Namuh, Book 1

The Awakening

Fiction - Science Fiction
Kindle Edition
Reviewed on 07/17/2025
Buy on Amazon

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Author Biography

Desmond Knipe is a storyteller with one foot in the stars and the other firmly planted in the mysteries of human existence. Drawing on a lifelong fascination with science, technology, and the unseen forces that shape our lives, he writes fiction and nonfiction that challenge, inspire, and awaken.

His debut series, NAMUH, was born from a single, haunting question: “What if humanity isn’t at the top?” This thought expanded into an exploration of our relationship with technology, consciousness, and the systems we take for granted. Blending high-octane science fiction with metaphysical undercurrents, NAMUH pushes readers to question their assumptions while delivering the immersive thrill of futuristic worlds and unforgettable characters.

When he’s not writing, Desmond is often found dissecting the latest breakthroughs in science, exploring ancient philosophies, or losing himself in conversations about what it means to truly “wake up” in a world full of distractions. His unique approach bridges hard science and mystical insight, creating stories that are as entertaining as they are thought-provoking.

With NAMUH: The Awakening, Desmond invites you on a journey that’s part adventure, part revelation — and entirely impossible to forget.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite

In Namuh (Book 1) by Desmond Knipe, five drifters, Michael, Tara, Brahma, Sophia, and Apollo, are psychically drawn to an enormous Kauri tree in the wilderness of New Zealand. Their adventure unfolds in a future version of Earth, which is on the verge of societal and environmental ruin. An ancient spirit refers to them as Namuh, a collective body preordained to channel incredible powers meant to help them steer humanity away from annihilation. As it turns out, these strangers—who were all born on the same day—are about to embark on a heartfelt journey beyond what they could ever imagine. In this fascinating world, where esoteric elements blend with science, these five characters must ultimately confront dark forces, personal insecurities, and group dynamics to uncover their true purpose.

Namuh (Book 1) by Desmond Knipe is a unique sci-fi novel that weaves deeply philosophical and human moments together, taking you on a meaningful journey of spiritual awakening like you've never experienced before. Although the pacing increases in specific chapters, the overall flow is maintained, keeping readers engaged by a narrative teeming with drama and introspective growth. I like that each main character evolves organically. Each of their backstories offers something profound to ponder over, and they equally harbor deep inner struggles that they must overcome while learning to work together as a unified team. I wholeheartedly believe that Namuh (Book 1) will be appreciated by readers who prefer cerebral journeys with a character-driven cast and an emotional tug. This novel certainly paves the way for an intriguing future saga that I'm very eager to follow up on.

Jefto Pierre

Imagine a world on the verge of total ruin due to ecological collapse and political unrest—a world almost devoid of hope and full of despair. Desmond Knipe creatively shapes and shares this poignant reality with readers in Namuh, Book 1: The Awakening. Miraculously, the solution to this dying world lies in the hands of five people gifted with phenomenal supernatural powers. Although Michael, Tara, Sophia, Apollo, and Brahma originate from different parts of the globe, their unique capabilities make them Earth's last hope for survival. The planet itself has summoned them to heal it. They each feel a strong connection to a large, ancient Kauri tree growing in New Zealand and are all part of a bigger mystery that exists beyond them. Guided by an enigmatic presence, will they be brave enough to fulfill their true destiny?

Namuh, Book 1: The Awakening by Desmond Knipe is an intriguing philosophical novel steeped in mysticism, sci-fi elements, and human connectivity. It's the type of novel that you'll want to immerse yourself in for hours, while it activates every component of your brain. Through the lives and distinct backstories of the characters, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact of trauma, inner healing, transformation, and authentic interactions. The issue of trust is subtly woven into the narrative. The five protagonists are not only tasked with trusting each other—they must boldly embark on an extraordinary metaphysical journey that may challenge their very worldviews and the reality they know. The psychological intensity of this story runs deep, and I appreciated every thought-provoking moment. Readers who enjoy digesting novels with spiritual and emotional depth will undoubtedly appreciate this series.

Eric Ferrar

Desmond Knipe's Namuh, Book 1: The Awakening takes place in a futuristic world where human disconnection and environmental issues are common, recurring trends. The story focuses on Michael, Tara, Brahma, Apollo, and Sophia: five strangers from different countries around the world who share a unique psychic ability. Each protagonist is psychically drawn to an ancient Kauri tree found in New Zealand, but none of them seems to know why. As they gradually become acquainted with each other, they discover their true purpose. They are destined to guide humankind through a revolutionary spiritual change that could change the outcome of the entire universe itself. This unusual group, Namuh, must work together, master their skills, and face the forces that threaten the human race.

Desmond Knipe has a talent for creative writing! He skillfully merges spiritual philosophy with futuristic ideas in a way that feels inventive and original. This book does a compelling job of portraying complex psychological concepts while still holding the reader's attention. I am impressed by the amount of thought that went into the characters’ histories and story arcs. Characters like Michael, Brahma, and Apollo bring intensity and emotional variety to the plot in a way that never feels overstated, but adds heart to the storyline. If books like The Four Agreements and A New Earth "speak" to you on a profound level, this book will readily do the same. The pacing is moderate, with a well-timed blend of soul-searching and critical thinking. Overall, if you prefer narratives that exercise your mind, Namuh, Book 1: The Awakening is the right novel for you.

Clarita B.

NAMUH is unlike anything I’ve read in recent memory. It begins in a mysterious forest in New Zealand, but it quickly unravels into a metaphysical, technological, and spiritual journey that blends science fiction with deep mysticism. The characters are strikingly unique, each harboring gifts that mark them for something greater.

What really impressed me was the sheer scope of the world Desmond Knipe has built. From psychic phenomena to future-forward technologies like personal aerial vehicles and magnetic dining tables, the detail is both immersive and imaginative. Michael’s backstory in particular is harrowing and unforgettable.

I’d recommend this to readers who crave layered world-building and don’t mind philosophical detours. NAMUH is not a passive read, but one that asks you to engage with its vision of humanity and purpose.

Daisy George

Michael is one of the most compelling characters I’ve encountered in a while. His past, filled with tragedy, revenge, and raw trauma, gives NAMUH a darker edge that contrasts beautifully with the novel’s larger spiritual journey. His “Mystic Warrior” moniker is well-earned.

Desmond Knipe writes with cinematic clarity. Action scenes feel like they're lifted straight from a movie, and the quieter moments hold emotional depth. The pacing is unusual, at times slow, reflective, and then suddenly pulsing with urgency.

For readers who appreciate sci-fi that leans philosophical and psychological, NAMUH is a rare gem. Stick with it, the rewards are deep.

Lulu Brown

This book took me by surprise. What starts as a gathering of strangers quickly spirals into a grand mission to shift humanity’s path. The lore is intricate, touching on reincarnation, spiritual contracts, and universal alignment,
big themes handled with conviction.

The world-building is immersive, with futuristic technologies integrated seamlessly into everyday life. I especially loved the concept of gel batteries and the Qoto vehicle ecosystem. It all felt like a believable next step in our evolution.

If you liked The Celestine Prophecy or The Fifth Sacred Thing, NAMUH will resonate. It's speculative fiction with a purpose.

William Frances

There’s a raw, unapologetic energy to this book that I admired. Michael’s backstory is intense, violent, and deeply emotional. His journey from vengeance to vulnerability is one of the strongest arcs I’ve read in a debut.

The narrative sometimes jumps in time and tone, but that adds to the sense of mystery and transformation. It’s not always clear what’s real and what’s energetic or symbolic, and that’s kind of the point.

Recommended for fans of Altered Carbon or Cloud Atlas, this one bends genre and expectations in satisfying ways.

Kelly Payton

This book took me by surprise. What started as an intriguing multi-POV narrative turned into a full-blown metaphysical odyssey. Desmond Knipe understands that real battles are fought on inner terrain.

It’s raw, intense, and utterly unafraid. Read this if you want sci-fi that asks bigger questions than “who wins”, and gives you goosebumps in the process.