Tribute at the Gates Book Cover

Tribute at the Gates


A Fantasy Novel


Book 1 of the Catalyst Series


Subgenres & Tropes:

  • Epic Fantasy,
  • Dark Fantasy,
  • Reluctant Hero,
  • Slave Protagonist,
  • Hidden Powers
Buy from Amazon

Read Sample

This book is for you if you're into...

  • Stories where cursed blood means power and danger
  • Underdog heroes rising from slavery in epic fantasy worlds
  • Dark magic systems tied to ancient secrets
Publisher Description

Cursed from birth. Forced into slavery. It's time to fight back.

The blood of the Ancients is the most coveted ingredient in all of Damaris. The fabled elixir made from it grants those who drink it life that extends far beyond natural means.

There is no higher honor in the kingdom than being granted the privilege of bidding for it. And the people found with the cursed blood? By law, they are the rightful property of the kingdom.

They are tributes.

As a boy, Ryl was sold by his family when he was discovered to have the coveted blood flowing through his veins. Broken, scared, and confused, he's confined to an area known as the Stocks until he is ready for harvesting.

Ryl stumbles through a doomed life until the appearance of a mysterious stranger who exposes a buried version of the past that changes everything. That his blood may not be a curse, but a blessing.

The fates of all the tributes hang in the balance.

Experience the start of a debut Epic Fantasy Series filled with unexpected heroes, dark magic, and non-stop adventure. Suitable for all ages, it's perfect for fans of D.K. Holmberg, Will Wight, and K.F. Breene.

Also available on Audible, narrated by Travis Baldree (Unsouled, Awaken Online).

More C.J. Aaron

Follow This Author

Sign up & we'll email you when a new title is available for pre-order or hits the bookshelf

Little Stacks of Fantasy

Get Fantasy eBook Deals

Curated reads, irresistible prices—subscribe now

Add this book to your To Be Read list

Sign up to build your personal library

Archive This Book

Sign up to build your personal library