The Vitality Code by Michael Oehley Synopsis

Front cover, THE VITALITY CODE by Michael Oehley

The 2025 Revised Edition of my second novel, The Vitality Code, is now also available in eBook format, with the paperback edition not far away, either. Here is a summary of the plot of what was my favourite book until I wrote The Circle of Twelve:

The Vitality Code by Michael Oehley is a middle-grade/young adult novel that blends space opera with epic fantasy, following eleven-year-old Daren Sáner as he grapples with elemental powers, a mysterious jewel, and the weight of prophecy. The story alternates between the futuristic starship Súperia, where a deadly plague threatens humanity’s survival, and a medieval past life in which Daren - living as the orphaned Adarenas - must rally seven companions to defend an empire on the brink of invasion. Across both worlds, recurring friendships, reincarnation, and the riddle-like “code of vitality” underscore themes of destiny, courage, and the search for identity.

Adarenas, protagonist of THE VITALITY CODE

Major themes in The Vitality Code include leadership under pressure, the struggle for self-acceptance, and the tension between logic and faith, science and magic. With its mix of prophecy, riddles, symbolic artefacts, and dual-world narrative, it speaks to readers who enjoy the mythic sweep of Rick Riordan or Garth Nix combined with the moral dilemmas of classic space adventure.

An AI-assisted summary of the book states: "The tone is fast-paced and often humorous, balanced by moments of pathos and suspense. Overall, The Vitality Code delivers a rich, layered narrative well-suited to tweens and teens who crave both thrilling adventure and deeper reflections on friendship, responsibility, and the meaning of destiny."

I have always been very proud of The Vitality Code for its tightly woven, fast-paced and action-packed plot. This is an adventure for all ages, boys and girls, and anyone who enjoys a mixture of science fantasy. Get your eBook copy here - and watch this space for the release of the paperback Revised Edition, soon.