CROSSED
by Ally Condie
Reading level: Ages 14 and up
Hardcover: 367 pages
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile (November 1, 2011)
Language: English
Source: BEA
Ratings: 2.5 star

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.

My Thoughts:

This year was filled with many novels that I was most eager to read and CROSSED was on the top of that very list. I had enjoyed it's predecessor with tepid enthusiasm yet Ally Condie's lyrical writing style and alternate utopia had me coming back for more.

As I return to this world it unfolds before me through two points of view: Cassia and Ky. I don't usually favor this approach but it worked well with how the plot progressed, adding depth and a bit of darkness that was displayed through Ky's POV. Initially through flashbacks the story brings forth Cassia's efforts to find Ky. Meanwhile the horrific conclusion to Ky's encampment comes to light and fuels his desire to find Cassia. When the inevitable reunion comes I did not find the happiness that I expected to be there due to their different ideas regarding the Resistance. Who will lead and who will follow? Only time will tell.

Upon finishing CROSSED I did not have the same intense feelings as I had with MATCHED. The poetic writing style that would sometimes take my breath away only seemed to cause a mild pause and it's current bleakness seemed faded and uninspiring. I wanted that darkness to cause more destruction, not sure why but I feel it would have added a bit of credibility to this new storyline. Also, the intensity of passion between the two main characters lacked the emotional quality that kept my initial interest but this current endeavour could not seem to stoke those same fires. What I did enjoy was this story's crucial twist that took me by surprise and lent a bit of mystery that intrigued me to want to read the next novel despite my lackluster desire for CROSSED.

I am not sure if fans of this series will be sold on this novel but it will be interesting to see if it will be enough to fuel further interest. I will return but with reservation and trepidation and hopeful resolution.

CROSSED Video Book Trailer