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The Selection #1-3, 0.5, 2.5
The Selection Series Collection
The three books of the #1 New York Times bestselling Selection series are available together for the first time, along with the first two novellas in the series. Perfect for gift givers and for fans new to the series, this is the only way to get all five stories in one bundle.
The Selection: 35 girls. 1 crown. The competition of a lifetime. Kiera Cass's bestselling debut is a lush and romantic tale about one girl choosing between two loves—and two very different lives.
The Elite: 35 girls came to the palace. Only 6 remain. In this sequel to The Selection, America Singer has grown closer to Prince Maxon and is among the top six contenders for his heart—but she isn't sure she's ready to be a princess.
The One: 35 girls entered the Selection. Only 1 can win. In this thrilling third novel, America must finally choose between Prince Maxon and her first love, Aspen—but her time to choose may have run out.
The Prince: This novella takes readers inside Prince Maxon's world before the Selection began, when there was another girl in his life.
The Guard: This novella takes readers inside Aspen's world as a guard at the castle, where he is forced to watch his true love fall for someone else.
844 pages, Paperback
First published June 5, 2014
198 people are currently reading
1960 people want to read
About the author
Kiera Cass
43 books66.2k followers100 Things I Love:
Being married. Cake. The smell of Autumn. Motherhood. Books. Elephants. Back rubs. On demand movies. Actually going out to movies. Faith. Cinnamon rolls. My family. Butterflies. When my kitchen is clean. Crayons. Pink. Tote bags. Dancing. Organizing via color coordination. That my wedding dress was tea length, not floor. Baking. My house. Writing utensils. Paper. India. The sound of water. Making videos. Buttons. The word Episcopalian. Making people laugh. Layering clothes. British accents. Pinterest. Animation. Fireworks. The smell of the Ocean. My wedding rings. Aprons. Reasons to get dressed up. Sex. Pop music. Stars. Taking walks. Daydreaming. Stickers. School Spirit. My friends. Living in a small town. Japan. Singing. Painting my toenails. Pranks/ practical jokes. Painting. Stretch canvas. Costumes. Dipping my fingers in melted wax. Style. Soda. Spending an hour typing at a coffee shop. Musicals. Back to school season. Mopeds. Good hair days. Naps. Not walking up but looking at a beautiful staircase. Driving alone. My ankles. Playlists. Spending entire days in pajamas. Holidays. Telling stories. Spontaneity. Theme parks. Bookshelves. The word copacetic. Boxes. Empty journals. Surprises. Doing things in groups. Doing things alone. Getting real mail. Decorating. Small forks. A good hug. Gift cards. New Years Goals. Going out to dinner. When someone else remembers some great story about me/us that I’ve forgotten. Toy stores. Fireplaces. Breakfast foods. Journaling. Crying for a good reason. Doorbells. Pointless adventures. Voting. My birthday. Reasons to make wishes. Recycling.
Being married. Cake. The smell of Autumn. Motherhood. Books. Elephants. Back rubs. On demand movies. Actually going out to movies. Faith. Cinnamon rolls. My family. Butterflies. When my kitchen is clean. Crayons. Pink. Tote bags. Dancing. Organizing via color coordination. That my wedding dress was tea length, not floor. Baking. My house. Writing utensils. Paper. India. The sound of water. Making videos. Buttons. The word Episcopalian. Making people laugh. Layering clothes. British accents. Pinterest. Animation. Fireworks. The smell of the Ocean. My wedding rings. Aprons. Reasons to get dressed up. Sex. Pop music. Stars. Taking walks. Daydreaming. Stickers. School Spirit. My friends. Living in a small town. Japan. Singing. Painting my toenails. Pranks/ practical jokes. Painting. Stretch canvas. Costumes. Dipping my fingers in melted wax. Style. Soda. Spending an hour typing at a coffee shop. Musicals. Back to school season. Mopeds. Good hair days. Naps. Not walking up but looking at a beautiful staircase. Driving alone. My ankles. Playlists. Spending entire days in pajamas. Holidays. Telling stories. Spontaneity. Theme parks. Bookshelves. The word copacetic. Boxes. Empty journals. Surprises. Doing things in groups. Doing things alone. Getting real mail. Decorating. Small forks. A good hug. Gift cards. New Years Goals. Going out to dinner. When someone else remembers some great story about me/us that I’ve forgotten. Toy stores. Fireplaces. Breakfast foods. Journaling. Crying for a good reason. Doorbells. Pointless adventures. Voting. My birthday. Reasons to make wishes. Recycling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
February 15, 2015
I would not read this again
I have to pat myself on the back for having finished this because I tell you it was a trial. No redeeming qualities in this series the writing sub par, the dialogue worse, the character names abysmal, and exceedingly worse the emotional qualities of the characters. I could not for the life of me relate to these overly emoting brats, even the continually self depreciating America. The characters voices all seemed to be part of one person and their reactions were as well. It was confusing to read male characters who were so far from sounding male, I mean having deep thoughts is not unusual but the tone of the writing and the language was too effeminate.
I trudged my way through the whole travesty waiting for the story to pick up but it never did. All of the choices were very cliche and nothing really made the characters grow or become mature, they were all just brats that had no idea what being an adult would mean, they only had time for petty squabbles over obvious things like Maxon kissing everyone (of course he is because he is supposed to be dating everyone, duh).
I could not have composed something so lack luster. But I also have to admit that something kept me reading until the bitter end, including the novellas. There is potential in the writing but it has some way to go before it could become anything of quality.
I have to pat myself on the back for having finished this because I tell you it was a trial. No redeeming qualities in this series the writing sub par, the dialogue worse, the character names abysmal, and exceedingly worse the emotional qualities of the characters. I could not for the life of me relate to these overly emoting brats, even the continually self depreciating America. The characters voices all seemed to be part of one person and their reactions were as well. It was confusing to read male characters who were so far from sounding male, I mean having deep thoughts is not unusual but the tone of the writing and the language was too effeminate.
I trudged my way through the whole travesty waiting for the story to pick up but it never did. All of the choices were very cliche and nothing really made the characters grow or become mature, they were all just brats that had no idea what being an adult would mean, they only had time for petty squabbles over obvious things like Maxon kissing everyone (of course he is because he is supposed to be dating everyone, duh).
I could not have composed something so lack luster. But I also have to admit that something kept me reading until the bitter end, including the novellas. There is potential in the writing but it has some way to go before it could become anything of quality.
August 1, 2023
finally made it through this series. there are def some mixed feelings going on. like, i’m happy it’s over but at the same time i feel like a parent who just watched their child make awful life choices and yet for some reason i’m proud to be their mom. 🤦🏻♀️
this was something else. i think it took a mental toll on me.
if it weren’t for the second book, i personally think the series wouldn’t be half bad. sure, it’s weak writing and flat characters, but if u need a quick read and something mindless to fill ur time, go for it.
not impressed but i was addicted. i guess that means kiera cass accomplished something 🤷🏻♀️
warning before u read this tho, america is by far one of the worst characters i have ever witnessed. she claims to not be petty like the other girls (she’s ✨different✨) but she cries like a baby and has worst temper tantrums than some toddlers i’ve seen.
don’t say i didn’t warn u.
side note: i will always and forever be weirded out that america’s ever so supportive dad couldn’t find a better nickname for her than kitten. 😽
rapping things up.
team maxon.
americas annoying.
i was addicted.
and i will most likely never reread.
happy reading and god bless.
this was something else. i think it took a mental toll on me.
if it weren’t for the second book, i personally think the series wouldn’t be half bad. sure, it’s weak writing and flat characters, but if u need a quick read and something mindless to fill ur time, go for it.
not impressed but i was addicted. i guess that means kiera cass accomplished something 🤷🏻♀️
warning before u read this tho, america is by far one of the worst characters i have ever witnessed. she claims to not be petty like the other girls (she’s ✨different✨) but she cries like a baby and has worst temper tantrums than some toddlers i’ve seen.
don’t say i didn’t warn u.
side note: i will always and forever be weirded out that america’s ever so supportive dad couldn’t find a better nickname for her than kitten. 😽
rapping things up.
team maxon.
americas annoying.
i was addicted.
and i will most likely never reread.
happy reading and god bless.
Read
December 26, 2022Haven’t reread this series in a while and I have some thoughts. I never realized that the castle gets invaded by the same people literally DOZENS of times. How do they just have no security? Also America really played Maxon and Aspen so hard. Super annoying that she was in an active relationship Aspen but constantly got mad at Maxon for talking to other girls. Kriss was also annoying af and wasn’t even really happy for America at the end—wish she died instead of Celeste. It’s still one of the best series ever, and anyone that was Team Aspen was probably also Team Jacob bc they’re losers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2025
Always a classic
May 1, 2018
wonderful writing, but the characters can be frustating
March 31, 2015
First of all I wanted to say thank you to Ms. Cass for writing a series that made me forgo sleep just to find my way to it's end. I picked this up when I was in one of those reading slumps where you're picking up books that you know you'd normally like but can't get into them because they're not the one that encompasses the illusive book mood you're searching for that you can't quite explain. And I've been in one of those sorts of moods for weeks, then, possibly because I plan to go to a signing later this year, I decided I'd try reading this one. This series, this book was the one that fit that mood I couldn't name and that gripped me so much I read from the Queen to The One and the novellas in between in one sitting. I was so engrossed that I couldn't stop devouring the words and even sleep didn't matter. When you find a book and a series that does that for you you can't help but be grateful to the person that wrote it.
I probably should give this book a five stars but I'm pouting a bit because I want to know more of what happens in the Happily Ever After. I feel admitting that should make up for the fact that I know I'm giving it a lower rating that I probably should.
So now about the book, I'm going to say first of all that some of my opinions might be reading into things that weren't meant to be there and are more the way I interpreted the story. I'm going to give my opinion with the thought that the things I saw were meant to be seen and hope I'm not an idiot. I think this book is undersold because it's marketed sort of like a royal bachelorette reality show. Or maybe it's The Bachelor, I don't like reality tv so I don't actually know. Because of that marketing strategy it's stayed in the TBR pile longer than it should have and pretty much only ended up there because people I respected couldn't stop raving about it, so eventually I was going to see what all the fuss was about. Having read it, I know understand.
The Selection series, to me, isn't a fluffy romance story about shallow girls in gown, it's a piece with many underlying themes of great importance to the world around us. For one a big focus of the story is social castes. While the ones that exist in our world today aren't nearly as obvious or defined as the ones in this series, they idea that one person is more valuable than another based on the family they were born into or the amount of money in their bank accounts, or the career they have is in my opinion ridiculous. And the author shows this in more extreme ways during the story. A models life is not more valuable than a cashiers or vice versa. It's the person they are and the way they treat others that in my opinion create a person's value if you're going to try to put values on a life at all, as if it could be done, to say one life is more precious than another. Cass does an excellent job of demonstrating this through the group of girls she creates as characters, candidates for the selection and the social climate of the country she's created. I think it's important to note the the story is reflective of the social climate we're seeing now in some ways where the line seems to get larger between rich and poor and the opportunities offered to those born into both. For example Paris Hilton isn't famous and allowed to behave the way she does because she's made some great contribution to society, she's famous because she's the descendant of the man who founded the Hilton hotel chain. That's just one example off the top of my head. I'm not really sure I'm even explaining this right, my point being is that I could easily see comparisons between the world we live in and the one created in this fictional world even if those real life comparisons weren't nearly as drastic as the fictional ones.
Cass even creates a realistic path for how our country could go from what it is to what it becomes in her story. This world is able to become so corrupt because the national debt becomes so out of control and we borrow so much for other countries that we manage to lose our own freedom in the process. While I think something like that happening, if it does occur, will be long after my lifetime, with the economic climate over the past decade, this is something that could happen if we continue down paths where our economy is so precarious the government is bailing out banks. Maybe I'm paranoid or completely off base, but I could definitely see this happening.
She also touches on themes like women's rights in my personal opinion, when she shows a society where choice has been taken from women again and it's the guys decision about if marriage is on the table. She's created a world where guys are the ones ones fighting, and while women definitely work they don't come across to me as in anyway equal. Sure it's traditional in this society for the guy to propose, but you know what there's nothing saying the chick can't ask first or make the decision to take a relationship that way. In Cass's world that's not a decision women in it are allowed to make. This came across to me like the author was telling female readers to treasure the freedoms and equality they have and fight to keep it. Or maybe that's just my interpretation.
I'll admit I could be reading more into the story than what was intended to be there, but those are the things that really resonated with me about the story, or that I saw in the story. I also saw commentary whether intentional or not, about being aware of who we put into leadership roles and who we trust to save us should we ever need bailing out because the wrong person could honestly lead us down this or a similar path. The underlying themes in this book, these books, are what I feel really makes them shine.
That said while sending these really great messages, Cass tells this wonderful story of political intrigue, social revolution and of course the ever loved teen love triangle. Or really so much more than a love triangle, this is sort of more like one of those crisscrossed flight maps with lots of crossing lines than a triangle. Even though it's told from the first person point of view Cass does an excellent job of allowing you to really know all the characters as America comes to know them. It portrays the cattiness of a reality show while not really making any of that the focus of the story in my personal opinion. She creates a strong but realistically confused and unsure teen heroine that I think is a great role model for teen readers as well.
I really enjoyed watching the characters in this book grow, and I liked that at point she wasn't afraid to make characters unlikeable for a bit while they navigated their way through unfamiliar territories so that they could grow. At one point in the series I didn't actually like either romantic choice for America and I was kind of hoping another love interest might be introduced, but somehow as I continued reading and watched the characters grow into the people the would be she managed to convince me to root for one of these guys I was all about ditching a few chapters back.
I think my main issue with this book other than wanting more after the HEA about what happened politically and how this worked out, was that everything tied up too neatly and too quickly. Important changes near the end of the series didn't happen as direct result of choices or actions of the leading characters, but paths were cleared through outside influences. Important character deaths happened off page and we were told about them later. I'd have preferred the characters to have taken a more active stance in clearing the path they needed to take and I also feel the character losses would have felt more real, more emotional, if the reader had been able to witness them.
Anyway as convoluted as this half asleep mess is hopefully my thoughts are still understandable and hopefully they encourage you to pick up this book as I'd highly recommend it to pretty much anyone.
I probably should give this book a five stars but I'm pouting a bit because I want to know more of what happens in the Happily Ever After. I feel admitting that should make up for the fact that I know I'm giving it a lower rating that I probably should.
So now about the book, I'm going to say first of all that some of my opinions might be reading into things that weren't meant to be there and are more the way I interpreted the story. I'm going to give my opinion with the thought that the things I saw were meant to be seen and hope I'm not an idiot. I think this book is undersold because it's marketed sort of like a royal bachelorette reality show. Or maybe it's The Bachelor, I don't like reality tv so I don't actually know. Because of that marketing strategy it's stayed in the TBR pile longer than it should have and pretty much only ended up there because people I respected couldn't stop raving about it, so eventually I was going to see what all the fuss was about. Having read it, I know understand.
The Selection series, to me, isn't a fluffy romance story about shallow girls in gown, it's a piece with many underlying themes of great importance to the world around us. For one a big focus of the story is social castes. While the ones that exist in our world today aren't nearly as obvious or defined as the ones in this series, they idea that one person is more valuable than another based on the family they were born into or the amount of money in their bank accounts, or the career they have is in my opinion ridiculous. And the author shows this in more extreme ways during the story. A models life is not more valuable than a cashiers or vice versa. It's the person they are and the way they treat others that in my opinion create a person's value if you're going to try to put values on a life at all, as if it could be done, to say one life is more precious than another. Cass does an excellent job of demonstrating this through the group of girls she creates as characters, candidates for the selection and the social climate of the country she's created. I think it's important to note the the story is reflective of the social climate we're seeing now in some ways where the line seems to get larger between rich and poor and the opportunities offered to those born into both. For example Paris Hilton isn't famous and allowed to behave the way she does because she's made some great contribution to society, she's famous because she's the descendant of the man who founded the Hilton hotel chain. That's just one example off the top of my head. I'm not really sure I'm even explaining this right, my point being is that I could easily see comparisons between the world we live in and the one created in this fictional world even if those real life comparisons weren't nearly as drastic as the fictional ones.
Cass even creates a realistic path for how our country could go from what it is to what it becomes in her story. This world is able to become so corrupt because the national debt becomes so out of control and we borrow so much for other countries that we manage to lose our own freedom in the process. While I think something like that happening, if it does occur, will be long after my lifetime, with the economic climate over the past decade, this is something that could happen if we continue down paths where our economy is so precarious the government is bailing out banks. Maybe I'm paranoid or completely off base, but I could definitely see this happening.
She also touches on themes like women's rights in my personal opinion, when she shows a society where choice has been taken from women again and it's the guys decision about if marriage is on the table. She's created a world where guys are the ones ones fighting, and while women definitely work they don't come across to me as in anyway equal. Sure it's traditional in this society for the guy to propose, but you know what there's nothing saying the chick can't ask first or make the decision to take a relationship that way. In Cass's world that's not a decision women in it are allowed to make. This came across to me like the author was telling female readers to treasure the freedoms and equality they have and fight to keep it. Or maybe that's just my interpretation.
I'll admit I could be reading more into the story than what was intended to be there, but those are the things that really resonated with me about the story, or that I saw in the story. I also saw commentary whether intentional or not, about being aware of who we put into leadership roles and who we trust to save us should we ever need bailing out because the wrong person could honestly lead us down this or a similar path. The underlying themes in this book, these books, are what I feel really makes them shine.
That said while sending these really great messages, Cass tells this wonderful story of political intrigue, social revolution and of course the ever loved teen love triangle. Or really so much more than a love triangle, this is sort of more like one of those crisscrossed flight maps with lots of crossing lines than a triangle. Even though it's told from the first person point of view Cass does an excellent job of allowing you to really know all the characters as America comes to know them. It portrays the cattiness of a reality show while not really making any of that the focus of the story in my personal opinion. She creates a strong but realistically confused and unsure teen heroine that I think is a great role model for teen readers as well.
I really enjoyed watching the characters in this book grow, and I liked that at point she wasn't afraid to make characters unlikeable for a bit while they navigated their way through unfamiliar territories so that they could grow. At one point in the series I didn't actually like either romantic choice for America and I was kind of hoping another love interest might be introduced, but somehow as I continued reading and watched the characters grow into the people the would be she managed to convince me to root for one of these guys I was all about ditching a few chapters back.
I think my main issue with this book other than wanting more after the HEA about what happened politically and how this worked out, was that everything tied up too neatly and too quickly. Important changes near the end of the series didn't happen as direct result of choices or actions of the leading characters, but paths were cleared through outside influences. Important character deaths happened off page and we were told about them later. I'd have preferred the characters to have taken a more active stance in clearing the path they needed to take and I also feel the character losses would have felt more real, more emotional, if the reader had been able to witness them.
Anyway as convoluted as this half asleep mess is hopefully my thoughts are still understandable and hopefully they encourage you to pick up this book as I'd highly recommend it to pretty much anyone.
July 13, 2017
I finally have a series that I dislike forever. My frustration for this book is so real that I just wrote a full on roast about this trilogy. Read it here: https://yerbasicnerd.wordpress.com/20...
September 7, 2014
I don't know what you're waiting for. Read these books.
When I first started these books, I was annoyed with them. I kept thinking, "This is EXACTLY like the Hunger Games. This is just a knock-off." And it's true, the Selection is extremely similar to the Hunger Games. There's districts (called castes), there's a love triangle, here's a controlling government who has something against the main character, there's another girl in the competition who the main character befriends but she knows she will lose eventually, and there's rebels and war.
BUT...
I think The Selection does it better.
Yes, that's right. I honestly think the Selection series was better than the Hunger Games series. The characters are more likable and the romance seems less forced, and the main character isn't perfect and she makes lots of mistakes, and you can't help but love her. (Plus, the conclusion to this series is much more satisfying than Mockingjay).
I would highly, highly recommend you read this series if you haven't already. You will immediately fall in love with America and Maxon and maybe even Aspen. Plus, now that Kiera Cass has announced that there will be two more books in the series, there's no better time to jump on the bandwagon. I promise, you will love the Selection.
When I first started these books, I was annoyed with them. I kept thinking, "This is EXACTLY like the Hunger Games. This is just a knock-off." And it's true, the Selection is extremely similar to the Hunger Games. There's districts (called castes), there's a love triangle, here's a controlling government who has something against the main character, there's another girl in the competition who the main character befriends but she knows she will lose eventually, and there's rebels and war.
BUT...
I think The Selection does it better.
Yes, that's right. I honestly think the Selection series was better than the Hunger Games series. The characters are more likable and the romance seems less forced, and the main character isn't perfect and she makes lots of mistakes, and you can't help but love her. (Plus, the conclusion to this series is much more satisfying than Mockingjay).
I would highly, highly recommend you read this series if you haven't already. You will immediately fall in love with America and Maxon and maybe even Aspen. Plus, now that Kiera Cass has announced that there will be two more books in the series, there's no better time to jump on the bandwagon. I promise, you will love the Selection.
Read
March 8, 2018America Singer, a very daring and broad-minded character. With her fearless attitude and strong emotions, she was definitely the star of the Selection Series. Being the star of the trilogy, she was portrayed to be a very unpredictable and exciting protagonist. America lives in a dystopian kingdom, Illéa, which is the country of America after the fictional World War 4. Kingdom Illéa is divided by castes, ranked from 1-8, with one being the highest caste and eight being the lowest caste. America is born into a family of Fives. Caste Five has been placed in the artistic industry. Due to their economic circumstances, America’s mother pressurizes her about undergoing the Selection, a competition where 35 girls get a once in a lifetime opportunity to win the heart of Illea’s Prince Maxon and become the Queen. America does not wish to participate. She is a romantic who risks the strict Illéa rules by sneaking out to meet her secret boyfriend, Aspen Leger who is a Six. Unfortunately, Aspen lets go of America, not wanting her to "suffer" being a Six. Even though, America still has feelings for Aspen, she gets chosen for The Selection. Being a very simple and sober girl, she is very bitter about the luxury surrounding her. Her kindness and beauty endear her to Prince Maxon and they strike up a friendship which leads to romance. America is caring and compassionate, and refuses to conform to social norms regarding classes – she treats lower classes with absolute respect. She loves her family and is especially close to her younger sister May and her father. Her honesty and authenticity make her a favorite of the Illéa’s citizens during the competition as well as of Maxon’s. America Singer is not portrayed as vain and always downplays her beauty. She stands up for her beliefs and never gives up.
Personally, The Selection Trilogy is definitely a very memorable read. I love how in each book of the trilogy, America had a new aspect and was portrayed as a very caring and soft hearted dynamic character. Throughout the series, America has a very growing personality. She continues to be the very fragile self, as well as evolving into a firm and wise soul.
Overall, The Selection Trilogy was a very captivating and incredible read. The trilogy could be defined as a mix of The Bachelorette and The Hunger Games. Like the Bachelorette, the love story consists of twists and turns at every point but then develops into a fierce competition like The Hunger Games. Moving on, with America's tender and genuine essence, she is very well composed and has a defined personality that give life to her values, and as a result, growing a very mature and enchanting personality. Her powerful and fearless personality flourish the trilogy into an even higher standard of an unforgettable read.
Personally, The Selection Trilogy is definitely a very memorable read. I love how in each book of the trilogy, America had a new aspect and was portrayed as a very caring and soft hearted dynamic character. Throughout the series, America has a very growing personality. She continues to be the very fragile self, as well as evolving into a firm and wise soul.
Overall, The Selection Trilogy was a very captivating and incredible read. The trilogy could be defined as a mix of The Bachelorette and The Hunger Games. Like the Bachelorette, the love story consists of twists and turns at every point but then develops into a fierce competition like The Hunger Games. Moving on, with America's tender and genuine essence, she is very well composed and has a defined personality that give life to her values, and as a result, growing a very mature and enchanting personality. Her powerful and fearless personality flourish the trilogy into an even higher standard of an unforgettable read.
February 9, 2025
Second time reading. I love this dystopian world and the Hunger Games feel to a dating show this book has going on. The world building is pretty great and the romance is cute and well paced
March 13, 2016
Although, I never saw the tv show/reality Bachelor, I am familiar with the concept of it: a man has numerous gals to choose from as his future wife and in each episode he spends some time with them and if he doesn't like them in the end, he gives them a peck on the cheek along with a rose and off they go (at least that's how I think it is more or less). Well, that's how it goes on the book at least.The story
In this dystopian universe, people are assigned to a number: the higher the number the better. If you are an eight for instance, there is no way you would marry a two or even a five. In this way rich people stay rich and poor stay poor and miserable. In a way to boost the poor peoples' moral, the government (aka the king) allows a competition to take place called "The Selection". Girls from all the castes can apply but only a handful of them gets picked to come to the palace and charm the prince and earn the desirable title of being 'a One'. But things aren't of course stable with the rich and the poor (are they ever?) and a revolution is too imminent.
The characters
Meet Maxon:
(yep in my head he does look like zac efron)
he is the spoiled (?) heir to the throne and has to choose a wife through a potential pool of girls that got 'randomly' picked from all the castes (hence the hunger games reference; instead of districts we get castes).
Now meet America:
(not the country! duhhh..) she might be poor but she is fierce, independent and didn't want to apply for the selection in the first place, as she is in love with another (note here: this is not how she was perceived by me). However, she is charmed by the prince (why wouldn't she? He is the prince) and wants him (but it takes her a bit to figure it out)
Of course, there are notable characters as: America's rivals (some bitchy, some nice) and of course America's other crush, creating yet another useless triangle for readers to argue about.
The trilogy
In the first book, "The Selection" begins; we meet all the girls and get a taste of the world Siera Cass built.
In the second book, the battle for Maxon's heart continues with "the Elite";where some of the girls made it to the semifinals.
Finally, in the third book we get to see who Maxon is going to pick as his "One".
My thoughts on the book
The setting of these series isn't something extremely well written or even original. I didn't mind though as I enjoyed reading it for the most part and I really liked Maxon. My problem was with America as I found her whiny. I would have found the whole story a lot more appealing if America was a rebel trying to infiltrate the selection and win in order to kill the royals.
But oh well it was okay like that too (I guess).
The sequel and the short companion stories
With this story we also get two more books, short ones, that tell the story from America's crush point of view and another one telling the same story as the main books but from the queen's pov. I didn't really like them to be honest as they didn't add anything to the story.
There is a new book that came out called "The Heir" with the same scenario, but instead of a prince we have a princess: Maxon and America's daughter.
this is not something I'm at all interested to read.
Final notes
On a final note , I should mention the gorgeous covers these stories have. I mean look at that:
Of course it's true what they say: 'don't judge a book from its cover'; if it wasn't, then this story would have been exceptional.
February 27, 2019
It is a unpredictable and predictable book. It's predictable because of America (A contestant in the Selection) was Prince Maxon's pick to become the next queen because of her sharing her secrets and his affection towards her are just a few of the reason Prince Maxon love America the way he does. The unpredictable thing is that she will continually fight for what she thinks is right. Like on page 271 of the Elite when she says to the whole world, "I think that we should eliminate the castes". She almost gets kicked out, but stereotypical, Prince Maxon comes to the rescue and sends someone else home. I think the author put in such a caring character because it can show various ways of friendship and support. Kiera Cass also uses flashbacks in order to give the reader an understanding point of what the character has faced. Like on page 229 of the 1st book (The Selection) where she is talking to Prince Maxon about all of the huger problems that she and many other deal with. “A boy? How old”
“Nine,” I breathed with a shiver. I could still remember the scars on Jemmy’s tiny back. (Cass 229). This is one memory of what happened before the Selection. She also puts a sad part before a really happy part like on page 268 of the 3rd book (The One) where Prince Maxon asks America to be his 1 she says yes but then he finds out about her and Aspen, which turns into a fight and he almost sends her home. But right afterwards on page 278. I think Kiera Cass did this to add suspense because you never know if their going to be together or not. There are also many major government problems in the Selection series. One of them is segregation, segregation can lead to riots and revolution with the monarch government. And can make them feel like they just lose their purpose in life. It also removes many of the citizens' rights, jobs, money, love, activities, education, and friends. This can relate to the real world because of people being classified as very poor, very rich, ‘normal’, etc. Another is the hunger problems that happen. For example, in The One there are people would kill and hurt others to get food like on page 111 where these random people that came up to “Mer” (America) and “Max” (Maxon) and quote, “Get away from the truck,” Aspen said. I turned to see what he meant, as we weren’t even close yet. Then I saw that Aspen wasn’t talking to me. A handful of men were circling the vehicle. One had a wrench in his hands, looking as if he was about to try and steal the tires. Another two were at the back trying to open the metal doors. “Just give us the food, and we’ll go,” one said. He looked younger than most of the others, maybe Aspen’s age. His voice was cold and despite.” (Cass 111) that part said that they were despite because they were threatening to do something if they hadn’t given them food. And they did, on page 112, “I don’t want to kill you,” Aspen said. “Leave. Now!” The toothless man chuckled darkly, his hands raised in front of him as if he meant no harm. In a move so fast I nearly missed it, he reached down and drew a gun of his own. Aspen fired, and shots came in return.. (Cass 112) When that was happening, one of the bullets hit America ( a member in the Selection) in the arm.
I think that Kiera Cass is showing character change by creating dynamic characters so it can build up a suspenseful mood. I think this because, when Celeste changes from an innocent competitor to a rude, needy, selfish, lying brat. This could add suspense because you keep wanting to know what kind of lie or mischief Celeste will create/cause next. One of Celeste’s lies happened on page 286 of the Selection when Celeste “accidentally spins to fast” and stains Kriss’s dress. She can also get people in trouble and eliminated from the Selection. Celeste shows this on page 206 when Celeste said something to Anna about her parents that made Anna slap Celeste in the face, then and Anna was gone before dinner that night. This can show how powerful Celeste is if people get on her bad side or if she justs wants to. It also shows that when Celeste gets the power she seeks, she exerts the power and threatens the other girls. She changes again in the third book, The One, on page 91-94 when she and America make amends.
Another dynamic character is Prince Maxon. He changed from a shy and clueless prince, to a determated and supportive prince because on page 128 and 155 of the Selection, he admits that he doesn’t know what to do if a woman cry. Maxon would also do almost anything for America like on page 273 of The Elite when she shows that she has Gregory ’s diary, the on page 284 of The Elite, he shows America the huge bloody wound that his dad gave him.
A 3rd character that shows character change is America Singer. She went from secretive on page 13 of the Selection because of her and Aspen secretly dating, to proud and confident on page 238 and 239 of the Selection when Celeste tries to take America’s dress by force, but then stands up to her. She also shows confidence on page 271 of the Elite when she makes a speech in front of the whole nation saying that she wants to eliminate the caste system.
There is also lots of symbolism. One symbol is the penny in the jar from book one, the Selection. I think it symbolizes not letting go because when America and Aspen had their fight before she leaves on pages 68, 69, & 70, she gives back most everything he's given her. But there's one penny at the bottom of the jar that doesn't fall into his hands. And when she meets up with him at the palace, when he's a guard on page 275, she says “I just couldn't bring myself to get rid of it” (Cass 324 the Selection) So that might mean that she isn't ready to let go of Aspen. Another symbol the book is the caste system. I think it symbolises segregation because it gives you a number 1-8 based on on wealthy you are. For example, Prince Maxon is a one because he is a prince and is rich. But America on the other hand is a five because she doesn’t have a lot of money, she is very poor compared to Prince Maxon. Another symbol might be the bird necklace her father gave her which can symbolize family and love. I think America is a symbol because the author took a lot of time in the first book to describe America’s character. I think that America symbolises chance and change because, in the Selection on page 316, Maxon makes an announcement saying “I don't wish to draw this out unnecessarily, so only the following ladies will be staying. Lady Marley and Lady Kriss” and continues with Lady Natalie, Lady Celeste, Lady Elise, and Lady America. After the announcement, America is the only five left in a group of twos and threes. This is a chance that she can show that having a low number for your caste, doesn’t mean that your worthless. She thinks ‘I might be a Five, but I wasn’t worthless’ on page 285 of the selection. America shows change because she doesn’t care about the caste system, she says “Castes never meant that much to me,”. I think that if she wins the Selection, she will ask Prince Maxon to change the rule about having a caste system and stop the segregation nonsense. I think Prince Maxon symbolises and friendship because America and Maxon have a unbreakable friendship that started in the first book (the Selection) on page 130 when they made the deal about letting America stay, help Maxon, and be his friend. But, their friendship turns into a kind of affection towards each other on page 322 she says “Maxon, I’m not completely sure what we are, but we're definitely more than friends”. That shows how strong of a friendship Maxon and America have.
“Nine,” I breathed with a shiver. I could still remember the scars on Jemmy’s tiny back. (Cass 229). This is one memory of what happened before the Selection. She also puts a sad part before a really happy part like on page 268 of the 3rd book (The One) where Prince Maxon asks America to be his 1 she says yes but then he finds out about her and Aspen, which turns into a fight and he almost sends her home. But right afterwards on page 278. I think Kiera Cass did this to add suspense because you never know if their going to be together or not. There are also many major government problems in the Selection series. One of them is segregation, segregation can lead to riots and revolution with the monarch government. And can make them feel like they just lose their purpose in life. It also removes many of the citizens' rights, jobs, money, love, activities, education, and friends. This can relate to the real world because of people being classified as very poor, very rich, ‘normal’, etc. Another is the hunger problems that happen. For example, in The One there are people would kill and hurt others to get food like on page 111 where these random people that came up to “Mer” (America) and “Max” (Maxon) and quote, “Get away from the truck,” Aspen said. I turned to see what he meant, as we weren’t even close yet. Then I saw that Aspen wasn’t talking to me. A handful of men were circling the vehicle. One had a wrench in his hands, looking as if he was about to try and steal the tires. Another two were at the back trying to open the metal doors. “Just give us the food, and we’ll go,” one said. He looked younger than most of the others, maybe Aspen’s age. His voice was cold and despite.” (Cass 111) that part said that they were despite because they were threatening to do something if they hadn’t given them food. And they did, on page 112, “I don’t want to kill you,” Aspen said. “Leave. Now!” The toothless man chuckled darkly, his hands raised in front of him as if he meant no harm. In a move so fast I nearly missed it, he reached down and drew a gun of his own. Aspen fired, and shots came in return.. (Cass 112) When that was happening, one of the bullets hit America ( a member in the Selection) in the arm.
I think that Kiera Cass is showing character change by creating dynamic characters so it can build up a suspenseful mood. I think this because, when Celeste changes from an innocent competitor to a rude, needy, selfish, lying brat. This could add suspense because you keep wanting to know what kind of lie or mischief Celeste will create/cause next. One of Celeste’s lies happened on page 286 of the Selection when Celeste “accidentally spins to fast” and stains Kriss’s dress. She can also get people in trouble and eliminated from the Selection. Celeste shows this on page 206 when Celeste said something to Anna about her parents that made Anna slap Celeste in the face, then and Anna was gone before dinner that night. This can show how powerful Celeste is if people get on her bad side or if she justs wants to. It also shows that when Celeste gets the power she seeks, she exerts the power and threatens the other girls. She changes again in the third book, The One, on page 91-94 when she and America make amends.
Another dynamic character is Prince Maxon. He changed from a shy and clueless prince, to a determated and supportive prince because on page 128 and 155 of the Selection, he admits that he doesn’t know what to do if a woman cry. Maxon would also do almost anything for America like on page 273 of The Elite when she shows that she has Gregory ’s diary, the on page 284 of The Elite, he shows America the huge bloody wound that his dad gave him.
A 3rd character that shows character change is America Singer. She went from secretive on page 13 of the Selection because of her and Aspen secretly dating, to proud and confident on page 238 and 239 of the Selection when Celeste tries to take America’s dress by force, but then stands up to her. She also shows confidence on page 271 of the Elite when she makes a speech in front of the whole nation saying that she wants to eliminate the caste system.
There is also lots of symbolism. One symbol is the penny in the jar from book one, the Selection. I think it symbolizes not letting go because when America and Aspen had their fight before she leaves on pages 68, 69, & 70, she gives back most everything he's given her. But there's one penny at the bottom of the jar that doesn't fall into his hands. And when she meets up with him at the palace, when he's a guard on page 275, she says “I just couldn't bring myself to get rid of it” (Cass 324 the Selection) So that might mean that she isn't ready to let go of Aspen. Another symbol the book is the caste system. I think it symbolises segregation because it gives you a number 1-8 based on on wealthy you are. For example, Prince Maxon is a one because he is a prince and is rich. But America on the other hand is a five because she doesn’t have a lot of money, she is very poor compared to Prince Maxon. Another symbol might be the bird necklace her father gave her which can symbolize family and love. I think America is a symbol because the author took a lot of time in the first book to describe America’s character. I think that America symbolises chance and change because, in the Selection on page 316, Maxon makes an announcement saying “I don't wish to draw this out unnecessarily, so only the following ladies will be staying. Lady Marley and Lady Kriss” and continues with Lady Natalie, Lady Celeste, Lady Elise, and Lady America. After the announcement, America is the only five left in a group of twos and threes. This is a chance that she can show that having a low number for your caste, doesn’t mean that your worthless. She thinks ‘I might be a Five, but I wasn’t worthless’ on page 285 of the selection. America shows change because she doesn’t care about the caste system, she says “Castes never meant that much to me,”. I think that if she wins the Selection, she will ask Prince Maxon to change the rule about having a caste system and stop the segregation nonsense. I think Prince Maxon symbolises and friendship because America and Maxon have a unbreakable friendship that started in the first book (the Selection) on page 130 when they made the deal about letting America stay, help Maxon, and be his friend. But, their friendship turns into a kind of affection towards each other on page 322 she says “Maxon, I’m not completely sure what we are, but we're definitely more than friends”. That shows how strong of a friendship Maxon and America have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2018
this series are really good. they are romance and fantasy! if you havent read this you really should
July 18, 2018
Care Fenici, oggi vi parlo della saga di The Selection scritta da Kiera Cass; in questa recensione ho preferito riunire i tre libri della storyline principale, in modo che possiate avere un quadro generale senza diventare matte; chiaramente presterò più attenzione possibile a limitare gli spoiler.
Innanzitutto ci tenevo a dirvi che ho letto questi libri in tempo record; ciò non è solo da imputare alla mia modesta bravura ma, e soprattutto, alla narrazione estremamente fluida. In molti libri alcuni colpi di scena ci impediscono di proseguire la lettura, dobbiamo fermarci per assimilare i fatti per riprenderla poi con calma… bene, mi duole informarvi che non ci sono molti colpi di scena nei primi due libri; nel terzo, invece, ve n’è qualcuno, ma sono posti in maniera tale che non risulta proprio possibile interrompere la lettura. Quindi il mio consiglio è di accostarvi a questa esperienza in un momento di calma e senza alcuna fretta impellente.
La recensione sarà divisa in più parti per spiegarvi bene i contorni di questa storia senza, però, togliervi il gusto di selezionare personalmente i vostri personaggi preferiti.
Illéa
Lo stato in cui è ambientata tutta la vicenda si chiama Illéa, è gestito da una monarchia assoluta ed è suddiviso in province. Illéa, da come si intuisce nel corso della narrazione, sarebbe l’attuale territorio dell’America e del Canada, i cui confini sono cambiati nel corso di una durissima guerra contro la Cina, che dura tutt’ora. Nel corso della storia farete la conoscenza di altri regnanti, quali i tedeschi e gli Italiani (vi lascio indovinare chi siano i più simpatici ed estroversi). Come in ogni dittatura ci sono dei ribelli, quelli Sudisti sono abbastanza pericolosi mentre i Nordisti sono più miti. Cosa sia successo esattamente nel passato, quali siano gli eventi che hanno portato alla formazione di Illéa, non è chiaro dato che la storia, o le sue molteplici versioni, vengono tramandate via orale, e i libri su tale argomento sono illegali. Un popolo ignorante sulle proprie origini è un popolo controllabile.
Le caste
Il popolo è suddiviso in Caste da uno a otto, rispettivamente dalla punta della gerarchia alla base. Ogni casta delinea ciò che possono o non possono fare i membri che vi appartengono. Passare da una casta ad un’altra non è semplice, anche se non impossibile, normalmente avviene per via matrimoniale in quanto la moglie assume la casta del marito. Le caste più agiate sono la uno, due e tre. Le caste quattro e cinque sono nella media, mentre dalla casta sei alla otto la situazione è abbastanza brutta. Una buona istruzione dipende dal grado della casta, come il lavoro. Risultato: gli appartenenti alla casta sei, sette e otto hanno un’istruzione pubblica non buona, ma soprattutto hanno stipendi da fame.
I cittadini non hanno molte libertà e il sesso è legale solo tra marito e moglie, quindi se una ragazza della casta tre dovesse restare incinta senza essere sposata, immediatamente sarebbe spostata nella casta otto e probabilmente arrestata. La legge è profondamente dura, e non tiene conto della portata del crimine né dell’età del condannato (es. bambini fustigati per piccoli furtarelli).
La Selezione
Nella casta uno vi figurano solo i componenti della famiglia reale, per nascita o per matrimonio. Le principesse si sposano con principi o funzionari di altri regni; invece i principi, in particolare modo gli eredi, sposano ragazze del popolo in quella che viene definita la Selezione. Dalle province di Illéa vengono scelte trentacinque ragazze di qualsiasi estrazione sociale, tutte in età tra i 16 e i 20 anni, che parteciperanno a un reality show con tanto di fotografi e giornalisti nel palazzo reale in compagnia del principe che dovrà scegliere tra quelle la sua futura sposa. È un vero e proprio programma televisivo, con delle regole severe e prove da superare, il giudizio del pubblico è tenuto in gran conto ma, alla fine, solo il principe ha il potere di eliminare le ragazze dalla competizione.
In questo caso il principe Maxon, unico principe ed erede di Illéa, ha il dovere di conoscere tutte le ragazze e procedere all’eliminazione dalla competizione di alcune di loro per arrivare all’unica che gli piace veramente. Anche la madre del principe era stata scelta dal re nella Selezione, inutile dire che il popolo ha le sue preferite.
Le ragazze che partecipano alla Selezione hanno come benefit una certa somma di denaro data alla famiglia, un avanzamento di casta e la sicurezza di contrarre un ottimo matrimonio nel caso fossero eliminate dalla competizione. In tutto ciò avrete capito che alle donne non viene attribuito lo stesso valore degli uomini, anzi.
Conclusione
Come vedete ho totalmente evitato di parlarvi delle ragazze selezionate, di America e del principe. Sarebbe stato imperdonabile da parte mia togliervi il privilegio di farvi una vostra opinione influenzandovi con le mie preferenze. Dato che questa è una recensione che si basa sulla mia opinione devo dirvi che se anche questi primi libri mi sono piaciuti, purtroppo la delineazione della storia l’ho apprezzata un po’ meno. Nei primi due libri il tema focale è la Selezione, mentre nel terzo l’attenzione si sposta sui ribelli e i loro intenti. Dovete immaginare una storia assolutamente lineare che comincia a perdere la bussola in The One. Ho trovato la cosa un po’ troppo forzata, come se l’autrice si fosse resa conto di dover movimentare le cose e lo abbia fatto all’ultimo. Addirittura molte informazioni che fornisce sul mondo da lei creato sono scarse e confuse.
Queste sono le ragioni che mi hanno portato a dividere la Recensione in questo modo, per dare un’idea più ordinata ed esaustiva. Per quanto questo romanzo possa essere utile per un’evasione sensoriale, non posso fare a meno di compararlo a serie quali Divergent e Hunger Games che portano parecchi dilemmi di cui parlare. The Selection, per quanto interessante, non ci porta a elucubrare particolarmente sui fatti evidenziati. Resta comunque una storia carina con cui passare un bel pomeriggio.
.
Danny - per RFS
Innanzitutto ci tenevo a dirvi che ho letto questi libri in tempo record; ciò non è solo da imputare alla mia modesta bravura ma, e soprattutto, alla narrazione estremamente fluida. In molti libri alcuni colpi di scena ci impediscono di proseguire la lettura, dobbiamo fermarci per assimilare i fatti per riprenderla poi con calma… bene, mi duole informarvi che non ci sono molti colpi di scena nei primi due libri; nel terzo, invece, ve n’è qualcuno, ma sono posti in maniera tale che non risulta proprio possibile interrompere la lettura. Quindi il mio consiglio è di accostarvi a questa esperienza in un momento di calma e senza alcuna fretta impellente.
La recensione sarà divisa in più parti per spiegarvi bene i contorni di questa storia senza, però, togliervi il gusto di selezionare personalmente i vostri personaggi preferiti.
Illéa
Lo stato in cui è ambientata tutta la vicenda si chiama Illéa, è gestito da una monarchia assoluta ed è suddiviso in province. Illéa, da come si intuisce nel corso della narrazione, sarebbe l’attuale territorio dell’America e del Canada, i cui confini sono cambiati nel corso di una durissima guerra contro la Cina, che dura tutt’ora. Nel corso della storia farete la conoscenza di altri regnanti, quali i tedeschi e gli Italiani (vi lascio indovinare chi siano i più simpatici ed estroversi). Come in ogni dittatura ci sono dei ribelli, quelli Sudisti sono abbastanza pericolosi mentre i Nordisti sono più miti. Cosa sia successo esattamente nel passato, quali siano gli eventi che hanno portato alla formazione di Illéa, non è chiaro dato che la storia, o le sue molteplici versioni, vengono tramandate via orale, e i libri su tale argomento sono illegali. Un popolo ignorante sulle proprie origini è un popolo controllabile.
Le caste
Il popolo è suddiviso in Caste da uno a otto, rispettivamente dalla punta della gerarchia alla base. Ogni casta delinea ciò che possono o non possono fare i membri che vi appartengono. Passare da una casta ad un’altra non è semplice, anche se non impossibile, normalmente avviene per via matrimoniale in quanto la moglie assume la casta del marito. Le caste più agiate sono la uno, due e tre. Le caste quattro e cinque sono nella media, mentre dalla casta sei alla otto la situazione è abbastanza brutta. Una buona istruzione dipende dal grado della casta, come il lavoro. Risultato: gli appartenenti alla casta sei, sette e otto hanno un’istruzione pubblica non buona, ma soprattutto hanno stipendi da fame.
I cittadini non hanno molte libertà e il sesso è legale solo tra marito e moglie, quindi se una ragazza della casta tre dovesse restare incinta senza essere sposata, immediatamente sarebbe spostata nella casta otto e probabilmente arrestata. La legge è profondamente dura, e non tiene conto della portata del crimine né dell’età del condannato (es. bambini fustigati per piccoli furtarelli).
La Selezione
Nella casta uno vi figurano solo i componenti della famiglia reale, per nascita o per matrimonio. Le principesse si sposano con principi o funzionari di altri regni; invece i principi, in particolare modo gli eredi, sposano ragazze del popolo in quella che viene definita la Selezione. Dalle province di Illéa vengono scelte trentacinque ragazze di qualsiasi estrazione sociale, tutte in età tra i 16 e i 20 anni, che parteciperanno a un reality show con tanto di fotografi e giornalisti nel palazzo reale in compagnia del principe che dovrà scegliere tra quelle la sua futura sposa. È un vero e proprio programma televisivo, con delle regole severe e prove da superare, il giudizio del pubblico è tenuto in gran conto ma, alla fine, solo il principe ha il potere di eliminare le ragazze dalla competizione.
In questo caso il principe Maxon, unico principe ed erede di Illéa, ha il dovere di conoscere tutte le ragazze e procedere all’eliminazione dalla competizione di alcune di loro per arrivare all’unica che gli piace veramente. Anche la madre del principe era stata scelta dal re nella Selezione, inutile dire che il popolo ha le sue preferite.
Le ragazze che partecipano alla Selezione hanno come benefit una certa somma di denaro data alla famiglia, un avanzamento di casta e la sicurezza di contrarre un ottimo matrimonio nel caso fossero eliminate dalla competizione. In tutto ciò avrete capito che alle donne non viene attribuito lo stesso valore degli uomini, anzi.
Conclusione
Come vedete ho totalmente evitato di parlarvi delle ragazze selezionate, di America e del principe. Sarebbe stato imperdonabile da parte mia togliervi il privilegio di farvi una vostra opinione influenzandovi con le mie preferenze. Dato che questa è una recensione che si basa sulla mia opinione devo dirvi che se anche questi primi libri mi sono piaciuti, purtroppo la delineazione della storia l’ho apprezzata un po’ meno. Nei primi due libri il tema focale è la Selezione, mentre nel terzo l’attenzione si sposta sui ribelli e i loro intenti. Dovete immaginare una storia assolutamente lineare che comincia a perdere la bussola in The One. Ho trovato la cosa un po’ troppo forzata, come se l’autrice si fosse resa conto di dover movimentare le cose e lo abbia fatto all’ultimo. Addirittura molte informazioni che fornisce sul mondo da lei creato sono scarse e confuse.
Queste sono le ragioni che mi hanno portato a dividere la Recensione in questo modo, per dare un’idea più ordinata ed esaustiva. Per quanto questo romanzo possa essere utile per un’evasione sensoriale, non posso fare a meno di compararlo a serie quali Divergent e Hunger Games che portano parecchi dilemmi di cui parlare. The Selection, per quanto interessante, non ci porta a elucubrare particolarmente sui fatti evidenziati. Resta comunque una storia carina con cui passare un bel pomeriggio.
.
Danny - per RFS
July 7, 2015
First three books - I read them quickly but was so frustrated the whole time. Mixed messages, back and forth feelings.. misunderstandings etc. things happening that pretty much rule out the characters ever being able to be together but then immediately forgotten one chapter later. It's frustrating and not worth all the drama. AND of course by the end when you get what you want, the last book skips almost 20 years into the future so you don't even get to see those characters be together.
March 12, 2015
This is a really fun dysitpoian society book series. It reads very fast. I loved how she the world would end up. And the characters are very thought out and can seem real at many times. Thanks for a quick escape from reality.
June 28, 2015
It is so awesome I finish all three in a week.
October 27, 2019
America is a shallow gold digger and the King a weakling! I did not enjoy this series.
July 31, 2014
Welcome to my first series review. I am doing this for a couple of reasons: 1. I really want to review this entire series as a whole, and 2. I kind of want to try this out since I will also being writing a series review on the Syrena Legacy by Anna Banks when I finish it (which will be soon so look out for that). If you guys want me to do more of these, feel free to leave a comment about this.
Anyway, onto the actual review.
I am going to first talk about how I felt the plot flowed throughout each book. These books are a little bit of different reads for me, because I am not a huge fan of books that are primarily focused on romance. Especially when the romance is the main aspect of a dystopian book. I read Matched by Ally Condie, and I felt like it was really boring and only really focused on the romance, while barely exploring the dystopian aspect.
However, I really liked the romance aspect in this series, especially since it makes sense according to the plot. A lot of people say that it's basically the Bachelor meets the Hunger Games. I agree with that, personally, however I did not expect that there would be a lot of dystopian parts shown in this world. I thought that it was only going to be about the romance, but I was proven wrong and I am glad by that. I loved how there were rebel attacks in the castle and the role of the rebellion was a major part in the last book.
In The Selection, there is set-up and it is the beginning of the Selection for everyone and it feels like when they enter the castle at least one person is eliminated per day and I liked it. But in The Elite, there weren't a whole lot of people left and I was concerned that it would have the second-book-syndrome, where it really dragged. And it did. There wasn't a whole lot that happened, and only two people got eliminated by the end. But in The One, the Selection ends and I would say that it is a satisfying conclusion to the series.
Now, with the characters. I think that this is my main problem with the series. The characters are all frustrating in at least one way. Particularly, America Singer, the main character. If you read my Elite review, you know that I was extremely annoyed at her, and she was the reason my rating for that book was a 2.5/5 stars. The other characters I either didn't care for or didn't like a whole lot. The only characters that I really liked were Maxon, but I was annoyed at him in The One, and Queen Amberly. Everyone else, I could find one flaw in them and I didn't like/care about them. There is a character in the series (I won't mention the name but if you read the books you should know) who was really mean in the first two books and had a personality change in the last book. Even though it did set up what happened to them later in The One, I did love that change and I thought that it was realistic.
An example of a character who I wish was developed more would have to be King Clarkson. I won't go into too much detail about him if you haven't read the books, but he is basically the President Snow of Illea. My main problem with him is that he is a villain that everyone hates with a burning passion. This is probably more of a personal preference, but I think that in order to have a successful villain, he/she is a villain that you love to hate or you hate him/her but can't help but like him/her at least a little bit or he is a villain with a motive and honestly believes he/she is right about it. He is one of those villains that you just hate inside and out, and I didn't like it all that much.
Overall, I had mixed feelings towards the characters, but I think that Kiera Cass should have worked and developed them a little more in this series.
The relationships were either that you liked them or you didn't. The friendships were nice to see, but I would have liked to see, at some point, a friendship fall apart thanks to the Selections. The relationships between Maxon and the rest of the Selection, America would be annoying and think that Maxon belongs to her and that he can't spend time with everyone else in the Selection. She does understand by the One, so I am at least happy by that. Now, who ends up with who, I think that it is (at least with America) pretty obvious who she ends up with, but it still was a fun lighthearted journey and I do think that the three main characters end up with who they should and deserve to end up with.
Lastly, I want to discuss the writing. I did think in the first two books, it was only good. It wasn't really layered and it was kind of boring. When we got to the One, there was a vast improvement and I loved to read the adjectives and how America was feeling. But the main part about the writing that sticks out in my mind is that it is that type of writing that is addictive and makes you want to read the whole series in one sitting for each book, and I love it when a book does that.
Now, if you haven't read the Selection, you might be wondering if this series is for you. I would say if you are in the mood for a fun, lighthearted, quick series to get through, I would definitely say this is the series for you, especially since this is the perfect time of year to read a series like this. But, if you want to marathon a series that is developed and is more philosophical, then this may not be the series for you.
I would give the entire Selection trilogy by Kiera Cass a 4/5 stars. It is not my favorite series, nor is it the best series ever written, but it is an addictive, lighthearted, fun trilogy that I am glad that I read.
The Selection
The Elite
The One
Read
March 20, 2018The Selection series was a rather interesting group of novels. It was romantic, exciting, mystery, and so much more. The selection is a compelling completion of 35 girls fighting for Prince Maxon's heart. But these novels are specifically about America Singer and her journey when fighting for his love. The Selection is when America first arrives and is starting to get close and more comfortable with the prince. Some back ground knowledge about her family and past love interest like Aspen. It was the best book in the series because it was suspenseful often and readers did not know what was about to happen next. The first book contained more drama, but the other two books contained a good amount of drama as well. But over all The Selection was the perfect first book because it made readers want to reead the second and third the find out what happens. The Elite was the second book and was more predictable but still had its surprises. The Elite was made up of the last five girls. the stakes were getting higher and there was less room for mistakes. It was more about America, Maxon, and Aspen's little, unknown to Maxon, love triangle. It was more about America making a decision on who she is going to choose and her and Maxon getting closer over time. It was thrilling and exciting to actually read and confirm what she was going to do even though most of the time you could tell what was going to happen. It was also leading up to a realization point for not only America but the readers as well. It was my least favorite personally, but it was still intriguing to read and understand and connect the dots. The One is the last book of the series, it was dramatic and mysterious. It was very similar tot he first book in the element of surprise factor. The One was about America finally choosing Maxon and him ending the completion to marry her and because of that the pot gets stirred big time. This book was very persuasive in the fact that you wanted more especially towards the end. This last book I think had the most intense and crazy you had no idea moments. You would have never of guessed, I think that's why readers liked the third book a lot because it similar but more intense then the first one. Overall The Selection series is a phenomenal group of novels.
April 23, 2020
Ok I guess
Did I really pay money for this.
I hesitated when I saw there was no Kindle Unlimited option for the first book so I thought what the hey I will get the collection, it will be cheaper if I like the first book right.
Big mistake.
The first book is good enough for me to stay up to finish it but the 2 books after is time in my life I will never get back.
Book 2 is all about the love triangle and people it is bad (read some of the detailed reviews elsewhere, there is an awesome one on Goodreads).
As for Book 3 the conclusion while it is an improvement on 2 I still skipped in places and it fails to recover from Book 2.
Probably why there really aren't many reviews on Goodreads for Book 3.
Did I really pay money for this.
I hesitated when I saw there was no Kindle Unlimited option for the first book so I thought what the hey I will get the collection, it will be cheaper if I like the first book right.
Big mistake.
The first book is good enough for me to stay up to finish it but the 2 books after is time in my life I will never get back.
Book 2 is all about the love triangle and people it is bad (read some of the detailed reviews elsewhere, there is an awesome one on Goodreads).
As for Book 3 the conclusion while it is an improvement on 2 I still skipped in places and it fails to recover from Book 2.
Probably why there really aren't many reviews on Goodreads for Book 3.
July 29, 2023
NO SPOILERS I PROMISE
this series was THE series for me. it got me excited to read other books so i could search for books just like it. i was rooting for their romance the whole time, so pure and so beautiful. it had everything i wanted in a book.
beautiful setting, thrilling plot line, never a dull moment, and a love story worth falling in love over, no matter what point of the love triangle you choose. it may not be for everyone, but if you’re somebody who loves spicy dystopian ya novels with rebellious characters and 5 BOOKS TO LOVE this is DEFINITELY for you.
i cried when characters died, i cheered when characters did the right thing, and i was on my toes the whole time. this series made me believe in love and i hope this review makes you believe in getting it ASAP GURL.
this series was THE series for me. it got me excited to read other books so i could search for books just like it. i was rooting for their romance the whole time, so pure and so beautiful. it had everything i wanted in a book.
beautiful setting, thrilling plot line, never a dull moment, and a love story worth falling in love over, no matter what point of the love triangle you choose. it may not be for everyone, but if you’re somebody who loves spicy dystopian ya novels with rebellious characters and 5 BOOKS TO LOVE this is DEFINITELY for you.
i cried when characters died, i cheered when characters did the right thing, and i was on my toes the whole time. this series made me believe in love and i hope this review makes you believe in getting it ASAP GURL.
January 30, 2020
Technically, I didn’t finish all 5 books in this collection...I had to stop after the main trilogy was done.
I appreciate that, as a woman in her thirties, I am not the target audience of this book. Generally, I love YA, but this series stretched my patience. There was always just enough of interest in the plot to keep me reading, but it was simply too much for me. I disliked the heroine, the hero, and most of the other characters nearly the whole time. I hoped I’d find someone to like by the end, but I just couldn’t.
In short, I liked these books enough to get through them. That’s about all I can say.
I appreciate that, as a woman in her thirties, I am not the target audience of this book. Generally, I love YA, but this series stretched my patience. There was always just enough of interest in the plot to keep me reading, but it was simply too much for me. I disliked the heroine, the hero, and most of the other characters nearly the whole time. I hoped I’d find someone to like by the end, but I just couldn’t.
In short, I liked these books enough to get through them. That’s about all I can say.
July 31, 2023
Lemme be honest with u. I HATED the first book. Like completely despised. I didn't enjoy all the romance that was involved. But, lemme be honest the second and third book changed my mind.
At the library, I decided to give the series a second chance. And man am I glad I did. I love how America stands up for others in our own way even if it means sometimes breaking the rules.
The third book kept me at the edge of my seat wanting to see if America was truly going to be Maxon's wife and if her wishes will come true.
Can't wait to read the sequel The Heir!
At the library, I decided to give the series a second chance. And man am I glad I did. I love how America stands up for others in our own way even if it means sometimes breaking the rules.
The third book kept me at the edge of my seat wanting to see if America was truly going to be Maxon's wife and if her wishes will come true.
Can't wait to read the sequel The Heir!
July 26, 2018
It's a very good book and I like it. There are a lot of things that happens when a prince is about to choose his bride and the competition for the crown or the love is really tight between the girls. This is nice because there is point in the story that you are just fuming with madness because of the main character's behavior and choices and that's just interesting because it would seem realistic and mirrors the occurrences in the world.
February 2, 2022
Books 1-3 are the best in the series, books 4&5 heck no (it was a waste of time, trust me). This series will always be close to my heart because it's the first series I finished and the series that got me hooked into reading, any slander to this series (except books 4&5) is unacceptable. Never discourage people that want to read this series because just because you hate it doesn't mean no one should try to read it.
May 24, 2019
I really enjoyed the first book. I thought the second was good enough to read and wanted to know what would happen after the cliffhanger ending. The third was only okay. I read all of them in a day or two. I have lost interest for the fourth and will stop reading. The author seemed to get lazy as the books continued. it was disappointing.
October 15, 2017
I loved this trilogy! I know there are a lot of people who don't like this series very much and it does have some flaws. The ending, to me, is too sudden and tied up too nicely, but I loved the bachelor meets dystopian concept. I thought it was a fun, clean read that I couldn't put down.
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