Accordance (Significance, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Shelly Crane's Accordance, the sequel to Significance, continues the intertwined narratives of the Significance program and its participants, focusing primarily on the complex relationship between Jaxon and Rileigh, while expanding the scope of the mysterious organization known only as "The Accordance."

The novel picks up where Significance left off, with Rileigh grappling with the revelation of her unique abilities and Jaxon battling his internal conflicts and the looming threat of The Accordance. Their connection, forged in the crucible of the Significance program, is tested by newfound knowledge and emerging threats. Rileigh discovers a deeper understanding of her power, learning to control and manipulate her “accordance,” a connection she shares with Jaxon that allows them to communicate telepathically and even influence each other’s actions. This connection, however, becomes a double-edged sword, threatening to consume them if not properly managed. Their shared power is also their vulnerability, making them a prime target for The Accordance.

The overarching plot revolves around The Accordance's relentless pursuit of individuals with special abilities like Rileigh and Jaxon. The organization, shrouded in secrecy, aims to control or eliminate those with “accordance,” believing they pose a threat to the established order. This pursuit drives much of the action, forcing Rileigh and Jaxon into a desperate race to understand their powers, find allies, and ultimately, unravel the mysteries surrounding The Accordance's origins and goals. Their search for answers leads them into dangerous territory, forcing them to confront both external threats and the internal struggles that arise from their burgeoning powers and deepening connection.

Key supporting characters play crucial roles in this pursuit. We see the return of familiar faces from Significance, whose allegiances are tested, and the introduction of new allies and antagonists who contribute to the complexities of the plot. These characters often challenge Rileigh and Jaxon's understanding of right and wrong, forcing them to make difficult choices in their fight against The Accordance.

Thematically, Accordance explores several key ideas. The nature of power and its responsibility is central, as Rileigh and Jaxon struggle to control their abilities and the consequences of their actions. The novel delves into the concept of free will versus determinism, questioning whether individuals can truly control their destinies in the face of powerful forces. The importance of connection and the challenges of maintaining relationships under immense pressure are also explored, particularly within the strained but deeply affecting bond between Rileigh and Jaxon. Finally, the novel touches on the ever-present tension between secrecy and truth, as the characters wrestle with hidden agendas and the ethical implications of wielding exceptional power. In essence, Accordance builds upon the foundations laid in Significance, delivering a suspenseful and emotionally charged story of power, connection, and the fight for survival.