Matched by Ally Condie

Book: Matched

Author: Ally Condie

Release: November 30th, 2010

Other: Novel's website 

Pages: 369

Source: Publicist & later bought hardcover

YA Book Queen's Summary: 

The seemingly perfect Society takes care of it's people. No one suffers, no one has too much or too little, and nothing is ever left to chance.

After eagerly awaiting to see who the Society matches her with, Cassia Reyes is relieved to see that it's one of her best friends, Xander. Except later on, when viewing what should be a microcard all about Xander, she sees another face where Xander's should be. Ky Markham's face.

Ky, who is so unlike Xander, is not the kind of person Cassia should be with, or even notice. Yet the more she spends time with him, the more she realizes that everything she thought she knew just might be wrong. The closer they get, the more Cassia pushes the Societies limits and rules. She'll have to decide how far she'd go for true love and the ability to decide for herself, even if it means defying every rule the Society has....  

Review: "I won't go gentle. I'll find a way to soar like the angels in the stories and I will find him." (Condie 320)

Matched is a dystopian novel I'll definitely be remembering for quite some time. Narrated in the first person present tense by Cassia, her story begins at the Matching Banquet. Her personality slowly shines throughout the chapters, and the uniqueness of the "perfected" Society is revealed with wonderful pacing. Condie managed to let other characters grow as well, and I don't think there was a single character that didn't interest and intrigue me. 

The writing in Matched is beautiful. At times, it felt enchanting, thoughtful and lyrical. Condie's words drew me into another world that felt real, and the story that resides inside such a stunning (and fitting) cover is bound to attract readers.

Matched essentially comes down to two things: love and choice. And yes, you absolutely should read this novel, especially if you enjoy thoughtful novels with a very believable romance. 

Highlights: Cassia's voice is completely engaging that I could spend weeks rereading this novel. Rarely do I read a novel where there is a love triangle that makes me struggle with deciding who the protagonist should end up with (just like in Andrea Cremer's debut, Nightshade). Both guys are truly different and they make sense with Cassia - that's the best thing I can ever say about a love triangle. This novel pulled at my heartstrings, and kept me eager for more with every word. 

Lowlights: There are just a few moments where the pacing slows, but I think that's where the magic of this story lies. It slows, keeping you captivated with every word, and picks up again. 

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