Review: Crossroads by Moira Rogers

Crossroads by Moira Rogers
e-Book
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Available: February 9, 2010
ASIN: B00311JU6U
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Book received from: Author

Derek Gabriel was born human in family of psychics, aware of the supernatural world but never a part of it…until a rogue shape-shifter took humanity from him in a vicious attack. He’s spent two years struggling to adjust, not just to a change that’s driven many insane, but also to the prejudices of a culture where transformed wolves are considered inferior. A serious struggle, indeed, when the woman who attracts the man and the wolf inside him is the daughter of the most powerful wolf in the country.

For Nicole Peyton, nothing is more important than escaping the stifling confines of elite shape-shifter society, an old-fashioned world where women are valued only for their bloodlines and bank accounts. In New Orleans, she has a bar she loves, friends she cares for, and a smoldering, unspoken tension with an unsuitable but incredibly attractive man.

Neither could predict how quickly forbidden longing would erupt into burning need, but Nick and Derek have more than themselves to think about when Nick’s sister arrives in the city with a shape-shifter strike team hard on her heels. The only way Nick can save her sister may be to play by the Conclave’s rules–but it will mean giving up the man she’s falling in love with, unless he’s willing to risk everything in a challenge that will shake the foundations of their world.

Crossroads is the second book in the Southern Arcana series by Moira Rogers.  It can be read stand alone but I recommend reading Crux first simply because this is turning out to be a superb series.  To miss any part of it would be a shame.

Nicole Peyton is a shape-shifter and eldest daughter of the Alpha wolf.  She was born a shifter and is the reluctant heir to her father’s position in the Conclave, the governing body for the shape-shifting society.  Instead Nicole prefers her simple life as a bar owner in New Orleans where she has a close knit circle of supernatural friends.  One friend in particular has had her special attention for quite some time.

Derek is a shape-shifter wolf but was not born as one.  He was turned as a result of a vicious attack two years previous.  In traditional shape-shifter society, he is considered a second class citizen, not worthy of the attentions of an heiress.  However Nicole doesn’t see things that way and she wants Derek.  Sensing Derek is attracted to her as well, she has spent the last two years flirting and waiting for Derek to make his move.

After two years of struggling to get his wild instincts under control, Derek decides it’s time to let Nicole know how he feels about her, so he plans to make his move at a birthday party Nicole is hosting at her bar.  Derek’s intentions of taking things slowly shatter as soon as the two are finally alone together and instinct overtakes them both. They end up in a very hot after hours make-out session.  A knock at the door quickly brings the make out session to a halt though.  Michelle, Nicole’s twin sister, and her bodyguard/lover Aaron have arrived and they are in big trouble with the Conclave.  There is a death warrant on Aaron’s head and Michelle, who is pregnant by Aaron is in danger.  Nicole and Derek discover just how deep their feelings for each other go as they and their friends rally together to protect Michelle and Aaron.

Moira Rogers takes us even further into the world of shape-shifter politics in Crossroads and gives the reader a sense of just how complicated and dangerous the world is without bogging down the story or slowing the action.  We see a world steeped in traditions that have become outdated to the point where the rules and laws may harm those they were originally meant to protect.

Crossroads is a story of love and self sacrifice leaving the characters to  decide just how far they will go for love, loyalty and tradition.  Despite their different backgrounds and social standings Derek and Nick are perfect for each other. Their relationship gives new meaning to the words love and loyalty.  I was truly touched by their devotion to each other as I watched them make selfless choices even at the cost of their own happiness. Their personal strength both as a couple and as individuals made me love and cheer for them from the very beginning.  While their choices were difficult, every decision they made either together or separate were made in love and support of those they hold close to their hearts.

Nick and Derek’s physical chemistry was so intense from their first kiss after hours in Nick’s bar, to a sultry love making session after a run in the forest. These two burn up the pages with their passion and need for each other.

The Southern Arcana world is built well from the ground up and paves the way for what I hope are many more installments in this fabulous Romantic Urban Fantasy.  As always Moira Rogers’ secondary characters hold strong and support the plot well.  Alec, a dark and broody wolf shifter is sexy and mysterious and so far he is one of my favorite secondary characters. We get a hint in Crossroads that his past is one of sadness and loss and I look forward to reading his story in the hope for his happily ever after.

Purchase a copy of Crossroads
Available February 9, 2010 (ebook), November 2010 (print)

Other books in the series:

Crux Southern Arcana Book 1

Deadlock Southern Arcana Book 3
Available January 2011 (ebook), November 2011 (print)

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