Crossed (Matched, #2)

by Ally Condie

I'm not able to explain how I feel about Crossed. It doesn't knock my socks off nor do I feel like throwing it against the wall. It's a book that I feel neutral towards.

Crossed continues with the passive action that occurred in Matched. I seems like Matched sets up the story and Crossed is the "bland" book that prepares us for the action and rebellion that will hopefully appear in the last book, Reached. Crossed isn't slow or boring, but the sense of danger and surprise is lacking.

The story is told from Cassia and Ky's point of view. Unfortunately, their POV's sound exactly the same. Cassia, as a main character, has not only strength, smarts and great instinct, but she is easy to relate to and connect with. Ky is also strong and smart. He is able to stay one step ahead of the authorities and knows how to handle almost any situation that comes his way. I enjoyed meeting old and new characters along the way who gain depth in such a short amount of time.

Like Matched, romance plays a huge role in Crossed. I have to admit that I did warm up to Ky and Cassia's relationship. Unfortunately, the love triangle that existed in Matched is unnecessary in Crossed. Judging from Crossed, it's so obvious who Cassia is going to pick.

The rebellion aspect and the mystery that surrounds it is totally up my ally. I enjoyed the cool concepts that are created in this society; a corrupt society, paternalistic government, a world built on a social hierarchy and an interesting way of story telling filled with beautiful metaphors and poetry.

Even although I have issues with the POV's and the romance present in Crossed, I do enjoy a book with a corrupt government and society and strong characters. I'm definitely going to read Reached to find out how a possible rebellion is going to play out.