Cross – Shantel Tessier

Cross is the fourth installment in Shantel Tessier’s gripping Dark Kingdom series, weaving a tale of forbidden desire and emotional redemption. The story follows Alexa, a fiercely independent woman who thrives on self-reliance, and Cross, a man haunted by a past that fuels his darkest impulses. Their connection ignites like wildfire—dangerous, consuming, and impossible to ignore. As Cross battles his inner demons, Alexa becomes both his salvation and his greatest temptation.

Set against a backdrop of secrets and loyalty, the novel explores themes of trust, healing, and the transformative power of love. Cross’s struggle with his identity as a “King” in a world of chaos mirrors Alexa’s journey to confront her vulnerabilities. Tessier masterfully balances steamy romance with intense emotional stakes, creating a narrative that lingers long after the final page.

Fans of the series will appreciate callbacks to earlier characters like Grave and April, while newcomers are welcomed into a richly layered world. The prose is raw and visceral, painting vivid portraits of flawed characters fighting for redemption. With its blend of heart-pounding tension and tender moments, Cross solidifies Tessier’s reputation as a powerhouse in dark, character-driven romance.

The book’s pacing keeps readers hooked, alternating between quiet introspection and explosive confrontations. Secondary characters add depth, though the spotlight remains firmly on Alexa and Cross’s magnetic push-pull dynamic. Themes of fire and darkness recur, symbolizing destruction and rebirth—a metaphor that mirrors their relationship.

Cross is not just a love story but a exploration of how trauma shapes us and the courage it takes to let someone else into your scars. It’s a must-read for those who crave romance with grit, complexity, and a touch of danger.