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The Observer: An Afterlife Guardian in a Cosmic Urban Fantasy

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What if your next choice could rewrite reality?


Frank wakes up dead—no memories, no answers, and a surge of otherworldly energy. He’s now an Observer, thrust into a supernatural war where spirits battle for control of the present and every decision carries a cost. In this world, the past is untouchable, but the present is a battlefield—and every spirit, from Demons to Tricksters, plays by their own rules.


Haunted by flashes of a life he can’t remember, Frank must navigate a hidden conflict where trust is scarce, danger is everywhere, and the line between ally and enemy is razor-thin. Each moment is a puzzle, every memory a potential weapon, and the fate of the living hangs in the balance.


If you crave psychological thrillers with paranormal twists, layered mysteries, and a fresh take on the afterlife, The Observer is for you.

Experience mind-bending suspense and supernatural intrigue—start reading The Observer today.

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 7, 2025

16 people are currently reading
24 people want to read

About the author

Brian Thompson

2 books6 followers
Brian Thompson was born and raised in Minnesota. His first professional writing foray was as a freelancer for Cracked.com. One of his articles was chosen to be published in Cracked.com’s first physical collection You Might be a Zombie and Other Bad News which made the NYT Non-Fiction bestseller list. Being surrounded by other talented writers, he saw many of them participate in National Novel Writing Month. One November he decided to try too and failed miserably, but it did kick off the start of his first novel, The Observer. Many of the items researched while writing for Cracked.com were inspirations for parts of the novel.

When not writing, Brian enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, singing with the Angelica Encore Choral Ensemble, watching Dungeons & Dragons and other TTRPG content, and playing RPG video games.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Cori Samuel.
Author 62 books60 followers
September 3, 2025
*Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

I was excited to pick this book up based on its blurb, but unfortunately it really was not for me.

I'd hoped once we got through the initial setup that the infodumping would be more subtle, and we'd move away from 'telling' into 'showing', but no, that's the book's main mode throughout. The time-travel mechanism was fun if simplistic (yes, apparently Men (still) Think About The Roman Empire Almost Every Day.) I wanted more complexity across the board. The side characters seemed to exist mainly to educate or cause emotions in our Main Character, and generally felt bland and spoke unrealistically. In particular, in how often they repeat each other's names when they're speaking -- a pet peeve of mine in writing, something that stands out as quirky if people do it IRL.

Perhaps if you enjoy thoroughly-explained world-building, and would like a story where the majority of it is a training montage, with thriller vibes for one part, then this book might be one to look at. But I would strongly recommend checking out a 'Look Inside' or other preview to see if you'll vibe with the writing style first. Also note there are several vivid descriptions of injury, gore and violence throughout, particularly in the second half.
Profile Image for Feathered Quill Book Reviews.
453 reviews60 followers
July 29, 2025
The Observer: Book 1 in the Spirit Saga is a gripping supernatural fantasy and the first book in the "Spirit Saga" series by Brian Thompson. Told through a surreal, out-of-body experience, it tells the story of Frank, a 42-year-old middle school teacher who wakes up in a dark, empty space with no memory of who he is or how he got there.

As the story unfolds, Frank comes to the startling realization that he has died and become a spirit. We see him caught up in a frozen moment in time in a room where a doctor is using defibrillators on his body, a nurse is crying, and his wife Angela and son Franklin Jr. are grieving, as he lies motionless in a hospital bed. But just as Frank begins to accept his fate, a mysterious figure bathed in orange light appears suddenly appears, interrupting Frank’s spiral of confusion and grief. Though he looks like a teenager, the figure, named Michael, claims to be over 4,000 years old and what he reveals shatters everything Frank thought he knew about death, purpose, and the afterlife in a twist that changes everything.

Michael identifies himself as a Guide whose job is to help new spirits, like Frank, figure out what the afterlife is all about. He profoundly and patiently explains that death isn’t really the end, but more like the start of something much bigger, which, as you can imagine, completely throws Frank for a loop. Michael furthermore informs Frank that he is now an Observer, a spirit whose role is to watch the world quietly and sometimes help the living not directly, but through tiny nudges, gut feelings, or flashes of intuition that will gently push people in the right direction. He also teaches Frank how time doesn’t behave the way it used to, how energy fuels everything in this new realm, and that there are other spirits out there, some kind and others terrifying, including Demons who thrive on pain and suffering. These revelations are like nothing Frank ever gave thought to when he was alive. Soon, we see him begin to understand that the world he’s entered is not only more complex than he ever imagined, but it’s also filled with danger, mystery, and a purpose he never expected to have.

As Frank trains under Michael’s watchful eye, he begins to unlock abilities he never imagined such as glimpsing the future, slipping through time, even influencing the thoughts and emotions of the living. But every act of intervention and great power comes a painful cost. Every time Frank taps into his spiritual abilities, whether it's offering a subtle nudge to the living, sharing his energy to protect someone, or confronting a dark force, he draws from the very essence that keeps him anchored in the afterlife. Too much, too fast, and he risks fading away entirely, a second and final death that not even Michael can stop. Frank learns this the hard way when he hears the story of James, Michael’s first student, who burned out after giving too much of himself to save a soul from a Demon. It's a turning point for Frank, forcing him to weigh his compassion against survival, even as a desperation to help grows.

The deeper he dives into his role as an Observer, the more he begins to question the system he has now become part of. We see him question why some spirits are chosen to guide, while others are twisted into demons as well as who are the Gods that built these rules in the first place. When whispers of rebellion stir among the spirits and a forbidden truth about his own past threatens to unravel everything, Frank is forced to choose either to stay within the lines of cosmic order, or risk everything to rewrite the fate of the afterlife itself.

This is a unique story that creates a different version of the afterlife, one where spirits are portrayed as emotional beings with jobs to do and roles to undertake. It’s a fresh take that moves away from traditional beliefs about the spirit world as floating around or haunting people and builds something both imaginative and meaningful. One of the strongest elements in the story is its use of time travel—not just as a gimmick, but as a smart, well-explained tool that helps the reader explore the limits of spiritual power and the value of patience. Even though the story is full of supernatural elements, its heart is very human, captured through flashbacks that are touching, and which give the story a strong emotional base.

Brian Thompson’s writing style makes this book a really smooth read, the language is clear and never tries too hard, the pacing moves along quickly, and the dialogue feels like real conversations you might overhear even in the middle of all the supernatural stuff. The protagonist's thoughts are a major highlight: he’s funny in a dry, sarcastic way that brings some lightness to even the heaviest moments, and that humor makes him incredibly easy to relate to. What really stands out is how detailed the world-building is, and how it never overwhelms you with information. You get to learn about the spirit world slowly, naturally, as the protagonist learns it himself through his conversations with Michael. And even when the book takes time to explain the spirit rules or the cost of powers, it always breaks that up with either some strong emotion or action, so you never feel bogged down by it. Various scenes are unforgettable such as where a young slave is forced to fight a massive, demon-controlled warrior in a brutal arena match, and another Observer is trying to help but things don’t go as planned. But beyond the action and the spiritual battles, the book is filled with emotional truths that stick with you such as how grief and guilt follow you even after death, how power needs to be used with wisdom and patience, and how even though you can’t fix the past, you can still change what comes next.

Quill says: Whether you're into time travel, fantasy worlds with rules that actually make sense, or stories about second chances and quiet redemption, The Observer delivers all that with heart, clarity, and a surprising amount of emotional depth. This is a story for anyone who loves supernatural tales that aren’t just about magic or monsters, but about people trying to figure out who they are, what they’re meant to do, and how to make peace with the lives they’ve lived.
Profile Image for Alisa.
219 reviews12 followers
October 26, 2025
The Observer by Brian Thompson is an interesting take on life after death. Frank slowly wakes to find himself enclosed is a very confined area and is so confused about where and WHO he is that it is hard not to feel sorry for him. As he revives after a long sleep (?) he isn’t sure what is happening, and thus starts the story in a suspenseful and dramatic way that really continues through the rest of the book.

After slowly waking, Frank is informed by someone named Michael, who he does not know, that he is enclosed for his own protection. Not sure that is the most helpful way to start the day but eventually his mobility is enhanced and he is set free to find out he is dead. Huh?

Frank then starts training as an Observer, or his death job. He will be watching over people and situations to keep the other not so friendly spirits like Demons from causing chaos and eliminating humans from earth. Michael takes him to different times and places and shows him how to “interact” with people and try to keep them safe.

It is a classic good versus evil story, or is it? It is worth reading to try to figure out what is good and what is evil on our planet. It is suspenseful all the way.

Thank you, Netgalley, for the prepublication copy to read and review.
Profile Image for Delphine Hoover.
135 reviews25 followers
October 12, 2025
I was completely blown away by this book. From the very first chapter when Frank Hess awakens as a lost soul in the afterlife, I was hooked. The author has created one of the most unique and emotionally gripping portrayals of life beyond death I’ve ever read. The world-building is incredibly vivid, filled with “Observers,” “Tricksters,” and “Demons,” all woven into a cosmic conflict that feels both epic and deeply personal.

What truly stood out to me was Frank’s emotional journey. His struggle to remember who he was and accept who he’s become is heartbreaking yet inspiring. The relationship between Frank and Michael was such a highlight equal parts witty, moving, and profound. I also loved Rebekkah’s character; her compassion brought so much warmth amid the chaos.

The pacing was perfect, with each revelation adding a new layer of intrigue. And that twist in Chapter 24? Absolutely mind-blowing, I had to stop and reread it! The writing is cinematic, poetic at times, and deeply philosophical without ever losing its emotional punch.

This isn’t just an afterlife fantasy, it’s a story about redemption, identity, and the choices that define us. Fans of The Dresden Files or American Gods will absolutely love it. The book cover immediately drew me in, but the story itself completely consumed me.

A brilliant, thought-provoking read that lingered with me long after the final page. I can’t recommend it enough. Can’t wait to see what this author writes next!
Profile Image for BOOK LOVER nordberg.
78 reviews12 followers
January 18, 2026
The Observer is a gripping, mind-bending blend of psychological thriller and supernatural suspense that kept me hooked from the very first page. The premise alone waking up dead with no memories and being thrust into a hidden war over reality itself is instantly compelling, but it’s the execution that truly shines. Frank’s confusion, fear, and gradual awakening feel authentic, drawing the reader deep into his fractured perspective.

The world-building is smart and refreshingly original. The idea that the past is untouchable while the present becomes a battleground gives every choice real weight, and the supernatural factions Demons, Tricksters, and other spirits each bring their own rules, motives, and tension to the story. The constant uncertainty over who can be trusted adds a sharp edge that keeps the suspense high throughout.

What really elevates this book is its emotional and psychological depth. The fragments of Frank’s lost life, the cost of every decision, and the blurred line between ally and enemy make this more than just a paranormal thriller it’s a story about identity, consequence, and survival. If you enjoy layered mysteries, supernatural intrigue, and stories that challenge your perception of reality, The Observer is absolutely worth reading. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Scotliteboost.
192 reviews15 followers
June 19, 2025
The Observer is more than just a paranormal thriller it's a deep, emotional ride that makes you question reality, memory, and your own sense of self. Frank’s confusion and fear were so vivid, I felt like I was experiencing everything with him. The idea that spirits fight over our present while we’re oblivious felt so original and strangely believable.
What I loved most is how layered everything is. It’s not just good versus evil. It’s about trust, regret, hope, and the fight to reclaim identity. You’ll find yourself rooting for Frank, second guessing every ally, and craving answers right up until the end. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a book that moves you and messes with your mind.

Profile Image for Adam Cross.
17 reviews
June 17, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book. The concept of waking up dead and being thrown into a spiritual war was unlike anything I’ve read before. The world-building was creative and the pacing kept me engaged throughout. Frank is a mysterious and relatable character, and watching him piece together who he is while navigating such a dangerous world was fascinating. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a blend of supernatural suspense and emotional depth. The author did a fantastic job bringing this unique vision to life
4 reviews
August 13, 2025
The Observer draws you in from the very first page. The take on time travel is fresh, creative, and absolutely captivating. I especially enjoyed how the author ties his version of the afterlife to real-world religion in a way that feels both thought-provoking and immersive.

My favorite part, though, is seeing how Frank, the main character, experiences his own life while moving through the past and future. It’s emotional, intriguing, and gives the story real depth.

This is an engaging, smart read that I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys an intense, immersive story.
Profile Image for Janet K.
11 reviews1 follower
June 17, 2025
The story had a strong start and continued to hold my interest with every chapter. I appreciated how layered the plot was there’s action, emotion, mystery, and even philosophical touches about identity and purpose. Some parts were intense, but that only added to the stakes. I’m glad I picked this up, and I believe fans of paranormal and spiritual thrillers will find this a rewarding read. The author deserves praise for such a thoughtful and imaginative narrative.
Profile Image for Wilson.
18 reviews
June 17, 2025
This book surprised me in the best way. I expected an action-heavy supernatural tale (and it delivers on that), but I didn’t expect to connect so much with Frank. His confusion, frustration, and slow rediscovery of who he was made the story incredibly human despite the otherworldly elements. A wonderful debut or if it’s not a debut, then it certainly reads like an author at the top of their craft. I’d gladly read more from them.
Profile Image for Smith.
18 reviews
June 17, 2025
The cast of spirits, demons, and tricksters is unforgettable. Each character felt distinct and added something new to the story. I also really liked how the author handled the rules of the supernatural world it made sense, and it was fascinating to see how Frank had to adapt to survive. This book would appeal to anyone who likes clever plots and stories that make you think about life, death, and everything in between.
Profile Image for Zanmanny.
4 reviews1 follower
June 18, 2025
I started this book just to see what it was about, and before I knew it, I was halfway through and completely obsessed. The mystery around Frank’s past had me hooked, but it was the emotional depth that really caught me off guard. It’s dark, yes, but it also has this quiet power to it. Highly recommend to anyone who loves stories that keep you guessing and leave you thinking long after you’re done.
Profile Image for Annette Leslie.
59 reviews7 followers
June 19, 2025
This book is a wild ride! I loved the concept of decisions shaping reality, and the mysterious world Frank wakes up in is so vividly imagined. The balance between action, emotion, and mystery is spot on. It’s rare to find a paranormal thriller that feels this original and thought-provoking. I couldn’t stop wondering what was coming next. Highly recommended for fans of clever, supernatural thrillers!
Profile Image for Patrician James.
4 reviews
June 19, 2025
From the moment Frank wakes up dead, I was completely invested. The whole concept was so original, and the writing had this quiet intensity that kept building. What really stuck with me was how real the emotions felt confusion, fear, hope. Even in a world full of spirits and demons, it never lost that human core. I’ve already told two of my book group friends to read it next. It’s dark, powerful, and totally worth it.
Profile Image for Jennifer Altamirano.
4 reviews1 follower
June 19, 2025
This book pulled me in with its eerie atmosphere and held me there with its emotional depth. I wasn’t expecting to care this much about a character who starts off not even knowing who he is but I did. Frank’s journey was heartbreaking and empowering at the same time. Every twist hit hard, and the ending left me staring at the last page for a while. I’d absolutely recommend it to readers who love stories that make you feel and think.
Profile Image for Greg D.
897 reviews22 followers
September 15, 2025
Had an interesting idea behind it, but honestly, it just didn’t grab me. The story moves really slowly, with way too much filler that drags things down. The characters never felt fully fleshed out, so I didn’t find myself caring much about what happened to them. There are a few good moments in the writing, but overall it felt disjointed and underwhelming. I was hoping for something sharper and more engaging, but it just didn’t deliver.
Profile Image for Lailey.
216 reviews14 followers
June 4, 2025
Even just from the summary, The Observer instantly grabbed my attention. The concept of waking up dead with no memories and being thrown into a supernatural war is such a unique twist. I love stories with mystery, paranormal elements, and high stakes...and this one sounds like it has all of that. I can’t wait to read it!
Profile Image for Daniella Wilson.
22 reviews1 follower
June 4, 2025
I don’t say this lightly: The Observer shook me to my core. From the very first page, I felt like I was pulled into a different dimension. Frank's confusion, fear, curiosity I felt everything right along with him. The way this book plays with memory and identity is nothing short of brilliant. I couldn’t put it down, and I’ve already told three friends they have to read it.
Profile Image for Aslae.
25 reviews1 follower
June 4, 2025
There were moments I literally had to pause and breathe. That’s how immersive this book is. The mystery behind Frank’s past, the strange rules of the afterlife, and the moral choices he faces every part of it held me captive. It felt raw, real, and otherworldly all at once. Easily one of my top reads this year.
Profile Image for SOFIA.
17 reviews2 followers
June 4, 2025
I didn’t expect to feel so much, but here I am still emotional days after finishing it. Frank’s vulnerability and slow awakening really touched me. There’s so much tension, yes, but there’s also beauty in how the story explores choice, memory, and the soul. If you love deep, thought provoking stories with paranormal twists this is for you.
Profile Image for John.
35 reviews2 followers
June 4, 2025
The mood of this book is incredible it’s eerie, emotional, and yet oddly comforting. I found myself deeply invested in Frank’s search for meaning. Even when I didn’t understand everything right away, I felt everything. The storytelling is layered and poetic in places. Definitely a book that lingers in your mind long after the last page.
Profile Image for Jadolita.
78 reviews6 followers
June 4, 2025
This book made me feel like I was floating between worlds. I loved how disoriented I felt at first just like Frank. It was like waking up in a dream where nothing makes sense, but somehow everything matters. The stakes are huge, the emotions are raw, and the ending hit hard. Recommend it to anyone who wants something truly different.
Profile Image for charles.
19 reviews3 followers
June 4, 2025
Honestly, I thought this would be more of a typical paranormal thriller, but it surprised me. It’s slower, more thoughtful, and hits some emotional notes I didn’t expect. I’m not sure it’ll be everyone’s cup of tea, but it worked for me. It’s a book that asks big questions in a really compelling way.
Profile Image for The Myth.
16 reviews1 follower
June 4, 2025
I’ll admit, the story confused me at first
but I think that’s the point. You’re dropped into a war of spirits and you feel as disoriented as Frank. Once I leaned into that, I was hooked. The ending left me with tears in my eyes and a lot to think about. I’d recommend it to readers who love challenging, emotional stories with depth.
Profile Image for Jonathan D..
8 reviews1 follower
June 6, 2025
This book got under my skin in the best way. From the moment Frank wakes up dead, I was completely hooked. It’s eerie, emotional, and thought-provoking. I kept asking myself, What if we really could rewrite our reality with every choice? If you enjoy thrillers that make you feel as much as they make you think, don’t miss this one.
Profile Image for T. A..
8 reviews3 followers
June 6, 2025
This book took me on a wild emotional ride. I felt confused, hopeful, scared and completely immersed. It’s not just action and suspense (though there’s plenty of that). It’s about life, loss, and the power of choice. If you’re looking for something more than just a typical thriller, you need to read this.
Profile Image for Nanaya Huz.
3 reviews
June 16, 2025
I’m still thinking about this book days after finishing it. The Observer pulled me into Frank’s strange, mysterious world and didn’t let go. The way the story unfolds through fragments, danger, and memory is so creative and emotionally gripping. You feel his confusion, his fear, and his quiet strength. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes their thrillers with meaning.

Profile Image for Colt.
6 reviews
June 17, 2025
This book took me completely by surprise. I loved the concept of Frank waking up already dead and being thrown into a world full of supernatural conflict. The story moved smoothly and kept me interested throughout. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy imaginative stories with a mysterious edge. Great work by the author
Profile Image for Traci Wayen.
8 reviews1 follower
June 17, 2025
I wasn’t ready for how much this book would pull me in. Frank’s story isn’t just suspenseful it’s raw, strange, and deeply emotional. There were moments I had to stop and breathe. The idea of waking up dead and not knowing who you are? That hit harder than I expected. I’ve never read anything quite like this. If you want something that grips your mind and your heart read it.
Profile Image for Zandra Ben.
2 reviews1 follower
June 18, 2025
The Observer didn’t feel like just a book it felt like an experience. You feel Frank’s confusion and fear like it’s your own. Every scene builds tension, but it also makes you care. I loved how the supernatural elements didn’t drown out the emotion they amplified it. If you’ve ever questioned who you are or what your past means, this story will hit home. A must-read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews

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