Novel Novice

The slowly-building tension, uncompromising romance, and quietly frightening dystopia that made Matched a success returns in the newly-released sequel, Crossed by Ally Condie.

In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky – taken by the Society to his certain death – only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.

Cassia’s quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander – who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia’s heart – change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.

Crossed picks up a few months after the ending of Matched, and features chapters alternating perspectives between Cassia and Ky as the two lovers work independently to be reunited.

Much like Matched was a quiet, slow-paced story, so too is Crossed — though there are a few spurts of adrenaline-pumping action. The more high-octane scenes definitely have a very cinematic feel to them.

Condie’s writing throughout Crossed is, simply, beautiful. There are passages so lovingly written that taken out of context of the book they are just lovely little works of art. And that’s a fitting comparison, since art features so prominently throughout the book (much like poetry did in the first book).

Perhaps the book’s only real weakness is a common problem for trilogies: middle book syndrome. Crossed is very much a middle book, in which the characters go through a lot of transitioning and repositioning to get ready for the third and final installment in their saga. That’s not to say Crossed is without merit. Ky and Cassia’s relationship is certainly tested, and while it appears to remain strong — it’s clear from the ending of Crossed that their journey is far from over. The really big stuff is still to come — and that’s what Crossed is preparing both the characters and the reader for, is that final showdown in the upcoming third volume.

But don’t let that stop you from reading Crossed. It’s a beautiful book and quite enjoyable, so long as you approach it with the right expectations (that is, expect a “middle book” and you’ll be fine).

Crossed is in stores now.

Filed under: Book Review