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Coming in 2025 Weun Academy: The Shadow Maker "It's Star Trek meets Harry Potter!" "Implicit throughout this story: helping students deal with and end the horrific trend in school violence." -- Readers' Favorite 5 of 5 stars Sixteen-year-old Eisah Tanner never wanted to be noticed. Growing up an Earther on the fringes of a Martian colony, he keeps to the shadows, dodging bullies who make his life miserable. But when the Redborn come hunting, a mysterious power awakens within him, drawing unwanted—and extraterrestrial—attention! Whisked away to New Eden, a vast space station at the galaxy’s heart, Eisah is enrolled at Weun Academy, a school for gifted outcasts. With a fresh start, he hopes to understand his newfound abilities and finally find a place he belongs. While forging unexpected friendships, Eisah soon learns surviving this alien world is as treacherous as taming his powers. When a brutal attack shakes the academy, Eisah and his new allies face shifting loyalties and hidden agendas, unsure of whom they can trust. As enemies close in, he must untangle a web of danger and deceit, mastering his powers before shadow consumes them all. Step into Weun Academy, where mettle is tested, a chosen family defended, and the journey to find your place in the universe is just beginning. Reviews Are In "Writing is confident and flows with unusual grace. Pacing is fast and the author knows how to make readers care about his characters." "The Shadow Maker explores themes of friendship, terror, teamwork, and personal growth, teaching readers what it means to take responsibility and to live with others." -- Readers' Favorite |
Award Winning Author Hello everyone, I'm Mike Zummo. Thanks for looking into me. As an author, I delve into worlds where advanced technology meets the mysteries of the human experience, crafting stories that push the boundaries of science fiction and fantasy. My work explores the clash between futuristic advances and timeless struggles identity, belonging, and resilience issues that we all face today. By layering contemporary societal themes into otherworldly adventures, I aim to create stories that resonate with readers on a deeply personal level, all while unfolding within richly imagined, visually striking worlds. My writing style combines fast-paced action with emotional depth, drawing readers into the minds of characters who grapple with their purpose and place in the universe. I am passionate about creating complex characters who feel like real people, whether they re uncovering superpowers or confronting intergalactic crises. These characters are the heart of my stories; through their journeys, readers experience tales of courage, camaraderie, and discovery that echo our own world s challenges and hopes. In every book, I aim to weave a narrative that feels as profound as it is entertaining. Each storyline poses thought-provoking questions, inviting readers to consider how we build our communities, confront our fears, and ultimately, shape our futures. If you re drawn to science fiction that feels grounded and reflective, yet imaginative and adventurous, my stories offer a portal into worlds that are both fantastical and profoundly relevant. If all that sounded interesting, I invite you to visit my D'mok Revival literary universe. As I like to say, "Without further ado, allow me to take you on a journey." 10 Awards 2022 - Toriko Tales: Toriko vs. The Crowned Paw, Readers' Favorite 5-stars award 2018 - Weun Academy: The Shadow Maker, Readers' Favorite 5-stars award 2017 - D'mok Revival: New Eden, Reader Views Reviewers Choice Award, First in Scifi 2016 - D'mok Revival: New Eden, Readers Favorite Honorable Mention, Youth: Scifi 2016 - D'mok Revival: New Eden, Readers Favorite 5-stars award 2015 - D'mok Revival: Descension, Readers Favorite Finalist, Youth: Scifi 2015 - D'mok Revival: Descension, Readers Favorite 5-stars award 2014 - D'mok Revival: Retribution, Readers Favorite 5-stars award 2014 - D'mok Revival: Awakening, Reader Views Reviewers Choice Award, Honorable Mention 2013 - D'mok Revival: Awakening, Readers Favorite 5-stars award Presentations
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$2.99 ebook
$6.00 soft cover, 507 pages $21.95 audio book, 11h 45m Extras Read the prologue Get the wallpaper |
Book 1: D'mok Revival: Awakening
Review Highlights "I bought this for brain candy while on a flight, I couldn t put it down. The cast of characters seem complex, but have you begging for more development."
M. Walker
4 of 5 stars, Amazon.com "This book is so instantly absorbing with action and awesome SciFi it is as if Michael Crichton and Isaac Asimov got together to write an epic for the 21st century. The pacing is wonderful, the characters are unique and interesting, and it is just the start to what promises to be one helluva story. Would make a great movie as well."
allen1
4 of 5 stars, Amazon.com "Five stars or more for one of the top notch space operas I have read this year. What a job of character building and crafting the narrative to make this book a cohesive, living remarkable creation. I can't wait for his next installment, a terrific read for all ages."
Alrusse
5 of 5 stars, Amazon.com Overview Millennia ago, the warmongering Nukari eradicated the ancient, space-exploring D mar. Not even the greatest of their warriors, D mok, gifted with super-human abilities, could stop the total annihilation of his people. Now, the fledgling human Coalition lies in the Nukari's sights. The first attack left a space station destroyed and one man, Rhysus Mencari, the sole survivor. But in that man awakened D'mok-like powers, sparking the revival of the only forcethat could oppose this powerful enemy. Still distraught over the loss of his family, Mencari teams up with Osuto, the last known D mar alive. Can Mencari overcome the shadow of his past in time to master his new found abilities,gather a new team of D mok warriors, and hunt down the Nukari before the next onslaught? This is the first book of The Invasion Trilogy, the beginning of the D mok Revival science fiction series of novels by Michael Zummo. |
$2.99 ebook
$9.99 soft cover, 435 pages Audio not available Extras Read the prologue Get the wallpaper |
Book 2: D'mok Revival: Retribution Review Highlights "D'mok Revival: Retribution is a refreshing blend of adventure, drama, angst and science fiction that kept me wanting more after each page and chapter. Fans of the genre will enjoy the story's character and plot developments, as well as its intense imagery. Michael Zummo utilizes vividly descriptive writing in a successful attempt to relay his tale, and the end result is a fun and catchy read."
Nika Raet
5 of 5 stars, Readers Favorite "D'mok Revival: Retribution is action packed, leaving the reader with very little room to breathe as we're launched from one crisis to the next. Once Zummo grabs your attention he doesn't let go."
Lisa Jones
5 of 5 stars, Readers Favorite "D'mok Revival is a meaty, fast paced science fiction novel. The author has put his heart and soul into this novel, passion seeps through his book."
Jack Magus
5 of 5 stars, Readers' Favorite Overview Rhysus Mencari lost everything to the warmongering Nukari. Only his superhuman abilities allowed him to survive their invasion. While assembling a team of D'mok Warriors, powerful aliens with abilities like his, he discovered Nukari deeply entrenched in countless worlds. Together the team disrupted numerous operations, a feat not left unnoticed by his enemy. Now, a new threat has emerged. Vicious Nukari beasts with D'mok-like abilities have begun terrorizing worlds. When an unknown group of super-aliens are found battling the beasts, Mencari struggles to discern would-be allies from another powerful foe. Can his fledgling warriors win against those with abilities much like their own? Will the unknown super-race come to his aid or seek his destruction? More importantly, will the Nukari continue their subterfuge, or return as conquers with their mighty armada? This is the second book of The Invasion Trilogy in the D mok Revival science fiction series of novels by Michael Zummo. |
$2.99 ebook
$9.99 soft cover, 407 pages Audio not available Extras Read the prologue Get the wallpaper |
Book 3: D'mok Revival: Descension Review Highlights "These books remind me of those that fostered my love of science fiction as a young adult when I would eagerly await my Scholastic book catalog. I have read the entire nukari series and have handed them off to my son who is currently reading them. These are fantastic books for readers young and old alike but especially imho for those new to science fiction."
MikenzCO (Top 1000 Review)
4 of 5 stars, Amazon.com "Engaging and easily imaginable storytelling ... scores of action scenes, fascinating alien planets, advanced technologies and memorable characters ... enjoyable read."
L. Amri
5 of 5 stars, Readers Favorite "Zummo is fearless when it comes to allowing his world to unfold, resulting in memorable moments that will stay with you; a sign of exceptional writing and dedication to the craft. If you love Science Fiction, old and new, and Anime, you will love this entire series."
allen1
5 of 5 stars, Amazon.com "Another thing that stands out in this book is the descriptions. I could see the Gizel beasts with their sharp bony plates, retractable claws and fanged snouts, and the bird woman able to control with a gaze."
Anne Boling
5 of 5 stars, Readers Favorite Overview The Nukari invasion changed Rhysus Mencari s life forever. It tooks years for him to accept the loss of his family and understand the strange superhuman abilities that saved him. After working with Osuto, the last remaining D mok Warrior, Mencari began to master his abilities and find others like him. Together they created a new team of D'mok Warriors that fought against the advancing Nukari threat. The challenge grew dire when the Nukari unleashed genetic creations with D'mok-like powers. Further, Mencari s own race used his genetics to create another superhuman team under control of the Human Coalition. When Anrik, the leader of the new Human team, was captured the D'mok Warriors were forced to rescue him and push back the beast menace. Now, the infuriated Nukari have mobilized against Mencari. Even with new found allies, including the two Nukari defectors, will Mencari and his growing team be able to turn the tide? With the full strength of the Nukari armada unleashed, who will survive? This is the third book of The Invasion Trilogy in the D mok Revival science fiction series of novels by Michael Zummo. |
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Book 4: D'mok Revival: New Eden Review Highlights "The world Zummo has created in New Eden is very lush and has so many different factions and characters vying for their own ends. The best way I can describe it is that you continue to feel this world is alive and progressing even after you put the book away."
Matt Ferrara (verified purchase)
5 of 5 stars, Amazon.com "The character development is so deep and complex that you actually feel for the characters and the struggles they are going through. Actions taken by the protagonist are unpredictable, yet totally understandable. The events in New Eden open up the universe within the D'mok Revival series and in a way makes you reevaluate everything you thought you knew after the first three books and leaves you wanting so much more."
Dan (verified purchase)
5 of 5 stars, Amazon.com "This book has it all. Zummo is at the top of his game on this book and you won't believe the ending. You certainly won't be able to take your eyes away from the page when reading it. This story is amazing and when you finish this, you will finally understand just how immense Zummo's vision is and why it is unique."
allen1 (verified purchase)
5 of 5 stars, Amazon.com Overview The Nukari invasion is over. Rhysus Mencari and his super-powered D'mok Warriors have emerged victorious. But the scars of war run deep, and his duty is far from over. Enemy remnants cling to conquered worlds, their allies lurk in the dark, and the infamous Kajlit'ga and her beast warriors remain at large. With the New Eden station finally operational, Rhysus Mencari and his allies gain a new platform from which to create an enduring freedom and lasting peace. But a discovery leads to a far more burdensome trial. The family he thought murdered are, in fact, prisoners of war. An obsession to free them taints his every move. Rhysus Mencari, the hardened warrior, struggles to become the husband and father he was meant to be. But is he prepared for what has become of his family? Worse still, when his team realizes his judgment is compromised, will they remain loyal, or take matters into their own hands? This is book four in the D'mok Revival series, and first of The New Eden Trilogy, in the D mok Revival literary universe by Michael Zummo. |
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D'mok Revival Novelette The Aloan Conspiracy Review Highlights So, I've never read a midsequel, or such, before. I honestly don't know what's the literary term for it but I still love it. I was actually wondering after the young cadet escape? and now I can continue the series. Short, sweet, easy to comprehend and lovely to engage.
Justin Pyfrom (verified purchase)
5 of 5 stars, Amazon.com Overview It was a new day. All of Alo was rejoicing. A miracle had happened and now their moon radiated like a sun. Despite the merriment, something sinister was going on. All Jeyla knew was three things: The alien known as Rhysus Mencari was gone. Her best friend Speru Chew was missing. And her mentor, High Councilman D abar Arenji, was being held in a maximum-security cell under HighDome. Among the elite, rumors of treason and murder were circulating. None of it made sense. Every question she asked was met with silence or suspicion. Something was very wrong. In this novelette follow Jeyla, Siana, and Raitr as they attempt to uncover the dark truth behind the miracle, including what really happened to their friend Speru Chew and how their mentor fell from grace. |
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D'mok Revival Novelette Mindwalk: The Taming of Decreta Review Highlights This book was an amazing experience and showcases the author's excellent writing talent. I've never read something that so well captured the essence of a dream. The insights from this short story heighten the overall D'Mok Revival series experience and is crucial reading for fans of the series.
allen1 (verified purchase)
5 of 5 stars, Amazon.com It is pretty inventive to see the back story of this vicious race via mind walking so I loved it.
Justin Pyfrom (verified purchase)
5 of 5 stars, Amazon.com Overview This novelette, by author Michael Zummo, extends the D'mok Revival literary universe. It takes place at the end of Chapter 6 in Book 3, D'mok Revival: Descension. After the capture of a Nukari beast, Mencari and his allies looked to Katen and his telepathic abilities to enter the mind of his brethren and retrieve whatever it knows. In D'mok Revival: Mindwalk, experience Katen s journey into the mind of a fellow beast warrior. Discover what the Nukari have been up to, what they know about Mencari and his allies, and what dangers lurk within. |
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D'mok Revival Series The Nukari Invasion Omnibus Experience all three novels and two novelettes of Michael Zummo's award winning space saga, D'mok Revival: The Nukari Invasion. Follow the plight of Coalition soldier Rhysus Mencari on his emotional journey from grieving widower to powerful D'mok Warrior. Key to his legacy is Osuto, an ancient D'mok Warrior who helps Mencari master his abilities. As he sets out to hunt the nefarious Nukari he doesn't find their powerful armadas, but rather a more sinister enemy embedded deeply into alien societies, corrupting worlds from within. During his travels he recruits an unorthodox cast of super powered beings, and struggles to establish a team of D'mok Warriors. Meanwhile, the Nukari unleash a force of genetically created beasts with D'mok like abilities. When the Nukari armada is finally unleashed, will the D mok Warriors and their allies be enough to stop them once and for all? What sacrifices will need to be made? Experience the epic saga today! As an added bonus, the prologues for the next to D mok Revival novels have been included. |
D'mok Revival Series
D mok Revial is a space opera targeting readers 10+. The story follows the plight of Rhysus Mencari, a broken soldier who lost his family at the outset of an Alien invasion. He survived only by manifesting super-human abilities. Over the course of the first three novels and two novelettes, he masters his abilities, finds others like him, and hunts down the Nukari. What sets D'mok Revival apart from its peers isn't the traditional "big bad aliens invading, who fall victim to the underdog protagonist," but rather the rich interpersonal dynamics between the core characters, and the relatable demons they face. It was Zummo's intention to take some of the very struggles in his life, and those closest to him, and present them through a fantastic and futuristic lens. His hope: an instant connection between readers and his characters, an understanding the reader isn't alone with their challenges, and some insights to help them. Another recognized feature of D'mok Revival is the diverse cast. In a genre ripe with male egos and macho-ism, D'mok Revival's equality has drawn a significant female and LGBTQ+ following due to powerful and capable representation within. Zummo's literary universe draws inspiration from classic series such as Star Wars, FireFly, and Battlestar Galactica (2000 edition) while adding super human abilities inspired by Japanese Anime (Dragonball Z) and American series such as X-Men. D mok Revial has been a labor of love, which started with a short story back in 1998. Its first evolution came in late 1999 as the background for a role playing game. Various worlds were mapped out and specific game scenarios written so a group of gamers could role play the environments. A battle system was even constructed, along with a tree of character abilities and more. By mid-2001, with hundreds of pages in backstory, characters information, key locations, and gameplay dynamics, a co-worker, Lynn Murdoch, suggested Michael write a novel. It took a few years to pull together the original manuscript. When it was completed the story was 286,000 words strong. An editor helped condense and break the story into marketable chunks. In the end, the Invasion Trilogy was born! In mid-2010, a fourth manuscript started to take shape. Upon completion in 2012, a fifth book (technically a spin-off) was started in addition to the outlines for additional volumes. However, before writing more, Michael wanted to bring the original works to readers. The first edition, D'mok Revival: Awakening, released in August 2013 at the Chicago ComicCon. The second, Retribution, in July of 2014. The third January 2015 release. Two novelettes were also released in 2015 extending the literary universe. In December 2016, the story of the post war reconstruction continued with the launch of The New Eden Saga trilogy's first book: D'mok Revival: New Eden. It released in 2018, earning three awards. Before the fifth book of D'mok Revival couldn't be written, two spin-off series (Weun Academy and Toriko Tales) needed to round out happenings in the literary universe. |
Weun Academy
Details about this new series is coming soon! |
Toriko Tales
Details about this new book is coming soon! |