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Dragonkyn
In his very pores, a new relationship was forming with the gaseous alien called fire that ate and breathed as he did, and somehow he knew this relationship would change his life forever.
Marc Mondragon is just an average teenager who’s always getting in trouble or crushing on the pretty girl in school. When strange things begin happening to him, Marc is thrust into a new world where dragons are no longer just in fairy tales. Suddenly, with new friends and new enemies, his very survival depends on his ability to use a new source of power that gives magic to and connects all dragons—the invisible fire within him.
Marc Mondragon is just an average teenager who’s always getting in trouble or crushing on the pretty girl in school. When strange things begin happening to him, Marc is thrust into a new world where dragons are no longer just in fairy tales. Suddenly, with new friends and new enemies, his very survival depends on his ability to use a new source of power that gives magic to and connects all dragons—the invisible fire within him.
212 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2017
8 people are currently reading
1157 people want to read
About the author
Nathan Smith Jones
9 books22 followersNathan Smith Jones (no hyphen) was born into this world with a head full of dreams and stories to tell. A long time secondary and university English teacher, Nathan enjoys writing and teaching. He lives in the mountains of Utah.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 22, 2017
Thank you to the author, Nathan Smith Jones, and his publicist for gifting me with a copy of Dragonkyn in exchange for an honest review!
If you're a fan of Talon by Julie Kagawa, this book is for you! It's based around the same kind of concept that there are dragons (or, in this case, people descended from dragons) living incognito in the real world with plenty of fiery battles.
1. The plot. This is a largely plot driven book although there is some good character development as well. There's a very nice overarching plot line with well-thought out plot points. The pace is pretty steady: fast in places and slowing down in others. The author took the approach of the hero's journey (hero starts off in their normal world, finds something out about themselves, descends into that world, finishes their quest, returns to their previous world with some more insight into life) which worked out very well. I enjoyed every minute of the action and every scene was fleshed out nicely. Fight scenes can be especially difficult, keeping the spatial relationships straight and I think this author pulled it off wonderfully.
2. The characters. As I said above, there is some mild character development but it's a largely plot driven novel. Personally, I wanted a little more character development to facilitate more of a connection with the characters. You know enough to anticipate actions and shallowly understand each character's mind, but there weren't too many deep dives. There's a good bit of evolution for the MC (Marc) at the end as he recognizes the significance of his world and his connection to it which is such a great addition.
3. The writing/voice. For the most part, I truly enjoyed this author's writing style. He kept it concise and fluid, ensuring a smooth transition between dialogue and description, fight scene to rest scene. During emotionally charged moments, however, the author tended to shift into a third person viewpoint which I found to disrupt my connection with the characters. For example, when some of the main characters are hurt or otherwise, instead of writing about that experience through their eyes or someone else's, the author chose to adopt the third person and impersonally describe the occurrence. Were this not the case, I think the overall character development and my emotional connection with the characters could have been greatly improved.
4. The dragons/romance. As I said above, if you're a lover of the Talon series by Julie Kagawa, you will almost certainly enjoy this book. The concepts are relatively similar but I never found it to be repetitive. If you've been following me for a while, you know I hold no great love in my heart for the Talon series. I've loved the rest of Julie Kagawa's work, but that series had too much of a cookie cutter vibe. However, this book didn't give me that feeling at all which I was immensely relieved to discover. I was fully expecting it, but while reading, I just felt curiosity for how this author would structure the dragon world. I loved the idea of the genetic masking through generations. It made the concept especially unique and interesting. Another quick aspect I wanted to mention before I wrap this up is the romance, or lack thereof. Yes, you heard me, there is NO romance in this book. There's some mild references to romance and a crush but nothing is started which I greatly appreciated. Not every fantasy needs a romance and this fantasy was complete without it.
The Final Verdict:
A solid fantasy with a stellar plot line and an interesting concept. The connection with the reader could be improved, however, with more interactive and immersive writing in times of stress.
4 stars
If you're a fan of Talon by Julie Kagawa, this book is for you! It's based around the same kind of concept that there are dragons (or, in this case, people descended from dragons) living incognito in the real world with plenty of fiery battles.
1. The plot. This is a largely plot driven book although there is some good character development as well. There's a very nice overarching plot line with well-thought out plot points. The pace is pretty steady: fast in places and slowing down in others. The author took the approach of the hero's journey (hero starts off in their normal world, finds something out about themselves, descends into that world, finishes their quest, returns to their previous world with some more insight into life) which worked out very well. I enjoyed every minute of the action and every scene was fleshed out nicely. Fight scenes can be especially difficult, keeping the spatial relationships straight and I think this author pulled it off wonderfully.
2. The characters. As I said above, there is some mild character development but it's a largely plot driven novel. Personally, I wanted a little more character development to facilitate more of a connection with the characters. You know enough to anticipate actions and shallowly understand each character's mind, but there weren't too many deep dives. There's a good bit of evolution for the MC (Marc) at the end as he recognizes the significance of his world and his connection to it which is such a great addition.
3. The writing/voice. For the most part, I truly enjoyed this author's writing style. He kept it concise and fluid, ensuring a smooth transition between dialogue and description, fight scene to rest scene. During emotionally charged moments, however, the author tended to shift into a third person viewpoint which I found to disrupt my connection with the characters. For example, when some of the main characters are hurt or otherwise, instead of writing about that experience through their eyes or someone else's, the author chose to adopt the third person and impersonally describe the occurrence. Were this not the case, I think the overall character development and my emotional connection with the characters could have been greatly improved.
4. The dragons/romance. As I said above, if you're a lover of the Talon series by Julie Kagawa, you will almost certainly enjoy this book. The concepts are relatively similar but I never found it to be repetitive. If you've been following me for a while, you know I hold no great love in my heart for the Talon series. I've loved the rest of Julie Kagawa's work, but that series had too much of a cookie cutter vibe. However, this book didn't give me that feeling at all which I was immensely relieved to discover. I was fully expecting it, but while reading, I just felt curiosity for how this author would structure the dragon world. I loved the idea of the genetic masking through generations. It made the concept especially unique and interesting. Another quick aspect I wanted to mention before I wrap this up is the romance, or lack thereof. Yes, you heard me, there is NO romance in this book. There's some mild references to romance and a crush but nothing is started which I greatly appreciated. Not every fantasy needs a romance and this fantasy was complete without it.
The Final Verdict:
A solid fantasy with a stellar plot line and an interesting concept. The connection with the reader could be improved, however, with more interactive and immersive writing in times of stress.
4 stars
February 20, 2017
To be a boy going through puberty is a hard enough, to add dragon ability growing pains makes it much more difficult.
Marc is teen living on the poor side of town. It's just him and his mom. He is chased by the local police man, just because he can, and he has few close friends. Then he begins to have sore throats where he belches fire, sever acne, nodules on his shoulders, and intense pain. Life went from bad to worse in a short period of time.
Turns out Marc has dragon DNA. There are men out to kill him, but he has some amazing powers.
He has compassion for the humans and doesn't want to abuse his powers. He is a cool kid.
This is a fun book for the tween reader. It has action and adventure, plus dragons. Because dragons are cool and a huge drawing point for boys. This book may be something for the reluctant reader to check out, there is sure to be something that will make them want to continue reading.
The book contains some violence.
Source: Received eBook from publisher to review.
Marc is teen living on the poor side of town. It's just him and his mom. He is chased by the local police man, just because he can, and he has few close friends. Then he begins to have sore throats where he belches fire, sever acne, nodules on his shoulders, and intense pain. Life went from bad to worse in a short period of time.
Turns out Marc has dragon DNA. There are men out to kill him, but he has some amazing powers.
He has compassion for the humans and doesn't want to abuse his powers. He is a cool kid.
This is a fun book for the tween reader. It has action and adventure, plus dragons. Because dragons are cool and a huge drawing point for boys. This book may be something for the reluctant reader to check out, there is sure to be something that will make them want to continue reading.
The book contains some violence.
Source: Received eBook from publisher to review.
Read
March 1, 2017This sounded like such a promising story and I love the cover, however, 50 pages in and it just isn't holding my interest. Too many random facts and situations and a story that feels more middle grade than young adult (the character feels more like a 12-year-old than a 15-year-old). I always have finished books from this publisher, but I just can't with this one. DNF.
March 6, 2017
With the skill of a public school English teacher, local author Nathan Smith Jones delves into the world of a teenage boy who thinks he is only an ordinary poor kid in "Dragonkyn." Marc Mondragon soon finds out that he has power to cough fire and cannot be burned. He can also use his telepathic power to move objects, which he finds out by accidentally saving lives and hurting the school bully, Zoosh. Marc's best friend, Luke, tries to help make sense of these newfound powers, but he can't.
Shortly after the powers start to appear, Marc starts having strange dreams with a dragon in it, and then he meets Steve. Steve has powers like Marc and tells Marc that they are both part dragon. Marc goes with Steve to a secret lair to meet others of his kind and learn more about being Dragonkyn.
See full review here: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/86...
Shortly after the powers start to appear, Marc starts having strange dreams with a dragon in it, and then he meets Steve. Steve has powers like Marc and tells Marc that they are both part dragon. Marc goes with Steve to a secret lair to meet others of his kind and learn more about being Dragonkyn.
See full review here: http://www.deseretnews.com/article/86...
May 13, 2025
The book Dragonkyn, written by Nathan Smith Jones, revolves around a boy named Marc. He's not superlative in any degree. Sports? Not really. School? He does all right. Overall, he's just an average high schooler. Until the grilled cheese incident. You see, one day he came home from school and decided to make a grilled cheese. That was until he realized...his hand was on the hot stove the entire time? Ultimately leading to this idea that he can't feel pain (in part for a pretty funny scene following). I thought that it was a pretty fun read, although yes, I'm a bit bias because the author is my dad, it was good nonetheless. It had nice, short chapters, which made it feel like I wasn't reading for a long period of time. I give it 5 stars, and I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a thrilling novel about a boy, and his ancestral powers.
April 8, 2017
This fast-paced and imaginative book sets the stage for an exciting new world of adventure and intrigue. I read this aloud with my 8 year old daughter and she was hooked quickly! She's a fan of dragons anyway, but a young kid awkwardly coming into his new powers ("Look mom, I'm impervious!") caught her imagination and kept hold of it!
The book was hard-driving and plunged through the unfolding events at such a pace that the reader felt much like our blossoming hero, charging forward and adapting to the new events as they come.
There is no sex or hard language, but the violence got intense at times...these are dragons after all!
This book is the first installment of what looks to be a global adventure.
The daughter asked when the next book would be out and that's about as much endorsement as you could ask for!
The book was hard-driving and plunged through the unfolding events at such a pace that the reader felt much like our blossoming hero, charging forward and adapting to the new events as they come.
There is no sex or hard language, but the violence got intense at times...these are dragons after all!
This book is the first installment of what looks to be a global adventure.
The daughter asked when the next book would be out and that's about as much endorsement as you could ask for!
November 2, 2023
Here's what the daughter of a friend of mine wrote about my book 'Dragonkyn'
"Excellent. I've really never read a book like it in a while. It's got action and everything you'd expect, but it also has things you wouldn't expect, like the source of personal power every dragon has called the 'Vibe.' It's a great metaphor for something many people experience that I haven't seen in a while.
The first half mostly deals with Marc's situation as he deals with having these new powers at school, with friends, etc. The last half really moves well. I liked that they all have different powers, a 'greater' and a 'lesser' power, and, like regular people, these abilities are different for every dragonkyn. Last thing I'll say is that I really like that the main character, Marc, changes and is changed by the experience he has. He has to go through things that test him, much like real life, for, well, everyone, I guess.
I heard it's going to be a series, and that's good. Can't wait for the next one."
"Excellent. I've really never read a book like it in a while. It's got action and everything you'd expect, but it also has things you wouldn't expect, like the source of personal power every dragon has called the 'Vibe.' It's a great metaphor for something many people experience that I haven't seen in a while.
The first half mostly deals with Marc's situation as he deals with having these new powers at school, with friends, etc. The last half really moves well. I liked that they all have different powers, a 'greater' and a 'lesser' power, and, like regular people, these abilities are different for every dragonkyn. Last thing I'll say is that I really like that the main character, Marc, changes and is changed by the experience he has. He has to go through things that test him, much like real life, for, well, everyone, I guess.
I heard it's going to be a series, and that's good. Can't wait for the next one."
February 21, 2017
I love doing book reviews, and when I saw the description of Dragonkyn, by Nathan Smith Jones, I wanted my 11-year-old to read it and give his review. He loves fantasy, and dragons.
Overall, he liked the book. He loved the surprise factor - that the book was never predictable. He admired the trio of Alex, Jen and Marc because of their selflessness and sacrifice. He also loved how Marah was a true friend and selfless. My son thought the characters were described very well, and he said he could imagine them as real people. He also liked how they had different powers that were all exciting.
He did think that the book was gruesome, and a little too violent. He also didn't see a huge point to the book as far as lessons learned. He felt that the book needs a sequel, as it left the reader with a cliffhanger. He gave the book 3.5 stars.
I read the book too. I have read YA books before where teenage characters are not written with teenage voices or personalities. I felt that Jones did a great job writing Marc as a teenage boy. Marc, as the main character of the story, is a good kid overall. He loves his mother, and is a good friend. He is poor, and is picked on sometimes by peers, and even a local policeman, but he is easy to relate to and to like.
One day when making a grilled cheese sandwich, Marc realizes that he is different. Through dreams, interactions, training, and danger, he learns who he is and what powers he possesses (and how to channel them).
The book was well-written and interesting. As my son said, it really was full of surprises, and I found myself wrapped up in trying to figure out who the good guys and bad guys were.
There were multiple grammatical errors in the book, and many run-on sentences. I sensed they were written that way to help the reader hear the character's voice, but oftentimes I had to read a sentence more than once to process it.
I did not like the amount of violence in the book. It was quite an evil story, and honestly, I found it hard to see how any person (or dragonkyn) with morals could be a part of the Sorceron. It didn't make sense to me. It read like a cult, and I wanted to know more about Victor and why everyone followed him, even people who were moral, like Marah.
Kind of like my son, I wondered what the point of the book was. The story was full of suspense and danger, with some lessons of personal growth and relationship development. However, there were many questions at the end of the book. I understand there will likely be a sequel, but I was not satisfied with all the loose ends. I had way more questions than answers, and I didn't get a sense of rooting for the Dragonkyn or caring about their future as a group. I cared about Marc, Jen and Alex, but what would their future be? Would it be separate from the rest or with? Would they be welcomed? What is Victor's next plan? What about Drakesel? There was quite a gory scene in an alley towards the beginning of the book that was never revisited. Who did that?
I just felt that violence and hatred led the book and there wasn't enough substance. There was no real cause to stand behind other than not dying, and learning to develop one's dragon powers. I did like the concept of the Vibe, though. I thought that was clever and profound.
Regardless of my reservations, I must keep in mind this is a YA novel, and I am sure teenagers will enjoy the book, as long as they can stomach all the violence. If your teenager (or you) like dragons, and suspense, read this book.
Overall, he liked the book. He loved the surprise factor - that the book was never predictable. He admired the trio of Alex, Jen and Marc because of their selflessness and sacrifice. He also loved how Marah was a true friend and selfless. My son thought the characters were described very well, and he said he could imagine them as real people. He also liked how they had different powers that were all exciting.
He did think that the book was gruesome, and a little too violent. He also didn't see a huge point to the book as far as lessons learned. He felt that the book needs a sequel, as it left the reader with a cliffhanger. He gave the book 3.5 stars.
I read the book too. I have read YA books before where teenage characters are not written with teenage voices or personalities. I felt that Jones did a great job writing Marc as a teenage boy. Marc, as the main character of the story, is a good kid overall. He loves his mother, and is a good friend. He is poor, and is picked on sometimes by peers, and even a local policeman, but he is easy to relate to and to like.
One day when making a grilled cheese sandwich, Marc realizes that he is different. Through dreams, interactions, training, and danger, he learns who he is and what powers he possesses (and how to channel them).
The book was well-written and interesting. As my son said, it really was full of surprises, and I found myself wrapped up in trying to figure out who the good guys and bad guys were.
There were multiple grammatical errors in the book, and many run-on sentences. I sensed they were written that way to help the reader hear the character's voice, but oftentimes I had to read a sentence more than once to process it.
I did not like the amount of violence in the book. It was quite an evil story, and honestly, I found it hard to see how any person (or dragonkyn) with morals could be a part of the Sorceron. It didn't make sense to me. It read like a cult, and I wanted to know more about Victor and why everyone followed him, even people who were moral, like Marah.
Kind of like my son, I wondered what the point of the book was. The story was full of suspense and danger, with some lessons of personal growth and relationship development. However, there were many questions at the end of the book. I understand there will likely be a sequel, but I was not satisfied with all the loose ends. I had way more questions than answers, and I didn't get a sense of rooting for the Dragonkyn or caring about their future as a group. I cared about Marc, Jen and Alex, but what would their future be? Would it be separate from the rest or with? Would they be welcomed? What is Victor's next plan? What about Drakesel? There was quite a gory scene in an alley towards the beginning of the book that was never revisited. Who did that?
I just felt that violence and hatred led the book and there wasn't enough substance. There was no real cause to stand behind other than not dying, and learning to develop one's dragon powers. I did like the concept of the Vibe, though. I thought that was clever and profound.
Regardless of my reservations, I must keep in mind this is a YA novel, and I am sure teenagers will enjoy the book, as long as they can stomach all the violence. If your teenager (or you) like dragons, and suspense, read this book.
February 25, 2017
Ola peeps!
How are you all?
First off, I want to thank the author, Nathan Jones, and the publisher, Cedar Fort, Inc., for sending me a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
Let’s start!
Just how cool is the coincidence of this book coming my way when I just changed my blog name into The Booknerd Dragon. Haha! It’s like all the dragon spirit or gods had agreed of my blog name change. And I so love it!
The very first thing that caught my attention about this book is the title, Dragonkyn. I was sure that’s not a real word. And when I read the blurb, I was like, okay let’s give this a shot. Though I know from reading the blurb that this book isn’t meant for someone my age. Haha! And it has funny chapter titles which remind me so much of Uncle Rick Riordan’s books.
This book is about a boy named Marc who is a part dragon, half-human half-dragon. And I think being half-dragon is pretty awesome. And then Marc met new people, new friends and new enemies and then he went to an adventure. But the adventure part for me isn’t the adventure I was expecting.
The beginning of the book is good. It introduced the characters and the situation just fine. The story wasn’t fast paced and I like it that way. There were no shocking moves just to get to the point of the book already. But when I reached the near-end part, everything was suddenly happening so fast. And the ending feels like it was written just so the book will end at around the 200th page. It feels like it wasn’t the right ending if the author had a choice. I mean, I don’t know how it should end but this should not be it.
Which makes me think that this book is not a standalone. Though it feels like it but I think it is part of a series. Because that’s the only way why the ending went the way it did. If this book is a standalone then I do not like the ending.
The book is in third person point of view. This kind of point of view is fine with me because you can see all the angles, know all the thoughts of all the important characters. But there are times that I got confused as to whose point of view was being narrated. There were no indication if the chapter was for the main character or the villain.
And the book has the cliché of a weak-character-turn-to-an-awesome-one-in-the-end in a matter of one chapter. Yup. And, my, when I read about an invisible fire in the blurb I was thinking that maybe this fire is what makes Marc, the main character, unique. I thought it was what makes him the main character of the book. But no. I don’t think he is unique at all. He is a weak main character and he doesn’t stand out. And even though he transformed at the end of the book it still wasn’t enough.
Then the villains. I think the villains in this book is the kind of villain you see in a kid’s movie. You know that movies where there are adult-vs-kid situations? Like Home Alone and yeah I wanna include 101 Dalmatians even though those weren’t kids but dogs but you get the picture. Yeah. Hey. I think I just found the right comparison of this book. It feels exactly like those movies.
I would say that this book is really great if the one reading it is in middle grade or younger readers. Not a young adult close to being adult reader. I seriously would enjoy this if I read this when I was still attending elementary school. It was fun, cool, and hey it’s dragons. But then I read it in this age so these are my thoughts.
I’m gonna wrap this up by saying that this is not a bad book. I am just not the right reader for it so I didn’t get to appreciate the goodness of it that much. But if you have someone, a son or a nephew maybe whom you want to be a reader, this could be a good book to recommend to them. It didn’t have hardcore action and the characters are mostly teenagers who didn’t reach legality yet. And it didn’t have romance just a little crush but it wasn’t focused on the story.
May 16, 2017
This book is absolutely stunning! If you are interested in fiction type books, this is the perfect book for you. When you read good books and you just want to read it again and again, I suggest this book to you. The main character, Marc, displays a well written personality, and his thoughts work so well with his words and what he does, it is a mystery this book has not been read more.
Marc's sad life is amazing and worked so well with what he does and what happens to him. He is amazing and with what he has seen and with what he does, I am surprised, again, that he is not in more books.
Nathan Jones has a well written story here. As soon as he has his second book in this series out, then I will buy it, I will buy it as soon as humanly possible.
I love this book.
The most well written part in his book is the chapter named 'Dragon blood is just blood to Dragons'. It is so well written and descriptive when applying that sense of mystery and longing into the book. My favorite sentence of this chapter is, "Dragon blood is just blood to dragons, but since we have both dragon and human DNA, we wondered how it would affect us, as Sorceron."
This is descriptive in the sense of explaining how they are, with their blood. I didn't realize that these people, or dragonkyn, were so intelligent with science related things. I, for some reason, thought they were obsessed with power, like some people with special abilities are. This book has surprised me and has made me view life as something better and something U should not take for granted.
This book is amazing.
Marc's sad life is amazing and worked so well with what he does and what happens to him. He is amazing and with what he has seen and with what he does, I am surprised, again, that he is not in more books.
Nathan Jones has a well written story here. As soon as he has his second book in this series out, then I will buy it, I will buy it as soon as humanly possible.
I love this book.
The most well written part in his book is the chapter named 'Dragon blood is just blood to Dragons'. It is so well written and descriptive when applying that sense of mystery and longing into the book. My favorite sentence of this chapter is, "Dragon blood is just blood to dragons, but since we have both dragon and human DNA, we wondered how it would affect us, as Sorceron."
This is descriptive in the sense of explaining how they are, with their blood. I didn't realize that these people, or dragonkyn, were so intelligent with science related things. I, for some reason, thought they were obsessed with power, like some people with special abilities are. This book has surprised me and has made me view life as something better and something U should not take for granted.
This book is amazing.
February 19, 2018
When Marc hits puberty, something inside of him starts to change. The first thing he notices is that heat doesn't hurt him. No burning stoves, no fire, nothing. He talks about it with his friend and, like any other 11-year-old boy, they're both so excited because they think he's developing superpowers. However, there's so much more to it than that.
Steve, a new kid, introduces him to Victor and Marc learns there's more to him than he could ever imagine. He has dragon blood within him that's been dormant for seventy-seven generations. But humans fear dragons or desire their blood for healing. Because of this, dragons are being hunted and Marc finds himself in the middle of a centuries old feud between dragons and humans.
DRAGONKYN reads more as middle grade than young adult, but it's full of action and is a new take on dragon stories. I liked how it all starts at puberty, when the main thing Marc should be worried about is the change of his voice. Instead, he's developing powers and learning exciting secrets.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of fantasy and dragons and for those who like an easy read that's full of action.
Steve, a new kid, introduces him to Victor and Marc learns there's more to him than he could ever imagine. He has dragon blood within him that's been dormant for seventy-seven generations. But humans fear dragons or desire their blood for healing. Because of this, dragons are being hunted and Marc finds himself in the middle of a centuries old feud between dragons and humans.
DRAGONKYN reads more as middle grade than young adult, but it's full of action and is a new take on dragon stories. I liked how it all starts at puberty, when the main thing Marc should be worried about is the change of his voice. Instead, he's developing powers and learning exciting secrets.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of fantasy and dragons and for those who like an easy read that's full of action.
March 21, 2018
Jones, Nathan Smith Dragonkyn, 243 pages. iread books (Sweetwater Books (Cedar Fort Press)). $15. Language: G (0 swears), Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG.
Marc Mondragon lives with his mom in Rifle, Colorado. He is always getting in trouble or having crushes on the pretty girls. He rides his bike and likes to spend time with his best friend, Luke. Strange things start to happen to Marc, he can’t get hurt, he heals fast, and he has strange dreams about dragons. Marc is one of the few people that has ancient dragon DNA. Things happen fast and Marc finds himself in a new world. He needs to trust new friends and learn about the new powers he has and he needs to learn about the power within himself that connects all dragons.
This was a great read, I could not put it down. It was a refreshingly clean book. The story was fast paced and full of interesting characters. Good and evil is clearly defined. I can’t wait to use it for Book Talks and introduce the students to this book. I read it in one sitting, cheering for Marc the whole time.
MS, HS – ESSENTIAL. Ellen-Anita, Library Teacher
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
Marc Mondragon lives with his mom in Rifle, Colorado. He is always getting in trouble or having crushes on the pretty girls. He rides his bike and likes to spend time with his best friend, Luke. Strange things start to happen to Marc, he can’t get hurt, he heals fast, and he has strange dreams about dragons. Marc is one of the few people that has ancient dragon DNA. Things happen fast and Marc finds himself in a new world. He needs to trust new friends and learn about the new powers he has and he needs to learn about the power within himself that connects all dragons.
This was a great read, I could not put it down. It was a refreshingly clean book. The story was fast paced and full of interesting characters. Good and evil is clearly defined. I can’t wait to use it for Book Talks and introduce the students to this book. I read it in one sitting, cheering for Marc the whole time.
MS, HS – ESSENTIAL. Ellen-Anita, Library Teacher
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
July 15, 2018
This is a bit late, but thank you to the author Nathan Smith Jones for sending me a copy from the giveaway. I was in the process of moving around the time when I received it and I finally managed to dig it out and read it. Better late than never.
I can see this as a good book for lower grade middle kids. It's fantasy involving Dragons, the main character is fourteen, and it has some action. There is no actual cursing in it. It's sometimes specified that someone curses, but the word is not actually said. There are often different words in place of swears, which make it kind of funny. I remember talking a bit like that when I was that age.
The story is fast paced, which is expected of a book this size.
I felt like some things were glossed over or neglected. I could list a few things but I'll just provide one non-spoiler example. At one point when Demitrius made an appearance, it went unspecified as to what he did next when the group split up. I wasn't even sure how or why he was there after everything that happened.
Regardless, I did enjoy it. I could see this at least having a sequel, and if it gets one I'm likely to read it.
I can see this as a good book for lower grade middle kids. It's fantasy involving Dragons, the main character is fourteen, and it has some action. There is no actual cursing in it. It's sometimes specified that someone curses, but the word is not actually said. There are often different words in place of swears, which make it kind of funny. I remember talking a bit like that when I was that age.
The story is fast paced, which is expected of a book this size.
I felt like some things were glossed over or neglected. I could list a few things but I'll just provide one non-spoiler example. At one point when Demitrius made an appearance, it went unspecified as to what he did next when the group split up. I wasn't even sure how or why he was there after everything that happened.
Regardless, I did enjoy it. I could see this at least having a sequel, and if it gets one I'm likely to read it.
March 15, 2018
This book is about a boy named Marc, who learns that he is descended from people who had ancient dragons sealed into them the hard way. Due to him being part of the 77th generation of these strange creatures called the Dragonkyn, he gains special powers like breathing fire and lifting certain objects with his mind. He is brought to a group called the Sorceron and is taught a few things there and makes some new friends. But then he gets betrayed and he and his friends are in a race against time to save the Dragonkyn and Marc's mother. I chose this book because I love dragons and it seemed to have a lot to do with them. When I began, I will admit that I was a bit skeptical. As I read on, it didn't seem to gain much of my attention. I decided to truly know whether I liked it or not was to read to the end. I am glad that I decided to do that. The ending is quite remarkable and so is Marc's experiences on the way there. I loved it so much, I'd give it a 100 out of five.
October 29, 2019
I listened to this on audible, where Nathan Smith Jones narrates it himself. I really enjoyed the experience, and the book itself has a lot of unique adaptations of dragon lore. You can tell that he has done a lot of research prior to the creation of this novel. I'm excited to read the rest of the series.
I did feel like the second half of the book lacked a little bit of urgency. After a large conflict around the middle (which I had expected to take place later in the plot), I felt the rest of the book dragged a little bit, but I think that was my fault for incorrectly anticipating the direction of the book. Or maybe I felt like that because I was on campus and couldn't stop listening to the book and I ended up just being a little bit brain dead. Like I said, great book. Couldn't stop. Gonna get a bad grade in my next class because, ya know, I was studying Dragonkyn all morning
I did feel like the second half of the book lacked a little bit of urgency. After a large conflict around the middle (which I had expected to take place later in the plot), I felt the rest of the book dragged a little bit, but I think that was my fault for incorrectly anticipating the direction of the book. Or maybe I felt like that because I was on campus and couldn't stop listening to the book and I ended up just being a little bit brain dead. Like I said, great book. Couldn't stop. Gonna get a bad grade in my next class because, ya know, I was studying Dragonkyn all morning
May 11, 2017
Truly an incredible book that is a great potential build-up for a promising series. As I read, I enjoyed the compelling plot, the unique "film-esque" writing style, and the closeness I felt with characters who seemed to walk the pages of this book with a familiarity that I genuinely enjoyed. Jones does a great job of portraying symbols such as the "Vibe", as well as so many other symbols woven throughout the book such as the coming of age of the dragon-children hybrids and each of their unique powers. It's a book that shows you how unique every person truly is and how much we need one another. My favorite part was Marc's interaction with his mother. Jones was able to illustrate a tender relationship which so many of us have shared with our own mothers.
Great read. Highly recommended.
Great read. Highly recommended.
June 18, 2017
This book was surprisingly an amazing, quick read. The plot moves quickly, and I was always left wondering what would happen next. The chapters are short, but that serves a purpose in the book. Since it is told from the mind of a teenager, the story provides a glimpse into the struggles of growing up, not only as a boy but as something entirely different. You won't be disappointed in this read, and you will be hooked to the very end!
March 22, 2019
While reading it, there were unnecessary details and ramblings. The grammar structure made it hard to truly appreciate. The premise is a great idea and the story had promise but it felt like it was pieced together and edited in a hurry.
It's a good creative writing project, however it didn't feel ready for publication. It could have gone through more layers of editing and revision.
It's a good creative writing project, however it didn't feel ready for publication. It could have gone through more layers of editing and revision.
March 2, 2017
This book has outstanding story, its rich and layers it nicely so the reader is not overwhelmed in the beginning. Marc who is a teenager has the powers of a Dragon and, while he unlocks these powers he must also go through puberty. This book is funny and has an outstanding story.
June 1, 2017
I thought it was a good story overall. The characters were good, though it could have used more time on and developing them more. It could have used more clarifying in some parts and describing at others. I liked it though.
December 4, 2017
Great start.
This book had a lot to offer and was enjoyable to read. Marc's journey to discover himself parallels our own journey.
I am looking forward to the continuation of the series. Reminiscent of the Michael Vey series and the Fablehaven novels.
This book had a lot to offer and was enjoyable to read. Marc's journey to discover himself parallels our own journey.
I am looking forward to the continuation of the series. Reminiscent of the Michael Vey series and the Fablehaven novels.
March 14, 2018
I loved this book! I stayed up until 1 in the morning just trying to finish it! It was so hard to put down. It was a great story! I got to meet the author personally recently, and he was very kind and answered all of my questions thoroughly. Nathan Smith Jones Rocks!
December 11, 2017
Interesting plot and characters. Needs more editing and revision, at least on the Kindle Expanded Edition.
April 18, 2018
Great book funny how everyone dies
March 12, 2019
3.5 stars
February 7, 2020
I'm very curious to read the "expanded" edition.
September 11, 2023
Didn't like it that much. Similes were way too far out there.
February 26, 2017
Dragonkyn
By Nathan Smith Jones
For more than 1000 years a secret has lain hidden amongst humanity and the time of its awakening has arrived...
Marc Mondragon is your average twelve-year-old boy who tries to stay out of trouble which isn't easy when the town deputy has it out for the poor kids because they're poor. But Marc has managed so far to avoid it.
But trouble is coming and it is something no one could have ever prepared for - not Marc nor his mom. It starts with a dream - one that Marc actually remembers - one with a fire and a creature he can't quite make out. When he starts displaying some unusual and unexplainable talents Marc knows something is happening to him. The only question is what...
But someone has been waiting for this day to come determined to keep the truth hidden and destroy not only Marc but all who are similarly transforming or have knowledge of it. A battle is coming and Marc is in danger on two fronts. He needs to control his emerging skills fast if he hopes to see tomorrow!
This is a fast-paced story that will appeal to middle-grade readers who are looking for adventure in their reading. Dragonkyn will appeal to those who enjoy the Dragons in Our Midst series from Bryan Davis. The ordinary becomes the extraordinary and growing up has never been quite so difficult!
This book could definitely be the first in the series the way it ends and I for one would be interested in seeing what comes next. The book is only 214 pages in length though the pacing doesn't make it feel this long. Looking for a weekend read - your tweens will thank you for this one!
I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectation of a review, positive or otherwise. All expressed opinions are my own.
By Nathan Smith Jones
For more than 1000 years a secret has lain hidden amongst humanity and the time of its awakening has arrived...
Marc Mondragon is your average twelve-year-old boy who tries to stay out of trouble which isn't easy when the town deputy has it out for the poor kids because they're poor. But Marc has managed so far to avoid it.
But trouble is coming and it is something no one could have ever prepared for - not Marc nor his mom. It starts with a dream - one that Marc actually remembers - one with a fire and a creature he can't quite make out. When he starts displaying some unusual and unexplainable talents Marc knows something is happening to him. The only question is what...
But someone has been waiting for this day to come determined to keep the truth hidden and destroy not only Marc but all who are similarly transforming or have knowledge of it. A battle is coming and Marc is in danger on two fronts. He needs to control his emerging skills fast if he hopes to see tomorrow!
This is a fast-paced story that will appeal to middle-grade readers who are looking for adventure in their reading. Dragonkyn will appeal to those who enjoy the Dragons in Our Midst series from Bryan Davis. The ordinary becomes the extraordinary and growing up has never been quite so difficult!
This book could definitely be the first in the series the way it ends and I for one would be interested in seeing what comes next. The book is only 214 pages in length though the pacing doesn't make it feel this long. Looking for a weekend read - your tweens will thank you for this one!
I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher with no expectation of a review, positive or otherwise. All expressed opinions are my own.
March 19, 2018
Has anyone found out there are people with dragon like powers? Well what’s going to happen to Marc and the Dragonkyn, by Nathen Smith Jones. The author really uses this out of the blue sort of element. At one point Marc just wakes up in a lot of pain and has really bad acne on almost his whole body. The author also uses this outcasts element. Marc joins a group of dragonkyn like him that are called the sorcron. The book seemed like this could really happen in real world scenarios. There are secret agencies and modern day people with modern day weaponry. People that are interested in close to real world, or totally different world, or just fantasy lovers would like this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2017
Dragon-tastic!
Mystery, magic, lore, terrific action and pacing. Well-developed characters and passionate/compassionate writing! A "one-sit read" for me, as I could not/would not put it down. I found myself wanting Book II while still reading Book I! Nathan Smith Jones has written something that stirs up the secret desires -- to be unique, to have secret powers, to learn to accept change and become stronger because of it. Is it a winner for young adults? Absolutely. But it is also a winner for adults. I do not see that this is a book for "boys," -- the female characters resonate with strength, humor and ability as they join Marc on his journey of self-discovery. And hey! Girls love dragons too! A super enjoyable read for a middle-aged woman! I am on pins and needles, waiting to see what this fantastic author will dish up next. I was fully satisfied with the book, but now I'm hungry for more!
Mystery, magic, lore, terrific action and pacing. Well-developed characters and passionate/compassionate writing! A "one-sit read" for me, as I could not/would not put it down. I found myself wanting Book II while still reading Book I! Nathan Smith Jones has written something that stirs up the secret desires -- to be unique, to have secret powers, to learn to accept change and become stronger because of it. Is it a winner for young adults? Absolutely. But it is also a winner for adults. I do not see that this is a book for "boys," -- the female characters resonate with strength, humor and ability as they join Marc on his journey of self-discovery. And hey! Girls love dragons too! A super enjoyable read for a middle-aged woman! I am on pins and needles, waiting to see what this fantastic author will dish up next. I was fully satisfied with the book, but now I'm hungry for more!
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