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Tribute
Tribute is a small, Australian township blessed with ancient mountainous rainforest, waterfalls, clean pristine rivers and a filthy secret. Six young lives are brought together by a church orphanage as wards of the state then groomed and sold off at a tender age. Other than the jungle, their only comfort is each other, and Stirrup, a brave blue cattle dog. The only family they have ever known.
Led by Cozy, wild, defiant and found in Tribute’s rainforest as an infant, the youngsters plot the demise of their tormentor. Will the kids finally experience freedom and happiness? Or will tyranny and heartache stubbornly cling to them?
Refreshingly guttural and unashamedly Australian, Tribute’s untamed growl is bold and confronting.
Led by Cozy, wild, defiant and found in Tribute’s rainforest as an infant, the youngsters plot the demise of their tormentor. Will the kids finally experience freedom and happiness? Or will tyranny and heartache stubbornly cling to them?
Refreshingly guttural and unashamedly Australian, Tribute’s untamed growl is bold and confronting.
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Published March 13, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 13, 2019
I loved it. A novel that makes you cry, get mad and want to shake someone. A story about orphans from their childhood to adulthood. Robert Lee Johnson tugs at the heartstrings with this story. This book has it all, abuse, drugs, swearing, so if these things bother you, don't read. It will make your emotions seesaw throughout. i am looking forward to reading more from this author. I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
April 26, 2018
Better than Tim Winton! Set in the jungle in Far North Queensland and written in such unique Aussie venacular. The book even comes with a glossary that is an entertaining read on its own. The story revolves around six orphaned children who endure the most heinous of crimes. Their journey into adulthood is not just a rollercoaster ride but more like an astronaut stuck in a meteor storm. You don't know what's going to hit you next. An enthralling, heart thumping must-read.
July 1, 2019
This book is gritty, raw and heartbreaking. I could not put it down. From start to finish I felt the bond with this band of misfits orphans. I felt their pain, their love for each other and their loyalty. Well written and page turning I highly recommend this read. But prepare yourself for a full range of emotions that will leave you thinking about this book long after you finish reading it.
November 20, 2019
The writing in this book is so evocative you almost feel like you're in the tiny town of Tribute surrounded by the wilderness. That's not always a good thing considering the subject matter. This is a book about the evil that men do.
In this case, evil is the person you least suspect, the pillar of the community, the pastor of the church who everyone thinks is a saint for taking in orphans. The horror in this book comes from the gut-wrenching abuse the main characters are subjected to while just trying to exist.
This book is controversial, and not for the faint of heart. If you can't stomach extreme and over the top depictions of the physical and emotional abuse of children, references to heavy drug and alcohol use, or foul language I don't suggest picking it up. If you can, there's a little tribe of orphans, who you can't help rooting for. I'm not sure I connected with all of the characters but I sure felt for all of them. I'd read more by this author because at the end of the day the writing was that good even if the subject matter was deplorable.
And that ending. Oh, my, that ending. It's like the icing on the saddest story in the world.
I requested and received a complimentary review copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only.
In this case, evil is the person you least suspect, the pillar of the community, the pastor of the church who everyone thinks is a saint for taking in orphans. The horror in this book comes from the gut-wrenching abuse the main characters are subjected to while just trying to exist.
This book is controversial, and not for the faint of heart. If you can't stomach extreme and over the top depictions of the physical and emotional abuse of children, references to heavy drug and alcohol use, or foul language I don't suggest picking it up. If you can, there's a little tribe of orphans, who you can't help rooting for. I'm not sure I connected with all of the characters but I sure felt for all of them. I'd read more by this author because at the end of the day the writing was that good even if the subject matter was deplorable.
And that ending. Oh, my, that ending. It's like the icing on the saddest story in the world.
I requested and received a complimentary review copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only.
August 4, 2019
Wow! That was the first voiced comment that escaped my lips after reading the last sentence. It's been a long time since I was highly impressed with a book. Robert Lee Johnston is an outstanding author and I find myself inspired by him.
Robert, I applaud you for putting voice to these unspoken and tragicly violent situations. From the way you write, I feel it has been from the heart with such passion and emotion that I can't help but wonder how close to reality this story is.
Robert, you have a new fan. Thank you for sharing this story with us and opening our eyes to the reality of what still continues to be an issue today.
I do have to add, this book is not for the faint of heart. The first chapter is hard to read, emotionally, but worth it as you continue to read, and I highly recommend that you do. This book reminds me of one that I have read in my childhood, Johnny Got His Gun by Dalton Trumbo. It was similar in that it shocked you in ways that you could never forget the words within. This is one of those books.
Well done Robert.
Robert, I applaud you for putting voice to these unspoken and tragicly violent situations. From the way you write, I feel it has been from the heart with such passion and emotion that I can't help but wonder how close to reality this story is.
Robert, you have a new fan. Thank you for sharing this story with us and opening our eyes to the reality of what still continues to be an issue today.
I do have to add, this book is not for the faint of heart. The first chapter is hard to read, emotionally, but worth it as you continue to read, and I highly recommend that you do. This book reminds me of one that I have read in my childhood, Johnny Got His Gun by Dalton Trumbo. It was similar in that it shocked you in ways that you could never forget the words within. This is one of those books.
Well done Robert.
July 5, 2019
Book by @robert.lee.johnston
A powerful and emotional debut.
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You need a lot of courage to complete this piece of art and face the dark truth.
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The powerful and rich writing style takes this book to another level that makes it beautiful and remarkable.
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The book has its own glossary that will uplift the fun and you will be able to understand better. A thoroughly enjoyable and heartfelt read.
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This book will have a special place in my heart forever♥️
I cannot give it anything less than 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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Recommended to those who are into Literary fiction and suspense. Cannot wait to read more books from this gritty, lion hearted or should I say wolf author.
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Warning: mature audiences only
A powerful and emotional debut.
........................
You need a lot of courage to complete this piece of art and face the dark truth.
.........................
The powerful and rich writing style takes this book to another level that makes it beautiful and remarkable.
..............................
The book has its own glossary that will uplift the fun and you will be able to understand better. A thoroughly enjoyable and heartfelt read.
...............................
This book will have a special place in my heart forever♥️
I cannot give it anything less than 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
..........................
Recommended to those who are into Literary fiction and suspense. Cannot wait to read more books from this gritty, lion hearted or should I say wolf author.
............................
Warning: mature audiences only
October 26, 2025
Tribute is a powerful story that grabbed my heart right from the start. The setting in a small Australian town filled with stunning rainforest and waterfalls creates a haunting contrast to what is happening behind closed doors. Cozy and the other children, raised without real families and forced into unthinkable situations, show incredible courage and loyalty that made me care deeply for them.
Their bond with each other and with Stirrup, the brave blue cattle dog, is both heartbreaking and beautiful. The tension builds as they decide to stand up against their abusers, and I found myself holding my breath hoping they would finally taste freedom.
This book is bold, intense, and not afraid to expose the ugly truth. A confronting but moving story of survival, friendship, and the fight for justice. I will not forget it anytime soon.
Their bond with each other and with Stirrup, the brave blue cattle dog, is both heartbreaking and beautiful. The tension builds as they decide to stand up against their abusers, and I found myself holding my breath hoping they would finally taste freedom.
This book is bold, intense, and not afraid to expose the ugly truth. A confronting but moving story of survival, friendship, and the fight for justice. I will not forget it anytime soon.
January 27, 2019
Emotionally CHarged
Once in awhile a book comes along that blows you away and leaves a mark that will never leave you. This is one that has done just that. It's raw, gritty, emotional, horrific and discribes the underworld of abuse. Defenantly not for the faint of heart or readers with triggers. From the very first page you enter into a very dark and painful world of these orphaned children that continues into adulthood. Your heart will bleed, cry, hurt, love and laugh with these characters as they create a bond that will last a lifetime. This author is new to me but I can tell you I will definitely be reading his future work.
Once in awhile a book comes along that blows you away and leaves a mark that will never leave you. This is one that has done just that. It's raw, gritty, emotional, horrific and discribes the underworld of abuse. Defenantly not for the faint of heart or readers with triggers. From the very first page you enter into a very dark and painful world of these orphaned children that continues into adulthood. Your heart will bleed, cry, hurt, love and laugh with these characters as they create a bond that will last a lifetime. This author is new to me but I can tell you I will definitely be reading his future work.
July 1, 2019
This little gem has been quite the talk and is said to be very controversial. Personally, I love it. Robbie creatively opens your eyes to a world that has been hidden, and not spoken of. Truth is, what he writes about is still going on today. So, as much as the story is gritty and things are not sugar coated. Keep in mind, those that are victims to this didn't have things sugar coated for them. I give him a huge amount of kudos to be able to pull that blindfold off that most of us wear in regards to this. If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend it. It’s one of those reads that will stay with you long after you read it.
November 17, 2019
I received a free copy of this book through Voracious Readers.
Even though the author warns about the content, I felt shocked at how explicit the beginning of the book is and found it incredibly hard to read. It leaves nothing to the imagination. However, importantly, it also sets the scene for the remainder of the story. I really enjoyed this book and read it over a couple of days. It’s a study on how lives can be shaped by experiences, both good and bad and how some people never seem to get the breaks they deserve. Highly recommended.
Even though the author warns about the content, I felt shocked at how explicit the beginning of the book is and found it incredibly hard to read. It leaves nothing to the imagination. However, importantly, it also sets the scene for the remainder of the story. I really enjoyed this book and read it over a couple of days. It’s a study on how lives can be shaped by experiences, both good and bad and how some people never seem to get the breaks they deserve. Highly recommended.
Read
March 6, 2021The story Roberts tells of growing up as an orphan in Australia is very powerful and emotional. You feel everything that is happening to the children, good, bad & ugly. I wont lie it was a little hard of a read due to the emotions, however, it was due to those emotional moments that make it a more powerful story. I personally loved the writing style of the story, for example, he was not afraid to use the Australian slang in his writing. I feel that if he had used “proper” English it would have taken away from the characters their story.
March 7, 2021
This was definitely one of those books that grabs you from the beginning and no matter how much you want to give up you absolutely have to finish to know what happens. While I don't recommend reading it while you're at work I would 10000000% recommend reading anywhere else. It definitely makes you re-evaluate what's important and makes you hug your loved ones closer especially the tiny humans. I honestly fell in love with the way he writes and I can't wait to see what else he has. He could very quickly become one of my favorite authors.
June 27, 2021
Where to start? First, I highly recommend you read this story. The comradery between the six friends (characters) is the most genuine I've ever read about. I adored each character. This story brought out so many emotions: Hate. Love. Sadness. Happiness. I want to say I love this story, but the subject matter is not one you should love. So, I'll just say it's a beautifully, well-written story. The first chapter is hard, but please continue. You'll find a captivating story of survival. Children (orphans) from childhood to adulthood. Riveting! An absolutely amazing story.
October 24, 2019
This is a chilling and emotional book. I have to say it’s not for the faint of heart. If you’re looking for handholding, hearts and flowers....well this isn’t that book.
If you’re looking for a book that’s well written, that the characters of the story will touch your hearts and make you want to hold them and never let them go, this is THAT book.
Robert is an amazing writer. Not all will enjoy his words, but that’s ok. I’m looking forward to reading more of his work.
If you’re looking for a book that’s well written, that the characters of the story will touch your hearts and make you want to hold them and never let them go, this is THAT book.
Robert is an amazing writer. Not all will enjoy his words, but that’s ok. I’m looking forward to reading more of his work.
May 10, 2021
This was my first book I read from this author and let me tell you... this story is not for the faint of heart but it is something that needed to be told... This book is written with such raw emotion and love. I found myself cursing at a few characters, crying for a few and always rooting for the underdog. This book touched my heart and my soul... it is one I will never forget. "The Six" will always have a special place in my heart. I recommend this book with everything in my being.
May 5, 2019
This in many ways very disturbing book was nevertheless very hard to put down
The mistreatment of children in institutions is described in horrifying detail.
However, the bond that forms between them is heartwarming and very close.
Written in Australian vernacular is very refreshing.
I have only recently discovered this author and will look out for his books.
I highly recommend this book.
The mistreatment of children in institutions is described in horrifying detail.
However, the bond that forms between them is heartwarming and very close.
Written in Australian vernacular is very refreshing.
I have only recently discovered this author and will look out for his books.
I highly recommend this book.
June 28, 2019
Dark, disturbing yet ultimately uplifting in its depiction of friendship and love.
Set in Far North Queensland and using the local language and culture that truly evokes its setting, this book tells the sometimes horrifying, sometimes beautiful story of Cozy and his pack as they navigate life, friendship, abuse and heartbreak.
Highly recommended.
Set in Far North Queensland and using the local language and culture that truly evokes its setting, this book tells the sometimes horrifying, sometimes beautiful story of Cozy and his pack as they navigate life, friendship, abuse and heartbreak.
Highly recommended.
March 6, 2021
Tribute by Robert Lee Johnson, is a hard hitting story of survival, a group of friends who go through a traumatic time, they grow up and as the story progresses it'll break your heart time and time again, It comes with a warning because of their traumatic upbringing, readers of true stories will find a place for this one on their shelves. xxx
March 2, 2022
Awesome and dark
This is not for the faint of heart. Definitely a trigger happy story. Its a life of pain, sorrow, and empowerment in the likes most could, or would never understand. This story shows things that too many turn a blind eye too, but are very real. its gritty, wordy in a good way, and takes you on one he'll of a roller coaster ride of emotions. Well done!
This is not for the faint of heart. Definitely a trigger happy story. Its a life of pain, sorrow, and empowerment in the likes most could, or would never understand. This story shows things that too many turn a blind eye too, but are very real. its gritty, wordy in a good way, and takes you on one he'll of a roller coaster ride of emotions. Well done!
June 20, 2021
Wow
I loved this book. I cried many tears. So many emotions I can't even describe in words. What these kids had to endure just tore me up. This book is a must read. Thank you Robert Lee Johnston
I loved this book. I cried many tears. So many emotions I can't even describe in words. What these kids had to endure just tore me up. This book is a must read. Thank you Robert Lee Johnston
May 29, 2018
The author put his heart and soul into writing about the most evil of subjects. Not afraid to back down from an emotive subject and left no rock unturned.
A great although at times disturbing read.
A great although at times disturbing read.
February 17, 2020
This is a phenomenal book that shows things that are happening in the real world. This book is very well written, blunt and hits all your emotions. This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat not letting you what will happen next and has an amazing ending.
April 30, 2021
This was such a hard story for me to read. This book is not for the faint hearted. At times it was emotionally draining. I had to take breaks. There were tears, I wanted to slap someone and it was heartbreaking. But there are some funny moments. The abuse broke my heart. No child should have to go through that. I loved that this is written in Australia with Aussie words. I don’t read enough stories by Australian authors. The writing was phenomenal. I’m glad I finally got to read this story. Enjoy the rollercoaster you will be on.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews