Shadow Empire

Broken Cross #4

by Bri Blackwood

What lurks in the shadows…

I was in the wrong place at the wrong time
When Broderick Cross saved me from an untimely fate.
I hated him with every fiber of my being,
And I know he won’t touch me because I’m his best friend’s sister.
Or that’s what I thought.
But even with danger knocking on my door,
The one I need protection from is him.

Shadow Empire is book four in the Broken Cross series. Themes in this dark and sexy series may not be suitable for all readers. Shadow Empire is a standalone novel with a cliffhanger for the series but a HEA for our couple. You might want to read the first three books in the Broken Cross Series first. The series continues with Secret Empire.

Genres: Romance, Strong Female

248 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 29, 2021

About the author

Bri loves a good romance, especially ones that involve a hot anti-hero. That is why she likes to turn the dial up a notch with her own writing. Her Broken Cross series is her debut dark romance series.

She spends most of her time hanging out with her family, plotting her next novel, or reading books by other romance authors.

Reviews

[Celine]

4⭐️
Damn I loved this book about Broderick and Grace, their connection is strong and filled with enough sparks that can set the pages on fire. Looking forward to start reading the next book in the series.

[Christine Fass]

Shadow Empire is book 4 in the Broken Cross Series. The first 3 books focused on Damian and Anais, this book focused on Broderick and Grace, both of whom we have met in previous books. I am genuinely enjoying this series! This book stands alone from the other three but there are some secrets left from previous books that haven't been flushed out yet so I highly recommend you read the series in order for maximum enjoyment.

Grace is the sister of Brodericks best friend Hunter, so already this book had me hooked-I love the brother's best friend trope. On top of that, we get mystery, action, and some seriously steamy moments.

[BP34]

This is the fourth book in the Broken Cross Series and for best enjoyment I recommend you read the previous books first. This has been an amazing series with the first three books being Damien's trilogy. This book is Grace and Broderick's story which ends with an HEA and no cliffhanger. If you like dark romance with lots of steam and suspense, you'll love this book. No shortage of drama or danger. A great book and a great series. The characters are strong and well developed. The story line is a page turner that's hard to put down. I read an advance copy via the author and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Dorothy Schaefer]

Excellent Excellent Book. Bri Blackwood is a terrific author I was on pins and needles with this book yes it has sex scenes in it but it is very well done I can not wait to read her next book I highly recommend this book to everyone Dorothy Schaefer

[Kathy Mccalmon]

This is book 4 in the broken cross series. It is a series of stories but this book is a brothers best friend romance with great characters and storyline. I voluntarily reviewed this ARC.

[Misty Schott]

Grace will Broderick a run for his money!!

Grace is a doctor and she leads a busy life but when her safety is in question her brother's best friend, Broderick steps in to protect her and brings all kinds of confusing feelings to the surface for both of them. This is a great read and I highly recommend it.

[C. Gray]

The wait was definitely worth it!! Bri Blackwood has done it again y’all!! Once I knew we were getting Broderick’s story I marked my calendar so nothing would stop me from reading this and boy, oh boy do I love it!! Broderick has definitely met his match with Grace and like all the Cross men, don’t ever mess with what is his if you want to live to see another day.

Get comfy y’all because once you start this you WON’T be able to put it down until the very end. I really, really can’t wait for book five, Secret Empire. Bri, girl you sly me every time and I love every word of it!! 🖤🔥🧡🔥🖤

[Maria]

Honest review given for pre read. No spoiling.

Following through with the Cross Family, there were no details left behind. Shadow Empire simply flowed on. What I would recommended is reading the complete Cross Series in order and possibly together. This way the storyline flows naturally as opposed to having hiatus between books for new readers. I’d recommend this.

Welcome into the world of the Cross Family. Broderick Cross (twin) & Grace younger sibling to Hunter, Broderick’s best friend since forever. Jumping a few years and everyone is grown up, but with their own demons. Reading Bri’s synopsis describes what is to be expected.
Intriguing/mysterious/temptation/preservation - it’s all here. New path is presented, but what?
Questions to consider - What is installed for Broderick & Grace?
How much danger will be presented?
What brought upon the deaths leading into the path of Grace?
What about Hunter?
Who is the new character in the story. Why the mystery?
Does Grace know anything?
Hmm…, do you cross a Cross member?
Grace was in for quite a surprise when she avoided Broderick”s rules. Her safety! - is she willing to bypass the protection provided simply because she doesn’t appreciate the way she is spoken too? Lies, Secrets, Shadows. 3 words that make this story. How will Broderick diffuse the situation? Where does Grace fall into his plans? Is going after something he wants going to backfire? What are the consequences?
Damien and Anais are still prominent in the storyline as are all the Cross members - siblings/partners and relatives.

Overall, Broderick and Grace (Shadow Empire) was a turmoil of their own. The Cross family has still got so much more coming their way. Who has a vendetta against them? Who may lose a life?? Still so may questions that need answering. Back to Broderick and Grace, this was a standalone in their story. Not to say they won’t be present in future reads. Questions revolving around Grace still need to be answered - hmmm, we will need to wait and see. What has also been enjoyable is how close the Cross family are. This wasn’t just Broderick & Graces story, snippets of Damien & Anais still present also leading into Gage Cross and his escapades. Looking forward to next instalment- Secret Empire.

Bri creates a world of mystery/retribution/seduction/suspense etc. It has it all.

[Aminah Ahmad]

Shadow Empire sees Broderick Cross get his story with his long time best friend's little sister, Grace McCartney. If you've read the previous 3 books in the series, (which isn't necessary as this can be read as a standalone), you'll have seen the little teaser we got for these two at Hunter's party. I was looking forward to reading this book after seeing that, as they appeared to have more of an enemies-to-lovers vibe, despite Hunter being a common factor for them.

I thought it was interesting how Grace's initial scene linked in with the plot overall. Although in real life the chances of that happening were probably very little I think it was a good tie in to what was to come.

Whilst I liked that this book kept the darker themes to it that the initial trilogy had, I do wish it had been explored more. Likewise, I think the story overall could have done with more depth. There was a lot of areas where I was hoping we could've seen more background. For example: We saw the little scene at Hunter's first apartment, but other than that, there was no real insight into the chemistry that Broderick and Grace shared beforehand, which led up to the current events. Similarly, I found parts of this a little stilted with the word choice, and it kind of stopped me from getting as engrossed in this as I would have preferred.

Overall though, I liked getting to see Broderick's story as I was quite interested in seeing his character after reading the previous 3 books. And although I found Grace a bit irritating at times given I thought she made some silly decisions, as mentioned, I did like how the plot brought them together.

Will be interesting to see how Gage's story incorporates the background storyline that has been running through all of these books though. As stated by the author at the start of this book: Although this book sees a HEA for Grace and Broderick, the background storyline is still yet to be finished, and so this book ends on a cliff-hanger.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

TW: Gun Violence - This book has darker themes to it, please heed any trigger warnings the author may have noted for it.

*Shadow Empire is book 4 in the Broken Cross series. Although this can be read as a stand-alone, the reader experience will be enhanced by reading the previous 3 books in order. Shadow Empire has a HEA for the lead couple but ends on a cliff-hanger.

[riya parghi]

Shadow Empire - July 29.
By Bri Blackwood.

[ An ARC provided for an honest review. ]

Review:-
Took me a long time to get this book started and here's how it went!
The Shadow Empire is a romance story with the brother’s bestfriend trope but the plot is very ….dull or unexciting …it is kind of instalove with the girl reluctant about their relationship which is great and all but just not what I expected when I read the synopsis.

I liked Grace and she had this fire in her and how she fought back to Broderick but she was also a little naive in a way…she fell for him very quickly and didn't think of the consequences and how it would progress with the ongoing threat to her life.

Broderick was cocky and very strong willed and went after anything he desired enough to be wanted.
He is your typical hero , charming , over the top jealous and sometimes very sweet and affectionate.

Grace and Broderick have known eachother for years through graces brother Hunter and they always had this spark between them but never acted on it but a few years later their is a threat to Grace’s life and in a way Broderick is also involved so they plan to get through it together but Grace never expected him to act on his feelings for her considering how protective her brother is of her over what happened in the past.
They had good chemistry together and there was a climax yes ….but it was not as good as I expected it to be.
The mystery and suspense in the book is great …i'll give you that but it ends on a CLIFFHANGER!!!

It was an a passable read for me and i'll give it an extra half star because of the cliffhanger which has kept me interested for the release of the next book.

Ratings:-
✨✨✨.5/5
and
🌶🌶.5

[Deborah Peach]

The suspense in this book kept me turning the pages. Bri Blackwood kept me guessing as to what would happen next. She doesn't disappoint when she delivers this quality of intrigue. The ride begins slow and steady and the intensity builds until you're racing down the other side.

Grace McCartney has known Broderick Cross for a long time. Her big brother, Hunter, has been best friends with him for a lot of years. They've watched a lot of sports and spent time in each other's company but it's never meant a thing. Suddenly things are changing after a man dies in her emergency room and another is attacked in a dark alley in front of her. She keeps getting the feeling that something is off but she can't quite explain what it is. When things escalate, Broderick steps in to provide security for Grace, albeit it includes more intensely felt emotion on his side than hers, or at least that's what he thinks. He's been hiding exactly how he feels about her for years but so has she. He made a pact with her brother that he would never go near Grace and he's about to break his word in a huge fashion. He's willing to do whatever is necessary to protect her no matter the cost or consequences. He's not above playing dirty to make sure Grace becomes his. How this all plays out could pay off in a grand fashion or be a disaster of the worst proportions.

Bri Blackwood has gotten me hooked on the Cross brothers. The empire she has built with her words sucks you in until you are living with the characters. It's not a smooth ride on this roller coaster but it's definitely time well spent cuddled up in your comfy spot with these books.

[Jessica S]

Holy canoli. What a book. This the 4th in the series and the first one that isn't about Anaïs and Damien but on one of the other sons (Broderick) and Grace (a doctor and younger sister of Hunter, best friend of Broderick)
She's known Broderick for 20 years and they always had a pull to eachother but never did anything about it.
He steps in and aggregates her when another guy is flirting with her. She gets angry and leaves. She then witnesses a crime and Broderick, who followed her secretly 'rescues' her and takes her to his home. They're both stubborn as hell, so there's a lot of fireworks regarding their conversations. She doesn't want to stay with him, he doesn't listen. She ends up sneaking out of his apartment. Then the story continues with bat shit crazy things happening every time she thinks it's going to calm down.
I'm dying to tell so much more, but that would mean spoiling the reading experience.
Read the book in one go, couldn't put it down.
Although the book suggests this is the finished story of Grace & Broderick I still feel there's so much more to it(you know what I mean after you finished the book). Even though this book didn't end with a massive cliffhanger (thank god) it sure has me anxiously waiting for the next part, because this is definitely not the end of the story and the troubles they encounter.

[Karen]

Dr. Grace McCartney has had enough turmoil in her life and doesn’t need her brother’s best friend causing more for her. When her job puts her in the crosshairs of a man that has a history with Broderick and the Cross family, Broderick will do everything in his power to protect her and keep her safe, even if that means that her brother, his best friend Hunter, gets mad at him.

Broderick Cross has wanted Grace for a long time, but his friendship with Hunter has stopped him from making any moves to show her that he wants her. He has a reputation of being a man that doesn’t do commitment, so why would anyone believe that he wants her for more than a short time?

I enjoyed this story. The darkness of the Cross Enterprises follows into Broderick and Grace’s story. Grace has known the Cross family for years but now things are different and no matter how hard she tried to avoid it; her heart had other intentions for her. You can’t help who your heart wants. The danger, action, and darkness continue in this story in the Broken Cross series. I love the characters in this series. The Cross’ are not to be taken lightly. Grace couldn’t be in safer hands when she is with Broderick. Hunter will have to come to terms with their relationship. I give this story a 4-star review and I look forward to more in the series.

[Jennifer Pierson]

I really really love the Broken Cross series, so I couldn't get enough of Shadow Empire. The first three books were about Damian & Anais, and now we're getting to experience Grace & Broderick. She's the sister of his best friend, so you already know that's a big complication to provide an intense push & pull. I'm not a huge fan of brother's best friend & sister because it can go either way for me, and thankfully, Bri Blackwood was all kinds of right so I devoured it in one sitting. I will say that you cannot start the series at Shadow Empire because there's an underlying plot that is traveling through each book so you really must read them in order or you won't get all the fun of the twists coming in hot. I loved that these two had such a strong connection that no matter if they protested or not, it was out of their control so the heat was sexy. Grace is a fantastic heroine who can go toe to toe with Broderick, and he in turn totally became that alpha protector making it a great time for me. I'm really addicted to this fabulous author, so I'm already waiting impatiently for the next book, and I truly believe you'll feel the same way after you hit those one click buttons! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Janet]

Broderick's story kept me turning the pages

Yet another great book in the Broken Cross series. This time, after Damien's trilogy, Bri Blackwood treats us to a one-and-done story about Broderick, one of Damien's younger twin brothers.
I liked Broderick in the previous book when he gave Damien very sound advice on his relationship with Anais (whilst laughing at him at the same time!). There were hints of his feelings for Grace and now we get to see him in action, protecting the object of his affection when she finds herself drawn in to a dangerous situation.
Grace has known Broderick for years as he is her brother's best friend but now, she begins to see him in a different light, which isn't always to his advantage. She pushes him away while wanting to drag him even closer to her. Her emotions are all over the place and the danger to her just keeps escalating.
The story races along, with lots of twists and turns, and I suddenly realised it was stupid o'clock and I'd finished it. I love the Cross family and this book was a great read. Broderick and Grace didn't disappoint and now I can't wait to read Gage's book, though seven weeks is too long to wait!

[Katelynn]

Grace is the younger sister of Broderick Cross' nest friend...making her off limits. They have a tenuous friendship basically built around her brother Hunter. As they've grown older Grwce becomes a doctor while Broderick joins the family empire. One evening Grace witnesses a murder but doesn't realize it may be an elaborate trap for her. Luckily Broderick steps in to save the day and being her to his home for her safety. Together these two must figure out who is trying to harm Grace and how to keep her safe. Broderick and Grace have plenty of tension after years of fighting their mutual attraction leading to some steamy scenes. The mystery and suspense of the book was well written and integrated into the story as well. Grace is feisty and full of fire , the complete opposite of a doormat. Broderick is protective and a bit obsessive when it comes to the woman he loves. Together they make a great couple who create an enjoyable book. I will definitely be reading the next book for Gage and Melissa's story.

[Christina]

3.5 Stars!!!
I went into his with high expectations because of how intense and gripping the first 3 in the series were. While it was good and a definite recommend to read, I didnt feel as much on the edge of my seat as the previous books.

Slow start for me. A slow burn, almost enemies to lovers story.

This ends with a slight cliffhanger for book 5.

Grace and Broderick have known each other for years. She is the sister of his best friend. There were parts where Grace was questioning everything. She'd state she knew something but then was unsure if she either believed that.
I know the story telling is food when I feel irritated by characters, or feel any emotional connection.

While this seemed fast once it got going there were details added to build up future stories. I'm very interested in Gage and what was happening to him throughout Broderick's story.

[Emma bramley]

This is the forth book in this series by this author. This is the story of Broderick and Grace, these two characters are amazing together and have intense chemistry between them. This book stand alone from the rest of the series but you still need to rad this series in order to full appreciate the story. This story has it all its heart wrenching, full of mystery, action and hot ans steamy, its also filled with twists and turn you don't see coming. This is an amazing addition to this series and I can't wait to read more.

I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest review
www.obsessedbookreviews.com

[Erica Rogers]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Grace& Broderick
a brothers best friend/billionaire romance
Grace is an ER nurse and sees it all. She is determinedand stubborn.
Broderick is commanding, demanding and doesn’t take no for an answer.
Grace’s brother is best friends with Broderick, and the Cross family has been apart of Graces life since she was little. Broderick has listed after her for a while and certain events make him finally take matters into his hands where he won’t let her go.
Broderick is just the perfect alphahole/hero. I’m obsessed with him and just love how he possessively makes Grace his. There’s thrill and mystery and such great steam.
This is book four in the Cross series but can be read as a stand alone. I recommend the others first but for sure do not pass on Broderick!

A•R•C review

[Michelle]

3.5 ⭐️

Shadow Empire is book 4 in the Broken Cross Series. I hadn’t read the first 3 books when I started this and managed okay to keep up with the story and pace of what was happening. Whilst the first 3 books focus on Damien and Anais, Shadow Empire is Broderick and Grace’s story.

The story is well written. It’s dark with an enemies to lovers vibe going on. Broderick is definitely the perfect alpha he is demanding, possessive and doesn’t stop until he gets what he wants. What he has always wanted was Grace.
The story is full of action, danger, grit and plenty of steam to keep you turning the pages. I enjoyed it but would recommend reading the first 3 books in series to get the full enjoyment of this one.

[Sonya]

***4.5 stars***
Enjoyed amercing myself back in the Cross family with book four of the Broken Cross series by Bri Blackwood. Grace’s job has put her in danger from a man that doesn’t have a good history with the Cross family. Broderick Cross will do anything to protect Grace, his obsession. They have known each other for years. He is willing to jeopardize his friendship with her brother, Hunter, to protect her. Like all the Cross men you don’t mess with what is theirs if you want to live.
Absolutely loved these books about the Cross family. There is twists and turns, danger, action, excitement, and hot chemistry in this book. Need next book in the series please!!!
Voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving an arc copy for an honest review.

[Hannah | Blessed Book Reviews]

Ahhh!!! Broderick and Grace's story was sooo good!! I loved how strong and independent Grace was. She didn't just bow down and automatically do what Broderick asked (or told) her to. She definitely proved she can fight her own battles, just like any woman should. 💪🏻 I think she was definitely one of my favorite female characters I've gotten to read about so far. ❤️ I didn't hate Broderick, but I didn't love him either. 🤷🏻‍♀️ Overall, I thought they were such a cute pair, and I shipped them SO hard. I'm kinda sad that their story is finished, but I'm super excited to find out what happens in "Secret Empire!"

[Wendy Livingstone]

This is the 4th book in this amazing series and is Broderick and Grace’s story. Grace is Broderick’s best friend Hunter little sister, and when she is in the wrong place at the wrong time Broderick comes to her rescue. This is a well written story which is dark, raw, gritty, intriguing, and with emotions, secrets, mystery, action, danger, suspense, which all leads to a heartwrenching and all-consuming addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Shawna Jimenez more.books.forever]

I loved Broderick and Grace! Grace is so feisty and doesn’t hold back by any means. Bri Blackwood never seizes to amaze me!! I have been dying for Broderick’s story and it was so worth the wait! Grace is exactly what He needed in his life and lord these Cross men are cavemen when it comes to their women and Broderick was no exception. These two have know each other for so long and the chemistry and heat these two have is off the charts! Strap in and hold on because you are in for the ride of you life with these two! I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series and can’t wait!

[Ally Doby (Schleicher)]

And the plot thickens…

I am voluntarily leaving this review. Bri has done it again! This book was not left on a cliffhanger with the characters, but it does keep you guessing about who the true villain in this story is!

Broderick and Grace have known each other for years. Everyone saw their connection except them. Their chemistry is off the charts, and both hardheaded people who find themselves leaning on each other in times of need.

I am loving this series more and more! I can’t wait to see what Bri has in store for the next book!

[Penny]

grace and Broderick

Well this saga gets more intriguing than ever.
What another epic love story for another son/brother, Broderick and the love of his life Grace, only to find out that whoever is behind the vendetta against the Cross family is still out there.
I love all the suspense and mystery with all the love thrown it. To me thats what makes a great book to read and to recommend it to everyone to read as well..
so get out there everyone and read this series of books you wont be disappointed
Thankyou Bri Blackwood for a great read

[HaleyJo]

Another excellent adventure with the Cross brothers. I had a feeling that Broderick's personality was going to be a close match to Damien's. Grace was amazing in her ability to let herself open to the wonders of something she had been so curious about for so long. I was somewhat shocked that Hunter came around as quickly as he did, but I think his love for his sister helped him to see they deserved a chance. Another sassy, sexy read.

[Sammye]

This is book # 4 in the Broken Cross series and I think it’s the best, so far! I simply loved Broderick and Grace’s journey to love. There was some mystery and suspense, as well as some sexy scenes that kept my interest from beginning to end. The plot is dark and intriguing. Even though the couple gets their hea, there is a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to see what happens next. *this honest review is based on a complimentary copy from the author*

[Paulina]

Shadow Empire is book #4 in the Broken Cross series - the first three books focused on Damien and Anais, meanwhile, this one is about Broderick and Grace. I really enjoyed reading their story. It's not overly dark, but it's sexy, steamy and simply a great story. It's also the brother's best friend trope which I really like, so it made the read even more enjoyable for me. I recommend reading it in order though.

[Joan Phillips]

Due to Broderick promise to Hunter when they were teenagers he would not have a romantic relationship with his sister Grace. He held his feelings to himself of how much he romantically cared for her. When a situation caused them to be together to protect her, he could no longer hold back his feeling.
Thinking they could finally relax about the threat against her, another turn of events would keep them apart. This story was about lies, betrayal along with murders.