Sydney Paige McCutcheon's Blog
October 14, 2020
New Book!
Hey Everyone, it's been a while since I've updated on things. The past two years I was at an out-of-state college and graduated this past May.
Fun news: My next book is available to read on Wattpad. A chapter or two will be released week-by-week and if you like the story, please vote!
Title: Beatrice, Betrothed
(book one of my new book series "The Betrothed Series")
A clean Regency Romance
Wattpad link:
https://www.wattpad.com/963989677-bea...
Thanks for reading!
Sydney
Fun news: My next book is available to read on Wattpad. A chapter or two will be released week-by-week and if you like the story, please vote!
Title: Beatrice, Betrothed
(book one of my new book series "The Betrothed Series")
A clean Regency Romance
Wattpad link:
https://www.wattpad.com/963989677-bea...
Thanks for reading!
Sydney
November 17, 2019
The Secret Romantic
So I started a blog! A new one, called ....
The Secret Romantic
And it's reviews of romantic movies, and possibly expanding to book reviews too.
If you would like to read, please click the link below. You can also subscribe to the blog.
https://thesecretromanticblog.blogspo...
Happy Sunday,
Sydney
The Secret Romantic
And it's reviews of romantic movies, and possibly expanding to book reviews too.
If you would like to read, please click the link below. You can also subscribe to the blog.
https://thesecretromanticblog.blogspo...
Happy Sunday,
Sydney
May 17, 2019
Writer to Writer/Writer to Self
What book are you avoiding to write? It's probably the one you need to write the most.
We avoid things that pull the deepest part of us out into the light for others to see. We want to share, writers have that desire to, but sometimes we are quick to pull a cape over the story. Sure, we have those moments of inspiration, scene-writing, etc. But actually being committed to sit down and spill it all out, the hard parts, the easy. To make ourselves be still and write out the slow parts that take more effort than the inspired.
What book are you avoiding? The moment you read this question, it pops at you. It popped at me.
Why am I avoiding it? It doesn't have to be controversial. No, writers kind of like that - and it's not that it's taboo - there are tons of that on the shelves - so why then is there a book you or I avoid?
Because within it is our vulnerability. Whether others see it or not, we see it. People may give accolades for the very thing that makes you turn your eyes the other way. Because while they're speaking about a book, a character, a scene, a piece of dialogue that truly hit them, made them feel, opened their eyes to a new perspective, all you hear is a deep fact about yourself. A fact maybe others didn't know and would've ridiculed, would've turned their eyes the other way.
What book are you avoiding to write? Think on it, pinpoint why you avoid it. The answer probably will come quickly or may take some time, may take some writing days to get through and see more clearly what nerve it hits.
The amazing part is ... we avoid mirrors sometimes in life and others do the same ... but through books we write we give readers the ability to look in a mirror without the sharp cut of glass. Writers can help readers see themselves more clearly, in a softer light, in another character, that gives them courage to face what they can't bear to see in the mirror.
So when people go on and on about what they did love about your writing, what spoke to them ... take a moment to not hear a personal diary of your life but instead see that something in your words spoke to them about their own life, they saw a glimpse into a mirror without the harshness of artificial light, without the reflection of their own disappointed eyes ... they saw a glimpse of themselves and weren't hurt by it but became free ... to be honest of their own vulnerability and wounds .. and a gift you get is they share that with you.
I apologize if this blog post is kind of all over the place, with typos or inconsistent sentences. I think that God just really struck me with that question - and He asked me it after I had thought of the book, after I had shied away from going there, from picking up that story that reads so closely to a period of my life, a section of my heart. Even writing about it makes me want to slap the laptop shut. And when the book comes out, you may not even catch it at first as to why. Your own story may have the same reaction. Sure, there are truths in it that may surprise but not everyone is going to know the depth your story has, how far the words plumb ... I like that word, Plumb. So that's why I added it there, just in case I didn't write it carefully.
What book are you avoiding to write?
I'm pressing this question, not really to you but to myself and then to you. I'm poking that sore spot, and maybe it's not a wound but just a sensitive spot. Like your toosh. You don't realize how sensitive it is until you knock it into a corner. It doesn't even have to be a sharp corner - it could be the armrest of an airplane (ouch, that happened not too long ago I think). Everyone can see your toosh and it's okay, you've got pants on (I hope some clothing) but when something knocks into it - reality of its sensitivity hits hard (unless you got buns of steel, maybe it doesn't feel the same) and you go 'ouch' and rub it, unless you're in public (or maybe you still rub it.) *shoulder shrug*
What book are you avoiding to write? And why are you avoiding it? If you do know, write it. And if you don't know why, write it, because you'll find out the why.
The book you're avoiding may be the very book you need to write. For you, for others.
We avoid things that pull the deepest part of us out into the light for others to see. We want to share, writers have that desire to, but sometimes we are quick to pull a cape over the story. Sure, we have those moments of inspiration, scene-writing, etc. But actually being committed to sit down and spill it all out, the hard parts, the easy. To make ourselves be still and write out the slow parts that take more effort than the inspired.
What book are you avoiding? The moment you read this question, it pops at you. It popped at me.
Why am I avoiding it? It doesn't have to be controversial. No, writers kind of like that - and it's not that it's taboo - there are tons of that on the shelves - so why then is there a book you or I avoid?
Because within it is our vulnerability. Whether others see it or not, we see it. People may give accolades for the very thing that makes you turn your eyes the other way. Because while they're speaking about a book, a character, a scene, a piece of dialogue that truly hit them, made them feel, opened their eyes to a new perspective, all you hear is a deep fact about yourself. A fact maybe others didn't know and would've ridiculed, would've turned their eyes the other way.
What book are you avoiding to write? Think on it, pinpoint why you avoid it. The answer probably will come quickly or may take some time, may take some writing days to get through and see more clearly what nerve it hits.
The amazing part is ... we avoid mirrors sometimes in life and others do the same ... but through books we write we give readers the ability to look in a mirror without the sharp cut of glass. Writers can help readers see themselves more clearly, in a softer light, in another character, that gives them courage to face what they can't bear to see in the mirror.
So when people go on and on about what they did love about your writing, what spoke to them ... take a moment to not hear a personal diary of your life but instead see that something in your words spoke to them about their own life, they saw a glimpse into a mirror without the harshness of artificial light, without the reflection of their own disappointed eyes ... they saw a glimpse of themselves and weren't hurt by it but became free ... to be honest of their own vulnerability and wounds .. and a gift you get is they share that with you.
I apologize if this blog post is kind of all over the place, with typos or inconsistent sentences. I think that God just really struck me with that question - and He asked me it after I had thought of the book, after I had shied away from going there, from picking up that story that reads so closely to a period of my life, a section of my heart. Even writing about it makes me want to slap the laptop shut. And when the book comes out, you may not even catch it at first as to why. Your own story may have the same reaction. Sure, there are truths in it that may surprise but not everyone is going to know the depth your story has, how far the words plumb ... I like that word, Plumb. So that's why I added it there, just in case I didn't write it carefully.
What book are you avoiding to write?
I'm pressing this question, not really to you but to myself and then to you. I'm poking that sore spot, and maybe it's not a wound but just a sensitive spot. Like your toosh. You don't realize how sensitive it is until you knock it into a corner. It doesn't even have to be a sharp corner - it could be the armrest of an airplane (ouch, that happened not too long ago I think). Everyone can see your toosh and it's okay, you've got pants on (I hope some clothing) but when something knocks into it - reality of its sensitivity hits hard (unless you got buns of steel, maybe it doesn't feel the same) and you go 'ouch' and rub it, unless you're in public (or maybe you still rub it.) *shoulder shrug*
What book are you avoiding to write? And why are you avoiding it? If you do know, write it. And if you don't know why, write it, because you'll find out the why.
The book you're avoiding may be the very book you need to write. For you, for others.
December 31, 2017
Reflection Before the New Year - 12/31/2017
Hey Everyone,
For New Year's Eve I want to reflect back on a blog from a few years ago about Courage, to take with us going forward into the New Year 2018.
The Title is Courage [Part One]
"If I'm afraid to fall then how will I ever fly?"
It's so true. We, I, want to fly, but if I fear falling, then how can I do it?
Sometimes I can just jump, I know it, that's my personality - sometimes. Unless I over-think it. I over-think the chance of falling, the chance of air not catching beneath my wings and carrying me upward.
I over-think the possible pain of crashing, of something dying . . . sometimes I over-think. That is one of fear's tools.
What's the conclusion? I don't know. Everyone is different, everyone must deal with it in their own way. How can I get past that fear of the unknown? Because that's what it is. Fear of the unknown. But if I never try then how will I ever know?
I imagine myself on a cliff, a waterfall to my right, loud and thundering beautifully . . . the melody lulling me to stay. Why leave? Why leave what I know, what I've always known? To use these wings I've been given? Do they even work? Are they strong enough? Are they like the Eagle's wings, are they sharp like a Hawk's? Will I have to pump hard like a Hummingbird, or float softly like a Dove.
What if I'm a penguin? An Ostrich? An Emu? What if I can't fly? What if these aren't wings? What if I am wrong? What if I am wrong?
The cliff thins the farther out the edge goes and below is hundreds of feet of air, and then ground. No water from the waterfall, just ground. Hard, and unforgiving if crushed upon it.
I'm standing at the clearing, seeing the open sky ahead as the waterfall continues to roar.
My heart is pounding, the rhythmic beat pulsing my skin. The wind blows my hair against my brow, lifting my feathers just enough to give me hope. My mind is trying to over-think it, tries to stop me. I have to move fast or I may lose my opportunity.
I run.
I charge ahead, my feet digging into the earth, pushing hard for speed and stamina.
My wings whip the air, my thoughts go quiet as action has taken over.
My left foot hits the edge, the bottom drops beneath me, and I've run off the cliff.
Action may not dissolve fear but it can silence it for a moment. And in that moment, give your everything, give it your all, and go.
Happy New Year! Enjoy it with those you love, have hope for the future, and be excited for 2018!
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
For New Year's Eve I want to reflect back on a blog from a few years ago about Courage, to take with us going forward into the New Year 2018.
The Title is Courage [Part One]
"If I'm afraid to fall then how will I ever fly?"
It's so true. We, I, want to fly, but if I fear falling, then how can I do it?
Sometimes I can just jump, I know it, that's my personality - sometimes. Unless I over-think it. I over-think the chance of falling, the chance of air not catching beneath my wings and carrying me upward.
I over-think the possible pain of crashing, of something dying . . . sometimes I over-think. That is one of fear's tools.
What's the conclusion? I don't know. Everyone is different, everyone must deal with it in their own way. How can I get past that fear of the unknown? Because that's what it is. Fear of the unknown. But if I never try then how will I ever know?
I imagine myself on a cliff, a waterfall to my right, loud and thundering beautifully . . . the melody lulling me to stay. Why leave? Why leave what I know, what I've always known? To use these wings I've been given? Do they even work? Are they strong enough? Are they like the Eagle's wings, are they sharp like a Hawk's? Will I have to pump hard like a Hummingbird, or float softly like a Dove.
What if I'm a penguin? An Ostrich? An Emu? What if I can't fly? What if these aren't wings? What if I am wrong? What if I am wrong?
The cliff thins the farther out the edge goes and below is hundreds of feet of air, and then ground. No water from the waterfall, just ground. Hard, and unforgiving if crushed upon it.
I'm standing at the clearing, seeing the open sky ahead as the waterfall continues to roar.
My heart is pounding, the rhythmic beat pulsing my skin. The wind blows my hair against my brow, lifting my feathers just enough to give me hope. My mind is trying to over-think it, tries to stop me. I have to move fast or I may lose my opportunity.
I run.
I charge ahead, my feet digging into the earth, pushing hard for speed and stamina.
My wings whip the air, my thoughts go quiet as action has taken over.
My left foot hits the edge, the bottom drops beneath me, and I've run off the cliff.
Action may not dissolve fear but it can silence it for a moment. And in that moment, give your everything, give it your all, and go.
Happy New Year! Enjoy it with those you love, have hope for the future, and be excited for 2018!
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
July 9, 2017
His Will: What does it look like?
Song: I will
Band: Citizen Way
Driving home the other night this song came on and as the words “He will carry you through darkness until we see the sun again” played, I just said within myself how I just want to do God’s will. And in that moment of life, I didn’t feel my life was going according to God’s will. Does it look like His will? Heck no. How can this be God’s will? It looks the opposite.
But God then reminded me of Moses, hunted as an infant and raised in the home of his enemies, the very people who tried to kill him; Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers because his father loved him more; Samson, betrayed by Delilah; Jesus going to the cross after being beaten beyond recognition though he was innocent, and dying on a cross like a criminal.
I thought to myself, their lives don’t look at all how a popular (or in my opinion popular) idea of what God’s will is. Their lives were hard, they weren’t always filled with sunshine and rainbows. They were lied about, betrayed, rejected. But these men did God’s will.
Moses delivered God’s people, Samson got back at the Philistines, Joseph was second to Pharaoh, and Jesus is King of kings.
That line “He will carry you through darkness until we see the sun again.” The image of Jesus swooping down and carrying me up like an Eagle to its baby came to mind. He will carry me, He is with me through the darkness, and taking me toward the sun.
So if things don’t seem like how you thought or how you think God wants them to be, listen to this song, be encouraged. Think of the heroes of the Bible, their lives, what they went through, how God got them through.
He will.
Song: I will
Band: Citizen Way
Thanks for reading, have an awesome Sunday :)
Sydney
Band: Citizen Way
Driving home the other night this song came on and as the words “He will carry you through darkness until we see the sun again” played, I just said within myself how I just want to do God’s will. And in that moment of life, I didn’t feel my life was going according to God’s will. Does it look like His will? Heck no. How can this be God’s will? It looks the opposite.
But God then reminded me of Moses, hunted as an infant and raised in the home of his enemies, the very people who tried to kill him; Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers because his father loved him more; Samson, betrayed by Delilah; Jesus going to the cross after being beaten beyond recognition though he was innocent, and dying on a cross like a criminal.
I thought to myself, their lives don’t look at all how a popular (or in my opinion popular) idea of what God’s will is. Their lives were hard, they weren’t always filled with sunshine and rainbows. They were lied about, betrayed, rejected. But these men did God’s will.
Moses delivered God’s people, Samson got back at the Philistines, Joseph was second to Pharaoh, and Jesus is King of kings.
That line “He will carry you through darkness until we see the sun again.” The image of Jesus swooping down and carrying me up like an Eagle to its baby came to mind. He will carry me, He is with me through the darkness, and taking me toward the sun.
So if things don’t seem like how you thought or how you think God wants them to be, listen to this song, be encouraged. Think of the heroes of the Bible, their lives, what they went through, how God got them through.
He will.
Song: I will
Band: Citizen Way
Thanks for reading, have an awesome Sunday :)
Sydney
June 16, 2017
To Read Review: The Crown
I was really excited to read the sequels to The Selection Trilogy but found them very disappointing... I didn't connect to any of the characters as I did with the originals, Eadlyn barely has moments with the suitors, and though you guess at who you think is best pick, it isn't until the ending/last second that it's revealed and even then, the ending is rushed, the guy she picks barely has a moment with her for them to celebrate ... ugh, I wanted to like these books.
I wanted more character development and thought this second part would give it, sadly it doesn't. Her brother should have visited at the news of his mother's health, they are twins but seem like distant cousins, very little interaction with the suitors, some scenes I rushed through. I don't think that Eadlyn ever grew up - I think her eyes were open to things but did she change? Not much. I'm glad about who she picked in the end but it had no sweetness to it, there was no satisfaction.
Honestly before I could get to page 100, I just wanted to get through the book to know the ending. I'm being a little harsh I guess but I think it's because I'm frustrated at these two books that had so much potential, so much to be desired, so many roads to take...)
1 Star because I can't put 0 star.
I did not like this book at all. (And I don't write this lightly, I wanted to like this book! I tried to like this book! I told myself, there are some high lights, right? Ugh but all of it together just made me want to throw it at the wall.
I don't recommend this book. Stick with the original three, those are great, they have plot, surprises, romance, conclusions - they make sense.
Sorry to not have a happier review for this Friday, but hopefully the next book will be better. Looking at other reviews, they seem to reflect the same issues I had, not all the reviews but some I glimpsed at wondering if I was the only one thinking this.)
Let's see, do I read another To-Read book to makeup for the other two? Or stick with one I know I like? Hmmmm....
Time will tell I guess...
Thanks for reading,
Sydney
I wanted more character development and thought this second part would give it, sadly it doesn't. Her brother should have visited at the news of his mother's health, they are twins but seem like distant cousins, very little interaction with the suitors, some scenes I rushed through. I don't think that Eadlyn ever grew up - I think her eyes were open to things but did she change? Not much. I'm glad about who she picked in the end but it had no sweetness to it, there was no satisfaction.
Honestly before I could get to page 100, I just wanted to get through the book to know the ending. I'm being a little harsh I guess but I think it's because I'm frustrated at these two books that had so much potential, so much to be desired, so many roads to take...)
1 Star because I can't put 0 star.
I did not like this book at all. (And I don't write this lightly, I wanted to like this book! I tried to like this book! I told myself, there are some high lights, right? Ugh but all of it together just made me want to throw it at the wall.
I don't recommend this book. Stick with the original three, those are great, they have plot, surprises, romance, conclusions - they make sense.
Sorry to not have a happier review for this Friday, but hopefully the next book will be better. Looking at other reviews, they seem to reflect the same issues I had, not all the reviews but some I glimpsed at wondering if I was the only one thinking this.)
Let's see, do I read another To-Read book to makeup for the other two? Or stick with one I know I like? Hmmmm....
Time will tell I guess...
Thanks for reading,
Sydney
May 20, 2017
To Read Review: The Heir
Within the first chapter, I was apprehensive about reading this book. Eadlyn Schreave is not an easy character to like. She is nothing like either of her parents it seems. She is egotisical, spoiled, and obviously grew up with a silver spoon in her mouth. One would think America and Maxon wouldn’t let their children grow up spoilt, but when it comes to their eldest daughter… But then I think back at how in The Selection I wasn’t a true fan of America at first. So, I want to give the book a chance.
Of course as a fan of the first set trilogy, I love America and Maxon’s story, so when Eadlyn has no interest in anyone during the Selection, I am a little put off. It’s a little obvious something might happen with Kile, Marlee’s eldest son. (Spoiler) I don’t like how Eadlyn uses Kile for stress-relieving makeout sessions, and then I remember Maxon with Celeste. I guess I’ll give her some slack lol.
A fun part of the book is all the familiar characters, I love it! It’s like going home for Christmas and seeing all your relatives, uncles, aunts, cousins. This helped keep my interest in Eadlyn’s Selection. She wants to scare all the boys away but a few actually scare her. Slowly she realizes that she likes some of the guys, at least friend-wise.
Meanwhile, Maxon and America are under heavy stress which leaves the ending on a cliffhanger. I am interested to read the next novel because I want to know how her romantic story will unfold, but if you are fans of the first set trilogy this book might be a little hard to swallow.
I don’t like writing less than 4 Star reviews, so it’s hard for me to post on this blog sometimes.
Thanks for reading,
For Next Blogs To-Read Novel:
The Crown
by: Kiera Cass
Summary:
When Eadlyn became the first princess of Illéa to hold her own Selection, she didn’t think she would fall in love with any of her thirty-five suitors. She spent the first few weeks of the competition counting down the days until she could send them all home. But as events at the palace force Eadlyn even further into the spotlight, she realizes that she might not be content remaining alone.
Eadlyn still isn’t sure she’ll find the fairytale ending her parents did twenty years ago. But sometimes the heart has a way of surprising you…and soon Eadlyn must make a choice that feels more impossible—and more important—than she ever imagined.
*After reading the sequel to The Heir, The Crown, I've had to change my rating for The Heir. I originally has this as 3.5 stars out of love for the Selection Series. Unfortuneatly The Crown could not save this book and made me dislike the The Heir even more. I give this book 2 stars, then thinking about it more the next day, must give it 1 star, and I do not recommend reading The Crown.
This book is a frustrating read, and I originally gave it a more generous rating because of its predecessors and because I hoped that the second would make up for it. It didn't.
I recommend sticking with The Selection Series (kind of like how I pretend Divergent only had one book. Wouldn't it be nice if the book just ended with Four and Tris on a train, on their way somewhere, together?).*
Of course as a fan of the first set trilogy, I love America and Maxon’s story, so when Eadlyn has no interest in anyone during the Selection, I am a little put off. It’s a little obvious something might happen with Kile, Marlee’s eldest son. (Spoiler) I don’t like how Eadlyn uses Kile for stress-relieving makeout sessions, and then I remember Maxon with Celeste. I guess I’ll give her some slack lol.
A fun part of the book is all the familiar characters, I love it! It’s like going home for Christmas and seeing all your relatives, uncles, aunts, cousins. This helped keep my interest in Eadlyn’s Selection. She wants to scare all the boys away but a few actually scare her. Slowly she realizes that she likes some of the guys, at least friend-wise.
Meanwhile, Maxon and America are under heavy stress which leaves the ending on a cliffhanger. I am interested to read the next novel because I want to know how her romantic story will unfold, but if you are fans of the first set trilogy this book might be a little hard to swallow.
I don’t like writing less than 4 Star reviews, so it’s hard for me to post on this blog sometimes.
Thanks for reading,
For Next Blogs To-Read Novel:
The Crownby: Kiera Cass
Summary:
When Eadlyn became the first princess of Illéa to hold her own Selection, she didn’t think she would fall in love with any of her thirty-five suitors. She spent the first few weeks of the competition counting down the days until she could send them all home. But as events at the palace force Eadlyn even further into the spotlight, she realizes that she might not be content remaining alone.
Eadlyn still isn’t sure she’ll find the fairytale ending her parents did twenty years ago. But sometimes the heart has a way of surprising you…and soon Eadlyn must make a choice that feels more impossible—and more important—than she ever imagined.
*After reading the sequel to The Heir, The Crown, I've had to change my rating for The Heir. I originally has this as 3.5 stars out of love for the Selection Series. Unfortuneatly The Crown could not save this book and made me dislike the The Heir even more. I give this book 2 stars, then thinking about it more the next day, must give it 1 star, and I do not recommend reading The Crown.
This book is a frustrating read, and I originally gave it a more generous rating because of its predecessors and because I hoped that the second would make up for it. It didn't.
I recommend sticking with The Selection Series (kind of like how I pretend Divergent only had one book. Wouldn't it be nice if the book just ended with Four and Tris on a train, on their way somewhere, together?).*
April 21, 2017
Re-Read Review: The One
Five Stars
I love, love, love this book! It is so unexpected, surprises one after the other, and I recommened this series to those who love this genre of fiction.
I connected so much more to this trilogy the second time around, and I am glad that I re-read it.
America, as Maxon puts it, has all of her qualities from the very begining, but the Selection process has made the qualities bloom and flourish. She is courageous even when scared, she does the right thing even if it's difficult, and she is honest about her feelings though she comes across a little fickle. She isn't fickle, I've decided (of course my opinion might not match others on it) but I see that America is a young girl who came into the Selection with a broken heart and slowly emerged into a strong young woman who realizes that things aren't what she thought they were. And she was able to adapt, to grow, and yet keep her integrity and character in check.
There are many fantastic scenes in the book that strike the heart, make your adrenaline rush with excitement, frustration, and most of all, hope.
It is clear that Maxon and America love each other, want to be with each other, but they face many things that will risk pulling them apart. You really don't know how it will all end, if it will work out well.
I stayed up after midnight to finish the book even though I had to get up early the next morning. I love the story, and am excited to read the companion novels.
If you want an inspiring read with romance, contemporary adventure, and just a fun, clean bachelor-like-show story, read this series.
I give this book Five Stars! Less cuss words than the other two books I think, the story, the characters, really brought it over the top and I can't minus a rating. Five Stars.
What's next? After the three Re-Read Reviews, now is time for a To-Read Book:
The Heir
by Kiera Cass
Synopsis:
Princess Eadlyn has grown up hearing endless stories about how her mother and father met. Twenty years ago, America Singer entered the Selection and won the heart of Prince Maxon—and they lived happily ever after. Eadlyn has always found their fairy-tale story romantic, but she has no interest in trying to repeat it. If it were up to her, she'd put off marriage for as long as possible.
But a princess's life is never entirely her own, and Eadlyn can't escape her very own Selection—no matter how fervently she protests.
Eadlyn doesn't expect her story to end in romance. But as the competition begins, one entry may just capture Eadlyn's heart, showing her all the possibilities that lie in front of her . . . and proving that finding her own happily ever after isn't as impossible as she's always thought.
I don't know how the author will top America and Maxon's love story, but I'm excited to find out!
Sydney
I love, love, love this book! It is so unexpected, surprises one after the other, and I recommened this series to those who love this genre of fiction.
I connected so much more to this trilogy the second time around, and I am glad that I re-read it.
America, as Maxon puts it, has all of her qualities from the very begining, but the Selection process has made the qualities bloom and flourish. She is courageous even when scared, she does the right thing even if it's difficult, and she is honest about her feelings though she comes across a little fickle. She isn't fickle, I've decided (of course my opinion might not match others on it) but I see that America is a young girl who came into the Selection with a broken heart and slowly emerged into a strong young woman who realizes that things aren't what she thought they were. And she was able to adapt, to grow, and yet keep her integrity and character in check.
There are many fantastic scenes in the book that strike the heart, make your adrenaline rush with excitement, frustration, and most of all, hope.
It is clear that Maxon and America love each other, want to be with each other, but they face many things that will risk pulling them apart. You really don't know how it will all end, if it will work out well.
I stayed up after midnight to finish the book even though I had to get up early the next morning. I love the story, and am excited to read the companion novels.
If you want an inspiring read with romance, contemporary adventure, and just a fun, clean bachelor-like-show story, read this series.
I give this book Five Stars! Less cuss words than the other two books I think, the story, the characters, really brought it over the top and I can't minus a rating. Five Stars.
What's next? After the three Re-Read Reviews, now is time for a To-Read Book:
The Heir
by Kiera Cass
Synopsis:
Princess Eadlyn has grown up hearing endless stories about how her mother and father met. Twenty years ago, America Singer entered the Selection and won the heart of Prince Maxon—and they lived happily ever after. Eadlyn has always found their fairy-tale story romantic, but she has no interest in trying to repeat it. If it were up to her, she'd put off marriage for as long as possible.
But a princess's life is never entirely her own, and Eadlyn can't escape her very own Selection—no matter how fervently she protests.
Eadlyn doesn't expect her story to end in romance. But as the competition begins, one entry may just capture Eadlyn's heart, showing her all the possibilities that lie in front of her . . . and proving that finding her own happily ever after isn't as impossible as she's always thought.
I don't know how the author will top America and Maxon's love story, but I'm excited to find out!
Sydney
April 18, 2017
Re-Read Review: The Elite
I'm really glad about my goal of reading books - I feel it keeps me focused and makes me actually read, something I had been lacking the last couple years since graduating high school. In high school I spent every class snagging a few chapters here and there. I figured once I was done with school I would have more time to read! That was not the case. With work and writing, reading got pushed to the side. That didn't stop me from buying books, but when I tried to read, my thoughts went elsewhere and focusing was difficult. Thankfully, things have changed and I can finally plunge through my To-Read books.
Here is my Re-Read Review of
The Elite
by Kiera Cass
Review:
The Elite draws you in immediately and keeps you engrossed to the very last page. It's a fantastic bridge between the first novel and the third; there is action, romance, and a few gasps along the way.
You find out more secrets, some surprising, others horrible, and you wonder how in the world are things going to work out for Maxon, America, and yes, even Aspen, in the third book? Along with the world of Illea and it's people?
The book begins where it left off. America is still figuring out her feelings but leans more toward Maxon, while Maxon seems to be from one far spectrum to the other as he woos the other girls all the while pledging his love for America. And what about his mysterious trip to New Asia with his father? Is he honest? Can she trust this "pampered" prince?
It may come across a little fickle on America's part as she goes back and forth with her feelings for Aspen and Maxon, but if we really step into her shoes, it isn't so one dimensional. Different situations give her reasons to doubt a life with Maxon, and Aspen has always been a constant in her life...
The author does a wonderful job balancing these relationships so they don't become cliche and trivial, and the sequel's ending leaves you with an appetite for more.
I am excited to Re-Read the finale!
Next To Re-Read:
The One
by Kiera Cass
Synopsis:
The time has come for one winner to be crowned.
When she was chosen to compete in the Selection, America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown—or to Prince Maxon's heart. But as the end of the competition approaches, and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants.
Here is my Re-Read Review of
The Elite
by Kiera Cass
Review:
The Elite draws you in immediately and keeps you engrossed to the very last page. It's a fantastic bridge between the first novel and the third; there is action, romance, and a few gasps along the way.
You find out more secrets, some surprising, others horrible, and you wonder how in the world are things going to work out for Maxon, America, and yes, even Aspen, in the third book? Along with the world of Illea and it's people?
The book begins where it left off. America is still figuring out her feelings but leans more toward Maxon, while Maxon seems to be from one far spectrum to the other as he woos the other girls all the while pledging his love for America. And what about his mysterious trip to New Asia with his father? Is he honest? Can she trust this "pampered" prince?
It may come across a little fickle on America's part as she goes back and forth with her feelings for Aspen and Maxon, but if we really step into her shoes, it isn't so one dimensional. Different situations give her reasons to doubt a life with Maxon, and Aspen has always been a constant in her life...
The author does a wonderful job balancing these relationships so they don't become cliche and trivial, and the sequel's ending leaves you with an appetite for more.
I am excited to Re-Read the finale!
Next To Re-Read:
The Oneby Kiera Cass
Synopsis:
The time has come for one winner to be crowned.
When she was chosen to compete in the Selection, America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown—or to Prince Maxon's heart. But as the end of the competition approaches, and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants.
April 15, 2017
Re-Read Review: The Selection
I did not think it would take me this long to finish reading - and it is no fault to the book, but to my procrastination of taking time to actually read.
I wish I had written a review the first time I read it so I can compare notes back then to notes now.
Things I see differently: America is in love with Aspen, and is already planning their future together. Maybe it's because I'm a little older, not so easily swept off the feet ... I think that it's a blessing America is put in the Selection. Her relationship with Aspen, to me, is entirely physical. They sneak out at night so see each other, and yes while that can be romantic and exciting, their time is spent kissing. No conversations, except about being together, Aspen feeling guilty for not being, in his mind, a better man for America.
I don't know, I just couldn't believe I didn't realize this more the first time around.
Romance is nice, but I feel that Aspen and America know very little about each other.
Am I a right-away Team Maxon? No, he has to earn it. Plus, like America, I'm not always sure of his feelings or motives. He likes her, but will he choose her? And he can't choose her unless he's positive she'd choose him...and she isn't sure either way.
I give this book Four Stars.
It's minus a star because some parts I wish went a little deeper, and also because of the language. There isn't much, and what there is isn't needed.
I love the idea this author has brought together - this Cinderella-like place. There is emotions, suspicion, light romance. At the end of the book, I'm excited to read the next one.
It's a fun read that keeps your interests with a variety of compelling characters.
(And from what I remember of the sequel, even more things to love and unveil!)
To Re-Read Next:
Kiera Cass
Book Summary:
The Selection began with thirty-five girls.
Now with the group narrowed down to the six Elite, the competition to win Prince Maxon's heart is fiercer than ever—and America is still struggling to decide where her heart truly lies. Is it with Maxon, who could make her life a fairy tale? Or with her first love, Aspen?
America is desperate for more time. But the rest of the Elite know exactly what they want—and America's chance to choose is about to slip away.
I wish I had written a review the first time I read it so I can compare notes back then to notes now.
Things I see differently: America is in love with Aspen, and is already planning their future together. Maybe it's because I'm a little older, not so easily swept off the feet ... I think that it's a blessing America is put in the Selection. Her relationship with Aspen, to me, is entirely physical. They sneak out at night so see each other, and yes while that can be romantic and exciting, their time is spent kissing. No conversations, except about being together, Aspen feeling guilty for not being, in his mind, a better man for America.
I don't know, I just couldn't believe I didn't realize this more the first time around.
Romance is nice, but I feel that Aspen and America know very little about each other.
Am I a right-away Team Maxon? No, he has to earn it. Plus, like America, I'm not always sure of his feelings or motives. He likes her, but will he choose her? And he can't choose her unless he's positive she'd choose him...and she isn't sure either way.
I give this book Four Stars.
It's minus a star because some parts I wish went a little deeper, and also because of the language. There isn't much, and what there is isn't needed.
I love the idea this author has brought together - this Cinderella-like place. There is emotions, suspicion, light romance. At the end of the book, I'm excited to read the next one.
It's a fun read that keeps your interests with a variety of compelling characters.
(And from what I remember of the sequel, even more things to love and unveil!)
To Re-Read Next:
Kiera Cass
Book Summary:
The Selection began with thirty-five girls.
Now with the group narrowed down to the six Elite, the competition to win Prince Maxon's heart is fiercer than ever—and America is still struggling to decide where her heart truly lies. Is it with Maxon, who could make her life a fairy tale? Or with her first love, Aspen?
America is desperate for more time. But the rest of the Elite know exactly what they want—and America's chance to choose is about to slip away.
