Book Review: Crossed by Ally Condie

Pages: 384

Genre: YA Sci-Fi

Pub. Date: November 1, 2011

Source: ARC received from publisher (THANK YOU!)

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

*Read my review of Matched

Goodreads says, "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."

Cassia is on a mission to find Ky who was sent by The Society to the Outer Provinces, but, thankfully, escaped.  While trying to search for him, she comes across clues and gets to see what life is like closer to the border.  During Cassia's journey, she learns the truth about many things including more information about the Uprising.  Crossed by Ally Condie is an entertaining follow-up to Matched and the second half of the novel will leave readers in a state of suspense.


Cassia shares the point of view with Ky and it alternates each chapter. This took me awhile to get used to, because I'd prefer the narration to be one hundred percent Cassia's; however, I understand why Condie had to do this.  Cassia is still such a fascinating heroine and I loved to follow her on her journey.  Readers will learn more about the world that Cassia lives in and the Outer Provinces which hold many secrets. I must admit that I found Cassia's journey to be a tad tedious and repetitive until the second half of Crossed which is when things really heated up.  


Ky, although not my favorite character, was entertaining nonetheless, because readers will learn more about his background in Crossed.  It was interesting to read the chapters from his point of view and in turn, readers can better understand where he is coming from.  All the while, Xander is still someone referred to a lot and thought a lot about by both characters. I wish there were more of him in Crossed!  Cassia is still harboring feelings for him and there's another secret that he's withholding as well.  Fans of Xander will only get to see him briefly as this is more Cassia and Ky's book.


I really enjoy Condie's writing style. The incorporation of poetry and her lyrical descriptions are lovely. I found myself re-reading certain lines that flowed so beautifully.  Her graceful writing style was juxtaposed by the rustic setting and raw emotions in Crossed. She's so talented!


Even though I am not in love with Crossed like I was Matched, I recognize that it serves its function as a setup for what I think is going to be an incredible finale. The ending of Crossed left me dying to find out what happens next and Condie left us with a heck of a cliffhanger.  I can't believe we have to wait a whole year!

*Pre-order Crossed

*Watch an interview with Ally Condie

*Thank you to Dutton for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.