The Second Cycle
Series Overview
Enter The Second Cycle—a mythic, character-driven epic where every miracle has a cost, loyalty will test even the most faithful, and the echoes of the First Cycle threaten to destroy everything.
Alcia: A Land Shaped by Memory and Consequence
Alcia is a realm where the rise of the Spires and the silencing of the Songs signal the return of an ancient power long thought buried. Magic is known as the Gift—but during the First Cycle, a corruption called the Graft was outlawed. Every use of it demands a price paid in blood. Silent for centuries, it has returned.
A Kingdom on the Brink
Knight Commander Cedrik Theramond is a weapon of the state, bound by an iron oath to a Crown that tolerates no disobedience. For years, he has enforced the Law in a kingdom that offers no mercy to the weak. But as a silent, violet power begins to fester and the Tithe demands the unthinkable, the line between duty and morality fractures beyond repair.
When History Repeats, No One Escapes Its Cost
In a world where the past is awakening and the First Cycle threatens to begin again, Cedrik must confront a single truth: what remains of a man when honor is stripped away and the echoes of history demand blood.
The Second Cycle
Reading Order
Book 0 - The Iron Tithe: A Prelude to Blood of Tomorrow
Book 1 - Blood of Tomorrow
Book 2 - Blood of Yesterday - Late 2026
Book 3 - Blood of Today - Coming 2027
Praise for blood of Tomorrow
"Robert W. Riley’s BLOOD OF TOMORROW: The Second Cycle Book 1 delivers a gripping fantasy adventure whose vivid characters and satisfying ending make the next installment easy to anticipate."
- Katherine Crucilla for IndieReader
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About the Author
Robert W. Riley writes character-driven epic fantasy shaped of myth, memory, and consequence. He is the author of The Second Cycle, a series that explores the failures of those who ignore history and the struggle of those forced to bear the consequences of repeating the same mistakes.
When he isn't plotting the downfall of kingdoms or the corruption of "The Graft," Robert navigates the real-world complexities of the automotive industry as an executive of a Tier 2 with operations in Puebla Mexico.
When the work is done, he returns to his house in Indiana ruled by 4 dogs, 5 cats, and the incredible wife who is his world. It was his daughter, however, who inspired him to finally put pen to paper and launch this saga.
The Iron Tithe is his debut prequel, inviting readers to confront a single, haunting question:
What is the real price of loyalty?