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End Realm
"In End Realm, Tyler J. Welch delivers a thrilling, layered, epic story, filled with twists and turns in one of the most imaginative novels I've read in years!"
-Steve Stred, 2X Splatterpunk Nominated author of Mastodon and Churn the Soil
"Fans of mythology will enjoy this thrilling tale of adventure and horror. Brace yourself as you follow the harrowing journey of a desperate man hell-bent on escaping the afterlife."
-Robin Knabel - Inky Bones Press
A man finds himself in a dark unfamiliar world of starlit rivers and black obsidian landscapes, with only two golden coins as his possessions and no memory of who he is or where he comes from. He soon learns he is in a place called the End Realm from the monstrous boatman on the River Styx, who delivers him to his final the Lowest, the worst prison in Tartarus. But his damnation to the Lowest doesn't make sense, and most entities agree that he is not meant to be in the realm at all.
With the mysterious appearance of a ring on his left hand, he takes this as a hint at his past . . . and a spouse he doesn't remember. This possibility spurs him to traverse the treacherous afterlife-a place where heaven and hell are one and angels and demons both hold great power-in search of a way out so he can do what he wants more than get back to his wife still breathing in the living world, even if that means seeking help from the Devil-God himself.
-Steve Stred, 2X Splatterpunk Nominated author of Mastodon and Churn the Soil
"Fans of mythology will enjoy this thrilling tale of adventure and horror. Brace yourself as you follow the harrowing journey of a desperate man hell-bent on escaping the afterlife."
-Robin Knabel - Inky Bones Press
A man finds himself in a dark unfamiliar world of starlit rivers and black obsidian landscapes, with only two golden coins as his possessions and no memory of who he is or where he comes from. He soon learns he is in a place called the End Realm from the monstrous boatman on the River Styx, who delivers him to his final the Lowest, the worst prison in Tartarus. But his damnation to the Lowest doesn't make sense, and most entities agree that he is not meant to be in the realm at all.
With the mysterious appearance of a ring on his left hand, he takes this as a hint at his past . . . and a spouse he doesn't remember. This possibility spurs him to traverse the treacherous afterlife-a place where heaven and hell are one and angels and demons both hold great power-in search of a way out so he can do what he wants more than get back to his wife still breathing in the living world, even if that means seeking help from the Devil-God himself.
231 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2024
About the author
Tyler J. Welch
6 books10 followersWhen Tyler J. Welch isn't secluded in his Wisconsin dwelling, he can be found deeply engrossed within captivating forests and fog-smothered marshlands—embracing the depth of the world. It’s in these secluded corners where he has found inspiration, developing ways to imbue his writing and photography with a distinctive dark artistic style. His work is unique and enticing, pulling us all to find the haunting secrets hidden within.
He lives with his loving wife and two sons, despises stark cold winters, and is in constant search for immortality.
He lives with his loving wife and two sons, despises stark cold winters, and is in constant search for immortality.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
November 1, 2024
Thank you so much Tyler for asking if I'd like the chance to read your book for an honest review!
The premise of End Realm is what drew me in. Our main character wakes up in the End Realm with a journey to Tartarus. He has no memories, including his own name. He has no idea where he is and all he has with him are two golden coins. While on the River Styx he is gifted a ring which takes place on his left hand ring finger, leaving him more confused on whether he has a spouse or is this just a ring. The MMC takes this ring as a sign for having a partner which becomes a main drive in pushing him into finding their lost memories.
This book did start a little slow for me, and I would say that's because this writing style reminds me of King. More specifically the attention to detail on the surrounding world and imagery. I really enjoyed the blend of horror and mythology. There's certain characters like Lunacyre where the description of their face was so interesting to me.
I also wanted to mention that I think it's cool to see some of the author's personality reflect through our main character and their dialogue.
My only drawback from rating higher would be, in the beginning of the book we get a new perspective POV from Chronos and Michael. While in this shift it left me a little confused at first, because it wasn't clear who was speaking until about a couple pages later.
I definitely would suggest this if you like mythology, horror, sci-fy vibes.
The premise of End Realm is what drew me in. Our main character wakes up in the End Realm with a journey to Tartarus. He has no memories, including his own name. He has no idea where he is and all he has with him are two golden coins. While on the River Styx he is gifted a ring which takes place on his left hand ring finger, leaving him more confused on whether he has a spouse or is this just a ring. The MMC takes this ring as a sign for having a partner which becomes a main drive in pushing him into finding their lost memories.
This book did start a little slow for me, and I would say that's because this writing style reminds me of King. More specifically the attention to detail on the surrounding world and imagery. I really enjoyed the blend of horror and mythology. There's certain characters like Lunacyre where the description of their face was so interesting to me.
I also wanted to mention that I think it's cool to see some of the author's personality reflect through our main character and their dialogue.
My only drawback from rating higher would be, in the beginning of the book we get a new perspective POV from Chronos and Michael. While in this shift it left me a little confused at first, because it wasn't clear who was speaking until about a couple pages later.
I definitely would suggest this if you like mythology, horror, sci-fy vibes.
November 10, 2024
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an advanced reader copy of this lovely, dark, cosmic horror!
End Realm is a unique cosmic horror sci-fi - its lyrical prose and vivid imagery plunges you into its dark depths. The story follows a diverse group of characters, each facing their own challenges in an unrelenting setting. Welch does a great job of causing the reader to genuinely care about their journeys, and you'll find yourself rooting for them as they navigate trial after trial. Chronos might be one of my favorite fantasy book characters - who doesn’t love an insect humanoid!?
One of the things that stood out to me most about End Realm is how it mixes thrilling action with deeper questions about existence and, well….choice. As the characters are making these difficult decisions, I found myself reflecting on my own life. Welch's world-building is vibrant and immersive, with alien landscapes that are strikingly unique. I really loved the boatman and Devil-God was pretty damn epic. You can tell that the mythology in this is really well researched and fit well with the plot.
I struggled a bit with the pacing, particularly in the middle. Although, I think fans of sci-fi and those who love and are used to exploring new worlds, End Realm is going to be a thoroughly enjoyable read. Tyler has crafted a heartfelt, and at times, brutal story that balances action and genuine characters. Horror fans, if you loved Black Farm, you’ll dig this. Bravo Tyler!
4/5
End Realm is a unique cosmic horror sci-fi - its lyrical prose and vivid imagery plunges you into its dark depths. The story follows a diverse group of characters, each facing their own challenges in an unrelenting setting. Welch does a great job of causing the reader to genuinely care about their journeys, and you'll find yourself rooting for them as they navigate trial after trial. Chronos might be one of my favorite fantasy book characters - who doesn’t love an insect humanoid!?
One of the things that stood out to me most about End Realm is how it mixes thrilling action with deeper questions about existence and, well….choice. As the characters are making these difficult decisions, I found myself reflecting on my own life. Welch's world-building is vibrant and immersive, with alien landscapes that are strikingly unique. I really loved the boatman and Devil-God was pretty damn epic. You can tell that the mythology in this is really well researched and fit well with the plot.
I struggled a bit with the pacing, particularly in the middle. Although, I think fans of sci-fi and those who love and are used to exploring new worlds, End Realm is going to be a thoroughly enjoyable read. Tyler has crafted a heartfelt, and at times, brutal story that balances action and genuine characters. Horror fans, if you loved Black Farm, you’ll dig this. Bravo Tyler!
4/5
November 25, 2025
A mythological horror story with Gods, Goblins and Gore! Splatter Punk fans will really dig this one. Hell sure is a bloody place.
This story is not without heart. There are some beautiful contemplative moments about what it is to be human.
The only critique I had was that I thought it could be a little longer? The end came quickly, but also kinda leave room for a sequel! There’s some HILARIOUS dialogue in here as well.
This story is not without heart. There are some beautiful contemplative moments about what it is to be human.
The only critique I had was that I thought it could be a little longer? The end came quickly, but also kinda leave room for a sequel! There’s some HILARIOUS dialogue in here as well.
April 8, 2026
On the outside this book is a high-stakes odyssey, but the heart of the story is loyalty, love and finding our way back to the things that matter to us most and what makes us human.
I typically read horror, literary fiction or a mix of the two, but this year I am trying to branch out into horror subgenres, and I was pleasantly surprised by the mix of horror, adventure and mythology this book had.
I can’t believe this book was only 222 pages because it packed an incredible punch and fit so much story in without ever feeling bogged down or info dumpy. It was an ambitious debut novel, but I think Welch nailed it. There were parts where I wanted more and honestly would have read a 1,500-page tome to spend more time with these characters. Particularly I wanted to see the main character’s year long stint in Tartarus. As grim as it was, I wanted more gore and grit.
I can honestly say I’ve never read anything like it. The characters and world building gave me The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth vibes but modernized if that makes any sense.
The backdrop and mythology of this world are deep-dive worthy, and particularly I couldn’t get enough of Sidus. I want a solo book of her following someone around. Literally anyone. I loved the small vignettes of other characters which made them feel well rounded even when we didn’t spend much time with them.
The only thing I wanted more of is time in this world. I can’t wait to see what Welch has in store for his readers next and hopefully we will return to End Realm again!
I typically read horror, literary fiction or a mix of the two, but this year I am trying to branch out into horror subgenres, and I was pleasantly surprised by the mix of horror, adventure and mythology this book had.
I can’t believe this book was only 222 pages because it packed an incredible punch and fit so much story in without ever feeling bogged down or info dumpy. It was an ambitious debut novel, but I think Welch nailed it. There were parts where I wanted more and honestly would have read a 1,500-page tome to spend more time with these characters. Particularly I wanted to see the main character’s year long stint in Tartarus. As grim as it was, I wanted more gore and grit.
I can honestly say I’ve never read anything like it. The characters and world building gave me The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth vibes but modernized if that makes any sense.
The backdrop and mythology of this world are deep-dive worthy, and particularly I couldn’t get enough of Sidus. I want a solo book of her following someone around. Literally anyone. I loved the small vignettes of other characters which made them feel well rounded even when we didn’t spend much time with them.
The only thing I wanted more of is time in this world. I can’t wait to see what Welch has in store for his readers next and hopefully we will return to End Realm again!
December 31, 2024
I had the chance to hear the author speak at a bookstore and was so impressed with the book from the excerpt he read (Karhan ferrying him at the beginning). I kind of wish the whole reading experience could have been audio voiced by Welch himself.
I liked the premise a lot. Man has no idea who he is, what happened or why he’s in the afterlife. The references to mythology were well done. The need for a quest made sense.
But some of the details were hard to follow. For example: The two coins you can’t give up under any circumstances but also important gods you NEED to help you NEED a coin so what do you do?
I would have loved more time spent on the ending. Why were Hades and Persephone looking to replace themselves? What makes Jaesyk’s wife worthy other than being loved by him?
Some of the word choices were repetitive (immense) and sentences were awkward (a lot of passive voice in odd places).
Overall this was a unique book and I hope the author publishes more.
I liked the premise a lot. Man has no idea who he is, what happened or why he’s in the afterlife. The references to mythology were well done. The need for a quest made sense.
But some of the details were hard to follow. For example: The two coins you can’t give up under any circumstances but also important gods you NEED to help you NEED a coin so what do you do?
I would have loved more time spent on the ending. Why were Hades and Persephone looking to replace themselves? What makes Jaesyk’s wife worthy other than being loved by him?
Some of the word choices were repetitive (immense) and sentences were awkward (a lot of passive voice in odd places).
Overall this was a unique book and I hope the author publishes more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2024
I'll be honest, this isn't my usual type of book. I'm horror through and through and don't often stray outside of it. However, I loved this!
While I wouldn't consider the entire thing horror, the concept itself is pretty horrifying, as is the imagery and the landscape, plus several of the characters. The protagonist's predicament is also horrifying.
A wonderful mix of mythology, metaphor, and lovely writing that had me captivated enough to read this book in only two sittings. Would definitely recommend!
While I wouldn't consider the entire thing horror, the concept itself is pretty horrifying, as is the imagery and the landscape, plus several of the characters. The protagonist's predicament is also horrifying.
A wonderful mix of mythology, metaphor, and lovely writing that had me captivated enough to read this book in only two sittings. Would definitely recommend!
June 1, 2026
Gave The Divine Comedy vibes. Loved it🖤 one of my favorite quotes ever ‘Choices we make, choices make us. Our souls are the sum of choices.’
Much more depth than I was expecting!
Much more depth than I was expecting!
February 23, 2025
Rounding up to 3.5 for this one. I liked the concept and also liked that it had Greek mythology intertwined. It was also an interesting take on the afterlife, which made it unique. It's not my normal read and I am glad that it forced me out of my comfort zone for something that I don't typically read. I do wish that it had more details and expansion of the realm and world-building. I felt like it was pretty rushed to get everything into 200 something pages and I think that some details got missed because of that. I absolutely loved the character Sidus and wanted more of her!
November 3, 2024
I’ve always loved books on the afterlife and was looking forward to End Realm. Luckily Welch doesn’t disappoint and his version of existence beyond death is incredibly descriptive and simultaneously beautiful and horrifying.
In End Realm our protagonist awakens in a completely unfamiliar place. He has zero recall of anything. He ends up embarking on quite the journey to try and make sense of this new existence.
The pacing is fairly slow in this one and I would be surprised if it doesn’t end up having a sequel. There’s a lot of background information given on various gods/originals which feels like Welch is building the foundation for a possible series. I still found the slower parts fascinating because Welch’s descriptions of the various sects of the afterlife are incredibly vivid and interesting.
Another reason I’d hope for a sequel is because this one felt a bit too easy. I do feel our protagonist will need to undergo some hardships to help his arc feel more balanced.
Overall I’d definitely be up to reading more work from Welch in the future. I do hope there’s more to End Realm coming. If you’re looking for a book with tons of action and pacing this likely isn’t the selection for you. Welch excels at his world building and hopefully we’ll get to experience more of End Realm.
In End Realm our protagonist awakens in a completely unfamiliar place. He has zero recall of anything. He ends up embarking on quite the journey to try and make sense of this new existence.
The pacing is fairly slow in this one and I would be surprised if it doesn’t end up having a sequel. There’s a lot of background information given on various gods/originals which feels like Welch is building the foundation for a possible series. I still found the slower parts fascinating because Welch’s descriptions of the various sects of the afterlife are incredibly vivid and interesting.
Another reason I’d hope for a sequel is because this one felt a bit too easy. I do feel our protagonist will need to undergo some hardships to help his arc feel more balanced.
Overall I’d definitely be up to reading more work from Welch in the future. I do hope there’s more to End Realm coming. If you’re looking for a book with tons of action and pacing this likely isn’t the selection for you. Welch excels at his world building and hopefully we’ll get to experience more of End Realm.
October 2, 2024
Full review at Happy Goat Horror:
https://happygoathorror.com/2024/10/3...
Brilliant!
A man with no memory of how he died, or even who he is or anything about his life, journeys to the 'End Realm'. But, he soon discovers through an odd assortment of characters, both he and we soon discover that something's not right...he doesn't seem to belong here. Something's amiss!
Scary and gorgeous imagery, beautiful use of mythology, and a protagonist that's easy to get behind as he tries to unravel the great mystery of who he is and what the heck he's doing in a hellscape.
https://happygoathorror.com/2024/10/3...
Brilliant!
A man with no memory of how he died, or even who he is or anything about his life, journeys to the 'End Realm'. But, he soon discovers through an odd assortment of characters, both he and we soon discover that something's not right...he doesn't seem to belong here. Something's amiss!
Scary and gorgeous imagery, beautiful use of mythology, and a protagonist that's easy to get behind as he tries to unravel the great mystery of who he is and what the heck he's doing in a hellscape.
January 11, 2025
What a fun cosmic horror. I usually don’t read a lot of sci-fi or cosmic tropes, but the combo of Greek mythology and cosmic horror was really fun.
I really enjoyed the characters and the MCs journey as he became more determined and resilient.
I always enjoy books that take creative liberties with mythology and put their own spin on it.
The writing reminded me a lot of The Black Farm, just not as extreme in the horror department.
Fun quick read if you enjoy cosmic or mythological horror.
I really enjoyed the characters and the MCs journey as he became more determined and resilient.
I always enjoy books that take creative liberties with mythology and put their own spin on it.
The writing reminded me a lot of The Black Farm, just not as extreme in the horror department.
Fun quick read if you enjoy cosmic or mythological horror.
August 24, 2024
End Realm
Tyler J. Welch
My Thoughts:
When Author Welch first sent me a message last year about his debut novel, I was immediately drawn in by the intriguing storyline. It’s not just a horror story; it delves into themes of sadness, longing, and deep love. The main character finds himself in the eerie and unfamiliar End Realm, a place filled with unknown terrors. He has no prior memories and only knows that he has a spouse. With only two golden coins to his name, he embarks on a quest to find a way out to find his spouse. The writing beautifully captures the protagonist’s deep sense of yearning, and I found myself rooting for him to reunite with his spouse. End Realm is a compelling story that kept me reading past my bedtime, a testament to its gripping nature, unforeseen horrors, etc! Welch quickly brings the narrative to life, prompting deep reflection and leaving me with a lasting impression. I did enjoy reading End Realm. I look forward to future novels. Thank you so much, @tylerjacksonwelch, for the advanced reader’s copy! #gifted
Tyler J. Welch
My Thoughts:
When Author Welch first sent me a message last year about his debut novel, I was immediately drawn in by the intriguing storyline. It’s not just a horror story; it delves into themes of sadness, longing, and deep love. The main character finds himself in the eerie and unfamiliar End Realm, a place filled with unknown terrors. He has no prior memories and only knows that he has a spouse. With only two golden coins to his name, he embarks on a quest to find a way out to find his spouse. The writing beautifully captures the protagonist’s deep sense of yearning, and I found myself rooting for him to reunite with his spouse. End Realm is a compelling story that kept me reading past my bedtime, a testament to its gripping nature, unforeseen horrors, etc! Welch quickly brings the narrative to life, prompting deep reflection and leaving me with a lasting impression. I did enjoy reading End Realm. I look forward to future novels. Thank you so much, @tylerjacksonwelch, for the advanced reader’s copy! #gifted
September 18, 2024
I received an ARC of End Realm, and I'm so glad I did! What an exciting journey to experience, filled with mysterious treasures, creepy characters, and the perils of the afterlife. There isn't a dull moment as you follow the main character on his quest for identity. End Realm is a wild, invigorating ride!
To read my complete, spoiler-free review:
https://robinknabel.squarespace.com/r...
To read my complete, spoiler-free review:
https://robinknabel.squarespace.com/r...
August 22, 2024
I read this for blurb consideration and it was a ton of fun. Tyler swung for the fences with an ambitious debut, and he managed to contain it like an elder master!
January 22, 2026
I found End Realm by Tyler J. Welch to be a beautifully descriptive, fast paced, incredible story! I was on the edge of my seat while reading it. Tyler is an extremely gifted writer!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews