Age Group: 13+
Plot Development: A+
Character Development: A+
Favorite Quote:
“Love is beautiful fear”
The Selection is where you get a basic introduction to the characters and Illéa. The Elite is where you dive in a little deeper to both. You get to see the darker bits of Illéa and you get to be frustrated with the fact that America is incredibly indecisive. But honestly, that's what makes her so relatable. We're looking at this as spectators, which is why it probably seems so annoying at points and we want to scream "CHOOSE ONE ALREADY". However, if this was happening to one of us we'd probably be hesitant to make the decision too because it's not one you can easily go back on. Choosing Aspen means Maxon has five very viable options to choose from right there in the place. If she chose Maxon, Aspen would probably have no problem finding someone else or be upset and never talk to her again. Either way she couldn't change her mind after the choice is made and end up with the other guy. Besides who wants to be second choice.
All that aside, at the end of the day it's between the safe choice and the one that could be a mistake (or the best thing ever). Aspen is definitely the safe choice at the end of the day because they have history and would be able to live a normal life. Choosing Prince Maxon would be taking a leap of faith, it seems they have something there but being with him means one day she'll be Queen and will help him lead a nation. But this isn't all up to America, Maxon is the one running The Selection here, if he gets tired of her not choosing him, he can send her packing. Maxon is the only one guaranteed to say "I Do" after its all over, but the question is to who?
Kiera Cass delivers with this book (yet again). This series has so many quotable moments and it breaks my heart that more people don't know how well written of an adventure it is. Below is one of the many moments I felt a true connection to the characters and it was like I was there laughing right beside them. The Elite get to have their families visit so the Royal Family can get to know all of them better. This is the first opportunity they have gotten to see and even talk to their families since this all began.
“I sighed. "Actually, Mom, we argue pretty regularly." "What?" She gaped at me. "Well, stop it!" "Oh, and I kneed him in the groin once."
There was a split second of silence before May barked a laugh. She covered her mouth and tried to stop it, but it kept coming out in awkward, squeaky sounds. Dad's lips were pressed together, but I could tell he was on the verge of losing it himself.
Mom was paler then snow. "America, tell me you're joking. Tell me you didn't assault the prince."
I don't know why, but the word assault pushed us all on the edge; and May, Dad, and I bent over laughing as Mom stared at us.
"Sorry, Mom," I managed. "Oh, good lord." She suddenly seemed very excited in meeting Marlee's parents, and I didn't stop her from going.
Not only is this book about America dealing with her new feelings, a shocking new resident at the palace, and having to step up her game whether she wants to be Queen or not. But it doesn't end there, a main character gets the boot and in a very tragic way.
This may all seem cryptic and skimming the top of the story, but I don't want to spoil anything. I really hope that if you haven't read the books, you'll take the time to read them. Once you start, you'll devour them. Sure America is a bit whiny and indecisive to the point of being slightly irritating; but these are books you'll be happy you read!