There is lots of rich and vivid description, and emotive language is used very effectively. There is a relation between the words, which is about noting something down, so I can see why Condie chose it. For example, the word 'citation' in the book means a small break in Society's rules which is recorded officially, but in real life it means a reference to a source. The author has invented a world, and sort of repurposed words to use in the story. It is varied and detailed and really builds an image in your head of the story. The language used in this book is very good. That said, he is very nice to nearly everyone and is a likable character, but he doesn't have much depth of character. It feels a bit wrong that he sort of goes along with Cassia's love of Ky, and makes little attempt at protesting. He is easy-going and loyal to Cassia but doesn't have a very complex character and his darker side isn't revealed until the very end of the book. Most of the time he seems like a two dimensional plot device instead of an actual character. As his tragic backstory is gradually revealed, you genuinely feel sorry for him and get to know him as a character in a deeper sense. He seems gentle and relaxed, but behind his blue eyes is knowledge of the horrors of Society and the things Officials don't tell the public. The aura of mystery that surrounds him instantly makes me want to know more. Her varied personality relates to nearly everyone, and I think the success of this character comes from the fact that we all have a little bit of her personality inside us.

As this book is written in the first person through her point of view, you feel what she feels and understand her more than anyone else in the book. As the book progresses, her rebellious side begins to show, and her reaction to all she has learned about the Society, when all she begins to doubt the way things are, makes interesting reading.

Matched by ally condie