Critical reception to Crossed was mixed to positive, with the Tampa Bay Times praising the book's "mental mystery and emotional aspects".[2] Kidz World commented that the book "seemed to miss the mark. The entire book was spent in the Outer Provinces, which was not only visually dry, but offered little action and excitement."[3] Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews both gave the entry positive reviews, with Publishers Weekly stating that while readers will need to read the previous book, Crossed's "vivid, poetic writing will pull fans through as Condie immerses readers in her characters' yearnings and hopes".[4][5]
The books reached the best on the New York Times bestseller list for children's chapter books, which includes young adult novels.[6][7]