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Crossroads: A Jonathan Preston Novel
World War Two may be over, but the battle is far from finished for Jonathan Preston. A year after a rogue Japanese general’s failed attempt to unleash a deadly biological weapon on the United States, Preston and his elite team of U.S. Army counterintelligence agents find themselves hunted by a relentless assassin.
Their target: Uchito Tsukuda, a former Japanese army intelligence czar turned ruthless organized crime chieftain. Tsukuda is determined to reclaim a sacred and ancient Japanese samurai sword now in Preston’s possession. A weapon he believes holds unimaginable power. As Tsukuda expands his criminal empire, selling arms to Chinese Communists and smuggling weapons into North Korea, the stakes grow ever higher.
Preston must lead his team deep into Japan, navigating a dangerous web of espionage, deception, and deadly confrontations. In a daring and ingenious plan, he sets a trap for Tsukuda using the legendary sword as the centerpiece of a Kabuki play about a White Samurai. Lives, including his wife and child, hang in the balance as the ultimate showdown between cunning intelligence and unrelenting ambition approaches.
Packed with high-stakes action, international intrigue, and historical tension, this thriller delivers heart-pounding suspense, brilliant strategy, and a battle that will test courage, loyalty, and the very limits of survival.
Their target: Uchito Tsukuda, a former Japanese army intelligence czar turned ruthless organized crime chieftain. Tsukuda is determined to reclaim a sacred and ancient Japanese samurai sword now in Preston’s possession. A weapon he believes holds unimaginable power. As Tsukuda expands his criminal empire, selling arms to Chinese Communists and smuggling weapons into North Korea, the stakes grow ever higher.
Preston must lead his team deep into Japan, navigating a dangerous web of espionage, deception, and deadly confrontations. In a daring and ingenious plan, he sets a trap for Tsukuda using the legendary sword as the centerpiece of a Kabuki play about a White Samurai. Lives, including his wife and child, hang in the balance as the ultimate showdown between cunning intelligence and unrelenting ambition approaches.
Packed with high-stakes action, international intrigue, and historical tension, this thriller delivers heart-pounding suspense, brilliant strategy, and a battle that will test courage, loyalty, and the very limits of survival.
392 pages, Paperback
Published September 12, 2022
About the author
Steve Doherty
25 books4 followersSteve Doherty grew up in a small town in Texas. His dream was to fly jets in the U.S. Air Force and one day write novels. After graduating from Southwest Texas State University, he achieved his dream and flew the T-29A, KC-135A, and T-43A aircraft.
After retiring from the Air Force, Steve worked as a telecom engineer with Lucent Technologies.
In 2012, he began writing WW2 thrillers. Steve has written ten novels, published five war thrillers, and six children's picture books.
Steve is also a 6th Dan instructor in Taekwondo. He lives in New Albany, Ohio.
After retiring from the Air Force, Steve worked as a telecom engineer with Lucent Technologies.
In 2012, he began writing WW2 thrillers. Steve has written ten novels, published five war thrillers, and six children's picture books.
Steve is also a 6th Dan instructor in Taekwondo. He lives in New Albany, Ohio.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 25, 2025
Reading Crossroads was so captivating I felt like I was pulled straight into Jonathan Preston’s World. The scenes are written so vividly that I could first hand experience what was happening. The tension continued to build as I read which excited me to read more. There are a few twists and turns that caught me off guard but kept me captivated. By the time I finished the book I was looking for more. This is a MUST read. I am so glad I picked it up!!
January 1, 2026
This was the best read to finish the year! I’m not usually into history but this had a great thriller and revenge twist to it. This book kept me hooked from the beginning and makes you think about your own life choices along the way. It was a fast-paced, pretty easy read, but was also able to deliver that emotional connection with the characters. The book was also very well written, allowing the reader to visually see the story as it was being told.
The story is about what happens when people reach pivotal moments, crossroads, where one decision can change everything. The book is built around the idea that no choice is ever truly small, and that our paths are often shaped by chance encounters. This gives the story the emotional weight that feels relatable. Another thing that I really liked about this book is how the story explores connection and how our lives cross, influence one another, and sometimes collide in unexpected ways. These intersections form the pillar of the story. Rather than offering easy answers, the author allows the story to unfold in a realistic way, showing that progress often comes through reflection, regret, and courage. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and really engaging read that keeps you thinking long after the final page.
The story is about what happens when people reach pivotal moments, crossroads, where one decision can change everything. The book is built around the idea that no choice is ever truly small, and that our paths are often shaped by chance encounters. This gives the story the emotional weight that feels relatable. Another thing that I really liked about this book is how the story explores connection and how our lives cross, influence one another, and sometimes collide in unexpected ways. These intersections form the pillar of the story. Rather than offering easy answers, the author allows the story to unfold in a realistic way, showing that progress often comes through reflection, regret, and courage. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and really engaging read that keeps you thinking long after the final page.
March 13, 2026
What happens when centuries of history, crime, and political conflict collide in one story?
Crossroads by Steve Doherty offers an answer, blending rich historical detail with high-stakes espionage in a thrilling narrative that spans centuries. Set against the backdrop of post-WWII Japan, the novel follows Jonathan Preston, a U.S. Army counterintelligence agent, as he navigates a complex web of betrayal, smuggling, and life-threatening encounters. When Preston devises a plan involving a legendary sword in a Kabuki play, the tension escalates, blurring the lines between historical fact and thrilling fiction.
The novel masterfully blends thrilling storytelling with rich historical context, drawing readers into a world shaped by criminal organizations, political power struggles, and espionage. Preston’s journey through Japan is both thrilling and deeply intertwined with the past, highlighting the intricate relationships between key figures and the looming dangers of espionage.
One element that I felt stood out was Doherty’s repeated use of the number three. Whether it’s three months, three years, three nieces, three French generals, or three shots, the number is a constant presence throughout the novel. This isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s tied to military tradition and symbolic of order, urgency, and balance. The most striking moment is when the conch is blown three times—an alert that sets the stage for the entire story. These repeated instances elevate the tension, imbuing the narrative with a sense of precision and purpose.
What I appreciate most about Crossroads is how Doherty weaves in detailed historical events without slowing the pace. Spanning centuries, from 1571 to the aftermath of WWII, the novel connects past and present with seamless transitions. The action moves quickly, keeping you on the edge of your seat while still offering a rich historical experience. For history buffs, the historical detail is a bonus, while for others, it provides a deeper layer to the plot without bogging things down.
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its ability to merge history with the pulse of a high-stakes thriller. Doherty’s writing is taut and atmospheric, with a strong sense of place that immerses you in the time and setting. His world-building is intricate, and his pacing keeps you engaged from start to finish. That said, while the book is incredibly detailed, some readers might find the historical richness a bit overwhelming at times—especially if they aren’t as familiar with the eras or events described. For some, this might be a minor distraction, but for those who enjoy a deep dive into history, it enhances the experience.
At the end of the day, Crossroads is a book that both teaches and entertains, making it a memorable experience. If you’re looking for a historical novel that delivers on both plot and depth, Crossroads is definitely worth picking up.
I received a copy of this book from Deborah Giustini.
Crossroads by Steve Doherty offers an answer, blending rich historical detail with high-stakes espionage in a thrilling narrative that spans centuries. Set against the backdrop of post-WWII Japan, the novel follows Jonathan Preston, a U.S. Army counterintelligence agent, as he navigates a complex web of betrayal, smuggling, and life-threatening encounters. When Preston devises a plan involving a legendary sword in a Kabuki play, the tension escalates, blurring the lines between historical fact and thrilling fiction.
The novel masterfully blends thrilling storytelling with rich historical context, drawing readers into a world shaped by criminal organizations, political power struggles, and espionage. Preston’s journey through Japan is both thrilling and deeply intertwined with the past, highlighting the intricate relationships between key figures and the looming dangers of espionage.
One element that I felt stood out was Doherty’s repeated use of the number three. Whether it’s three months, three years, three nieces, three French generals, or three shots, the number is a constant presence throughout the novel. This isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s tied to military tradition and symbolic of order, urgency, and balance. The most striking moment is when the conch is blown three times—an alert that sets the stage for the entire story. These repeated instances elevate the tension, imbuing the narrative with a sense of precision and purpose.
What I appreciate most about Crossroads is how Doherty weaves in detailed historical events without slowing the pace. Spanning centuries, from 1571 to the aftermath of WWII, the novel connects past and present with seamless transitions. The action moves quickly, keeping you on the edge of your seat while still offering a rich historical experience. For history buffs, the historical detail is a bonus, while for others, it provides a deeper layer to the plot without bogging things down.
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its ability to merge history with the pulse of a high-stakes thriller. Doherty’s writing is taut and atmospheric, with a strong sense of place that immerses you in the time and setting. His world-building is intricate, and his pacing keeps you engaged from start to finish. That said, while the book is incredibly detailed, some readers might find the historical richness a bit overwhelming at times—especially if they aren’t as familiar with the eras or events described. For some, this might be a minor distraction, but for those who enjoy a deep dive into history, it enhances the experience.
At the end of the day, Crossroads is a book that both teaches and entertains, making it a memorable experience. If you’re looking for a historical novel that delivers on both plot and depth, Crossroads is definitely worth picking up.
I received a copy of this book from Deborah Giustini.
November 14, 2025
As an educator who has spent decades helping students understand the complexities of history, morality, and the human condition, I found Crossroads to be a masterful blend of historical realism and narrative intensity. The novel does far more than tell a story set in the aftermath of World War Two. It challenges readers to grapple with the lingering consequences of war, the psychology of duty, and the fragile line between justice and vengeance.
Jonathan Preston is a protagonist who embodies the tension between intellect and instinct. Through his eyes, we see how intelligence work becomes both an act of survival and a study in ethics. His pursuit of Uchito Tsukuda unfolds like a living history lesson, rich with cultural texture and moral complexity. The author’s portrayal of Japan rebuilding amid shadows of defeat is deeply immersive and respectful, offering readers not only thrilling suspense but also a vivid education in postwar geopolitics.
The scenes surrounding the Kabuki play are particularly striking. They transform performance into metaphor, teaching us that identity, like art, is both weapon and mirror. This creative structure invites readers to think critically about symbolism, heritage, and storytelling itself.
For educators, Crossroads is a treasure trove of discussion material, ideal for exploring the intersection of literature, history, and ethics. For general readers, it is simply a breathtaking experience. Every page hums with tension, intelligence, and humanity. This is not just a war story; it is a study of courage, consequence, and redemption.
A remarkable novel that earns every one of its five stars.
Jonathan Preston is a protagonist who embodies the tension between intellect and instinct. Through his eyes, we see how intelligence work becomes both an act of survival and a study in ethics. His pursuit of Uchito Tsukuda unfolds like a living history lesson, rich with cultural texture and moral complexity. The author’s portrayal of Japan rebuilding amid shadows of defeat is deeply immersive and respectful, offering readers not only thrilling suspense but also a vivid education in postwar geopolitics.
The scenes surrounding the Kabuki play are particularly striking. They transform performance into metaphor, teaching us that identity, like art, is both weapon and mirror. This creative structure invites readers to think critically about symbolism, heritage, and storytelling itself.
For educators, Crossroads is a treasure trove of discussion material, ideal for exploring the intersection of literature, history, and ethics. For general readers, it is simply a breathtaking experience. Every page hums with tension, intelligence, and humanity. This is not just a war story; it is a study of courage, consequence, and redemption.
A remarkable novel that earns every one of its five stars.
December 3, 2025
Crossroads by Steve Doherty is a warm and honest story that feels very easy to connect with. The characters in the book seem like real people, each dealing with personal challenges, big decisions, and everyday emotions. Doherty’s writing is clear and friendly, almost like someone sitting with you and telling you about people they truly care about. One thing I really liked is how he mixes gentle humor with more serious moments, making the story feel balanced and real. The problems the characters face don’t feel dramatic just for the sake of drama. They feel natural, like situations many of us could actually end up in. Doherty also pays attention to small details, turning simple moments into meaningful ones that stay in your mind. As the characters stand at their own “crossroads,” you can’t help but think about times in your life when you had to make difficult choices too. The book reminds you that change can be scary, but it can also lead to growth, healing, and unexpected happiness. By the time you finish, you feel like you’ve taken a journey with the characters and learned something from them. Crossroads is a heartfelt, hopeful book that lingers with you long after the last page. I definitely recommend!!!
December 3, 2025
Crossroads: a Jonathan Preston novel by Steve Doherty is one of the best historical thrillers I have read this year.
One year after averting a biological catastrophe, Jonathan Preston is trying to be a normal husband and dad. Naturally, the past shows up with a blade. A deranged ex-Kempeitai colonel now ruling Japan’s black market believes Preston stole more than a sword; he stole destiny itself. Colonel Uchito Tsukuda will drown Asia in blood and heroin to get it back.
Doherty transforms 1947 Japan into a smoke-choked noir chessboard of Noh masks, back-alley deals, and old war crimes that never died. Doherty delivers a razor-sharp postwar noir that ends with the single coolest trap I’ve ever read in a thriller: a custom-written Kabuki play staged solely to break a madman’s soul. It’s audacious, brutal, and perfectly Preston—outthinking a monster by speaking fluent obsession right back at him.
If you love historical fiction, layered deceit, vivid postwar atmosphere, globe-spanning action, and a hero who can out-think a fanatic in his own language, you will tear through this book in a single breathless sitting. I highly recommend!
One year after averting a biological catastrophe, Jonathan Preston is trying to be a normal husband and dad. Naturally, the past shows up with a blade. A deranged ex-Kempeitai colonel now ruling Japan’s black market believes Preston stole more than a sword; he stole destiny itself. Colonel Uchito Tsukuda will drown Asia in blood and heroin to get it back.
Doherty transforms 1947 Japan into a smoke-choked noir chessboard of Noh masks, back-alley deals, and old war crimes that never died. Doherty delivers a razor-sharp postwar noir that ends with the single coolest trap I’ve ever read in a thriller: a custom-written Kabuki play staged solely to break a madman’s soul. It’s audacious, brutal, and perfectly Preston—outthinking a monster by speaking fluent obsession right back at him.
If you love historical fiction, layered deceit, vivid postwar atmosphere, globe-spanning action, and a hero who can out-think a fanatic in his own language, you will tear through this book in a single breathless sitting. I highly recommend!
November 6, 2025
I decided to change up my usual genre of book that I read, that genre being true crime and try something totally different . I came across this newly published book by Steven Doherty entitled " Crossroads" a Jonathan Preston Novel. Crossroads takes place after World War 2. I was amazed that once I started reading it I did not want to put it down. A big theme to this book is spies and espionage, The author wrote the book so detailed that you could feel the tension that the main character was dealing with during his journey to take down Uchito Tsukuda. One thing I really like about this book was its accurate depiction of history and how the author wrote as accurately as possible. I learned alot reading this book. His use of words made the reader feel like they were actually there and taking part in all the action. I could definitely picture this book being made into a movie and someone like Liam Neeson playing the main character Jonathan. I will certainly be reading more of Mr. Dohertys books in the future.
November 24, 2025
Crossroads by Steve Doherty is a fast paced WWII era thriller that instantly pulled me in. I’ve been dipping into historical fiction more lately, and this book showed there’s something addictive about the feeling of being taken back to a certain era. Preston, a seasoned U.S. counterintelligence agent, has to stop a ruthless assassin and every decision feels like it carries life or death consequences. As his team travels through unknown terrain with dangers around every corner, the suspense heightens with each page. The experience and background of the characters make the espionage feel sharp and realistic, but what really stuck with me was the emotion underneath it all. Loyalty, honor, and the secrets that weigh on Preston’s team. It’s a smart, surprisingly personal thriller that kept me hooked through and through.
November 25, 2025
A friend recommended this book to me, as she knows I enjoy historical fiction. I love historical realism weaved into fictional stories. I have read extensively about World War II, but never anything like this.
Crossroads is a quiet, gentle story about choices and small moments that shape our lives. The plot moves at an even, calm pace, so it’s easy to follow. Doherty uses small details to make the characters feel real.
The book’s emotions are low-key. It shows feelings with simple actions rather than big dramatic scenes. If you like subtle stories, you’ll appreciate it. If you want big emotional moments, you might find it too reserved. I tend to lean towards books with characters that display deeper feelings. With that said, I enjoyed the general pace of the book and the overarching theme of connection. Little choices in life really do create life decisions! That theme hit home!
Crossroads is a quiet, gentle story about choices and small moments that shape our lives. The plot moves at an even, calm pace, so it’s easy to follow. Doherty uses small details to make the characters feel real.
The book’s emotions are low-key. It shows feelings with simple actions rather than big dramatic scenes. If you like subtle stories, you’ll appreciate it. If you want big emotional moments, you might find it too reserved. I tend to lean towards books with characters that display deeper feelings. With that said, I enjoyed the general pace of the book and the overarching theme of connection. Little choices in life really do create life decisions! That theme hit home!
December 23, 2025
Crossroads: A Jonathan Preston Novel is a riveting post–World War II thriller that skillfully blends historical tension with relentless momentum. Doherty vividly captures the uneasy aftermath of the war, particularly in scenes set in occupied Japan, where Jonathan Preston operates amid political uncertainty and hidden dangers. One standout example is the cat-and-mouse pursuit involving a ruthless assassin, which underscores how wartime loyalties and vendettas refuse to die when the fighting ends. Another memorable moment comes as Preston uncovers the terrifying implications of a biological weapons plot, raising the stakes from personal survival to global catastrophe. With sharp pacing, immersive settings, and high moral stakes, Crossroads delivers a compelling and satisfying read for fans of intelligent historical thrillers.
November 29, 2025
This story hooked me because it’s not just a chase; it’s about how one tough choice can ripple through every part of your life. Jonathan is sharp but a little bruised by past decisions, and you feel that in how he hesitates, protects the few people who matter, and second-guesses the ones he wants to trust.
The “roads not taken” theme runs through the clues, the gritty settings that feel like real crossroads, and the shifting loyalties, so the twists feel earned rather than flashy. My only nitpick: when the final reveal ties the case back to someone closer to Jonathan than he expects, the truth drops very cleanly, an extra beat of messy emotional fallout right after that moment would have deepened the impact. Nevertheless, an amazing read!
The “roads not taken” theme runs through the clues, the gritty settings that feel like real crossroads, and the shifting loyalties, so the twists feel earned rather than flashy. My only nitpick: when the final reveal ties the case back to someone closer to Jonathan than he expects, the truth drops very cleanly, an extra beat of messy emotional fallout right after that moment would have deepened the impact. Nevertheless, an amazing read!
November 17, 2025
Fast-paced and tense, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Every chapter delivers nail-biting suspense and clever strategies. Twists and turns come fast, building anticipation and keeping momentum throughout. The story perfectly blends danger, strategy, and adrenaline, making it impossible to put down. If you love action and suspense, this read will keep you fully immersed and eager to see what happens next. This is a heart-pounding, page-turning ride that grips you from the first moment to the last.
November 17, 2025
This novel isn’t just about action, it’s about problem-solving, unexpected turns, and the small victories that make the stakes feel real. Jonathan Preston and the people around him face challenges that test their wits, courage, and loyalty at every step. The story moves quickly, but it also gives space to appreciate how smart planning and quick thinking shape the outcome. Suspense builds naturally, and every twist feels earned rather than forced. It’s a thoughtful, exciting read that combines tension and strategy.
November 6, 2025
I am a 41 year old mom and teacher and I really enjoyed this book. Crossroads pulled me in from the very first chapter. The story moves fast and the characters feel real. Jonathan Preston is someone you can really picture and root for.
The writing is easy to follow and every chapter made me want to keep going. It has action, heart, and a few surprises too. This was a fun and exciting read and I would definitely recommend it.
The writing is easy to follow and every chapter made me want to keep going. It has action, heart, and a few surprises too. This was a fun and exciting read and I would definitely recommend it.
November 17, 2025
This novel is more than just a thrilling adventure, it’s about courage, loyalty, and the bonds that drive people through danger. Jonathan Preston is a strong, determined character whose struggles feel real and meaningful. Even with all the suspense and action, the story takes time to show hope, family, and personal sacrifice and the conflict feels intense and personal. I truly enjoyed this book.
December 29, 2025
This was exactly what the doctor ordered!!! I love a good thriller, and this book did not disappoint. I was kept in suspense from beginning to end. I love it, I love it, I love it! Just when I thought a plan might work, something else happened, and there goes my sleep. I couldn’t put this book down until I knew how it ended. Please tell me there’s a movie coming! If you love fast paced, edge of your seat type of books, then you need to read this one.
November 5, 2025
This book kept me hooked from the start. The mix of post-war history, espionage, and moral conflict made it hard to put down. The story moves quickly but still gives you time to care about the characters and the choices they have to make. The setting feels authentic, and the action scenes are sharp and cinematic. If you like intelligent thrillers with real emotional weight, this one delivers.
November 5, 2025
This story pulls you straight into a world of spies, shifting alliances, and personal sacrifice. The atmosphere is vivid, and the tension never lets up. What I liked most was how it blends action with a real sense of humanity- you feel the weight of every decision. It’s the kind of book that makes you stay up late telling yourself “just one more chapter.”
November 17, 2025
This story had me hooked from the start! This is not my usual read, so I am surprised at how well I liked it. The story was engaging and the amount of details was perfect. The storyline was very easy to follow, the plot had some unexpected twists, and the writing was very well done. Well worth the read, five stars!
January 6, 2023
Kind of Tom Clancy-esque. But not as tightly written. Needs better editing. Action packed in places. Repetitive in others. Clancy averages 4.06 stars for his novels. This one should average around 3.5 to 3.8.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews