too much? Apparently he blacks out and is bespelled by an evil wizard! Thus starts an epic and somewhat ridiculous adventure involving an alcoholic dragon, a sorry excuse for a knight, and a very strange squire.
The story is light and fun. Draco’s drinking leads to a lot of shenanigans and situations that dragon and co need to get themselves out of. I have an incredibly dry sense of humor, so some of the jokes were a little too in-your-face for my tastes, but it was an enjoyable read nonetheless. It’s something silly to read between heavier books.
What I was honestly surprised to see was the amount of character growth throughout the book. I was not expecting it. Sir Walter slowly turns from frankly pathetic to a worthy knight. Draco cuts back on his drinking habits. The worry his companions show for him is honestly quite heartwarming. He thinks they are nagging, but they honestly care a lot about him. Dobbins the squire stays an odd duck, but he has his place in the group. In similar books I’ve read in the past, characters tend to stay stagnant throughout to further the joke, but I enjoyed seeing them evolve with the story. It was refreshing.
Again, it’s a humorous read. Draco is sassy and spiteful and almost certainly about to fly straight into another misadventure at any moment. If you go in expecting the outrageous, you are going to have fun with it.
March 5, 2025
A send up of fantasy quests and adventure stories, amusingly by our titular dragon with a drinking problem, Draco. We follow him as he gets himself into various scrapes after a few too many flagons of mead, as he meets a hapless knight Sir Wilbur. The two become friends and set off on various quests. It's entirely ridiculous (just look at the place names.on the map and you'll get the gist of.what kind of tale this is.)
My favorite part is Draco. He's amusing. He's fun. His narrative voice is great. It was definitely an amusing book, though I think it did go on a bit too long for my tastes (I prefer my ridiculous satire to be shorter it seems). Definitely worth reading if you both enjoy fantasy stories and want to poke fun at them.
My favorite part is Draco. He's amusing. He's fun. His narrative voice is great. It was definitely an amusing book, though I think it did go on a bit too long for my tastes (I prefer my ridiculous satire to be shorter it seems). Definitely worth reading if you both enjoy fantasy stories and want to poke fun at them.
March 8, 2025
I would say this is more a 3.5. But certainly not a 4star.
This was a fun read that blended a well thought out fantasy satire with a deeper, more serious reflection of alcoholism. And who are we?, if not the stories and lore we leave behind?
You only have to turn to the obligatory fantasy map to know what you're in for - the place names are hilarious. While there were plenty of funny, witty, laugh-out-loud moments, there were also parts of the prose that felt jarring. I loved the friendship that formed and Draco was definitely the best part.
While this was a fun run I thought it could have been shorter. I'd be interested to see more by Jim Morrison. This was certainly an interesting entry to his work.
This was a fun read that blended a well thought out fantasy satire with a deeper, more serious reflection of alcoholism. And who are we?, if not the stories and lore we leave behind?
You only have to turn to the obligatory fantasy map to know what you're in for - the place names are hilarious. While there were plenty of funny, witty, laugh-out-loud moments, there were also parts of the prose that felt jarring. I loved the friendship that formed and Draco was definitely the best part.
While this was a fun run I thought it could have been shorter. I'd be interested to see more by Jim Morrison. This was certainly an interesting entry to his work.
July 18, 2025
Thank you Netgalley, Tennin Books, and George Morrison for sending me this advanced review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was one of the more unique books I've ever read. It was an interesting discussion on how alcoholism affects people (and dragons) without getting too dark. It was funny, and a bit silly at times, but overall an enjoyable read. This book does not take itself seriously in the slightest either.
I like that there was personal growth for our Draco, and some of the other characters too. The ending was satisfying, but not overly surprising.
Overall it is a very lighthearted hilarious read that touches on deeper subjects.
This was one of the more unique books I've ever read. It was an interesting discussion on how alcoholism affects people (and dragons) without getting too dark. It was funny, and a bit silly at times, but overall an enjoyable read. This book does not take itself seriously in the slightest either.
I like that there was personal growth for our Draco, and some of the other characters too. The ending was satisfying, but not overly surprising.
Overall it is a very lighthearted hilarious read that touches on deeper subjects.
February 21, 2025
Was a fun read. Doesn’t come across as a very deep meaningful or philosophical story. Yet does leave you with some lingering thoughts and smiles. Definitely a great book for when you are in that just finished a great series and not ready to commit again slump. If you were looking at this wondering if you should give it a try then the answer is a resounding yes. Enjoy.
January 19, 2025
Won this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway, and I’m so glad I did. This was such a fun book. I loved the characters, the story was fun, and I’ll be happy to recommend this one to all my friends. Totally worth investing the time to read it.
December 20, 2024
Absolutely loved this book. I loved that is was new and original material. It was not the average book. It was so much fun to read!
April 15, 2025
Nope, didn't finish this one. I love dragons and such. But I had a hard time believing this one. The dragon is a drunk.
June 8, 2025
A fun tale.
I enjoyed this story all the way to the end. Humor played a large part of the story and it wad very entertaining.
I enjoyed this story all the way to the end. Humor played a large part of the story and it wad very entertaining.
June 19, 2025
read on phone.....
was pretty cute
was pretty cute
July 10, 2025
This book is criminally underrated. One of the funniest books I've read in a long time.
August 16, 2025
Great read
It takes a bit to get going, but once the main players are in place, it's hard to put down! I really enjoyed it!
It takes a bit to get going, but once the main players are in place, it's hard to put down! I really enjoyed it!
September 2, 2025
Fun light read
Good book if a bit silly in places but it's a story about a drunk dragon so you should expect that. Still a fun read with a good amount of touching emotional depth.
Good book if a bit silly in places but it's a story about a drunk dragon so you should expect that. Still a fun read with a good amount of touching emotional depth.
March 7, 2025
We've all read stories of knights and fair maidens, but how does the dragon feel about the whole situation?
Follow Draco, a dragon who likes to drink a little too much and it gets him in trouble. Join him on his quest to remove a curse, quest with a knight, rescue fair ladies, and drink at every tavern along the way.
Will Draco get out of his predicament?
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow Draco, a dragon who likes to drink a little too much and it gets him in trouble. Join him on his quest to remove a curse, quest with a knight, rescue fair ladies, and drink at every tavern along the way.
Will Draco get out of his predicament?
ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews