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Next Life #1
Afterworld
Mundane and boring was how Leon perceived the world. Earth had already been explored and claimed, but he never thought critically about why there was such a great separation of humanity. Nor had he thought about why there were so many different religions in the world. Leon never genuinely contemplated what would happen after death. Like many before, he never understood the truth of the universe.
That all changed when a fateful camping trip took a turn for the worst. After falling into a new world, the truths of advanced science, magic, gods, and human savagery would all be showcased in all their glory. Both in a new light, and new disturbing darkness, would the truths of Earth and Afterworld give him a greater understanding of the universe; or in turn, break him as they have done to so many before?
That all changed when a fateful camping trip took a turn for the worst. After falling into a new world, the truths of advanced science, magic, gods, and human savagery would all be showcased in all their glory. Both in a new light, and new disturbing darkness, would the truths of Earth and Afterworld give him a greater understanding of the universe; or in turn, break him as they have done to so many before?
280 pages, ebook
First published April 14, 2020
5 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
James G. Robertson
4 books7 followersBorn in 1990, James G. Robertson grew up in the small town of Pratt, Kansas. He has lived across the U.S., including Texas, Missouri, and New York, where he graduated from SUNY Oswego in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in theatre.
James began writing his debut novel Afterworld in 2010. After a long hiatus, he published it in April 2020. He now writes while working in education and plans for his expansive series to span over 30 publications.
James began writing his debut novel Afterworld in 2010. After a long hiatus, he published it in April 2020. He now writes while working in education and plans for his expansive series to span over 30 publications.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 13, 2022
I received a review copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only and was thrilled!
I was thoroughly engrossed and looked forward to continuing to read it. The characters are engaging and you lose yourself in the story!
I will definitely be watching for other submissions from this author whether they are the next books in this series or separate!
I was thoroughly engrossed and looked forward to continuing to read it. The characters are engaging and you lose yourself in the story!
I will definitely be watching for other submissions from this author whether they are the next books in this series or separate!
March 31, 2021
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Next Life, Afterworld
Author: James G. Robertson
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 16
Stats
Editing: 6/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 6/10
Of the 16 readers:
13 would read another book by this author.
9 thought the cover was good or excellent.
14 felt it was easy to follow.
14 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 9 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
10 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
13 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“An interesting, fantasy adventure with an afterlife element to it. The protagonist is killed in a hiking accident and must face a complex and dangerous existence. Although the old sentence is a little clumsy, I thought this was a very enjoyable read, and I would recommend it to anybody enjoys character-led, fantasy novels.” Mel reader age 42
“I thought the strongest element of this story was the characters. The writer has created a range of interesting, often charismatic, dark and light characters for the reader to get to know and enjoy. The central premise of the story is clever and I thought the plot was well-crafted. I did feel it was a little heavy going at the beginning, but the pacing is much better in the second half of the book. A little let down by a poor cover.” Female reader, age 38
“There's a terrible danger looming over the world; will Liam be able to save the day? This is a cracking fantasy novel full of mystery and magic. It's also thought-provoking in parts, but never too heavy that it kills the pacing. The character development is strong for all three, but the author also works hard to show off the fantastical setting. I suspect this is an author will see a lot more of in the future.” Male reader, aged 62
“Unpredictable. An interesting look at the different gods, life and death. Smarter than a lot of fantasy. The author’s a good writer too.” Male reader, aged 65
To Sum It Up:
‘A thoughtful fantasy adventure with strong characterization. A red ribbon win and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Next Life, Afterworld
Author: James G. Robertson
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 16
Stats
Editing: 6/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 6/10
Of the 16 readers:
13 would read another book by this author.
9 thought the cover was good or excellent.
14 felt it was easy to follow.
14 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 9 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
10 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
13 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“An interesting, fantasy adventure with an afterlife element to it. The protagonist is killed in a hiking accident and must face a complex and dangerous existence. Although the old sentence is a little clumsy, I thought this was a very enjoyable read, and I would recommend it to anybody enjoys character-led, fantasy novels.” Mel reader age 42
“I thought the strongest element of this story was the characters. The writer has created a range of interesting, often charismatic, dark and light characters for the reader to get to know and enjoy. The central premise of the story is clever and I thought the plot was well-crafted. I did feel it was a little heavy going at the beginning, but the pacing is much better in the second half of the book. A little let down by a poor cover.” Female reader, age 38
“There's a terrible danger looming over the world; will Liam be able to save the day? This is a cracking fantasy novel full of mystery and magic. It's also thought-provoking in parts, but never too heavy that it kills the pacing. The character development is strong for all three, but the author also works hard to show off the fantastical setting. I suspect this is an author will see a lot more of in the future.” Male reader, aged 62
“Unpredictable. An interesting look at the different gods, life and death. Smarter than a lot of fantasy. The author’s a good writer too.” Male reader, aged 65
To Sum It Up:
‘A thoughtful fantasy adventure with strong characterization. A red ribbon win and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
August 17, 2020
The book is a good read. The characters are both likable and some irritatingly evil... like my ex. The protagonist faces many different challenges and meets some truly electrifying characters on his journey to build and control the gifts that he has been given. In order to challenge the dark gods and make right the chaos they are causing he will have to not only build his strength but surround himself with others who are destined to fight the cause with him... It's like I said in my other review. "If you’re looking for a fantasy novel that will bend the confines of reality while taking you on a fast paced journey through literal space and time then look no further. James. G Robertson spins an intricate web of deceit, hope and redemption as the protagonist, Leon, learns to harness his new found- undead- powers to battle an ancient evil that threatens the existence of humanity. The story weaves historical figures into it beautifully and gives one of them a rather... electrifying personality. With the ever growing threat from the dark God’s and the dwindling activity of the God’s who were said to protect humanity will Leon and his crew be able to quell the all consuming darkness that lusts after total control and will do nothing to stop from getting it?
This is a book that invokes many emotions while reading it and I wouldn’t hesitate to read again so I highly recommend this book if you love fantasy... or a good time."
Yeah... I quoted myself. B)
This is a book that invokes many emotions while reading it and I wouldn’t hesitate to read again so I highly recommend this book if you love fantasy... or a good time."
Yeah... I quoted myself. B)
October 7, 2020
An engaging storyline
As humans, we don’t know it all about the world we live in. This book provides a caution for the unexpected and a force to think about what exists beneath the surface, literally.
“Afterworld (Next Life Book 1)” authored by James G. Robertson is a fantasy drama novel that offers a Boy Meets New World read, filled with an engaging storyline and a captivating dialogue. It is Book 1 in what is expected a series on the title. The book has two parts – “Afterworld” and “The Need to Struggle and Lie” complemented by 13 chapters that read quickly and flows straight to the back cover. Leon D Michaels has no choice, as he was chosen by his new life after an unfortunate incident on a camping trip.
I like the story, though not much different from other fantasy books that glorify journeying to another world, this title with its twists and unexpected characterization brings an element of creativity. There is drama, friendship, and deceit among the several themes that resonate in between the pages.
This book is recommended for those who want to indulge in the irresistible world of fantasy and are desirous of escaping a mundane world. That may be young adults and those young at heart with an imaginative soul. We await Book 2.
As humans, we don’t know it all about the world we live in. This book provides a caution for the unexpected and a force to think about what exists beneath the surface, literally.
“Afterworld (Next Life Book 1)” authored by James G. Robertson is a fantasy drama novel that offers a Boy Meets New World read, filled with an engaging storyline and a captivating dialogue. It is Book 1 in what is expected a series on the title. The book has two parts – “Afterworld” and “The Need to Struggle and Lie” complemented by 13 chapters that read quickly and flows straight to the back cover. Leon D Michaels has no choice, as he was chosen by his new life after an unfortunate incident on a camping trip.
I like the story, though not much different from other fantasy books that glorify journeying to another world, this title with its twists and unexpected characterization brings an element of creativity. There is drama, friendship, and deceit among the several themes that resonate in between the pages.
This book is recommended for those who want to indulge in the irresistible world of fantasy and are desirous of escaping a mundane world. That may be young adults and those young at heart with an imaginative soul. We await Book 2.
October 5, 2020
This is the kind of book that you quickly find yourself hooked on, I was unable to put it down!
Leon is a relatable protagonist, fed up with his mundane life what should have been an uneventful trip throws him into a reality which is anything other than mundane. A classic case of 'be careful what you wish for' unfolds, as this new world takes him on a journey neither he or the reader could have anticipated.
One of the highlights for me is just how quickly the story gets started, within the first few chapters you are thrown into the thick of the action but there is still enough which is unexplained to keep you hooked. I loved how quickly the plot moved and the explanations came at a good pace so I wasn't completely overwhelmed by the new information.
An original and interesting fantasy novel, I can't wait to see what transpires in the next books!
Leon is a relatable protagonist, fed up with his mundane life what should have been an uneventful trip throws him into a reality which is anything other than mundane. A classic case of 'be careful what you wish for' unfolds, as this new world takes him on a journey neither he or the reader could have anticipated.
One of the highlights for me is just how quickly the story gets started, within the first few chapters you are thrown into the thick of the action but there is still enough which is unexplained to keep you hooked. I loved how quickly the plot moved and the explanations came at a good pace so I wasn't completely overwhelmed by the new information.
An original and interesting fantasy novel, I can't wait to see what transpires in the next books!
January 23, 2026
Afterworld: The Haunted Realm Beyond Our Stars by James G. Robertson launches the Next Life series with a dark, immersive premise that immediately raises the stakes death is not an ending, but the beginning of something far more brutal. Leon, an ordinary young man from Kansas, is thrown into a dystopian afterlife that is anything but peaceful, where oppression, violence, and survival rule every moment. The contrast between his former life and this savage new realm makes his journey compelling from the outset.
What works especially well here is the worldbuilding. The afterworld is not a vague spiritual concept but a fully realized, hostile system with its own rules, hierarchies, and horrors. Enslaved souls, ruthless captors, and unsettling creatures create a constant sense of danger, while the mysterious “conquest” mark adds intrigue and hints at deeper mechanics yet to be revealed. Robertson doesn’t shy away from the cruelty of this realm, which gives the story weight and urgency without feeling gratuitous.
Leon himself is a relatable protagonist unprepared, overwhelmed, yet stubbornly human. His struggle to retain hope and identity in a place designed to strip both away gives the narrative emotional grounding amid the chaos. Themes of power, greed, resilience, and the cost of survival run throughout, inviting readers to reflect on what it really means to endure when the universe itself seems stacked against you.
Dark, tense, and ambitious, Afterworld is a strong opening for readers who enjoy dystopian science fiction blended with metaphysical horror. It sets up a turbulent cosmos full of unanswered questions and moral challenges, leaving you curious and slightly unsettled about what the next life has in store.
What works especially well here is the worldbuilding. The afterworld is not a vague spiritual concept but a fully realized, hostile system with its own rules, hierarchies, and horrors. Enslaved souls, ruthless captors, and unsettling creatures create a constant sense of danger, while the mysterious “conquest” mark adds intrigue and hints at deeper mechanics yet to be revealed. Robertson doesn’t shy away from the cruelty of this realm, which gives the story weight and urgency without feeling gratuitous.
Leon himself is a relatable protagonist unprepared, overwhelmed, yet stubbornly human. His struggle to retain hope and identity in a place designed to strip both away gives the narrative emotional grounding amid the chaos. Themes of power, greed, resilience, and the cost of survival run throughout, inviting readers to reflect on what it really means to endure when the universe itself seems stacked against you.
Dark, tense, and ambitious, Afterworld is a strong opening for readers who enjoy dystopian science fiction blended with metaphysical horror. It sets up a turbulent cosmos full of unanswered questions and moral challenges, leaving you curious and slightly unsettled about what the next life has in store.
October 18, 2021
Afterworld by James G. Robertson.
Next life book 1.
Death comes, and misery follows. As a man in his early twenties, Leon never genuinely contemplated what would happen after his death. Like those before him, he never understood the truth of our universe. After his sudden demise, the terrorizing reality of a mysterious dystopian afterlife begins crushing him as it has those prior. Men have started enslaving and killing each other to sate their greed while enigmatic creatures oppress the masses. Only a select few have shown the courage that is needed to challenge their supremacy.
Through this eclipsing darkness, there is hope. But will that hope prove to be enough to save this turbulent cosmos? The revelations of advanced science, magic, human savagery, and even our gods will be showcased. Both in a new light and disturbing darkness, will the verities of Earth and Afterworld give him a greater understanding of our universe; or in turn, begin to break him as they have done to so many before?
A good read. Likeable story and characters. I loved the cover. 4*.
Next life book 1.
Death comes, and misery follows. As a man in his early twenties, Leon never genuinely contemplated what would happen after his death. Like those before him, he never understood the truth of our universe. After his sudden demise, the terrorizing reality of a mysterious dystopian afterlife begins crushing him as it has those prior. Men have started enslaving and killing each other to sate their greed while enigmatic creatures oppress the masses. Only a select few have shown the courage that is needed to challenge their supremacy.
Through this eclipsing darkness, there is hope. But will that hope prove to be enough to save this turbulent cosmos? The revelations of advanced science, magic, human savagery, and even our gods will be showcased. Both in a new light and disturbing darkness, will the verities of Earth and Afterworld give him a greater understanding of our universe; or in turn, begin to break him as they have done to so many before?
A good read. Likeable story and characters. I loved the cover. 4*.
December 10, 2021
What would you do if you crossed over into the next life and got the shock of your life? This is exactly what happened to a young man, Leon. A tragic accident leads him to a world where evil beings do great harm to others. Leon witnesses much violence on his grand adventure, but he meets good beings as well, including historical figures.
Is there hope for those lost in this world? Not many have the courage to make it so; however, Leon is special. He makes friends and enemies in his plan to make a difference. He will discover himself and his own strengths and weaknesses.
Things move quickly in this story, and the suspense is high. The stakes are high. Readers will feel a lot while turning these pages, and they will think about things as well. If you like intricate, unusual tales of fantasy and other worlds, why not give this book a try?
Is there hope for those lost in this world? Not many have the courage to make it so; however, Leon is special. He makes friends and enemies in his plan to make a difference. He will discover himself and his own strengths and weaknesses.
Things move quickly in this story, and the suspense is high. The stakes are high. Readers will feel a lot while turning these pages, and they will think about things as well. If you like intricate, unusual tales of fantasy and other worlds, why not give this book a try?
December 29, 2021
i loved this book
from fantasy/magic to suspense to full-on science fiction, it has everything i'd want in a book
the scenery was fantastic and mystical and very well descripted, the enemies were horrifying and hideous and encapsuled everything you want in one, i fell in love with most of the characters (the lovable ones), though i would've liked to know more about Leon and his life before everything went down (he never mourns his own death and barely mentions his past life, which i found kind of interesting lol)
overall, it was a great read. it kept me on edge and wanting to know more and the Afterworld was such an interesting place to dive into :)
p.s. - i wish hope was real
p.s. 2 - omg i screamed when Tesla showed up, that i did not expect (and Alan Turing being his "not-really-nemesis" brought me back to life haha)
from fantasy/magic to suspense to full-on science fiction, it has everything i'd want in a book
the scenery was fantastic and mystical and very well descripted, the enemies were horrifying and hideous and encapsuled everything you want in one, i fell in love with most of the characters (the lovable ones), though i would've liked to know more about Leon and his life before everything went down (he never mourns his own death and barely mentions his past life, which i found kind of interesting lol)
overall, it was a great read. it kept me on edge and wanting to know more and the Afterworld was such an interesting place to dive into :)
p.s. - i wish hope was real
p.s. 2 - omg i screamed when Tesla showed up, that i did not expect (and Alan Turing being his "not-really-nemesis" brought me back to life haha)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2022
Leon is dead. And as shocking as that is to him, he’s even more shocked to learn what comes after. As the truths of the universe are revealed to him, Leon must face the darkness and set out to save the universe.
This was an intriguing book. The start is intriguing and hooks you right away. The character development is very good as is the world building. There is plenty of action and suspect to keep the reader interested. The prose is written to make reading easy and effortless.
All in all, I enjoyed the story and would recommend it to anyone looking for a fantasy novel!
This was an intriguing book. The start is intriguing and hooks you right away. The character development is very good as is the world building. There is plenty of action and suspect to keep the reader interested. The prose is written to make reading easy and effortless.
All in all, I enjoyed the story and would recommend it to anyone looking for a fantasy novel!
October 1, 2022
I got this book from Voracious Readers Only, in exchange for an honest review
At first I wasn't sure if I was going to like this one or not, but it didn't take long for me to start really enjoying the story, the characters were well portrayed and developed. The world building was really well done and there was lots of twists and turn that I didn't see coming. It was an exciting read that sometimes kept me up past my bedtime. I just couldn't put it down!
At first I wasn't sure if I was going to like this one or not, but it didn't take long for me to start really enjoying the story, the characters were well portrayed and developed. The world building was really well done and there was lots of twists and turn that I didn't see coming. It was an exciting read that sometimes kept me up past my bedtime. I just couldn't put it down!
March 5, 2023
this was a great start to the Next Life series, it had a great dark fantasy element to it. I loved the use of zombies and thought it was a great concept. I enjoyed the way James G. Robertson wrote this. I can't wait to read more in this universe.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2022
Fast paced twists and turns good read, will read other books by this author
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews