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Zeus is Dead #2
Zeus Is Undead: This One Has Zombies
Sometimes all a fallen goddess needs to regain her power is a trusty sword and a worldwide zombie apocalypse…
Athena’s had a rough eighteen months. Formerly goddess of wisdom, battle, and crafts, her divinity has been revoked. Zeus no longer trusts her, and a 7-foot ice cream sundae now holds her honored position as his bodyguard. Yet when the dead start rising from the grave without authorization, things start looking up. What better way to prove her worth to Zeus than to solve the zombie problem?
Even so, it sure as Hades won’t be easy. No one knows why the dead are rising, why Zeus can’t eradicate them, nor why Australia remains zombie-free. Meanwhile, the Goddess of Strife is treating Athena like a chew toy. Worse, Leif and Tracy, two mortals whom the Muses insist be involved, refuse to help. If Athena can’t smack some sense into the situation, she may well become undead herself! (Also, global zombie domination, mortal extinction, no more football, et cetera. Bad stuff.)
At long last, it’s a hilarious return to the irreverent, award-winning fantasy world of Zeus Is Dead. Greek gods in the 21st century meet brain-munching cadavers in Zeus Is Undead: This One Has Zombies!
Athena’s had a rough eighteen months. Formerly goddess of wisdom, battle, and crafts, her divinity has been revoked. Zeus no longer trusts her, and a 7-foot ice cream sundae now holds her honored position as his bodyguard. Yet when the dead start rising from the grave without authorization, things start looking up. What better way to prove her worth to Zeus than to solve the zombie problem?
Even so, it sure as Hades won’t be easy. No one knows why the dead are rising, why Zeus can’t eradicate them, nor why Australia remains zombie-free. Meanwhile, the Goddess of Strife is treating Athena like a chew toy. Worse, Leif and Tracy, two mortals whom the Muses insist be involved, refuse to help. If Athena can’t smack some sense into the situation, she may well become undead herself! (Also, global zombie domination, mortal extinction, no more football, et cetera. Bad stuff.)
At long last, it’s a hilarious return to the irreverent, award-winning fantasy world of Zeus Is Dead. Greek gods in the 21st century meet brain-munching cadavers in Zeus Is Undead: This One Has Zombies!
410 pages, Paperback
First published February 27, 2019
95 people are currently reading
220 people want to read
About the author
Michael G. Munz
8 books109 followersAn award-winning writer of speculative fiction, Michael G. Munz was born in Pennsylvania but moved to Washington State in 1977 at the age of three. Unable to escape the state’s gravity, he has spent most of his life there and studied writing at the University of Washington.
Michael developed his creative bug in college, writing and filming four exceedingly amateur films before setting his sights on becoming a novelist. Driving this goal is the desire to tell entertaining stories that give to others the same pleasure as other writers have given to him. He enjoys writing tales that combine the modern world with the futuristic or fantastic.
Michael has traveled to three continents, and has an interest in Celtic and Classical mythology. He also possesses what most "normal" people would likely deem far too much familiarity with a wide range of geek culture, though Michael prefers the term geek-bard: a jack of all geek-trades, but master of none—except possibly Farscape and Twin Peaks.
Michael dwells in Seattle where he continues his quest to write the most entertaining novel known to humankind and find a really fantastic clam linguine.
Michael developed his creative bug in college, writing and filming four exceedingly amateur films before setting his sights on becoming a novelist. Driving this goal is the desire to tell entertaining stories that give to others the same pleasure as other writers have given to him. He enjoys writing tales that combine the modern world with the futuristic or fantastic.
Michael has traveled to three continents, and has an interest in Celtic and Classical mythology. He also possesses what most "normal" people would likely deem far too much familiarity with a wide range of geek culture, though Michael prefers the term geek-bard: a jack of all geek-trades, but master of none—except possibly Farscape and Twin Peaks.
Michael dwells in Seattle where he continues his quest to write the most entertaining novel known to humankind and find a really fantastic clam linguine.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 27, 2019
When you kracken open a book by Michael G. Munz you have to expect the unexpected and accept the fact that conventions will be broken, you may even find yourself craving an ice cream sundae.
It has been a while since my last epic quest with Leif and Tracy. I was ready to have a few good laughs, and Munz obliged. After only a few chapters my wife invoked her “stop interrupting me rule,” I was compelled to feed her the never-ending cheese buffet.
Zeus Is Undead is a perfect example of Munz’s skill as an author, his creation of a fun, engaging story filled with groaner jokes and characters who know they are in a story. I appreciate it when an author turns writing conventions on their heads. Who says you can’t do that? Why can’t a character talk to me, I talk to them enough.
Munz did lose me with one convention. When I’m reading a story about the Greek gods the story shouldn’t be about the gods! The story is about the mortals, the gods simply show up as it suits them. They can help the hero out of a bind or throw a wrench at them; more often than not they simply talk about doing things without ever getting around to doing anything. Immortals just have no sense of urgency, I think that it goes along with having all the time in the world.
Zeus Is Undead is not Leif and Tracy’s story. Oh they are there, but in more of a secondary role. I would have liked to have seen them take on a more important role, or perhaps even a new mortal or two to take center stage for the gods to pester and harass. But what do I know?
In the end, Zeus Is Undead was fun. I had some good chuckles and a couple of belly laughs. It did its job.
It has been a while since my last epic quest with Leif and Tracy. I was ready to have a few good laughs, and Munz obliged. After only a few chapters my wife invoked her “stop interrupting me rule,” I was compelled to feed her the never-ending cheese buffet.
Zeus Is Undead is a perfect example of Munz’s skill as an author, his creation of a fun, engaging story filled with groaner jokes and characters who know they are in a story. I appreciate it when an author turns writing conventions on their heads. Who says you can’t do that? Why can’t a character talk to me, I talk to them enough.
Munz did lose me with one convention. When I’m reading a story about the Greek gods the story shouldn’t be about the gods! The story is about the mortals, the gods simply show up as it suits them. They can help the hero out of a bind or throw a wrench at them; more often than not they simply talk about doing things without ever getting around to doing anything. Immortals just have no sense of urgency, I think that it goes along with having all the time in the world.
Zeus Is Undead is not Leif and Tracy’s story. Oh they are there, but in more of a secondary role. I would have liked to have seen them take on a more important role, or perhaps even a new mortal or two to take center stage for the gods to pester and harass. But what do I know?
In the end, Zeus Is Undead was fun. I had some good chuckles and a couple of belly laughs. It did its job.
August 6, 2019
I loved the first book.. this book.. was very solid, but not quite up to par.. took me a little longer to get through and was a little more "aware" of itself in a way that was endearing in book 1, but felt a little forced in this one. Still very enjoyable, and I'd still happily read a 3rd book in this world (and 4th.. etc)
May 6, 2019
Buckle up and sit down to read Zeus is Undead when you're fresh and alert, otherwise you'll miss out on the little gems Michael G. Munz has sprinkled throughout. This installment occurs after the events of the Zeus is Dead book; Zeus is newly undead (as in not-dead), has rewarded the faithful and punished those who collaborated in his previous death. Athena has been rendered immortal, but no longer divine, which means things hurt a lot more than they used to when she battles. The storyline loosely follows her quests to improve standing with Zeus in order to be divine once more. To improve prospects of a movie deal for the book (as well as pull-through sales for the previous book), two mortals are also engaged to help out. Together (mostly) they have to deal with an upsurge in zombie activity while Zeus is preoccupied by Lovecraftian cosmic entities, making demands backed by incriminating footage of Zeus doing what he does best. Hera will not be amused.
I enjoyed Zeus is Undead very much indeed. Seriously, read it slow because the density of jokes, mythic or business references, and puns are non-stop. Michael G. Munz has produced a rollicking tale which ranks among those of Douglas Adams, Terry Pratchett, and Piers Anthony. Since the best two of those three are no longer writing books, for their own personal reasons, there is definitely a market and ample room for Munz's efforts. I'm now motivated, by Baskin's Mighty Pink Battle-Spoon™ (chortle), to find some ice cream and read the previous book as well. (Reviewed for Readers' Favorite)
I enjoyed Zeus is Undead very much indeed. Seriously, read it slow because the density of jokes, mythic or business references, and puns are non-stop. Michael G. Munz has produced a rollicking tale which ranks among those of Douglas Adams, Terry Pratchett, and Piers Anthony. Since the best two of those three are no longer writing books, for their own personal reasons, there is definitely a market and ample room for Munz's efforts. I'm now motivated, by Baskin's Mighty Pink Battle-Spoon™ (chortle), to find some ice cream and read the previous book as well. (Reviewed for Readers' Favorite)
May 18, 2021
4.5 stars really.
The world is recovering from the return of the Olympians. Adjustments need to be made - especially for those Olympians that Zeus is punishing by stripping them temporarily of their divinity.
Athena is one such punished. She's grumpy about that. Who wouldn't when you've been the bodyguard of the King of the Gods for millennia only to be replaced by a sentient Ice Cream Sundae?
But then the dead start rising and infecting the world (except for Australia). Seeing her chance to get back in Zeus' good graces, Athena sets out to find out what is causing the chaos, taking along with her Zeus' mortal daughter and her business partner.
Meanwhile, Cosmic entities are threatening Earth unless Zeus produces Hecate. But there's a slight problem as the goddess died in the previous book.
What are gods supposed to do but posture greatly, throw off great one-liners and hope something happens?
****************
I loved the first book and this book was just as good. I was constantly chuckling as I read it and sharing quotes on my Facebook page. It helps to have read the first book and I highly encourage that if you like humor mixed with irreverent mythology you should read both books right away.
The world is recovering from the return of the Olympians. Adjustments need to be made - especially for those Olympians that Zeus is punishing by stripping them temporarily of their divinity.
Athena is one such punished. She's grumpy about that. Who wouldn't when you've been the bodyguard of the King of the Gods for millennia only to be replaced by a sentient Ice Cream Sundae?
But then the dead start rising and infecting the world (except for Australia). Seeing her chance to get back in Zeus' good graces, Athena sets out to find out what is causing the chaos, taking along with her Zeus' mortal daughter and her business partner.
Meanwhile, Cosmic entities are threatening Earth unless Zeus produces Hecate. But there's a slight problem as the goddess died in the previous book.
What are gods supposed to do but posture greatly, throw off great one-liners and hope something happens?
****************
I loved the first book and this book was just as good. I was constantly chuckling as I read it and sharing quotes on my Facebook page. It helps to have read the first book and I highly encourage that if you like humor mixed with irreverent mythology you should read both books right away.
February 28, 2019
Disclaimer: I was lucky and received an advance copy from the publisher.
Munz has nailed it again with this sequel to Zeus is Dead. Whether it is Athena trying to get his divinity back or Leif trying to get his movie made, the humor comes fast and furious. And while zombies have become an almost stale staple of modern culture, Munz is able to use them with humor and wit.
As before the 4th wall isn’t even a speed bump, and that’s a substantial part of what makes this work. Munz cheerfully inserts the humorous notes that turn this from a typical funny novel into one that brings out the laughter. His writing has also matured since Zeus and flows smoothly.
So if you are looking for a light-hearted look at zombies and the Greek pantheon ( or even are just looking for a good read), may I suggest Zeus is Undead: This One Has Zombies. You’re sure to leave chuckling.
Munz has nailed it again with this sequel to Zeus is Dead. Whether it is Athena trying to get his divinity back or Leif trying to get his movie made, the humor comes fast and furious. And while zombies have become an almost stale staple of modern culture, Munz is able to use them with humor and wit.
As before the 4th wall isn’t even a speed bump, and that’s a substantial part of what makes this work. Munz cheerfully inserts the humorous notes that turn this from a typical funny novel into one that brings out the laughter. His writing has also matured since Zeus and flows smoothly.
So if you are looking for a light-hearted look at zombies and the Greek pantheon ( or even are just looking for a good read), may I suggest Zeus is Undead: This One Has Zombies. You’re sure to leave chuckling.
August 7, 2020
This is a sequel, and while not totally necessary, it is helpful to have read the first book in the series (Zeus Is Dead). If you are fan of Greek mythology, you going to be in heaven (or Olympus). This book deals with the fall-out from the first book, including the un-divination of several gods and goddesses and the actual killing of one god, and once again our two favorite (?) mortals are pulled into the action, unwillingly as usual. Be ready to meet a bunch of new lesser gods and goddesses. One of the fun things about this book - no swearing. Really! Munz finds some of the most clever ways to create an alternate (mythology appropriate) vocabulary for swearing. The book is action packed, because, as mentioned in the title - this one has zombies! Fun read. Perfectly fine for teens - although there is some vague sex talk (I mean, this is about Zeus) - but nothing explicit.
February 17, 2019
Thanks to the author for sending me an advance copy!
The first in the series was a hoot, but this raised the stakes by throwing in Zombies! A dash of Greek mythology, zombie movie, extra Sci-Fi strangeness, and again that very specific sense of humor. It is pretty specific, but also adds a bit more social commentary in a lovely sneaky way. Fun and not taking itself seriously. In this entry, some time has passed and Zeus has honored his agreement to withdraw again. Zombies have appeared and they somehow are getting worse like they are part of the natural order. Athena works to fix this to regain Zeus's favor and her divinity. Tracy and Leif get roped in once again because Muses and sequels, duh. It is ridiculous but in the best possible way
The first in the series was a hoot, but this raised the stakes by throwing in Zombies! A dash of Greek mythology, zombie movie, extra Sci-Fi strangeness, and again that very specific sense of humor. It is pretty specific, but also adds a bit more social commentary in a lovely sneaky way. Fun and not taking itself seriously. In this entry, some time has passed and Zeus has honored his agreement to withdraw again. Zombies have appeared and they somehow are getting worse like they are part of the natural order. Athena works to fix this to regain Zeus's favor and her divinity. Tracy and Leif get roped in once again because Muses and sequels, duh. It is ridiculous but in the best possible way
April 1, 2019
Another spectacular comic novel
This beautifully researched, hilarious novel, is an absolute pleasure to read. The asides alone are worth the price of admission. Munz clearly knows his mythology, and has a warped, wild imagination to boot.
I’m not a Zombie-lit fan, but here they’re a fun, silly addition to a crazy-complex plot. How the author manages to corral all his characters into the story is a mystery, but herd them he does, and provides more lunatic plots and imaginary weaponry than one book can hold.
When the real world gets to be too much, take a break in Zeus is Undead. (Though doesn’t Baskin, the ice-cream-spoon-wielding bodyguard, when he’s temporarily possessed, sound a bit like a current politician?)
This beautifully researched, hilarious novel, is an absolute pleasure to read. The asides alone are worth the price of admission. Munz clearly knows his mythology, and has a warped, wild imagination to boot.
I’m not a Zombie-lit fan, but here they’re a fun, silly addition to a crazy-complex plot. How the author manages to corral all his characters into the story is a mystery, but herd them he does, and provides more lunatic plots and imaginary weaponry than one book can hold.
When the real world gets to be too much, take a break in Zeus is Undead. (Though doesn’t Baskin, the ice-cream-spoon-wielding bodyguard, when he’s temporarily possessed, sound a bit like a current politician?)
April 20, 2019
Mr. Munz does it again. Why aren't we surprised?
This sequel to Zeus is Dead has the same sense of the absurd as the first novel. It is mainly about Tracy and Leif trying to get the rights to make a movie about their adventures in the first book, when everything goes wrong and they are caught in the middle of a Zombie apocalypse. Zeus has his hands full, having exiled or undefined several of those who plotted his murder or failed to prevent it. New characters are added, including The Fates and their office assistant Poppy, the Gray Sisters, and The Quacken. There are battles in space and on Olympus itself. There are twists and turns that are fun and surprising. All together a good read.
This sequel to Zeus is Dead has the same sense of the absurd as the first novel. It is mainly about Tracy and Leif trying to get the rights to make a movie about their adventures in the first book, when everything goes wrong and they are caught in the middle of a Zombie apocalypse. Zeus has his hands full, having exiled or undefined several of those who plotted his murder or failed to prevent it. New characters are added, including The Fates and their office assistant Poppy, the Gray Sisters, and The Quacken. There are battles in space and on Olympus itself. There are twists and turns that are fun and surprising. All together a good read.
February 26, 2019
The previous book, Zeus is Dead, was one of the best things I've read in ages, so the notion of a sequel had me from the start. Yes, there were, indeed, zombies, but more important would be the characters that returned from the first book. Who doesn't love a sentient, and somewhat bombastic, ice cream cone??!!! I tried to consider whether this book could be truly appreciated without having read the previous story. Probably. But, if you haven't read the previous story, get out there and read it! And then read this one....and laugh maniacally the whole time. Or, perhaps, that was just me.
March 1, 2019
First I LOL'ed...
...Then I ROTFL'ed, which was a tad awkward since I was on an airplane while reading it. And I didn't even have the aisle seat.
Much as I loved Zeus Is Dead, this one may be better. The punny, witty banter...the gods and goddesses...did I mention the zombies? The former cast is back and hoping for a life without the gods. Until, you know...zombies. My favorite character changes with each chapter, though I do have a soft spot for the sarcasm of Athena (just don't tell her) and the daftness of Demeter (seriously, she can come make me cookies in any global crisis).
If you enjoyed the first book, you will definitely enjoy the Jerry outta this one!
...Then I ROTFL'ed, which was a tad awkward since I was on an airplane while reading it. And I didn't even have the aisle seat.
Much as I loved Zeus Is Dead, this one may be better. The punny, witty banter...the gods and goddesses...did I mention the zombies? The former cast is back and hoping for a life without the gods. Until, you know...zombies. My favorite character changes with each chapter, though I do have a soft spot for the sarcasm of Athena (just don't tell her) and the daftness of Demeter (seriously, she can come make me cookies in any global crisis).
If you enjoyed the first book, you will definitely enjoy the Jerry outta this one!
November 8, 2020
Is this what passes for comedy these days?
I saw the reviews; about how funny and charming this book was....uh, did I get a different book? This thing was TERRIBLE from jump. I made it a few chapters, until Zeus was making dad jokes at a BBQ for the gods, and I had to cut my losses. NO idea why this was so highly rated.
I saw the reviews; about how funny and charming this book was....uh, did I get a different book? This thing was TERRIBLE from jump. I made it a few chapters, until Zeus was making dad jokes at a BBQ for the gods, and I had to cut my losses. NO idea why this was so highly rated.
April 26, 2021
I actually didn't quite finish. I'd reached a point ~80% where I started heavily skimming, to 'see how it ends', but by 90% realized I didn't know enough about what happened anymore to for 'how it ends' to matter or make sense.
There's a lot of funny stuff here, but it's just too much. Too many little funny add-ins that the story itself got completely overwhelmed and lost.
There's a lot of funny stuff here, but it's just too much. Too many little funny add-ins that the story itself got completely overwhelmed and lost.
May 13, 2019
Again super enjoyable. I do think though that it would have benefitted from an editor and being split into two separate books - there's too much going on, too many characters and storylines, and that makes it occasionally hard to follow, plus leads to some dissatisfaction at the end.
July 10, 2019
I really loved this book, but really had to push to get through it and I'm not sure why. Usually I give up after a few pages, but this time I wanted to persevere and I'm glad I did. So, good book, but slow read for me.
October 19, 2021
Fun read
A zombie apocolypse that helped me get thru 2020 and the start of 2021. Worth a read if you just want to laugh at a book of constant one liners and get a massive dose of mythology.
A zombie apocolypse that helped me get thru 2020 and the start of 2021. Worth a read if you just want to laugh at a book of constant one liners and get a massive dose of mythology.
February 25, 2022
The zombie genre meets the new age Greek pantheon
The new age Greek pantheon have a zombie infestation, usual tangled family inter-relation issues, search for the answer, keep smelling dark chocolate, and to quote ome of the protagonists...'ZOG'
The new age Greek pantheon have a zombie infestation, usual tangled family inter-relation issues, search for the answer, keep smelling dark chocolate, and to quote ome of the protagonists...'ZOG'
February 14, 2024
This book is as good as the first book. The humor is incredible and the characters are strong! The plot twist is so unexpected and unique! Everything ties together in the end of the book with shock value!
March 5, 2019
A fun read that is highly amusing. I enjoyed the satire and pop culture references. If you want good laughs and a break from the realities of real life, Zeus is Undead is for you.
May 21, 2019
More of the same, a continuation of book 1. Another very funny read. Loved it.
August 20, 2019
Make sure you read the first book "Zeus is Dead" so you know what the Jerry is going on!
September 4, 2019
I am sure that somewhere in these books, one could learn some things about mythology. Very funny and worth the read.
November 29, 2019
Enjoyable romp.
August 1, 2022
Zeus Is Undead: This One Has Zombies is the follow-up to Zeus Is Dead: A Monstrously Inconvenient Adventure, a book I enjoyed much more than I thought I would. So I came into the second book with higher expectations, and I'm pleased to report I wasn't let down.
Zeus is Undead brings back your favourite characters from the first book while expanding the mythological cast to include The Gray, Sisters, The Fates, as well as Ninja Templar, Ryan Seth Sloude and even some Lovecraftian Horrors from outside our Galaxy. They are all fun and well-rounded; they reminded me very much of the characters in the video game Hades which is no bad thing.
Like the first book, the jokes come to think fast, so if you don't like one, you don't have to wait long until something comes along that will make you laugh. The fourth wall breaking won't be for everyone, but I love it. So yeah, if you enjoyed the first one, this is more of the same but with a bigger scope and more zombies. What's not to like?
Zeus is Undead brings back your favourite characters from the first book while expanding the mythological cast to include The Gray, Sisters, The Fates, as well as Ninja Templar, Ryan Seth Sloude and even some Lovecraftian Horrors from outside our Galaxy. They are all fun and well-rounded; they reminded me very much of the characters in the video game Hades which is no bad thing.
Like the first book, the jokes come to think fast, so if you don't like one, you don't have to wait long until something comes along that will make you laugh. The fourth wall breaking won't be for everyone, but I love it. So yeah, if you enjoyed the first one, this is more of the same but with a bigger scope and more zombies. What's not to like?
October 10, 2019
Love this series, a laugh out good read
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews