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Hey there, bookworms! 🌟

I just finished reading “Crossed” by Emily McIntire, and wow—what a wild ride! If you’re into dark, twisted romances that keep you on the edge of your seat, this one is a must-read. As someone who loves stories with complex characters, Crossed definitely delivered. McIntire once again serves up a captivating mix of danger, secrets, and a forbidden love that kept me glued to the pages.

Plot Summary 🔥

Without giving too much away, “Crossed” follows the entangled lives of Father Cade Frederic, a man with a troubled past who’s now hiding behind his role as a priest, and Amaya Paquette, a woman caught in a web of crime, revenge, and betrayal. When their worlds collide, everything changes—for better or worse, you’ll have to read to find out.

One of the things I love most about McIntire’s writing is how she dives into themes like redemption, love, and the shadows of the past. This book isn’t afraid to take you into some dark places, but the emotional depth really pulls you through.

Favorite Quote: “In the end, it’s the choices we make in the dark that define who we truly are.”

This line from Cade really stuck with me. It captures the moral complexities of the story and perfectly represents the internal struggle that both characters face throughout the book.

What I Loved ❤️

• The Dark & Intense Atmosphere: McIntire creates a world that feels both dangerous and alluring. There’s a sense of tension that builds with every chapter, and I was completely absorbed in the story.
• Character Complexity: Cade Frederic is such a compelling character. His inner battle between his faith and his darker impulses makes for a fascinating read. And Amaya? She’s no damsel in distress. She’s powerful in her own right, and her journey of survival is just as gripping.
• The Forbidden Romance: The push and pull between Cade and Amaya is next-level. McIntire masterfully builds the tension between them, and when things finally snap… well, let’s just say it was worth the wait! 🔥

The Not-So-Greats ⚖️

• Pacing Issues: At times, the story slowed down a bit with the backstory and setup. There were a few moments where I wished the plot would move a little faster, but once the action kicked in, it was full steam ahead.
• Dark Themes: This book gets intense. If you’re not a fan of heavy, dark themes or moral dilemmas, this might not be the best fit for you. It’s definitely for readers who love exploring the grittier side of romance.

Final Thoughts 🌟

“Crossed” is a powerful, intense, and deeply emotional read. If you love dark romance with complex, flawed characters, this is a book you won’t want to miss. Emily McIntire continues to prove her mastery at creating stories that balance grit, redemption, and passion. Be ready for a book that makes you question the line between good and evil—and what we’re willing to sacrifice for love.

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5)

If you’ve read it, let’s chat in the comments! I’d love to know what you thought of Cade and Amaya’s story. 💬