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Crossroad Chronicles: Behind the Iron Gates
Tucked outside a small town in Romania, Supernatural Creatures Hidden University stands with a long, peaceful reputation. Concealed and hidden from human eyes, it has become a safe haven for those escaping the dangers of Hunters scattered around the globe. That is, until this year.
Head of Sorority Omega Alpha and Sold-Soul Demon, Lennox Cade has studied at the university for the last twenty-one years. However, just a few weeks into the new semester she loses two of the most important people in her life. As her world is thrown into the dark, she meets the replacement the school has brought in as the new Head of Fraternity Kappa Theta—Aron, who seems to be nothing more than another frat boy. The two must find a way to work together and keep their friends safe despite Lennox's immediate distaste.
Meanwhile, hunter and human Eden Miller discovers the truth about her birth mother. While on their final year of a six-year assignment, Matriarch Eloise Miller gives her the name of their number one target—her birth mother, here on the grounds. Caught between forbidden love and duty she questions her role as the future Matriarch within The Salvamari. As two paths collide she's forced to choose which bridge to burn to find herself.
Head of Sorority Omega Alpha and Sold-Soul Demon, Lennox Cade has studied at the university for the last twenty-one years. However, just a few weeks into the new semester she loses two of the most important people in her life. As her world is thrown into the dark, she meets the replacement the school has brought in as the new Head of Fraternity Kappa Theta—Aron, who seems to be nothing more than another frat boy. The two must find a way to work together and keep their friends safe despite Lennox's immediate distaste.
Meanwhile, hunter and human Eden Miller discovers the truth about her birth mother. While on their final year of a six-year assignment, Matriarch Eloise Miller gives her the name of their number one target—her birth mother, here on the grounds. Caught between forbidden love and duty she questions her role as the future Matriarch within The Salvamari. As two paths collide she's forced to choose which bridge to burn to find herself.
597 pages, Paperback
Published August 24, 2024
3 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Kikie P. Akers
1 book7 followersA Pennsylvania native, Kikie started writing early into high school. Over the years she has moved her creativity around discovering the lingering passion for writing through roleplay inside servers capturing original worlds. Through this, she created the world in tandem with her friends from all over the world.
Kikie is a Mother and Wife. When not writing they can be found cosplaying, hanging out in discord, or looking for her next adventure.
Kikie is a Mother and Wife. When not writing they can be found cosplaying, hanging out in discord, or looking for her next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
August 29, 2024
“As long as I’m around, someone will welcome you home….” 4.5/5 stars (mostly for Eden’s last decision, and some back and just slightly too much character flipping good/bad)… thank you, Kikie for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
Think of a story where Wednesday (dark, gothic, creatures in a boarding school) meets Supernatural (think a line of hunters passing through a family), and add in extensive mythology, theology, and world building, and you would get Behind the Iron Gates.
In a world where some say that there is an over saturation of romantasy, this stands out as an urban fantasy with slight romance- even when there’s romance, it is the actions and emotional/developmental journeys of those characters that move the story along.
I had never read an urban fantasy before- I used to think things like phones would take me out of a fantasy but incorporation in this story feels seamless. Initially going into this story, I thought it was all about this demon named Lennox, but it’s so much more- parallel lives going through something now because of their past. Even though she rapidly begins experiencing heartbreaking, life changing events early on. There are multiple characters we see through the perspective of, that have to make major life (after-life?) decisions on who they are, who they want to be, and who they want to be with.
I cannot believe this is Kikie’s first novel because the writing style is engaging, lighthearted, but also romantic and a breath of fresh ai. These richly created, multifaceted characters will keep you guessing as they try to decide what their next steps should be to keep themselves, their families and their worlds safe.
Favorite quotes (mild spoilers):
-“I’m going to stand beside her until my knees give out. Then I’ll kneel at her body until my eyes won’t stay open”
-“(character name), you are no waste of time. And since our last few dates, I haven’t regretted it once”
-not so much this quote, as much as how it causes them to question EVERYTHING. “you’ve been lying to everyone this whole time. Poor Wyatt”
-“you made me question myself more than anyone I know. Yet when you’re in the room, all the questions stop. For the first time in a long time, I don’t feel like I have to look over my shoulder with someone…”
Think of a story where Wednesday (dark, gothic, creatures in a boarding school) meets Supernatural (think a line of hunters passing through a family), and add in extensive mythology, theology, and world building, and you would get Behind the Iron Gates.
In a world where some say that there is an over saturation of romantasy, this stands out as an urban fantasy with slight romance- even when there’s romance, it is the actions and emotional/developmental journeys of those characters that move the story along.
I had never read an urban fantasy before- I used to think things like phones would take me out of a fantasy but incorporation in this story feels seamless. Initially going into this story, I thought it was all about this demon named Lennox, but it’s so much more- parallel lives going through something now because of their past. Even though she rapidly begins experiencing heartbreaking, life changing events early on. There are multiple characters we see through the perspective of, that have to make major life (after-life?) decisions on who they are, who they want to be, and who they want to be with.
I cannot believe this is Kikie’s first novel because the writing style is engaging, lighthearted, but also romantic and a breath of fresh ai. These richly created, multifaceted characters will keep you guessing as they try to decide what their next steps should be to keep themselves, their families and their worlds safe.
Favorite quotes (mild spoilers):
-“I’m going to stand beside her until my knees give out. Then I’ll kneel at her body until my eyes won’t stay open”
-“(character name), you are no waste of time. And since our last few dates, I haven’t regretted it once”
-not so much this quote, as much as how it causes them to question EVERYTHING. “you’ve been lying to everyone this whole time. Poor Wyatt”
-“you made me question myself more than anyone I know. Yet when you’re in the room, all the questions stop. For the first time in a long time, I don’t feel like I have to look over my shoulder with someone…”
August 23, 2024
I absolutely loved it. It is now one of my most favorite books ever. I am so happy for you and proud of what you were able to accomplish. I am so thankful that you let me read it 😭 I am in love with the world you have created. And I can't wait to see what comes next!
March 18, 2025
I went into this book with one expectation: a dark, demon-centric fantasy. What I got, however, was far more intricate and emotionally layered than I could have anticipated. While the demon Lennox plays a significant role, the story dives much deeper than just his character. The narrative follows multiple characters navigating their parallel lives, filled with moments of grief, loss, and the consequences of their past actions. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to Eden, Aron, Wyatt, and Lennox, each struggling with who they are and what they’re willing to sacrifice for those they love. Their emotional journeys, as well as their development throughout the book, are the heartbeat of this story.
This is Kikie P. Akers' debut novel, and I have to say, I’m shocked by how well-crafted it is. The author’s writing is captivating, effortlessly blending lighthearted moments with intense emotions. It feels fresh and original, with the pacing keeping you on the edge of your seat. The characters are multifaceted and their interactions are full of depth, keeping you invested in their fates. Every turn of the page will leave you wondering what’s next, as you become entangled in the lives of these complex individuals.
Akers does an exceptional job of world-building in Behind the Iron Gates. The incorporation of supernatural creatures and a hidden university feels seamlessly woven into the modern world, and the mythology never overwhelms the reader. It’s a delicate balance, but one that Kikie handles with grace. I particularly enjoyed how different types of magic are explored throughout the book. They add layers of intrigue and complexity that only enhance the story.
The emotional stakes in this book are high. You’ll find yourself laughing, crying, and gripping the book as the characters face moments of pain and revelation that feel raw and real. Each character's struggles are so vividly written that you can’t help but feel their anguish and triumphs as if they were your own. And trust me, you’ll want to experience all of it.
If there’s one downside, it’s that book two isn’t out yet — and I’m absolutely dying to continue this journey! The first book leaves readers hanging in the best way possible, leaving us yearning for more of this beautifully crafted world and these unforgettable characters.
In short, Behind the Iron Gates is an exhilarating, emotional, and beautifully written urban fantasy that will pull you in and keep you hooked from start to finish. The characters, the world-building, and the intricate plot make it one of the most engaging reads I’ve encountered in a long time. Kikie P. Akers is a name to watch, and I have no doubt this book will make a huge splash in the BookTok community. Highly recommend!
Just read it!
This is Kikie P. Akers' debut novel, and I have to say, I’m shocked by how well-crafted it is. The author’s writing is captivating, effortlessly blending lighthearted moments with intense emotions. It feels fresh and original, with the pacing keeping you on the edge of your seat. The characters are multifaceted and their interactions are full of depth, keeping you invested in their fates. Every turn of the page will leave you wondering what’s next, as you become entangled in the lives of these complex individuals.
Akers does an exceptional job of world-building in Behind the Iron Gates. The incorporation of supernatural creatures and a hidden university feels seamlessly woven into the modern world, and the mythology never overwhelms the reader. It’s a delicate balance, but one that Kikie handles with grace. I particularly enjoyed how different types of magic are explored throughout the book. They add layers of intrigue and complexity that only enhance the story.
The emotional stakes in this book are high. You’ll find yourself laughing, crying, and gripping the book as the characters face moments of pain and revelation that feel raw and real. Each character's struggles are so vividly written that you can’t help but feel their anguish and triumphs as if they were your own. And trust me, you’ll want to experience all of it.
If there’s one downside, it’s that book two isn’t out yet — and I’m absolutely dying to continue this journey! The first book leaves readers hanging in the best way possible, leaving us yearning for more of this beautifully crafted world and these unforgettable characters.
In short, Behind the Iron Gates is an exhilarating, emotional, and beautifully written urban fantasy that will pull you in and keep you hooked from start to finish. The characters, the world-building, and the intricate plot make it one of the most engaging reads I’ve encountered in a long time. Kikie P. Akers is a name to watch, and I have no doubt this book will make a huge splash in the BookTok community. Highly recommend!
Just read it!
August 16, 2024
I am writing this review in exchange for an Arc Copy.
First things first is oh my gosh. Kikie P Akers is about to be one of the biggest names in the BookTok community. I rarely and I do mean Rarely find a book that truly deserves a full five star rating but boy does this one earn it and more.
Let’s just start with world building- we as readers all know how important building a world for your characters is. And we also know how easily it can get overwhelming and just feel like a bunch of information is being thrown at you and you just have to figure it out. But Kikie does a wonderful job at telling you about the world and Supernatural Creatures Hidden university without making you feel like you have to decode puzzles.
Main characters. The entire book I found myself deeply entangled in all of the characters stories. Eden, Aron, Wyatt and Lennox are all so well written I never found myself dreading a POV like I have in other books in fact I found myself longing for more.
Emotions: this is your warning tears will come, you will feel the pain that each of the characters go through almost as if you yourself were the one experiencing it and that’s such a joy to find in a book now a days as not many authors are able to write so well you get drawn into the world.
My only complaint with this book is that book two isn’t out yet and I am dying to jump back in.
First things first is oh my gosh. Kikie P Akers is about to be one of the biggest names in the BookTok community. I rarely and I do mean Rarely find a book that truly deserves a full five star rating but boy does this one earn it and more.
Let’s just start with world building- we as readers all know how important building a world for your characters is. And we also know how easily it can get overwhelming and just feel like a bunch of information is being thrown at you and you just have to figure it out. But Kikie does a wonderful job at telling you about the world and Supernatural Creatures Hidden university without making you feel like you have to decode puzzles.
Main characters. The entire book I found myself deeply entangled in all of the characters stories. Eden, Aron, Wyatt and Lennox are all so well written I never found myself dreading a POV like I have in other books in fact I found myself longing for more.
Emotions: this is your warning tears will come, you will feel the pain that each of the characters go through almost as if you yourself were the one experiencing it and that’s such a joy to find in a book now a days as not many authors are able to write so well you get drawn into the world.
My only complaint with this book is that book two isn’t out yet and I am dying to jump back in.
July 4, 2025
When one of my really good friends, who just so happens to be the author of this novel told me she was going to me writing this book……. I GOT REALLY EXCITED FOR HER!!! And then when it actually was published and I read it, IT WAS EVEN BETTER THEN I IMAGINED!!! I’m a dark romance reader and I’m not really into reading Fantasy BUT THIS BOOK……… this book was a different story. The whole time reading it I was never bored, I was never getting lost in the plot the story it’s self just sucks you into another world. And the fact that one of my really good friend who I have known since 2020 wrote this makes it even better!!! If you’re a fantasy romance reader I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!! BRAVA!!!!
October 26, 2024
Behind The Iron Gates was such an enticing read. It encompassed the lives of humans, demons and Gods alike. The different types of magic that the characters utilize was a very good addition to the novel. The book itself was an emotional rollercoaster that you never know what loop you will get thrown into next. This book will keep you sucked in right to the very end! I fell in love with the characters and the world building of this book. Very excited for the future books in this series!
Read
August 24, 2024This book, woo!! Let me tell you! Was like a rollercoaster in the best ways possible. I laughed, I cried, I swore and went back for more. Once I was done I found myself wanting to go for another ride! Kikie P. Akers does an amazing job of grabbing at your heart strings and making her characters relatable as well as making an easy and fascination world. HIGHLY RECCOMEND!!!
October 15, 2025
Absolutely fantastic story, especially for her first book! The characters were so relatable and the story kept me at the edge of my seat The cliffhanger ending is killing me, can't wait for the next in the series. Only reason this wasn't 5 stars is just due to small errors as in most authors first book, but I cannot wait to see her grow as an author!
September 8, 2024
This book was so enticing! I loved reading it and I enjoyed it and the books cover is very beautiful.
August 23, 2024
This book absolutely amazing and thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
It had wonderful world building, which I'm a sucker for. The world building allowed you to understand it and the magic within the book without making you lost in all the information. The character development was also amazing. It allowed you to picture every one of the characters, seeing them as if it was a motion picture (at least in my brain it did lol). You're able to follow Lennox and the rest of the crew through all their ups and downs.
Please have tissues close by, you'll need them.
Thank you again Kikie P. Akers for a wonderful story and can't wait for the next book!
It had wonderful world building, which I'm a sucker for. The world building allowed you to understand it and the magic within the book without making you lost in all the information. The character development was also amazing. It allowed you to picture every one of the characters, seeing them as if it was a motion picture (at least in my brain it did lol). You're able to follow Lennox and the rest of the crew through all their ups and downs.
Please have tissues close by, you'll need them.
Thank you again Kikie P. Akers for a wonderful story and can't wait for the next book!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews