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When We Were Dragons
Welcome to New Earth and Parmis Altered, where dragons and humankind are living side by side thanks to a supernatural, catastrophic event.
Cerras, the god of Paramis, has willed himself to sleep, allowing dragons and humankind to reign in his stead.
Justin Silas and Karen of Delayne are dragons from Paramis who can change into mortal form at will. When they befriend the Underhills, a family from Earth, something much deeper than magic is at play.
But all is not well . . .
Lane, an exotically beautiful dragon, betrays her own kind, turning both races against each other. She longs to usurp the throne of Cerras and destroy the god with his very own power.
But fate lies with Charlie Underhill, a small boy from Earth, who - since the collision - harbors a special kind of magic all his own.
Cerras, the god of Paramis, has willed himself to sleep, allowing dragons and humankind to reign in his stead.
Justin Silas and Karen of Delayne are dragons from Paramis who can change into mortal form at will. When they befriend the Underhills, a family from Earth, something much deeper than magic is at play.
But all is not well . . .
Lane, an exotically beautiful dragon, betrays her own kind, turning both races against each other. She longs to usurp the throne of Cerras and destroy the god with his very own power.
But fate lies with Charlie Underhill, a small boy from Earth, who - since the collision - harbors a special kind of magic all his own.
110 pages, Paperback
First published August 23, 2013
219 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Brandon Berntson
45 books76 followersBrandon Berntson grew up in various towns throughout Colorado, where most of his stories take place. His work spans from serious, adult horror to playful, young adult fantasy and everything in between. He is the author of Castle Juliet and When We Were Dragons, enchanting, magical reads for all ages. He is also the author of Body of Immorality, a cryptic collection of horror stories, and the raw, adult themed All The Gods Against Me.
He loves art, music, indie films, classic horror films, and hockey. He lives in Longmont, Colorado.
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He loves art, music, indie films, classic horror films, and hockey. He lives in Longmont, Colorado.
Sign up for the mailing list and get a free novelette at www.brandonberntson.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/bberntson22
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@brandonbernts...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 31, 2015
This is an interesting fantasy story about a dragon name Justin. Justin lives on Paramis with Karen, a fellow dragon and his love. Cerras, a god of sorts, created worlds. When Cerras' eye is stolen by the evil dragon Lane and the shadow creature Tor-Latress, Paramis and Earth collide, forcing humans and dragons to live together in an altered world. When Justin and Karen meet Holly and her three children, nothing is ever the same again.
The dragons in this story were really interesting. They could shift into a human/reptile form. The characters were all fascinating. I found the concept of the earth and this other planet colliding very interesting. There was even some magic thrown in and ghosts. The end was heartbreaking, but hopeful all at one. A very interesting little story.
The dragons in this story were really interesting. They could shift into a human/reptile form. The characters were all fascinating. I found the concept of the earth and this other planet colliding very interesting. There was even some magic thrown in and ghosts. The end was heartbreaking, but hopeful all at one. A very interesting little story.
December 9, 2017
I LOVE THIS SHORT STORY!!! So much so I will reread this book at a later time.
Mr. Berntson has done an excellent job writing a wonderful book full of good messages (if you can spot them). It was so easy to get wrapped up into this story with its likeable characters of both dragon and human species! A lot of times I like to write quotes or favorite scenes from books but I realized I was stopping so often to highlight and write that it prolonged my reading time lolz. The feelings I got from reading this book made me feel like I was apart of these old and new worlds, and I lost myself in the characters. This is one of the rare books that I like that it has a few chapters dedicated to other characters' views. it may confuse readers but it's so worth it and helps round up the story in the end. One thing that I love about this book is it shows things are not always one-sided, and there will be difference of opinions wherever you go in the world. However, there will also be surprises and magic all around and inside us.
Mr. Berntson has done an excellent job writing a wonderful book full of good messages (if you can spot them). It was so easy to get wrapped up into this story with its likeable characters of both dragon and human species! A lot of times I like to write quotes or favorite scenes from books but I realized I was stopping so often to highlight and write that it prolonged my reading time lolz. The feelings I got from reading this book made me feel like I was apart of these old and new worlds, and I lost myself in the characters. This is one of the rare books that I like that it has a few chapters dedicated to other characters' views. it may confuse readers but it's so worth it and helps round up the story in the end. One thing that I love about this book is it shows things are not always one-sided, and there will be difference of opinions wherever you go in the world. However, there will also be surprises and magic all around and inside us.
March 3, 2017
Pleasantly surprised by this story! Not just another dragon tale - shapeshifters or not; but one packed with messages. When Earth and Paramis collide, two very different cultures suddenly have to learn to live with each other & that's not all plain sailing... Violence, grief, but also hope and love; Berntson wove them magically together, into one world where I'd like to live. ** Oh, I'm not crying. No. There's just a little bit of dust in my eye **
July 7, 2013
I adore this book. It's a playful story of a what-could-be future as the fantasy world of dragons and wise magic folk collide with our human existence. My favorite parts are the pleasantries between those you least expect. The mystic nature of this story give it a zing. Hopefully, this book with be published so I can add it to my bookshelves.
April 2, 2015
When Were We Dragons?
Magic is so often used in bold dynamic ways. It's violent, cruel, greedy one the one hand and giving, magnanimous and charitable on the other. But Brandon Berntson has taken a different path filled whimsy, love and grief. I didn't outright cry by the short end of this tale, but I was misting. Enjoy something you will want to revisit many times.
Magic is so often used in bold dynamic ways. It's violent, cruel, greedy one the one hand and giving, magnanimous and charitable on the other. But Brandon Berntson has taken a different path filled whimsy, love and grief. I didn't outright cry by the short end of this tale, but I was misting. Enjoy something you will want to revisit many times.
December 15, 2014
I can't say enough good things about this story. I loved the way it was described, the details between two worlds, the characters were vivid, loveable, but the story itself...so imaginative, so unique. A tale for teens, the young, and the old alike.
December 14, 2014
What an insanely imaginative fantasy! Filled with heart and laughter. You will cry!
December 27, 2014
A colorful, vivid story! Great characters, and nothing but heart! I loved this book!
December 1, 2015
Amazing.
Could be longer. Well put together. I was captivated from beginning to the end. Need more series like this book. Suited for many ages.
Could be longer. Well put together. I was captivated from beginning to the end. Need more series like this book. Suited for many ages.
August 2, 2016
Good book
It was a good and very enjoyable book. I loved the action and description that it gave me. Thank you
It was a good and very enjoyable book. I loved the action and description that it gave me. Thank you
May 24, 2018
When We Were Dragons
Author: Brandon Berntson
Date: 2013
Pgs: 144
Disposition: eBook
_________________________________________________
REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS
Summary:
Worlds collide and now mankind and dragons are living side by side. Pieces of their world and pieces of ours have been mashed together in the Collision. Shapechanging humanoid dragons and gods walk the earth. Good and evil shall war over the soul of this new place. The key may be a young boy’s magic. If he can master it in time. If he can learn. If he survives.
_________________________________________________
Genre:
Teens
Science Fiction
Fantasy
Why this book:
It was free. It was dragons. High hopes.
_________________________________________________
The Feel:
I love the worldbuilding and the concept.
Plot Holes/Out of Character:
Dilladale and the dragons don’t seem nearly worried enough about what has just happened to their world.
Lane, who we all know is a traitor...uhm...are there some pages missing from the story?
The world is awesome. There has to be a better story to tell here. Or maybe a shift in focus. Or maybe, I’m just not the target audience of this story.
Hmm Moments:
The dragonmen sitting with Dilladale being regaled with the full secrets of their world myth and treating it like the awakened usually treat the more fantastic elements of religion. Cynicism hiding in dragon world lore as a commentary on modern religion...slick.
WTF Moments:
For as big a disaster as the Collission would be, and it only too a week for Dilladale to find America’s leaders and form a committee. Seems like there would be HUGE disruptions...and fear, lots and lots of fear. Not even to mention that Americans wouldn’t recognize the authority of a committee formed in such a manner.
Meh / PFFT Moments:
Humans wouldn’t be that accepting.
For not knowing what is going on, Dilladale sure is informing the hell out of the story while sitting around a campfire. Lots of telling going on, not much showing.
Whole lotta overly telegraphed significant looks where “she looked at me and I looked back at her.”
_________________________________________________
Last Page Sound:
Meh. Not for me. I looked at the other reviews and maybe you should too. I’m apparently in the minority. No book can be all things to all people. I’m not going to recommend it to anyone.
Knee Jerk Reaction:
why did I read this
_________________________________________________
Author: Brandon Berntson
Date: 2013
Pgs: 144
Disposition: eBook
_________________________________________________
REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS
Summary:
Worlds collide and now mankind and dragons are living side by side. Pieces of their world and pieces of ours have been mashed together in the Collision. Shapechanging humanoid dragons and gods walk the earth. Good and evil shall war over the soul of this new place. The key may be a young boy’s magic. If he can master it in time. If he can learn. If he survives.
_________________________________________________
Genre:
Teens
Science Fiction
Fantasy
Why this book:
It was free. It was dragons. High hopes.
_________________________________________________
The Feel:
I love the worldbuilding and the concept.
Plot Holes/Out of Character:
Dilladale and the dragons don’t seem nearly worried enough about what has just happened to their world.
Lane, who we all know is a traitor...uhm...are there some pages missing from the story?
The world is awesome. There has to be a better story to tell here. Or maybe a shift in focus. Or maybe, I’m just not the target audience of this story.
Hmm Moments:
The dragonmen sitting with Dilladale being regaled with the full secrets of their world myth and treating it like the awakened usually treat the more fantastic elements of religion. Cynicism hiding in dragon world lore as a commentary on modern religion...slick.
WTF Moments:
For as big a disaster as the Collission would be, and it only too a week for Dilladale to find America’s leaders and form a committee. Seems like there would be HUGE disruptions...and fear, lots and lots of fear. Not even to mention that Americans wouldn’t recognize the authority of a committee formed in such a manner.
Meh / PFFT Moments:
Humans wouldn’t be that accepting.
For not knowing what is going on, Dilladale sure is informing the hell out of the story while sitting around a campfire. Lots of telling going on, not much showing.
Whole lotta overly telegraphed significant looks where “she looked at me and I looked back at her.”
_________________________________________________
Last Page Sound:
Meh. Not for me. I looked at the other reviews and maybe you should too. I’m apparently in the minority. No book can be all things to all people. I’m not going to recommend it to anyone.
Knee Jerk Reaction:
why did I read this
_________________________________________________
July 13, 2021
I think I've maybe given one other book a rating of 1-star. I'm not sure, but I know it's rare. I also realized that I started reading it exactly a month ago. A story this short took me a literal month to get through, and as I ponder why, I realize it's because almost every page of it felt like a chore for me.
I rarely give 1-star reviews because if I'm not enjoying a book I tend to file it away into my unfinished/couldn't get into folder. So why did I finish this one? I'm honestly not sure. Maybe I kept hoping it would get better. One chapter was actually incredibly well written and I was stoked that the writing and pacing were going to pick up. They didn't.
Ultimately, I think I finished it purely as an exercise in resilience. Yet it took a while month.
Reading many of the other reviews makes me wonder if we read the same book. Interesting characters? Sort of. Great pacing? No. Solid story? Nope. Satisfying ending? Again, no.
Not all books are for everyone. This one was definitely not for me. The basic idea could have been something incredible. If it had been longer and gone through a few more drafts, I wonder if it would have been something I liked. I wonder...
As it stands, the story was erratic, the descriptions unnecessarily long for superfluous things and often too short for things that seemed to matter, and in the end of felt like it was rushed.
Here's something I find interesting, though. It's really odd. I very much did not like this book, and I think that's pretty clear. Yet I find myself curious about the author's other works, and will be placing some of them on my reading list. Maybe this just want my cup of tea.
I won't recommend this book, but I'm very much in the minority it seems. Unless the author has a lot of friends here, then quite a few people really liked it and picking it up for yourself won't hurt a thing. You can always file it away if it doesn't suit you.
I rarely give 1-star reviews because if I'm not enjoying a book I tend to file it away into my unfinished/couldn't get into folder. So why did I finish this one? I'm honestly not sure. Maybe I kept hoping it would get better. One chapter was actually incredibly well written and I was stoked that the writing and pacing were going to pick up. They didn't.
Ultimately, I think I finished it purely as an exercise in resilience. Yet it took a while month.
Reading many of the other reviews makes me wonder if we read the same book. Interesting characters? Sort of. Great pacing? No. Solid story? Nope. Satisfying ending? Again, no.
Not all books are for everyone. This one was definitely not for me. The basic idea could have been something incredible. If it had been longer and gone through a few more drafts, I wonder if it would have been something I liked. I wonder...
As it stands, the story was erratic, the descriptions unnecessarily long for superfluous things and often too short for things that seemed to matter, and in the end of felt like it was rushed.
Here's something I find interesting, though. It's really odd. I very much did not like this book, and I think that's pretty clear. Yet I find myself curious about the author's other works, and will be placing some of them on my reading list. Maybe this just want my cup of tea.
I won't recommend this book, but I'm very much in the minority it seems. Unless the author has a lot of friends here, then quite a few people really liked it and picking it up for yourself won't hurt a thing. You can always file it away if it doesn't suit you.
November 13, 2017
Full review found here
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. This was a free book on Kindle awhile back. The synopsis sounded okay, the title sounded interesting, and the cover is cool, but for the longest time, I never bothered to touch this book.
While scanning through my Kindle the other day, I realized I wanted a change from the creeping vampire-book I had previously been reading. I ended up turning to another of Berntson's books, Castle Juliet. However, right before starting it, I realized that I also owned this book, and since I didn't know the author, I decided to give the short story a go first. Let's just say that I'll definitely try Castle Juliet next time I get a chance. This short story showed such promise from the author.
Even though it was short, I was attached to Justin by the end. I felt for him in the sad times, smiled with him in the good times, and got angry with him in the difficult times. I flew on his back, was a part of Holly's family, and had a new image of dragons and their world. New Earth was mesmerizing to me in description, and I could see it in my mind. I could understand the reasons for war, and the reasons for peace, and the reasons why each sides were chosen. It was an emotional ride, and in a way, made me question how I might respond in such a trying situation. The story wasn't focused on magic, even though that was a big deal within the story, but it focused on a strand of emotions that people felt every day.
The only complaint I had from this book was that it was so short! That, and Lane didn't feel like a completely developed character to me. I understood her goals, but not so much the reason behind her motive, or the reason for her interest in Charlie specifically. Also, what was with Carl?
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. This was a free book on Kindle awhile back. The synopsis sounded okay, the title sounded interesting, and the cover is cool, but for the longest time, I never bothered to touch this book.
While scanning through my Kindle the other day, I realized I wanted a change from the creeping vampire-book I had previously been reading. I ended up turning to another of Berntson's books, Castle Juliet. However, right before starting it, I realized that I also owned this book, and since I didn't know the author, I decided to give the short story a go first. Let's just say that I'll definitely try Castle Juliet next time I get a chance. This short story showed such promise from the author.
Even though it was short, I was attached to Justin by the end. I felt for him in the sad times, smiled with him in the good times, and got angry with him in the difficult times. I flew on his back, was a part of Holly's family, and had a new image of dragons and their world. New Earth was mesmerizing to me in description, and I could see it in my mind. I could understand the reasons for war, and the reasons for peace, and the reasons why each sides were chosen. It was an emotional ride, and in a way, made me question how I might respond in such a trying situation. The story wasn't focused on magic, even though that was a big deal within the story, but it focused on a strand of emotions that people felt every day.
The only complaint I had from this book was that it was so short! That, and Lane didn't feel like a completely developed character to me. I understood her goals, but not so much the reason behind her motive, or the reason for her interest in Charlie specifically. Also, what was with Carl?
July 23, 2021
An amazingly clever story!
Earth and Paramis! Two worlds collide and somehow merge. Humans and Dragons now must live side by side. However, there are those of both races that do not agree. Two dragons decide to protect a young human family at all costs. War is coming, and the battles will be between both races on both sides... I was swept away along with the characters with wonder, confusion and even a little terror as events unfold at the changes in a new world created by the collision. Dragons and humans will have to learn to cope as they live side by side. Some try to embrace it, but others not so much. This story is told by the dragons point of view and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story has all the fantasy elements that I love. Dragons, humans, magic, friendship, love, pain and betrayal. The world building is brilliant with great detail. I became immersed from the beginning to the end. I definitely recommend this book to everyone!
Earth and Paramis! Two worlds collide and somehow merge. Humans and Dragons now must live side by side. However, there are those of both races that do not agree. Two dragons decide to protect a young human family at all costs. War is coming, and the battles will be between both races on both sides... I was swept away along with the characters with wonder, confusion and even a little terror as events unfold at the changes in a new world created by the collision. Dragons and humans will have to learn to cope as they live side by side. Some try to embrace it, but others not so much. This story is told by the dragons point of view and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story has all the fantasy elements that I love. Dragons, humans, magic, friendship, love, pain and betrayal. The world building is brilliant with great detail. I became immersed from the beginning to the end. I definitely recommend this book to everyone!
July 26, 2017
Paramis and Earth have collided creating a new world with both dragons and humans. Justin Silas and his girlfriend Karen, are dragons who become friends with the human family of Underhills. The Underhills have lost their father/husband and their home in the collision and have nowhere to go. As dragons and humans learn to get along Silas and Karen help the Underhills find a new home becoming their protectors and friends.
Later, the humans and dragons who have so recently gotten along begin to attack each other. Silas and Karen along with others begin to suspect that the collision was no accident and begin to investigate. What they discover is frightening and possibly irreparable but they have to try, even if it means death.
Later, the humans and dragons who have so recently gotten along begin to attack each other. Silas and Karen along with others begin to suspect that the collision was no accident and begin to investigate. What they discover is frightening and possibly irreparable but they have to try, even if it means death.
February 13, 2018
Two world collide. Earth and a land of dragons, Paramis, collide after an evil self-hating dragon, a demon and a little magical boy names Charlie steal the eye of a God. While the dragons are trying to help and protect the humans, evil Lane is turning them against each other to cause chaos and start a war.
I really thought this was an interesting story. Wouldn't ever happen in 'real life'. Talking dragons is stretching it, but English speaking with knowledge of Earthly things. I know it's just a story and I'm funny about things and the way it was stated in this story, but still a good story.
I really thought this was an interesting story. Wouldn't ever happen in 'real life'. Talking dragons is stretching it, but English speaking with knowledge of Earthly things. I know it's just a story and I'm funny about things and the way it was stated in this story, but still a good story.
August 28, 2023
I enjoyed this enough to read it twice, and it was worth it; I picked up on things I'd missed the first time through. With his New Earth and Paramis Altered, Berntson has added something completely new, and totally delightful, to the world of dragon fiction. What did I like? Unique dragons! The charming, vulnerable, and yet dangerous Justin Silas. Lots of characters I could root for, a whole new world unlike anything we've seen before, an unpredictable story, and a happy but also surprising ending. My only complaint is that it was all over in 106 pages. I can see so many ways this story could be bigger. I hope we get to return to New Earth and Paramis Altered some day!
December 17, 2017
This was such a great story. I had a very sad sort of dread while I was reading, and it did not disappoint. I would have given this a five-star rating; however, there were a lot of grammatical mistakes and typos. Some editing would have been helpful. I hope the author continues to write about this new world.
March 13, 2018
Who better to tell a story about dragons than a dragon! Dragons, not unlike humans, have a capacity for good and for "not so good" . . for kindness, loyalty, intrigue and empathy. Brandon Berntson's book held my interest throughout and left me wishing for more! Note to self: Brandon Berntson is a prolific author across a number of genres. I'll be reading more of his YA fantasy. 5*
February 19, 2017
Good Tale
Interesting, wonderful tale of magic, dragons, people and good triumphing over evil. Very nice story. I hope there is a sequel.
Interesting, wonderful tale of magic, dragons, people and good triumphing over evil. Very nice story. I hope there is a sequel.
January 27, 2019
DNF'd from the sample
June 25, 2020
Great read
Really enjoyed this book. Easy to read and sucked me in from the beginning. Recommend for everyone to enjoy this story
Really enjoyed this book. Easy to read and sucked me in from the beginning. Recommend for everyone to enjoy this story
November 28, 2020
Definitely YA
Two worlds collide and merge. Some evil characters remain even though many beings were lost and our heroes must save the day. Did I mention the dragons and magic?
Two worlds collide and merge. Some evil characters remain even though many beings were lost and our heroes must save the day. Did I mention the dragons and magic?
April 13, 2021
Great read
I found this book accidentally I'm glad I did. It made me laugh and cry. It was well worth the read.
I found this book accidentally I'm glad I did. It made me laugh and cry. It was well worth the read.
August 29, 2021
3.0
I found this to be an interesting novella, but the story did not pull me in like I had hoped it would.
I found this to be an interesting novella, but the story did not pull me in like I had hoped it would.
December 12, 2021
Love this series
Remembered reading this series as a kid and wanted to revisit it. Just as Good as i remember and I’m glad that’s the case.
Remembered reading this series as a kid and wanted to revisit it. Just as Good as i remember and I’m glad that’s the case.
March 12, 2017
Dragons of a different sort
This one was different, not your typical dragon story. I enjoyed the mythology and the interaction of the characters. Some of the plot was a little confusing especially at the beginning.
This one was different, not your typical dragon story. I enjoyed the mythology and the interaction of the characters. Some of the plot was a little confusing especially at the beginning.
January 13, 2021
I love this unique and creative apocalyptic fantasy! It is well-written with awesome characters, especially the dragons. I highly recommend it and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
January 28, 2025
A little rusty, needs some editing.
I found myself enjoying this more than I thought I would when I began reading. It started out very amateur and I almost stopped right then, but I decided to keep going. It was okay. I was sad near the end (not going to spoil it for ya) but I'm don't regret reading it. There are quite a few places where things would come across better if they had been rewritten, and others where there's no transition at all and I'm reeling for a second trying to backtrack and reassert myself.
I found myself enjoying this more than I thought I would when I began reading. It started out very amateur and I almost stopped right then, but I decided to keep going. It was okay. I was sad near the end (not going to spoil it for ya) but I'm don't regret reading it. There are quite a few places where things would come across better if they had been rewritten, and others where there's no transition at all and I'm reeling for a second trying to backtrack and reassert myself.
May 19, 2013
I enjoyed reading the book even as an adult. It is a good introduction to classic style science fiction.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews