Spirit Gate (Crossroads Book 1)

Spirit Gate is the first book in the Crossroads series. The story follows Mai and Captain Anji as they become unwilling participants in a conflict that originated centuries earlier and threatens to destabilize their world. In the land of the Hundred, the Guardians—powerful gods—once ruled but have withdrawn their direct influence. The reeves, who patrol on enormous eagles, remain as representatives of the Guardians' authority, though their power is waning. A group of fanatics has emerged, systematically destroying villages, towns, and cities in their campaign against all who oppose them. Their leader remains unknown, and their cruelty and strength appear inhuman. Mai and Anji travel with a company of warriors and a single reeve who may possess knowledge crucial to stopping the advancing horde. A young woman devoted to the Goddess may also hold significance in the conflict. The novel depicts people caught in the turmoil of war as they attempt to prevent their world from being consumed by violence.