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Cross
Ray Cross wasn’t a hero; he could die too easily. But some things are worth risking death...
Ray Cross was born with a genetic disorder, resulting in a fragile body; his organs and blood vessels will rupture with any hard impact, so standing up to his best friend's controlling boyfriend could kill him. Ray's life in Midland, MI gets decimated when his parents reveal they are not his real parents and his real father, a king from a secret land hidden in the far north of Canada, is dying and wishes to meet his son. With his doctor and newly-met twin, Ray travels to the forgotten village of Yardis, where magic, myth, and corruption are abundant. But the longer Ray stays in the village learning the truth of his past and reconnecting with his father, King Vintras, the more he discovers an evil force threatening the king and his village. But there’s more than the king and a village tied to Yardis and Ray. He finds friendship and more from a band of brothers who are part witch, dragon, and healer. With new alliances and new abilities, Ray wars with himself on playing it safe or risking it all to save the ones he loves.
Can Ray rise above his fragile disorder to become the hero for once in his life?
Ray Cross was born with a genetic disorder, resulting in a fragile body; his organs and blood vessels will rupture with any hard impact, so standing up to his best friend's controlling boyfriend could kill him. Ray's life in Midland, MI gets decimated when his parents reveal they are not his real parents and his real father, a king from a secret land hidden in the far north of Canada, is dying and wishes to meet his son. With his doctor and newly-met twin, Ray travels to the forgotten village of Yardis, where magic, myth, and corruption are abundant. But the longer Ray stays in the village learning the truth of his past and reconnecting with his father, King Vintras, the more he discovers an evil force threatening the king and his village. But there’s more than the king and a village tied to Yardis and Ray. He finds friendship and more from a band of brothers who are part witch, dragon, and healer. With new alliances and new abilities, Ray wars with himself on playing it safe or risking it all to save the ones he loves.
Can Ray rise above his fragile disorder to become the hero for once in his life?
- GenresDragons
190 pages, Paperback
First published February 19, 2018
5 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
D.A. Roach
21 books444 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author. I love reading and writing, especially YA/NA fiction. I have self-published and also used a traditional publisher. Each experience has brought new knowledge and new friendships.
When I'm not chasing after my kids or writing, I enjoy painting, drawing, listening to music, and watching horror movies. I am also a rare disease advocate, a gardener, and a believer in true love.
When I'm not chasing after my kids or writing, I enjoy painting, drawing, listening to music, and watching horror movies. I am also a rare disease advocate, a gardener, and a believer in true love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 21, 2018
What a fabulous book!!!! I've read D.A. roach before ,but in this fantasy read she's raised the bar!!! I started this read and could honesty not put it down. Her character 's are believable and you will love the relationships and the bonds that are made along the way. Ray cross's world changes when he realizes that the people who he thought were his parents are actually his guardian 's and that he is the son of a king!!! If you love adventure and a world were myth and magic are everywhere then this read is for you!!! And the cover is so awesome!!!
January 9, 2018
I've been a big fan of this author for awhile and was thrilled to learn that she was going to venture out and write in fantasy. I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy and devour it. It is exactly what I did. I ended up staying for one more until 3 in the morning. It is crazy how easy it flowed. I will not forget this characters and to say that I want more is a understatement. This could easily be a series. The world building is incredible and fun to imagine.
My favorite character is Ray. He is a strong, confident and easy to love character. He is the type that you want to cheer for and hopes has a happy ending. He is well developed and he grows as the story continues.
My favorite moment was the ending. I'm not going to say too much except that it was fun to see that tables have turned. I also loved the banter of all the characters. It was clever and made me smile in quite a few places.
Overall, I will be recommending this book to anyone that will listen especially my fantasy loving friends. If you like dragons, love, family, friends, and a quest of a lifetime than this book is for you.
My favorite character is Ray. He is a strong, confident and easy to love character. He is the type that you want to cheer for and hopes has a happy ending. He is well developed and he grows as the story continues.
My favorite moment was the ending. I'm not going to say too much except that it was fun to see that tables have turned. I also loved the banter of all the characters. It was clever and made me smile in quite a few places.
Overall, I will be recommending this book to anyone that will listen especially my fantasy loving friends. If you like dragons, love, family, friends, and a quest of a lifetime than this book is for you.
August 19, 2020
This was my first fantasy tale that I've written. I wanted to write about a teenage boy in modern times that gets thrust into a world of magic, dragons, and corruption. I wanted to challenge him and see what would happen if he no longer had to worry about his rare disorder - could he run into battle and fight for his loved ones? Or would he be cautious and keep out of harm's way?
My hope is the readers will fall in love with my characters, I have the most fun developing and challenging them. Enjoy the journey as you travel to the far away land of Yardis in this exciting and magical adventure.
My hope is the readers will fall in love with my characters, I have the most fun developing and challenging them. Enjoy the journey as you travel to the far away land of Yardis in this exciting and magical adventure.
January 14, 2018
I love how this author always manages to bring her own personal flare to her stories. Every one is different and unique but also shows a new aspect of her personality and her family. Cross is a fantasy story with dragons and magic, but it is also a heartwarming tale about a young boy who beats the odds and wins back his own life. I especially liked how Ray was willing to sacrifice his own life to save the lives of others. I think that takes great courage, especially with the conditions he was facing. All in all, a great edition to this fantasy collection!
January 9, 2018
What a great story! Ray Cross is born with a disorder, if he's grabbed too hard or gets hit to hard his blood vessels will rupture. Ray finds out that his parents are in fact not his birth parents, and his real father is a king. But his real dad is dying and wants to meet him before he dies. Ray must travel to a secret land to meet his dying father. While there he see that magic exists and with his new friends, He might be able to beat the evil force that's looming over the kingdom. Let me stop before I give spoilers! But grab this book, It's one of the great ones!
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February 1, 2018
D.A. Roach brings out a YA Fantasy read, this brings a happy smile to my face. I've been a fan/stalker for a while now and weather its a Paranormal read, her short Horror stories in the 13 Anthologies or a Fantasy read i want it. Hell if she wrote a shopping list i would probably read it.
Cross was an intriguing story of a boy who suffers from a rare disorder “vEDS”, Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. His life is a daily struggle and due to his illness everyone around him treats him like he's made of glass. Which is very understandable but for a teenage boy it must have been so frustrating. When all he wants is to get the girl he's mad about have fun with his best friend and live his life.
Life suddenly takes a dramatic turn and everything he's ever known and believed is turned upside down. He's then thrust into a life of myth, magic and mayhem. All while knowing that this adventure thats been forced upon him, could quite well be the one thing that kills him.
D.A. Roach gives us a great and captivating journey, that takes Cross to this new place. Where he has to deal and face things that he could never have imagined unless he read them in a book. I loved how throughout this story friendship and family were the key. Where Cross may have thought of himself as week, he constantly showed strength and courage all while everything around him was exploding.
Now i'll be completely honest i have never heard much about "vEDS" and it did make take a look and find out more. I really did love and appreciate that through her writing she is able to bring more awareness to this rare illness that i know affects on a personal level, and thats a positive in my eyes.
If you're a lover of YA Fantasy reads this is a great story that flows so well from page to page. That you can't help but get lost in this intriguing life of Cross's.
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January 21, 2018
If you love fantasy or just want a change in your reading genre then this is a fantastic quick book to escape reality from. Although, a REAL part of this book is “vEDS”, Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, that our main hero, Ray Cross, has genetically inherited. Not only is he fighting for his life and the lives of his friends and family but he is doing it with the strength and courage knowing that his disorder can kill him in the process.
Cross is a story with vEDS as another character in this realm of fantasy and endless possibilities, with magic and witchcraft allowing this disorder to have a place but not be a burden because in this universe, magic makes it all better.
This story brings families and friends together in a new world to overcome greed and jealousy. A world where magic and dragons collide. A fantasy world where where dragons fly and witches cast spells, where a weak boy can be a hero and fight with a genetic disease. With his strength that he has below the surface of his disorder he is able to fight for this world.
Roach’s creation of fantasy has you wrapped in her words as friendships and family fight for each other as one boy fights against vEDS. Family and friends bonds flourish and we are enticed by this bond and enthralled in this adventure.
Cross is a story with vEDS as another character in this realm of fantasy and endless possibilities, with magic and witchcraft allowing this disorder to have a place but not be a burden because in this universe, magic makes it all better.
This story brings families and friends together in a new world to overcome greed and jealousy. A world where magic and dragons collide. A fantasy world where where dragons fly and witches cast spells, where a weak boy can be a hero and fight with a genetic disease. With his strength that he has below the surface of his disorder he is able to fight for this world.
Roach’s creation of fantasy has you wrapped in her words as friendships and family fight for each other as one boy fights against vEDS. Family and friends bonds flourish and we are enticed by this bond and enthralled in this adventure.
February 26, 2018
I'm in this book a few months back and I fell in love with it. I heard it was coming out on Audible and I freaked out. I love audiobooks and I love the story so it was a perfect combination for me. I was over all impressed with the narrator. I thought he did a decent job for it being his first book. I look forward to listening to more of the books he narrates and listening to him grow as a voice actor. the story was absolutely amazing. the world-building and the character building 4 top notch. You quickly become attached to these characters and you fall in love. You cheer for the good guys and you boo the bad guys. I'm a huge fan of this author and this book is one of my favorites she has written. I am excited to read any book she writes next.
February 24, 2018
Such a fantastic read!! I'm already familiar with this author's work, so when I saw she had a new release I jumped at the chance to read it. And this one didn't disappoint! What a fun adventure, filled with the mythical unknown and a land hidden from the rest of the world. The author did a fantastic job of pulling me into the storm and holding me hostage until the very last page!
January 14, 2018
I was so excited to find out that one of my favorite authors wrote a ya fantasy book. It came highly recommended by my book friend. I was not disappointed. Ray Cross has a genetic disorder that makes him an unlikely hero and underdog. I love a good underdog. At the start of the book, Ray's trouble is a bully and a love he can't confess. Later these seem like small worries as Ray's world gets turned upside down.
I loved this book. It was well written with characters that came alive. the descriptions painted a vivid picture and made you feel like you were inside Ray's world. It was fast paced and fascinating. I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next: that is how I knew I was reading an amazing book.
I would definitely recommend this book to all of my YA fantasy loving friends. I would also recommend it to readers who enjoy the underdog lead character. Since I love both, I adored this book. It is very entertaining.
I loved this book. It was well written with characters that came alive. the descriptions painted a vivid picture and made you feel like you were inside Ray's world. It was fast paced and fascinating. I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next: that is how I knew I was reading an amazing book.
I would definitely recommend this book to all of my YA fantasy loving friends. I would also recommend it to readers who enjoy the underdog lead character. Since I love both, I adored this book. It is very entertaining.
January 14, 2018
Dragons, Witches, and super powers, OH MY!
Cross is perfect for young adult readers who love paranormal/ fantasy!! D. A. Roach takes you to a complex and new world, making it easy to get lost in it for a bit. The setting was reminiscent of the Viking Era, which I loved!! It was just long enough to appease you so you're not left wanting more. I first read this in the Myths & Magic anthology. Sometimes when I read anthologies, the stories are way too short, but this one was just right. She took a teenager with VeDs, and gave him a glimmer of hope, with his healing abilities. It's informative and bad a** at the same time.
Cross is perfect for young adult readers who love paranormal/ fantasy!! D. A. Roach takes you to a complex and new world, making it easy to get lost in it for a bit. The setting was reminiscent of the Viking Era, which I loved!! It was just long enough to appease you so you're not left wanting more. I first read this in the Myths & Magic anthology. Sometimes when I read anthologies, the stories are way too short, but this one was just right. She took a teenager with VeDs, and gave him a glimmer of hope, with his healing abilities. It's informative and bad a** at the same time.
February 26, 2018
Book Title: Cross
Author: D.A. Roach
Cover: Captures interest, subtitle makes me want to read more.
The introduction pulls the reader into Ray's story and tells of characters soon to come. This is the part of the book that sucked me in 😉
Scene descriptions were well written, the writer wrote the story to flow beautifully.
Throughout the story, the writer pulled in different aspects of the story, which I was surprised and excited to read.
I would recommend this Author and book to any of my friends that like to read.
Author: D.A. Roach
Cover: Captures interest, subtitle makes me want to read more.
The introduction pulls the reader into Ray's story and tells of characters soon to come. This is the part of the book that sucked me in 😉
Scene descriptions were well written, the writer wrote the story to flow beautifully.
Throughout the story, the writer pulled in different aspects of the story, which I was surprised and excited to read.
I would recommend this Author and book to any of my friends that like to read.
June 16, 2018
*This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Ray has a disease called vEDS where his body is weak in a way that with any hard impact, his organs and blood vessels will rupture. He still tries to have as normal a life as possible with hanging out with his friends, and going to school, but one day he overhears his doctor, Dr. Jones, telling his parents that now on his 18th birthday, it’s time that he learns the truth about his life. His parents sit him down and tell him that they aren’t his real parents, he has a twin brother named Torin who is built like a linebacker, and his real father is a king in a hidden secret village north of Canada. The king fell in love with a commoner years ago and their relationship was forbidden. It was also forbidden for them to have children so to protect them, the king ordered (merely simple villagers back then) Dr. Jones to take Torin and for Ray’s parents to take him and leave the village. He did that so no one would find them and try to hurt them. After they were taken, a witch cursed the village where no one could get in and no one could get out. Somehow recently the force that was keeping everyone in has stopped. The king is dying and he wants to see his sons for one final time. Ray, his brother Torin, and Dr. Jones are to go to the village and see/meet the king. Ray of course is furious that his parents kept so many secrets from him but he reluctantly agrees to go. It’s not a simple journey thought, because there ride is sabotaged so they have to walk the rest of the way. Ray has to have many breaks because he can’t keep up with his doctor and brother, and gets many bruises along the way. They do run into characters who some try to help them on their journey, and some try to hurt them. There are a lot of twists and surprises towards the end that I didn’t seem coming and was genuinely surprised and enjoyed them.
I do wish this was a little longer with more character development. We spend our whole time in Ray’s perspective, which is fine because I love his character, but I wish he could have talked more to his brother to see what Torin’s life growing up was like. He finds out that his life is not what it seems and he seems upset, but doesn’t really seek more answers or learn more about the training his brother went through, or ask how he’s dealing with everything. Torin gets mad a lot and has a vicious temper so figuring out why and how he is the way he is, and seeing how he grew up interested me, but we didn’t really get that. I am interested in continuing in the series though.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng***
Ray has a disease called vEDS where his body is weak in a way that with any hard impact, his organs and blood vessels will rupture. He still tries to have as normal a life as possible with hanging out with his friends, and going to school, but one day he overhears his doctor, Dr. Jones, telling his parents that now on his 18th birthday, it’s time that he learns the truth about his life. His parents sit him down and tell him that they aren’t his real parents, he has a twin brother named Torin who is built like a linebacker, and his real father is a king in a hidden secret village north of Canada. The king fell in love with a commoner years ago and their relationship was forbidden. It was also forbidden for them to have children so to protect them, the king ordered (merely simple villagers back then) Dr. Jones to take Torin and for Ray’s parents to take him and leave the village. He did that so no one would find them and try to hurt them. After they were taken, a witch cursed the village where no one could get in and no one could get out. Somehow recently the force that was keeping everyone in has stopped. The king is dying and he wants to see his sons for one final time. Ray, his brother Torin, and Dr. Jones are to go to the village and see/meet the king. Ray of course is furious that his parents kept so many secrets from him but he reluctantly agrees to go. It’s not a simple journey thought, because there ride is sabotaged so they have to walk the rest of the way. Ray has to have many breaks because he can’t keep up with his doctor and brother, and gets many bruises along the way. They do run into characters who some try to help them on their journey, and some try to hurt them. There are a lot of twists and surprises towards the end that I didn’t seem coming and was genuinely surprised and enjoyed them.
I do wish this was a little longer with more character development. We spend our whole time in Ray’s perspective, which is fine because I love his character, but I wish he could have talked more to his brother to see what Torin’s life growing up was like. He finds out that his life is not what it seems and he seems upset, but doesn’t really seek more answers or learn more about the training his brother went through, or ask how he’s dealing with everything. Torin gets mad a lot and has a vicious temper so figuring out why and how he is the way he is, and seeing how he grew up interested me, but we didn’t really get that. I am interested in continuing in the series though.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng***
February 19, 2018
D.A. Roach has the ability and talent to create a world that sucks you in right from the very first page and doesn’t let go until the very last one.
This was a truly FANTASTIC YA novel. Whether you enjoy this genre or haven’t read it yet, this book is a must.
I absolutely loved Ray’s character (Cross). Going from a “normal” life to discovering he’s really the son of a King AND he’s got a twin brother he never knew about?? Talk about a life-changing afternoon! But even more than his cool life, I loved his easy-going attitude! His quirky comments made me laugh more than once and I also admired how despite his condition, he spoke his mind and did what he believed to be right...always. (I may or may not have squealed when Lauren and him kissed...just saying!)
Yes, there’s a romantic flame burning in the background, but this book is so much more. Once at Yardis, Ray and newly discovered brother, Torin, discover the truth behind who they really were and everything that had happened throughout the years to the village and its people. Curses, powers, barriers, forbidden romances...oh my!!!
Seriously, GRAB THIS BOOK. If you want to dive into an amazing world that will truly have you glued to the pages, this is the book you want. D.A. Roach truly delivered a must read!!! FIVE STARS!!
This was a truly FANTASTIC YA novel. Whether you enjoy this genre or haven’t read it yet, this book is a must.
I absolutely loved Ray’s character (Cross). Going from a “normal” life to discovering he’s really the son of a King AND he’s got a twin brother he never knew about?? Talk about a life-changing afternoon! But even more than his cool life, I loved his easy-going attitude! His quirky comments made me laugh more than once and I also admired how despite his condition, he spoke his mind and did what he believed to be right...always. (I may or may not have squealed when Lauren and him kissed...just saying!)
Yes, there’s a romantic flame burning in the background, but this book is so much more. Once at Yardis, Ray and newly discovered brother, Torin, discover the truth behind who they really were and everything that had happened throughout the years to the village and its people. Curses, powers, barriers, forbidden romances...oh my!!!
Seriously, GRAB THIS BOOK. If you want to dive into an amazing world that will truly have you glued to the pages, this is the book you want. D.A. Roach truly delivered a must read!!! FIVE STARS!!
April 11, 2018
Wow, this was such an amazing story. Not just for YA but also adults. Imagine being in high school and finding out your parents aren’t your biological ones, they are your guardians and you are a son of the king in a land in the Canadian area hidden from mere mortals. No one goes out or in. It’s protected by a barrier. This is Ray’s story. Ray suffers from something called vEDS, later on I will tell more about this terrible disease. He has to watch what he does because the normal activity of someone his age could mean death for him. Chaos is ensuing in Yardis so it’s time Ray was told of his heritage and taken to meet his father the king. Ray is in for the ride of his life. He also has a twin who was raised by another guardian. The kingdom is such an adventure and you will love to hate Ray’s half brother the prince. I don’t want to give away any spoilers and I know I’m not doing it justice but it is one amazing read. I learned a lot about vEDS and it was nice to see Ray overcome all obstacles. Turns out, he isn’t a mere mortal. Working in the medical field, I found it so fascinating how the author explained about Rays condition and then his healing ability. It made the super powers seem even more real. For those who would like more info on vEDS here’s a website: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK...
January 16, 2018
I have been a fan of this author for a while now. I have loved everything she has written.
When I saw that she had come out with a fantasy book I couldn't wait to get my hands on it.
I read the synopsis and was more intrigued than I was with the cover reveal. The hero was introduced in the story with a disorder of vEDS. This is a serious disorder. I then stopped reading and looked up this disorder.
I was astounded at how hard it was on the human body. I then continued on with the story. I loved how D.A. Roach incorporated everything about vEDS into the book. The hero overcame everything he had to in order to save those he loved, but would he die in the process?
He had to face dragons, witches and found a twin brother during all this. I would have not been able to handle all that, but the fact that he did in all this adversity is a statement to how strong someone is when the time comes..What will you find at the end of the book? Will you find heroism or cowardness?
Only one way to find out..READ!! Only one thing I found wrong with this book, it wasn't long enough..I wished for more, I hope D.A. writes another book and explains more of the story.
When I saw that she had come out with a fantasy book I couldn't wait to get my hands on it.
I read the synopsis and was more intrigued than I was with the cover reveal. The hero was introduced in the story with a disorder of vEDS. This is a serious disorder. I then stopped reading and looked up this disorder.
I was astounded at how hard it was on the human body. I then continued on with the story. I loved how D.A. Roach incorporated everything about vEDS into the book. The hero overcame everything he had to in order to save those he loved, but would he die in the process?
He had to face dragons, witches and found a twin brother during all this. I would have not been able to handle all that, but the fact that he did in all this adversity is a statement to how strong someone is when the time comes..What will you find at the end of the book? Will you find heroism or cowardness?
Only one way to find out..READ!! Only one thing I found wrong with this book, it wasn't long enough..I wished for more, I hope D.A. writes another book and explains more of the story.
March 3, 2018
I absolutely loved this book! CROSS is quick-paced and a fun read, never missing a beat in the plot, and it definitely kept me eager to solve the mystery! It was like THE HOBBIT and CAMELOT mixed together with teenage issues we can all relate to – unrequited love, best friends, punks and bullies, parents being parents, and even health! At that age, we all felt indestructible, but things are much different for Ray and I couldn’t wait to read how he would handle each twist and turn. I couldn’t give up on Ray, hoping with each bump along his journey that he would come through stronger.
DA Roach did an incredible job tying in every piece of Ray’s history and present together to create a YA Fantasy novel that kept me wanting more! There was a piece of every genre in the book and I latched on to each one. This book is YA Fantasy and SO MUCH more – it’s the coming of age experience seen through a lens of magic and mystery.
If you want an exciting YA Fantasy book that will completely absorb you, then don’t wait any longer to check out CROSS!
DA Roach did an incredible job tying in every piece of Ray’s history and present together to create a YA Fantasy novel that kept me wanting more! There was a piece of every genre in the book and I latched on to each one. This book is YA Fantasy and SO MUCH more – it’s the coming of age experience seen through a lens of magic and mystery.
If you want an exciting YA Fantasy book that will completely absorb you, then don’t wait any longer to check out CROSS!
March 12, 2018
was so excited to find out that one of my favorite authors wrote a ya fantasy book. It came highly recommended by my book friend. I was not disappointed. Ray Cross has a genetic disorder that makes him an unlikely hero and underdog. I love a good underdog. At the start of the book, Ray's trouble is a bully and a love he can't confess. Later these seem like small worries as Ray's world gets turned upside down.
I loved this book. It was well written with characters that came alive. the descriptions painted a vivid picture and made you feel like you were inside Ray's world. It was fast paced and fascinating. I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next: that is how I knew I was reading an amazing book.
I would definitely recommend this book to all of my YA fantasy loving friends. I would also recommend it to readers who enjoy the underdog lead character. Since I love both, I adored this book. It is very entertaining.
The narrator was good but a little too fast. Once I slowed down the playback settings, it worked out great!
I loved this book. It was well written with characters that came alive. the descriptions painted a vivid picture and made you feel like you were inside Ray's world. It was fast paced and fascinating. I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next: that is how I knew I was reading an amazing book.
I would definitely recommend this book to all of my YA fantasy loving friends. I would also recommend it to readers who enjoy the underdog lead character. Since I love both, I adored this book. It is very entertaining.
The narrator was good but a little too fast. Once I slowed down the playback settings, it worked out great!
May 16, 2018
I absolutely loved this book! CROSS is quick-paced and a fun read, never missing a beat in the plot, and it definitely kept me eager to solve the mystery! It was like THE HOBBIT and CAMELOT mixed together with teenage issues we can all relate to – unrequited love, best friends, punks and bullies, parents being parents, and even health! At that age, we all felt indestructible, but things are much different for Ray and I couldn’t wait to read how he would handle each twist and turn. I couldn’t give up on Ray, hoping with each bump along his journey that he would come through stronger.
DA Roach did an incredible job tying in every piece of Ray’s history and present together to create a YA Fantasy novel that kept me wanting more! There was a piece of every genre in the book and I latched on to each one. This book is YA Fantasy and SO MUCH more – it’s the coming of age experience seen through a lens of magic and mystery.
If you want an exciting YA Fantasy book that will completely absorb you, then don’t wait any longer to check out CROSS!
DA Roach did an incredible job tying in every piece of Ray’s history and present together to create a YA Fantasy novel that kept me wanting more! There was a piece of every genre in the book and I latched on to each one. This book is YA Fantasy and SO MUCH more – it’s the coming of age experience seen through a lens of magic and mystery.
If you want an exciting YA Fantasy book that will completely absorb you, then don’t wait any longer to check out CROSS!
March 9, 2018
An amazing story of strength and possibilities!!
March 9, 2018
I was drawn into this book right from the start. Learning about Ray Cross’s genetic disorder vEDS, which certainly makes him the unlikely hero. I felt so many emotions with his story and related to the struggles and choices he had to make on a daily basis to survive.
But then, we find out he has a whole other family,a sick father and world that only he can save. You are drawn into this amazing world with everything you can imagine from beautiful dragons to witches. And so much more. Ray is destined to save this new home , but will his vEDS disorder allow him to do so, is he willing to die trying??
Cross was an amazing read. I was right there in the moments with the characters the whole time. D.A Roach has an amazing ability to pull you in and just totally fascinate you, truly a gifted writer. I can’t wait to see what’s next.
March 9, 2018
I was drawn into this book right from the start. Learning about Ray Cross’s genetic disorder vEDS, which certainly makes him the unlikely hero. I felt so many emotions with his story and related to the struggles and choices he had to make on a daily basis to survive.
But then, we find out he has a whole other family,a sick father and world that only he can save. You are drawn into this amazing world with everything you can imagine from beautiful dragons to witches. And so much more. Ray is destined to save this new home , but will his vEDS disorder allow him to do so, is he willing to die trying??
Cross was an amazing read. I was right there in the moments with the characters the whole time. D.A Roach has an amazing ability to pull you in and just totally fascinate you, truly a gifted writer. I can’t wait to see what’s next.
April 7, 2018
I hadn't read anything by this author previously, but the premise of a young man facing up to a potentially fatal illness while having to face a typical fantasy adventure seemed like it would be an interesting one and that mostly proved to be the case.
The hero of the story is a young man named Ray Cross who suffers from Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or vEDS for short, a disease that means he has to be far more careful than your typical fantasy hero.
The narrator for this book did a good job, the main character and the supporting cast were suitably distinctive and the overall tone and pacing were pleasant enough too.
As this was a relatively short book, it is probably best to not go into too many details, but it was an enjoyable journey taking a young man from the modern world into a more fantasy-style setting with magic, dragons and more.
[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
The hero of the story is a young man named Ray Cross who suffers from Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or vEDS for short, a disease that means he has to be far more careful than your typical fantasy hero.
The narrator for this book did a good job, the main character and the supporting cast were suitably distinctive and the overall tone and pacing were pleasant enough too.
As this was a relatively short book, it is probably best to not go into too many details, but it was an enjoyable journey taking a young man from the modern world into a more fantasy-style setting with magic, dragons and more.
[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
April 24, 2018
I received audiobook version of this book for free from the author in exchange for an unbiased review.
To be honest, after listening to the first quarter of the book, I wasn't too into it and was mostly listening to it as a chore. But later on when one of the better twists is revealed, the book rapidly starts getting interesting. Characters which were seemingly mundane so far, suddenly became extremely intriguing and the story moved at fast pace thereafter. The author deserve credit for taking the risk of the slow build-up and then making this huge jump into a super-fast and interesting story arc. If you are reading this review, I would recommend having some patience with the beginning of the story and you'll be rewarded at the end.
My one complaint with this book is the audio quality. The recording is done very unprofessionally and there is lot of background noise. Moreover, the voice seems to be echoing at several parts. This made the book very unpleasant to listen to.
To be honest, after listening to the first quarter of the book, I wasn't too into it and was mostly listening to it as a chore. But later on when one of the better twists is revealed, the book rapidly starts getting interesting. Characters which were seemingly mundane so far, suddenly became extremely intriguing and the story moved at fast pace thereafter. The author deserve credit for taking the risk of the slow build-up and then making this huge jump into a super-fast and interesting story arc. If you are reading this review, I would recommend having some patience with the beginning of the story and you'll be rewarded at the end.
My one complaint with this book is the audio quality. The recording is done very unprofessionally and there is lot of background noise. Moreover, the voice seems to be echoing at several parts. This made the book very unpleasant to listen to.
April 6, 2018
I swear that everything D.A. Roach touches turns to gold. I enjoyed this book very much and I encourage anyone who suffers through a medical condition or if you know/love someone that affects their way of living or who has flare ups I am positive that you will be able to sympathize. I am a sufferer of Fibromyalgia and Ulcerative Colitis and even though the main character is young, I could connect to the book and some of the things he went through, I have gone through as well. I don’t suffer from the extremity that our main character goes through but there were several points in the book that I connected with. I loved this book. It was like everything D.A. Roach wrote about, I have either felt it or experienced the emotions. The book itself was filled with twists and turns, amazing character backgrounds and the plot was great too.
December 11, 2018
Ray Cross has a genetic disorder which causes his body to be extremely fragile. He has understood this for most of his young life. But now, that’s the least of his worries. His parents hit him with a real bomb on his birthday when they reveal that they aren’t his biological parents. He is, in fact, the son of a king and has a twin brother whom he’s never heard of. And now this king’s dying wish is for Ray to come see him in a secret land hidden away in northern Canada. Author D.A. Roach’s Cross is a captivating young adult novel filled with adventure and suspense with each turn of the page. Ray Cross is an unlikely hero and as such readers can’t help but cheer for him as he faces the unknown in a new and often daunting land. Recommended for home and school libraries, Cross has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
December 16, 2020
I liked the story but once again the poor editing totally detracted my attention from the adventure. There are many other books written by this author so why is this book not proofread?
The story itself was an interesting way to look at the ‘coming of age’ drama all teenagers go through. Each new discovery came at just the right time for the characters to be able to digest it and come to terms with how it impacted their lives. I appreciated the strong support system that was developed for all the characters and the sensitivity that was displayed by all. Maybe a little over the top with compassion, but as everyone knew or soon learned, tantrums led to serious consequences.
Hope the other books are better edited. I enjoyed the story enough to try another one.
The story itself was an interesting way to look at the ‘coming of age’ drama all teenagers go through. Each new discovery came at just the right time for the characters to be able to digest it and come to terms with how it impacted their lives. I appreciated the strong support system that was developed for all the characters and the sensitivity that was displayed by all. Maybe a little over the top with compassion, but as everyone knew or soon learned, tantrums led to serious consequences.
Hope the other books are better edited. I enjoyed the story enough to try another one.
May 2, 2018
•audiobook•
I liked the narrator more than the story, but it seemed to take him a few chapters until he blended with the book. (It still took me several start overs to get through this 4 hr + audio.) Production wasn’t very good though; his voice kept fading.
I found Cross to be a very underdeveloped character who overreacts too much. I didn’t seem to care what happened to him nor his world. With the high ratings and reviews, I persisted to try the addiction others had, but just couldn’t.
The cover is definitely the attraction and only redeeming quality.
Unfortunately, I had to return the audiobook. I wanted to trade it for another book by the author, but this was her only one.
I liked the narrator more than the story, but it seemed to take him a few chapters until he blended with the book. (It still took me several start overs to get through this 4 hr + audio.) Production wasn’t very good though; his voice kept fading.
I found Cross to be a very underdeveloped character who overreacts too much. I didn’t seem to care what happened to him nor his world. With the high ratings and reviews, I persisted to try the addiction others had, but just couldn’t.
The cover is definitely the attraction and only redeeming quality.
Unfortunately, I had to return the audiobook. I wanted to trade it for another book by the author, but this was her only one.
March 21, 2018
This is a relatively solid YA fantasy, but not quite to my taste... I kept waiting to be swept up into the story, and that took a long time! It wasn't until the dragons arrived in the last, ummm, third-ish of the narrative that I actually didn't have to make myself keep listening...
I want to state emphatically that my review does not reflect the narration by Jeff Olyamyk, who in my opinion, was great!
For those of you that have Dragon minded kids, you may want to pick this book up. I think they're gonna love it!
I want to state emphatically that my review does not reflect the narration by Jeff Olyamyk, who in my opinion, was great!
For those of you that have Dragon minded kids, you may want to pick this book up. I think they're gonna love it!
April 2, 2018
Cross is a teenage story of an 18 y.o. male with a fate more than he can conceive. The story is well written and the characters are relatable and likable (all except for the enemies) and the story kept my wayward attention. The narrator did a nice job. My only dissatisfaction is it seems the narrator moved further from the mic periodically changing the sound quality (not unsatisfactory just a nuisance) and there was occasional static in the last half of the story. I received a free copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
May 13, 2018
Received from Xpresso Book Tour in exchange for honest review
Ray has already hard life, living with a disease like that is never easy. But he doesn't let it stop him for doing what is right for his friend.
One day his entire life changes, he find out that the parents he loves all his life aren't really his. His real dad is dying and wants to meet him. He sets out on journey full of mysteries, discovering who he is and where he came from.
I like the plot line and the story, but had hard time connecting to the story. It's not the books faults, it wasn't the right book for me, the chemistry wasn't there.
Ray has already hard life, living with a disease like that is never easy. But he doesn't let it stop him for doing what is right for his friend.
One day his entire life changes, he find out that the parents he loves all his life aren't really his. His real dad is dying and wants to meet him. He sets out on journey full of mysteries, discovering who he is and where he came from.
I like the plot line and the story, but had hard time connecting to the story. It's not the books faults, it wasn't the right book for me, the chemistry wasn't there.
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