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Echo’s End
THE WORLD IS COLLAPSING—QUIETLY. COMPLETELY.
The sky rains golden ash. Villages lie swallowed in dust. And from the heavens it descends, silent, monolithic, like a sentence long awaited. A cuboid humming with a power no one dares to name.
The story follows Caden, a quiet survivor with Echodust in his veins and Jira, a sharp-eyed healer bound to him by choice, not fate. Together, they navigate a dying continent littered with failed machines, ghost-towns of ritual, and warnings about “the one who walks without skin“.
But the deeper they go, the more the past bleeds into the present, and the more the line blurs between memory, magic and machine.
Echo's End is a story about grief and survival, love and legacy. A world at its edge. And the silence that cradles what we could not carry.
With the emotional intimacy of The Book Thief, the haunting mystery of Annihilation, and the high-concept tension of Dune, Echo's End explores legacy, loss, and what it means to remain human in a world unmaking itself.
The sky rains golden ash. Villages lie swallowed in dust. And from the heavens it descends, silent, monolithic, like a sentence long awaited. A cuboid humming with a power no one dares to name.
The story follows Caden, a quiet survivor with Echodust in his veins and Jira, a sharp-eyed healer bound to him by choice, not fate. Together, they navigate a dying continent littered with failed machines, ghost-towns of ritual, and warnings about “the one who walks without skin“.
But the deeper they go, the more the past bleeds into the present, and the more the line blurs between memory, magic and machine.
Echo's End is a story about grief and survival, love and legacy. A world at its edge. And the silence that cradles what we could not carry.
With the emotional intimacy of The Book Thief, the haunting mystery of Annihilation, and the high-concept tension of Dune, Echo's End explores legacy, loss, and what it means to remain human in a world unmaking itself.
447 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2025
7 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Claudia J. Filusch
3 books12 followersClaudia J. Filusch is a German-Polish author, writing sci-fi fantasy and dark fantasy stories that explore the boundaries between worlds—whether ancient, or internal. With a background in art history, English literature and linguistics, she brings a layered, atmospheric style to fiction, weaving language and lore into richly imagined universes.
When not writing, Claudia is probably reading something dystopian, sketching story concepts in the margins of notebooks, or drinking a good cup of tea.
Her debut novel, Echo’s End, is a haunting blend of mystery, myth, and momentum—perfect for readers who like their fantasy speculative and their sci-fi soaked in shadows.
When not writing, Claudia is probably reading something dystopian, sketching story concepts in the margins of notebooks, or drinking a good cup of tea.
Her debut novel, Echo’s End, is a haunting blend of mystery, myth, and momentum—perfect for readers who like their fantasy speculative and their sci-fi soaked in shadows.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
August 1, 2025
An admirable first novel
Echo's End was an interesting read. I have no issue with the story itself, though the execution is a little shaky.
The early book comes across as overly prosaic and depictive, the reader is at times bombarded with reminders of how heavy the weight and/or gravity of the situation is. A lot of tell, not show. Repetitive phrases and retelling pop up frequently throughout the book.
After a while, the narrative voice completely changes (to the point I had to wonder if multiple people were working on this book). This was actually a relief! The author seems much more comfortable with her story in this voice. Characters are more likeable, the pacing easier to follow, etc.
Ignoring tense changes and typos completely, I still feel like a good pass from an objective editor would have done this book a lot of good in catching continuity errors/ questions with the timeline / deja vu / dragging on.
The story itself is gritty, tragic, cinematic and dark. It scratches itches in the horror and sci-fi lover in me. It explores loss, broken familial bonds, loneliness, and despair in equal measure to hope, friendship, unspoken affection, and the will to carry on for the greater good.
With time, experience, and continued love for the craft, I can see this author thriving.
Echo's End was an interesting read. I have no issue with the story itself, though the execution is a little shaky.
The early book comes across as overly prosaic and depictive, the reader is at times bombarded with reminders of how heavy the weight and/or gravity of the situation is. A lot of tell, not show. Repetitive phrases and retelling pop up frequently throughout the book.
After a while, the narrative voice completely changes (to the point I had to wonder if multiple people were working on this book). This was actually a relief! The author seems much more comfortable with her story in this voice. Characters are more likeable, the pacing easier to follow, etc.
Ignoring tense changes and typos completely, I still feel like a good pass from an objective editor would have done this book a lot of good in catching continuity errors/ questions with the timeline / deja vu / dragging on.
The story itself is gritty, tragic, cinematic and dark. It scratches itches in the horror and sci-fi lover in me. It explores loss, broken familial bonds, loneliness, and despair in equal measure to hope, friendship, unspoken affection, and the will to carry on for the greater good.
With time, experience, and continued love for the craft, I can see this author thriving.
July 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was so excited to read this book for Claudia and counted down the days until release. The only reason I even found her on threads was because she posted a picture of this absolutely gorgeous cover and if you know me, you know I love any premise inspired by Dune! Readers, she did NOT disappoint. This debut felt so transformative with a story that felt large and immersive at its core. The writing style was so vastly different than what’s out there right now, a true testament to what makes indie authors so fantastic. The diction was haunting and omnipresent, creating an atmosphere of ancient intrigue. I loved it, and had to force myself to slow down so I didn’t devour it in hours. The readers follow the protagonist, Caden, as he loses everything and meets Jira, a healer with a pure heart. Together, they begin to uncover the fate Caden has in the very fabric of magic and reality, all while driven by his desire to find his brother. The setting, descriptions and environment are so well described, I could have been right there beside Caden the whole time.
This book feels larger than life, and I cannot wait to read the sequel to it!! If you’re looking for your next scifi-fantasy read, I cannot recommend this one enough!
I was so excited to read this book for Claudia and counted down the days until release. The only reason I even found her on threads was because she posted a picture of this absolutely gorgeous cover and if you know me, you know I love any premise inspired by Dune! Readers, she did NOT disappoint. This debut felt so transformative with a story that felt large and immersive at its core. The writing style was so vastly different than what’s out there right now, a true testament to what makes indie authors so fantastic. The diction was haunting and omnipresent, creating an atmosphere of ancient intrigue. I loved it, and had to force myself to slow down so I didn’t devour it in hours. The readers follow the protagonist, Caden, as he loses everything and meets Jira, a healer with a pure heart. Together, they begin to uncover the fate Caden has in the very fabric of magic and reality, all while driven by his desire to find his brother. The setting, descriptions and environment are so well described, I could have been right there beside Caden the whole time.
This book feels larger than life, and I cannot wait to read the sequel to it!! If you’re looking for your next scifi-fantasy read, I cannot recommend this one enough!
June 29, 2025
This book is wild—in the best way. Cinematic, sharp, and hauntingly lyrical, Echo’s End builds a world that feels ancient and alive, pulsing with unease and memory. The writing hums with quiet devastation. Caden is a masterclass in restraint, Jira a grounding force, and their dynamic? Subtle, aching, and impossible to look away from. The omniscient voice makes everything feel mythic without losing its heart. Add in eerie rituals and a twist that genuinely shocked me, and you’ve got a story that lingers. It’s strange, sad, and deeply human—if you enjoyed Dune you’ll eat Echo’s End up. One of the most emotionally resonant reads I’ve had in a long time. I can’t wait for the sequel!!
July 15, 2025
This is one of the first independent author novels I’ve read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! If I hadn’t been following the author on social media, I wouldn’t have known that it was a debut novel.
The world building is highly detailed, and I appreciate the effort and intention that went into to the many intricate descriptions. That detail was also evidenced in the character physical descriptions and the descriptions of their feelings and emotions.
Im excited to read the conclusion to the story!
The world building is highly detailed, and I appreciate the effort and intention that went into to the many intricate descriptions. That detail was also evidenced in the character physical descriptions and the descriptions of their feelings and emotions.
Im excited to read the conclusion to the story!
August 7, 2025
Absolutely in LOVE with Echo's End. I haven't read an enjoyable sci-fi fantasy in so long but Claudia's voice and prose are so captivating that I hated every time I had to put it down. Definitely a strong debut, and while I won't give spoilers, you'll definitely have a particularly favorite character. Definitely has reread value!
June 22, 2025
"Echo's End" pulls you deep into the vividly crafted realm of Aridon.
Although the worldbuilding is so rich you can almost feel the grit of its landscapes and the weight of its secrets, what truly pulls you in are the characters.
Flawed, compelling and painfully human. You can't help but sympathise with their stuggles, cheering for your favourites and seething at those you love to hate.
At its heart the story follows Caden, a younger brother desperate to salvage what little he has left. His journey (and yours alongside him) unravels a mystery about his role in the fate of the realm.
Just when the plot feels familiar, it twists into something unique, hooking you early and refusing to let go.
I devoured it in two sleepless nights telling myself: "just one more chapter" (which never stopped at just one).
Perfect for binge readers (thanks to its addictive pacing) but meaty enough for those who savour stories slowly.
"Echo's End" is a must for fans of dystopian stories with a dash of fantasy and whimsy.
Emotional, immersive and impossible to put down.
This one lingers long after the last page, leaving you eagerly awaiting the next book!
Although the worldbuilding is so rich you can almost feel the grit of its landscapes and the weight of its secrets, what truly pulls you in are the characters.
Flawed, compelling and painfully human. You can't help but sympathise with their stuggles, cheering for your favourites and seething at those you love to hate.
At its heart the story follows Caden, a younger brother desperate to salvage what little he has left. His journey (and yours alongside him) unravels a mystery about his role in the fate of the realm.
Just when the plot feels familiar, it twists into something unique, hooking you early and refusing to let go.
I devoured it in two sleepless nights telling myself: "just one more chapter" (which never stopped at just one).
Perfect for binge readers (thanks to its addictive pacing) but meaty enough for those who savour stories slowly.
"Echo's End" is a must for fans of dystopian stories with a dash of fantasy and whimsy.
Emotional, immersive and impossible to put down.
This one lingers long after the last page, leaving you eagerly awaiting the next book!
July 8, 2025
I haven't read a book like this in a long time.
I just finished reading Echo's End, and I'm quite fascinated. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it took a surprising turn. Of course, some plot points were predictable, but I must say, the ending wasn't what I expected. I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll leave it at that.
I discovered this book through Threads, and for a debut novel, it's really impressive. The author describes everything vividly, painting the scenery perfectly. It's easy to read, the formatting is excellent (I love her writing style), and I can't stop praising the character development.
That said, I do think there's room for improvement; We’re in the forest for the first few chapters, then in the desert for the rest of the book. There’s some interesting locations throughout the desert journey, but a slight change of scenery would’ve been nice.
Overall, it's a great read for fans of futuristic-fantasy stories, and I can't wait for the next book!
4/5 stars from me!
I just finished reading Echo's End, and I'm quite fascinated. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it took a surprising turn. Of course, some plot points were predictable, but I must say, the ending wasn't what I expected. I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll leave it at that.
I discovered this book through Threads, and for a debut novel, it's really impressive. The author describes everything vividly, painting the scenery perfectly. It's easy to read, the formatting is excellent (I love her writing style), and I can't stop praising the character development.
That said, I do think there's room for improvement; We’re in the forest for the first few chapters, then in the desert for the rest of the book. There’s some interesting locations throughout the desert journey, but a slight change of scenery would’ve been nice.
Overall, it's a great read for fans of futuristic-fantasy stories, and I can't wait for the next book!
4/5 stars from me!
August 20, 2025
2,5 rounded up
My main problem with this book is I went in thinking it was going to be good.
It's not bad, but it also isn't good. It's fine. Just fine.
I did finish it however, and that's not nothing.
A professional editor would have helped this book become what it could have been but not reaches now. Or at the very least proofreading friends willing to actually point out mistakes and inconsistencies.
+
The world building. It's the best part off this book. Very well crafted.
-
There are issues with the timeline. Chapter 7-9 is either placed out of order or just very poorly written. The way the characters interact in those chapters makes little to no sense. Going from total strangers slightly mistrusting one another to best friends joking around. It resets in the following chapters.
The story in general isn't all that engaging.
You should read this book if:
- you want to support an indie writer
- you like to be disappointed, it promises a lot and doesn't deliver.
My main problem with this book is I went in thinking it was going to be good.
It's not bad, but it also isn't good. It's fine. Just fine.
I did finish it however, and that's not nothing.
A professional editor would have helped this book become what it could have been but not reaches now. Or at the very least proofreading friends willing to actually point out mistakes and inconsistencies.
+
The world building. It's the best part off this book. Very well crafted.
-
There are issues with the timeline. Chapter 7-9 is either placed out of order or just very poorly written. The way the characters interact in those chapters makes little to no sense. Going from total strangers slightly mistrusting one another to best friends joking around. It resets in the following chapters.
The story in general isn't all that engaging.
You should read this book if:
- you want to support an indie writer
- you like to be disappointed, it promises a lot and doesn't deliver.
August 23, 2025
A promising debut inspired by Dune in the best ways, but maintaining a sense of originality that pulls you in.
Echo's End is a tale of loss, sacrifice, and finding one's place amongst the obligations of family and duty. The journeys of Caden, Jira, and Theron intertwine in a way that you know will be intense and you still might not be ready for the events that follow.
The worldbuilding is great. The aforementioned Dune is a clear inspiration but this didn't feel like a cheap knock-off, a sci-fi fantasy that just happens to take place on a mostly-desert planet. There is lore and history here that makes the story wholly its own and it pulls you in with its rich detail.
I barely every read sci-fi or sci-fi fantasy but this did not disappoint. A very solid debut from an indie author with tons of potential. I will for sure be reading the conclusion of this duology when the next book releases!
Echo's End is a tale of loss, sacrifice, and finding one's place amongst the obligations of family and duty. The journeys of Caden, Jira, and Theron intertwine in a way that you know will be intense and you still might not be ready for the events that follow.
The worldbuilding is great. The aforementioned Dune is a clear inspiration but this didn't feel like a cheap knock-off, a sci-fi fantasy that just happens to take place on a mostly-desert planet. There is lore and history here that makes the story wholly its own and it pulls you in with its rich detail.
I barely every read sci-fi or sci-fi fantasy but this did not disappoint. A very solid debut from an indie author with tons of potential. I will for sure be reading the conclusion of this duology when the next book releases!
July 8, 2025
The author's voice is rich and poetic, weaving deep emotional threads into a world that feels both mythic and grounded. There's a sense of quiet power in the way Echo's End unfolds. It's thoughtful, deliberate, and full of heart. The prose often felt lyrical, like a story passed down through time. I loved the balance of wonder and weight.
My favourite parts were:
• The atmosphere - every setting felt vivid, vast, and a little bit sacred
• The lore surrounding the cuboid and the Galenors - eerie and fascinating
• Chapter 10 in particular (no spoilers, but wow)
• The characters, especially Jira
If you love stories that explore loss and the quiet ache of survival in a broken world, this is for you!
My favourite parts were:
• The atmosphere - every setting felt vivid, vast, and a little bit sacred
• The lore surrounding the cuboid and the Galenors - eerie and fascinating
• Chapter 10 in particular (no spoilers, but wow)
• The characters, especially Jira
If you love stories that explore loss and the quiet ache of survival in a broken world, this is for you!
December 6, 2025
I truly enjoyed Echo's End and can't wait to read the second book!
It honestly took me a long while to get into this book, there was a lot of telling without showing and many infodumps in the beginning that made it hard for me to immerse myself into this atmospheric, breathtaking world, but eventually after maybe the 20% mark the words really began to flow, and I devoured the rest of it in a single sitting.
The language and vivid imagery truly felt like coming home. I loved the relationship Jira and Caden have, and can't wait to see it develop further—as well as Caden's character arc. Not to mention the actual genre itself: sci-fi fantasy! Creepy mechanical happenings, apocalyptic vibes, fantastical (and slight horror) elements.
Overall, 4 stars <3
It honestly took me a long while to get into this book, there was a lot of telling without showing and many infodumps in the beginning that made it hard for me to immerse myself into this atmospheric, breathtaking world, but eventually after maybe the 20% mark the words really began to flow, and I devoured the rest of it in a single sitting.
The language and vivid imagery truly felt like coming home. I loved the relationship Jira and Caden have, and can't wait to see it develop further—as well as Caden's character arc. Not to mention the actual genre itself: sci-fi fantasy! Creepy mechanical happenings, apocalyptic vibes, fantastical (and slight horror) elements.
Overall, 4 stars <3
July 7, 2025
Interesting story but too many analogies. Near constant. Reading becomes tiring quickly because of the overly descriptive language that does not carry the story forward.
I think the book would benefit from a professional editor to help the author remove the superfluous descriptions that is scattered throughout the book. The vocabulary is great but the over use is just tedious.
Having read other books by first time authors this is not an unusual effort to paint a pretty picture for the reader but this is a case of less is more. I suspect the book would be 20% shorter with edits of purely this material.
I think the book would benefit from a professional editor to help the author remove the superfluous descriptions that is scattered throughout the book. The vocabulary is great but the over use is just tedious.
Having read other books by first time authors this is not an unusual effort to paint a pretty picture for the reader but this is a case of less is more. I suspect the book would be 20% shorter with edits of purely this material.
July 7, 2025
Echo’s End completely pulled me in from the first chapter. The world is rich and eerie, the writing sharp and emotionally charged. Caden’s journey feels personal and epic at once, full of quiet grief and sudden beauty. The pacing is intense without rushing, and the story keeps unfolding in unexpected ways. It’s one of those rare books that stays with you long after you finish. Dark, lyrical, and unforgettable.
July 7, 2025
Echo’s End completely captivated me. The writing is stunning—every sentence felt deliberate, poetic, and alive. I was drawn in by the atmosphere, the quiet intensity, and the sense of something vast beneath the surface. It’s the kind of book that leaves you sitting in silence after finishing, just to absorb what you felt. Truly mesmerizing.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews