Introduction to Emily McIntire’s 'Crossed’
Emily McIntire’s „Crossed” plunges readers into a world where faith and sin collide, offering a dark and compelling narrative that explores the depths of human desire and the complexities of morality. This novel, a significant entry in the „Never After” series (known as „Nunca Jamás” in Spanish), challenges conventional notions of love and devotion, weaving a tale of forbidden romance that will captivate and disturb in equal measure. „Crossed” delves into the internal struggles of its characters, presenting a scenario where sacred vows are tested by overwhelming obsession, and the lines between right and wrong become irrevocably blurred. McIntire masterfully crafts an atmosphere of intense emotional turmoil, drawing readers into a story that is both provocative and deeply resonant.
The premise: Faith meets sin
The core premise of „Crossed” by Emily McIntire is the stark confrontation between unwavering faith and all-consuming sin. At the heart of this conflict lies the story of Padre Cade Frédéric, a man dedicated to his religious vows, and Amaya Paquette, a woman whose very presence seems to embody temptation. McIntire sets the stage in the seemingly tranquil town of Festivalé, Vermont, where the sacred and the profane are about to intertwine in a way that will challenge the very foundations of belief. The narrative explores how deeply ingrained principles can be shaken by an irresistible pull, questioning whether even the most devout can resist the allure of forbidden desire. This juxtaposition of spiritual duty and carnal longing forms the bedrock of the plot, driving the characters towards a destiny fraught with peril and passion.
’Crossed’ by Emily McIntire: A forbidden romance
„Crossed” by Emily McIntire is a gripping exploration of a forbidden romance that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The novel centers on the intense and unexpected connection between Padre Cade Frédéric and Amaya Paquette. Their relationship is forbidden not only by societal norms but also by Cade’s sacred vows as a priest. McIntire skillfully portrays the magnetic pull between the two, highlighting Cade’s growing obsession with Amaya, a woman he perceives as a beautiful mystery. This forbidden romance is the engine of the narrative, driving the plot forward through internal conflict, moral dilemmas, and the palpable tension between duty and desire. The story delves into the emotional and psychological impact of such a clandestine affair, making „Crossed” a compelling read for those who appreciate dark, character-driven romances.
Characters and their conflicts
Padre Cade Frederic: Between duty and obsession
Padre Cade Frédéric, a central figure in Emily McIntire’s „Crossed,” is a man caught in a profound internal battle between his sacred duty as a man of God and an overwhelming, all-consuming obsession with Amaya Paquette. His life, dedicated to righteousness and service, is thrown into disarray upon encountering Amaya, whom he immediately perceives as a bewitching presence. McIntire meticulously details Cade’s struggle, portraying his internal monologues as he grapples with his vows and the burgeoning, forbidden desires she ignites within him. The conflict is not merely about temptation; it’s about the perceived spiritual danger Amaya represents and his inability to reconcile his devotion to God with his growing fixation on her. This internal war makes Padre Cade a complex and tragic character, embodying the central theme of „Crossed” – the clash between faith and the darker aspects of human nature.
Amaya Paquette: Secrets and the fear of abandonment
Amaya Paquette, also known as Esmeralda, is the enigmatic woman at the heart of Emily McIntire’s „Crossed,” whose inner turmoil significantly shapes the narrative. While she possesses a captivating beauty that draws the attention of Padre Cade Frédéric, her own desires are deeply rooted in a longing for genuine love, juxtaposed with a crippling fear of abandonment. This fear stems from her past and her perceived status as a sinner, making her hesitant to fully embrace the affection that Padre Cade begins to offer, even as it comes from a forbidden place. Amaya’s character arc in „Crossed” is defined by her internal struggle to reconcile her yearning for connection with the deep-seated belief that she is unworthy of it, or that any love she receives will inevitably be withdrawn. Her secrets and her vulnerability add layers of complexity to the forbidden romance, making her an integral part of the novel’s exploration of faith, sin, and the human need for belonging.
Themes and trigger warnings in 'Crossed’
Detailed trigger warnings: What you need to know
Emily McIntire’s „Crossed” is a novel that does not shy away from depicting difficult and potentially disturbing subject matter. For readers who are sensitive to certain themes, it is crucial to be aware of the detailed trigger warnings associated with this book. These include, but are not limited to, explicit sexual scenes, graphic violence/gore, torture, murder, rape (described in detail at the end of chapter 46, and not between the main characters), sexual assault (also not between the main characters), religious trauma, self-harm, stalking, and peeping tom behavior. The novel also touches upon drug abuse, bullying of a child on the spectrum, and child abuse (though these are referenced rather than graphically depicted in the main narrative). Understanding these warnings is essential for readers to make an informed decision about engaging with „Crossed” by Emily McIntire and to prepare themselves for the intense nature of its content.
Mature themes: From religious trauma to explicit scenes
„Crossed” by Emily McIntire delves into a spectrum of mature themes that contribute to its dark and provocative nature. Foremost among these is religious trauma, which deeply affects the characters and the narrative’s atmosphere, exploring the psychological impact of strict faith and its potential for spiritual damage. The novel also confronts the raw reality of explicit sexual scenes, depicted with intensity and without reservation, reflecting the passionate and forbidden nature of the central romance. Beyond these, „Crossed” unflinchingly addresses other challenging themes such as graphic violence, torture, and murder, painting a grim picture of the world its characters inhabit. The exploration of these mature themes, including the underlying currents of sin and lujuria (lust), makes „Crossed” a potent and often unsettling read, pushing the boundaries of dark romance and psychological exploration.
Publication and availability
’Crossed’ by Emily McIntire: Book details and formats
„Crossed” by Emily McIntire is a highly anticipated novel that has been made available in various formats to cater to a wide audience. As the fifth installment in the „Never After” (or „Nunca Jamás”) series, it continues the dark and captivating storytelling that Emily McIntire is known for. The English edition was published by Tantor Media, Inc., with a release date of September 12, 2023. The Spanish translation, handled by Cristina Macía Orio, was published by MONTENA on July 10, 2025, with the ISBN 9788410396227. Readers can access „Crossed” in several formats: as an e-book, specifically for Kindle, offering immediate digital access; as a physical book in hardcover, providing a tangible reading experience; and as an audiobook, allowing for listening on the go. The Google Books listing indicates page counts of approximately 429 pages for the Montena edition and 404 pages for another edition, providing an idea of the novel’s substantial length.
Where to buy 'Crossed’: Amazon, Kindle, and more
For readers eager to immerse themselves in the dark allure of „Crossed” by Emily McIntire, the book is readily available through major online retailers and digital platforms. Amazon is a primary source, offering the novel in various formats, including Kindle e-books, hardcover editions, and audiobooks. In fact, „Crossed” was available for pre-order on Amazon.com.mx, indicating its global reach. For those seeking an audiobook experience, it’s worth noting that it may be accessible for free with a trial membership on Amazon. Beyond Amazon, other booksellers like Librerías Gandhi also offer the book, with pricing details such as 466 pesos for the printed version, often coupled with loyalty point schemes. The printed edition can be found starting from approximately 472.77 pesos. This widespread availability ensures that fans of Emily McIntire and dark romance can easily acquire „Crossed” in their preferred format.
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