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The Dragon's Reign
Nothing felt overly exciting for twenty-four-year-old Blake. His career as a courier driver was hardly something to brag about and although he raced cars on the weekend, life seemed to have slowed to a crawl. For his housemate and best friend James, however, life was peachy; he was about to ask out the girl of his dreams and was entering his final year at university.
Social media sensation Emma Riley was living her best her following was booming, her sponsors were calling, and people just could not get enough of her. If only her father, Thomas, could get off her back once in a while.
Will was ready for the next big step. The restaurant was booked, the evening was planned, and the diamond ring was perfect. All he hoped now was that Lila, his girlfriend of four years, would say yes.
But after a mysterious fire-breathing creature leaves the Australian city of the Gold Coast in ruins, this group of strangers are forced to leave their old lives behind and band together in a fight for survival. With no way to communicate with the outside world and no help in sight, a greater mystery begins to unfold around them.
What is the monster that attacked the city?
Where did it come from?
Is our reign, our way of life, really over?
Is the dragon’s reign about to begin?
Social media sensation Emma Riley was living her best her following was booming, her sponsors were calling, and people just could not get enough of her. If only her father, Thomas, could get off her back once in a while.
Will was ready for the next big step. The restaurant was booked, the evening was planned, and the diamond ring was perfect. All he hoped now was that Lila, his girlfriend of four years, would say yes.
But after a mysterious fire-breathing creature leaves the Australian city of the Gold Coast in ruins, this group of strangers are forced to leave their old lives behind and band together in a fight for survival. With no way to communicate with the outside world and no help in sight, a greater mystery begins to unfold around them.
What is the monster that attacked the city?
Where did it come from?
Is our reign, our way of life, really over?
Is the dragon’s reign about to begin?
516 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2020
1 person is currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Tim Mullins
2 books6 followersTim Mullins is an Australian author born in Adelaide, South Australia. During his high school years, he developed a strong interest in storytelling and where he first conceptualized a version of The Dragon's Reign, which would eventually become his debut novel in August 2020, some 17 years after its initial conception.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 7, 2021
Wonderfully crafted and refreshingly original!
This book was not what I expected it to be. And I mean that in the best way possible. The book description makes it clear that the characters are a focal point of the story, but the rest is left quite open. And what a wonderful surprise it was! Urban fantasy blended with post apocalyptic world-building, Tim Mullins drags you right into this relatable and all-too familiar world that suddenly comes crashing down around you. Literally. Tim’s sharp writing style gives the reader a front-row seat in the most cataclysmic disaster imaginable as you feel like you are right there, stuck in the helpless horror, alongside the main characters.
The pages turn themselves, as you desperately want to find out what these otherworldly beasts are. The originality of the concept and the complex design of the creatures that Tim has created are a credit to him as a writer and to his story telling.
This is not just a book about dragons. This is a well-crafted analysis of humanity. This is a book rich with themes of hope, trust, love and loss. This is a modern, yet supernatural rendition of right versus wrong. There are confronting scenes, as I think all good books in this genre should have, and more than once, the reader is forced to face adversity right alongside the survivors. I cannot wait to see what outlandish adventure Tim takes us on next. Bravo!
This book was not what I expected it to be. And I mean that in the best way possible. The book description makes it clear that the characters are a focal point of the story, but the rest is left quite open. And what a wonderful surprise it was! Urban fantasy blended with post apocalyptic world-building, Tim Mullins drags you right into this relatable and all-too familiar world that suddenly comes crashing down around you. Literally. Tim’s sharp writing style gives the reader a front-row seat in the most cataclysmic disaster imaginable as you feel like you are right there, stuck in the helpless horror, alongside the main characters.
The pages turn themselves, as you desperately want to find out what these otherworldly beasts are. The originality of the concept and the complex design of the creatures that Tim has created are a credit to him as a writer and to his story telling.
This is not just a book about dragons. This is a well-crafted analysis of humanity. This is a book rich with themes of hope, trust, love and loss. This is a modern, yet supernatural rendition of right versus wrong. There are confronting scenes, as I think all good books in this genre should have, and more than once, the reader is forced to face adversity right alongside the survivors. I cannot wait to see what outlandish adventure Tim takes us on next. Bravo!
November 28, 2020
This book is so terrible I hunted up my long inactive goodreads account so I could leave a review - mostly because I suspect the other reviews have been bought and paid for. Not a single criticism anywhere? NOTHING?
The writing is clunky. I know it's a first novel, and hey, well done! Novels are hard! But the dialogue is terrible, the characters feel like cardboard cut outs, or stereotypes, and there is a ridiculous amount of exposition which honestly feels like someone was trying to make word count on a first draft, rather than write a book. Also what does the author have against contractions? I don't think any character uses any shortened speech, which again feels clunky and doesn't let the dialogue flow.
I can forgive slightly terrible writing if the plot is great and characters are good, but this is failing all around. From the laughable larrikins, to the hard-as-nails army dudes, everyone feels like a caricature instead of a person. And there's a fair amount of casual sexism which just leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
The problem here is I WANTED to love it. It has all the things I like! Dragons, post apocalyptic setting, Australia, destruction of the Gold Coast, everything! (Sorry Queenslanders, I'm sure most of you are lovely)
But I hate the characters and the longer I read, the more it feels like a self-insert hero fantasy.
His contempt for women and children shines through strongly - children are all useless, misbehaved, and whiny, and the women are either shallow bitches, or useless drains on the Important Male Characters. Occasionally they're worth a perv though, so it's lucky they're hot.
I'm 150 pages in and I'm not sure I can read anymore. I'm so disappointed, because the synopsis sounds great.
Sorry dude. Maybe I'm not your target audience.
The writing is clunky. I know it's a first novel, and hey, well done! Novels are hard! But the dialogue is terrible, the characters feel like cardboard cut outs, or stereotypes, and there is a ridiculous amount of exposition which honestly feels like someone was trying to make word count on a first draft, rather than write a book. Also what does the author have against contractions? I don't think any character uses any shortened speech, which again feels clunky and doesn't let the dialogue flow.
I can forgive slightly terrible writing if the plot is great and characters are good, but this is failing all around. From the laughable larrikins, to the hard-as-nails army dudes, everyone feels like a caricature instead of a person. And there's a fair amount of casual sexism which just leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
The problem here is I WANTED to love it. It has all the things I like! Dragons, post apocalyptic setting, Australia, destruction of the Gold Coast, everything! (Sorry Queenslanders, I'm sure most of you are lovely)
But I hate the characters and the longer I read, the more it feels like a self-insert hero fantasy.
His contempt for women and children shines through strongly - children are all useless, misbehaved, and whiny, and the women are either shallow bitches, or useless drains on the Important Male Characters. Occasionally they're worth a perv though, so it's lucky they're hot.
I'm 150 pages in and I'm not sure I can read anymore. I'm so disappointed, because the synopsis sounds great.
Sorry dude. Maybe I'm not your target audience.
October 4, 2020
Tim has mastered the art of writing a fast paced novel full of tension and plenty of action. I was invested in the characters who were believable despite co existing in a world where dragons are terrorising the city. Great job!
November 16, 2020
Loved it! Couldn't put it down and I cannot wait for the next one.
September 19, 2020
On the verge of an apocalypse, the Dragon’s Reign follows Blake and his friends on a mission to save the world. The author has a cheeky and impactful writing style that keeps the book interesting and always moving forward at a fast pace. When I say I couldn’t put this book down, I truly mean it, only taking me a few hours to complete the read.
The depth and effort put into each character is astounding! I felt attached to each character, highlighting important personality traits that would arise in an apocalypse. There was never a dull moment. Tim’s ability to transition from character to character felt genuine and seamless. I was able to keep track of where I was in the timeline of the book, never feeling confused as to what I was reading.
This book tickled many emotions. I caught myself laughing and on the verge of tears several time throughout the read. Tim’s ability to switch from an action based novel to a mystical fantasy is like nothing I have ever read before. The description of the monsters and scenery created vivid images in my mind, demonstrating the effort that went into these important parts of the story.
There is little I can say badly about this book. I crave a deeper understand of each character’s history, especially Drakken. However, as a first book in hopefully a series and first time publisher, this is an incredible read! Congratulations Tim. I can’t wait for the next instalment and will be rereading this book in the near future.
The depth and effort put into each character is astounding! I felt attached to each character, highlighting important personality traits that would arise in an apocalypse. There was never a dull moment. Tim’s ability to transition from character to character felt genuine and seamless. I was able to keep track of where I was in the timeline of the book, never feeling confused as to what I was reading.
This book tickled many emotions. I caught myself laughing and on the verge of tears several time throughout the read. Tim’s ability to switch from an action based novel to a mystical fantasy is like nothing I have ever read before. The description of the monsters and scenery created vivid images in my mind, demonstrating the effort that went into these important parts of the story.
There is little I can say badly about this book. I crave a deeper understand of each character’s history, especially Drakken. However, as a first book in hopefully a series and first time publisher, this is an incredible read! Congratulations Tim. I can’t wait for the next instalment and will be rereading this book in the near future.
October 20, 2020
WOW!
WHAT A READ. To be honest, this isn't a book I would pick up off the shelf but i cannot believe how much i enjoyed it. What a journey it took me on. This book was so relatable to not only todays society, but particular characters and their traits. It was exceptionally written and some of the dialogues between characters made you think and feel a certain way, which at times, lead me on an emotional ride.
This is the first book I have read where I could not put it down. I started and finished it on the same day and I would recommend this to anyone. You would be surprised what you could take out of the story, and in some way might reflect your own life or personality at times.
Thank you Tim for such a great read. Bring on number 2!
WHAT A READ. To be honest, this isn't a book I would pick up off the shelf but i cannot believe how much i enjoyed it. What a journey it took me on. This book was so relatable to not only todays society, but particular characters and their traits. It was exceptionally written and some of the dialogues between characters made you think and feel a certain way, which at times, lead me on an emotional ride.
This is the first book I have read where I could not put it down. I started and finished it on the same day and I would recommend this to anyone. You would be surprised what you could take out of the story, and in some way might reflect your own life or personality at times.
Thank you Tim for such a great read. Bring on number 2!
September 19, 2020
The Dragon’s Reign was such an enjoyable thrill ride that was so hard to put down due to it’s perfect pacing and cinematic set pieces. I love that at it’s core that it’s a story about people and their interactions between one another as they try to understand and deal with the situations they find themselves in. My favourite parts have been small moments between characters but also the big, epic action sequences. Easily consumable in a few sittings and I found myself wanting to know more at the end while still being satisfied with the answers that were provided.
Bring on the second book!!!
Bring on the second book!!!
December 12, 2020
Incredible reading experience
I love dragons so was interested in reading this book when I first saw it. Instantly I was hooked i loved the way Tim has written this book its so fast paced yet does not miss out on detail. The twists and turns keep you guessing constantly. I simply cannot wait for more. If you like Matthew Reilly's books you are going to love this book! It will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first page until the last. I will be reading it again and again until the next instalment comes.
Keep up the great work Tim!
I love dragons so was interested in reading this book when I first saw it. Instantly I was hooked i loved the way Tim has written this book its so fast paced yet does not miss out on detail. The twists and turns keep you guessing constantly. I simply cannot wait for more. If you like Matthew Reilly's books you are going to love this book! It will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first page until the last. I will be reading it again and again until the next instalment comes.
Keep up the great work Tim!
September 14, 2020
This is an absolutely phenomenal book and a total page turner.
Fast-paced and full of nail-biting action, as well as wonderful well-crafted characters who I genuinely care about.
Prior to reading this book, I couldn't imagine a fantasy novel being set on the Gold Coast but Tim Mullins has delivered an incredible story. I'll never look at the Gold Coast in the same way ever again.
Can't wait for the next instalment!
5 Stars
Fast-paced and full of nail-biting action, as well as wonderful well-crafted characters who I genuinely care about.
Prior to reading this book, I couldn't imagine a fantasy novel being set on the Gold Coast but Tim Mullins has delivered an incredible story. I'll never look at the Gold Coast in the same way ever again.
Can't wait for the next instalment!
5 Stars
September 12, 2020
Brilliant book, makes you feel like you are in it even when you drive around in the areas mentioned you instantly are brought back to what you read in the book. Great story, can’t wait for the next one!
September 15, 2020
An epic story that merges ancient dragon lore with a modern day setting. Looking forward to the next installment!
September 18, 2020
Absolutely amazing book.
Had me hooked from the very start, definite page turner, could not put it down!
Highly recommend 👍🏻
Had me hooked from the very start, definite page turner, could not put it down!
Highly recommend 👍🏻
September 12, 2020
Tim Mullins Has Written A Brilliant Fantastic Book With An Fantasy Imaginative World.
Can't Wait For The Next Installatment Book 2
Can't Wait For The Next Installatment Book 2
September 13, 2020
What a read! Absolutely stunning and kept me on the edge of the seat. If your looking for your next book to read, this is it, look no further
September 26, 2021
I didn't know what to expect of this story as it is not one I normally read. I was definitely taken on an unexpected journey, and I am sad it is over. It surpassed my expectations. A mix of genres - part dystopian, part contemporary, part fantasy -- uniquely Tim.
You will fly through the pages as fast as one of Tim's fire breathing dragons. I loved Tim's writing craft. Loved the use of similes. I especially loved the humour throughout. Whilst dealing with serious life threatening circumstances I loved that the characters personalities still shone through. I loved Blake, James, Gary, Emma, Lila, Will, Lorcan and Drakken. I could relate to each character in different ways. There are the 'bad' characters that you definitely won't love but yet still offer the reader learning experiences. I loved the historical references to creatures throughout history.
To me this was a story of the importance of family - blood related or not. A story about sticking together. A story about human destruction, the value of all living beings and so much more. There are many twists and turns that kept me wanting more. That ending! Undoubtedly makes me want to read the sequel. Excuse me while I go give Tim a knuckle sandwhich for making me wait - to understand that reference read it.
You will fly through the pages as fast as one of Tim's fire breathing dragons. I loved Tim's writing craft. Loved the use of similes. I especially loved the humour throughout. Whilst dealing with serious life threatening circumstances I loved that the characters personalities still shone through. I loved Blake, James, Gary, Emma, Lila, Will, Lorcan and Drakken. I could relate to each character in different ways. There are the 'bad' characters that you definitely won't love but yet still offer the reader learning experiences. I loved the historical references to creatures throughout history.
To me this was a story of the importance of family - blood related or not. A story about sticking together. A story about human destruction, the value of all living beings and so much more. There are many twists and turns that kept me wanting more. That ending! Undoubtedly makes me want to read the sequel. Excuse me while I go give Tim a knuckle sandwhich for making me wait - to understand that reference read it.
April 6, 2024
Took me two years but here we are.
Props to the author on his debut novel and the exciting concept he started with.
The characters were flat and very one note, cardboard flavoured creations.
The male characters are boring, but the women just feel like set pieces or props for male characters to interact with to show they’re caring or horny.
The plot was not for me.
The original concept of a dragon destroying the Gold Coast was fascinating. The monsters that came along with it were also really interesting. The author obviously has a good imagination.
However, the actual contents of what the characters do was not interesting to read.
The plot shifts from survival horror to fantasy/hero-saves-the-day because the main character (Blake) saves a spider…
And then the dragon who has killed thousands of people and thinks humanity has destroyed the environment is like “let’s be BFFs”.
Now the dragon just does whatever Blake tells him to do with no pushback?
The writing (specifically the dialogue) is what truly detracted from the otherwise palatable plot. The dialogue was uninteresting and broke my immersion.
Props to the author on his debut novel and the exciting concept he started with.
The characters were flat and very one note, cardboard flavoured creations.
The male characters are boring, but the women just feel like set pieces or props for male characters to interact with to show they’re caring or horny.
The plot was not for me.
The original concept of a dragon destroying the Gold Coast was fascinating. The monsters that came along with it were also really interesting. The author obviously has a good imagination.
However, the actual contents of what the characters do was not interesting to read.
The plot shifts from survival horror to fantasy/hero-saves-the-day because the main character (Blake) saves a spider…
And then the dragon who has killed thousands of people and thinks humanity has destroyed the environment is like “let’s be BFFs”.
Now the dragon just does whatever Blake tells him to do with no pushback?
The writing (specifically the dialogue) is what truly detracted from the otherwise palatable plot. The dialogue was uninteresting and broke my immersion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2021
Tim Mullins has produced a fine first book.
Sure the story takes a little while to get into its stride. But as the pace of the action and the easy dialogue between the main characters (including monsters) quickens and the detailed imagery comes to the fore, all this makes a publication which is hard to put down. The underlying messages which run in parallel to the main action are serious but subtlety drafted.
There is, perhaps, a marginal advantage in reading this story while resident on the Gold Coast in Australia. But even taking this into account, the backdrop of monsters, any of which could easily be found in Game of Thrones, Godzilla or Guardians of the Galaxy, makes for a winning combination and a very enjoyable read.
Roll on the next chapter and Blake’s next move.
Sure the story takes a little while to get into its stride. But as the pace of the action and the easy dialogue between the main characters (including monsters) quickens and the detailed imagery comes to the fore, all this makes a publication which is hard to put down. The underlying messages which run in parallel to the main action are serious but subtlety drafted.
There is, perhaps, a marginal advantage in reading this story while resident on the Gold Coast in Australia. But even taking this into account, the backdrop of monsters, any of which could easily be found in Game of Thrones, Godzilla or Guardians of the Galaxy, makes for a winning combination and a very enjoyable read.
Roll on the next chapter and Blake’s next move.
January 3, 2021
This book is brilliant!
You feel every emotion - a wonderful escape.
Humour is great in this I did laugh out loud a few times. Wonderfully written.
Would read again and again
You feel every emotion - a wonderful escape.
Humour is great in this I did laugh out loud a few times. Wonderfully written.
Would read again and again
May 17, 2023
It was extraordinary. There were many joyful and thrilling moments, not to mention the moments of surprise. Something I found that this book did which most do not, is have many important characters die, after having learnt about them and developing a connection with them only to be torn away. I found this book to have me reeling with an assortment of emotions sad, joy, surprise and many more. It is definitely one of if not the best book I've read for years. I really hope there is a sequel to the events that happened in this book. I just can't stop thinking about what happened in the book, very creative.
September 12, 2020
Loved this book! It has a really interesting story, that keeps you so engaged it is hard to put down. The way the story is written, actually makes you feel the emotions that the characters are going through. Action packed from beginning to end. The imagination that has gone into creating the creatures in this book is amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Can't wait for the next one. Don't keep me waiting too long Tim. Well done!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews