The Reading Room · Expanded edition
DORMANT
Book One: The Awakening
By Callum Kaide Williams
Manchester, 2033. Ron Smith is trying to save his struggling workshop when a collision changes his life. While he sleeps, another version of him walks the city—one who sees the hidden connections beneath reality.
Investigative photographer Maya Ellison has evidence that the crash was no accident. Together they follow a secret programme across Europe and towards a doorway beneath the desert stars.
Action, mystery, love and spiritual discovery meet in a story about what power asks of an ordinary person—and what he refuses to surrender.
28 chapters · approximately 43,000 story words · prologue, interludes and epilogue · revised 7 October 2026
Read Chapter One free · PDFOpen the member Reading Room
Begin in Manchester
At half past six, Imran Shah put a bank statement on Ron’s desk and turned it so the red figure faced the right man.
“That is Friday’s payroll,” he said. “Not an ambition. Not a possibility. Friday. Eight people.”
Inside the expanded edition
The complete story now includes Chapter 28, The Witness at the Wall, alongside clearer action, continuity corrections and a new thread through Eleanor Price’s 1891 mystery. Ron and Maya’s investigation continues beneath Manchester.
Can I buy the £11 book package?
Orders are not yet open. The planned physical book, digital copy and audiobook package needs final fulfilment confirmation. Check the official book page for availability. Membership access is separate from the planned £11 purchase.
Is the full book free?
Chapter One is a free preview. The full Palace reader and PDF download use the existing account and membership access controls.