Status
Available
Call number
Series
Genres
Collection
Publication
HarperCollinsChildrensBooks (2013), Paperback, 336 pages
Description
"Sixteen-year-old America Singer is one of only six girls still competing in the Selection--but before she can fight to win Prince Maxon and the Illean crown, she must decide where her own heart truly lies"--
User reviews
LibraryThing member DarkFaerieTales
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: America Singer has to choose between two of the most amazing guys, but time is running out. Rebels are on the loose, and they are determined to stop the Selection once and for all.
Opening Sentence: The Angeles air was quiet, and for a while I laid
The Review:
There are only six Selected girls left. America is one of them. Now that it’s getting down to the best of the best, America is running out of time. Why is she still in the palace? Does she actually want to join competition vying for Maxon’s hand? Or is she just there to send money to her family? But Aspen isn’t making the choice easier. Whenever she sees him, it’s a risk, but a risk she’s willing to take. When she thinks she knows which one she’ll choose, a terrible event occurs that makes her question her choice. Is Maxon worth it? Survive the rebels, become a princess? Or is a life with Aspen enough? America has to decide before it’s too late.
I devoured both The Selection and The Elite in about three days. From cover to cover, I totally enjoyed the suspense and plot twists and overall characters. This series was like a breath of fresh air from other darker, more complex dystopian books I seem to be reading nowadays. Although the plot never dragged or went by too quickly, the actual writing of the book was more or less ordinary. There was nothing special or original in the writing. The plot in a story may seem like the most important part of a story, but the way the author portrays the events are equally, if not more, important to a book. I felt that although the plot was outstanding, the writing could have been better.
Now that I have the technical stuff out of the way, I’m free to fan girl all over Prince Maxon and Aspen. I love both of them and equally dislike both of them by the end of the book. Complicated feelings, I know. Both of these characters have great personalities with minor flaws, but some of the choices they make through out the book tended to test my affection for both. I will forever be Team Maxon, but this guy had me on the fence by the end of The Elite. I didn’t like Aspen until the middle of this book… and then I didn’t like him again. So by the end of the book… I don’t think either of them are worth it. America, there are others out there better for you!
America has grown up from the poor musician living with her family. Now she has higher aspirations, but those old dreams as a pauper girl still haunts her memories. With Aspen guarding the palace, her memories of her family and life with with barely enough to eat mold her choices in the palace. Unlike the other girls, she knows what its like to starve or freeze. And she plans to do something about it if she decides to take the crown. The only thing stopping her…is herself. She struggles with accepting the amount of responsibility and spotlight marrying Maxon would bring. I really love her brash attitude. It’s as if the only choices she has are at the extremes, adding to he anticipation and suspense in the book.
Yes, this isn’t the most well-written, inspiring books I’ve ever read. Yes, the characters are brilliant but lacking. Yes, the plot makes it a worth-while read. Yes, I cannot wait until the next book!! No, you should not take my word for it; go read it yourself!
Notable Scene:
Lucy squealed. “Really?”
“Absolutely.”
“But how?” Anne asked. “I thought you said–”
“I know, I know. It’s hard to explain. All I can say is that I’ve been given a second chance. Maxon matters to me, and I’m going to fight for him.”
“That’s so romantic!” Mary cried and Lucy started clapping her hands.
“Hush, hush!” Anne called out sternly. I thought she would be excited and didn’t understand her sudden seriousness.
“If she’s going to win, we’re going to need a plan.” Her smile was diabolical and I grinned her. I’ve never met anyone as organized as these girls. If I had them, there was no way I would lose.
FTC Advisory: HarperTeen provided me with a copy of The Elite. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: America Singer has to choose between two of the most amazing guys, but time is running out. Rebels are on the loose, and they are determined to stop the Selection once and for all.
Opening Sentence: The Angeles air was quiet, and for a while I laid
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still, listening to the sound of Maxon breathing.The Review:
There are only six Selected girls left. America is one of them. Now that it’s getting down to the best of the best, America is running out of time. Why is she still in the palace? Does she actually want to join competition vying for Maxon’s hand? Or is she just there to send money to her family? But Aspen isn’t making the choice easier. Whenever she sees him, it’s a risk, but a risk she’s willing to take. When she thinks she knows which one she’ll choose, a terrible event occurs that makes her question her choice. Is Maxon worth it? Survive the rebels, become a princess? Or is a life with Aspen enough? America has to decide before it’s too late.
I devoured both The Selection and The Elite in about three days. From cover to cover, I totally enjoyed the suspense and plot twists and overall characters. This series was like a breath of fresh air from other darker, more complex dystopian books I seem to be reading nowadays. Although the plot never dragged or went by too quickly, the actual writing of the book was more or less ordinary. There was nothing special or original in the writing. The plot in a story may seem like the most important part of a story, but the way the author portrays the events are equally, if not more, important to a book. I felt that although the plot was outstanding, the writing could have been better.
Now that I have the technical stuff out of the way, I’m free to fan girl all over Prince Maxon and Aspen. I love both of them and equally dislike both of them by the end of the book. Complicated feelings, I know. Both of these characters have great personalities with minor flaws, but some of the choices they make through out the book tended to test my affection for both. I will forever be Team Maxon, but this guy had me on the fence by the end of The Elite. I didn’t like Aspen until the middle of this book… and then I didn’t like him again. So by the end of the book… I don’t think either of them are worth it. America, there are others out there better for you!
America has grown up from the poor musician living with her family. Now she has higher aspirations, but those old dreams as a pauper girl still haunts her memories. With Aspen guarding the palace, her memories of her family and life with with barely enough to eat mold her choices in the palace. Unlike the other girls, she knows what its like to starve or freeze. And she plans to do something about it if she decides to take the crown. The only thing stopping her…is herself. She struggles with accepting the amount of responsibility and spotlight marrying Maxon would bring. I really love her brash attitude. It’s as if the only choices she has are at the extremes, adding to he anticipation and suspense in the book.
Yes, this isn’t the most well-written, inspiring books I’ve ever read. Yes, the characters are brilliant but lacking. Yes, the plot makes it a worth-while read. Yes, I cannot wait until the next book!! No, you should not take my word for it; go read it yourself!
Notable Scene:
Lucy squealed. “Really?”
“Absolutely.”
“But how?” Anne asked. “I thought you said–”
“I know, I know. It’s hard to explain. All I can say is that I’ve been given a second chance. Maxon matters to me, and I’m going to fight for him.”
“That’s so romantic!” Mary cried and Lucy started clapping her hands.
“Hush, hush!” Anne called out sternly. I thought she would be excited and didn’t understand her sudden seriousness.
“If she’s going to win, we’re going to need a plan.” Her smile was diabolical and I grinned her. I’ve never met anyone as organized as these girls. If I had them, there was no way I would lose.
FTC Advisory: HarperTeen provided me with a copy of The Elite. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
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LibraryThing member LouisVillains
While the first title in this series, The Selection, was a decent read, this second installment has left a little to be desired. I find the main character, American, a but annoying. She can't make up her mind between two men and a love triangle the highlights of the books. This series is a cross
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between The Bachelor and Divergent- but not as well written. Still it was an entertaining read if you can get past the unexplained love these two men have for someone who seems to be nothing but whiny. If you have a stack, read other choices first. Show Less
LibraryThing member AboutToRead
I loved The Selection so much and just couldn’t wait to dive into The Elite. It has such a beautiful love story and it’s impossible not to root for Maxon and America. I was a little apprehensive, however, because Aspen was brought back into the story at the very end, and I was very much against
After having read The Elite, I am happy to report that the Aspen story line wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. The Elite sucks you in, just as The Selection did and it is impossible to put down! I absolutely devoured it and cheered for America and Maxon the pretty much the entire time.
Reading The Elite was a wonderful experience, in part because I read The Prince first. The Prince is a novella told from Maxon’s point of view, and while it isn’t critical to the plot in anyway, it does provide crucial insight into Maxon’s character. There are so many times that I wondered what Maxon was thinking, and The Prince gave me the understanding I needed to figure it out.
My only gripe with The Elite is that it is very love triangle focused. The Selection was more of a complicated love story, and although there was a love triangle, it was more muted than in The Elite. The entire novel felt like a love triangle this time instead of a Maxon-America love story. I can’t help wondering what this novel would have been like as a stand alone, since it feels like the love triangle overdose exists to draw the story out into a trilogy, when it certainty could have been wrapped up very nicely by adding another 50 pages to The Selection.
We did learn more about Illea’s history, how the United States came to an end, and why the caste system evolved. I’d love to say it was interesting, but I’m not really interested in the world-building since the love story is why I am reading The Elite. Readers will instantly draw parallels between our current political situation and leaders and the history of Illea, and I have to commend Kiera Cass for making a statement whether I agree with it or not (note: I’m not stating whether I do or don’t agree, but it’s nice to see political issues addressed in YA, subtle or not).
The Elite still has that je ne sais quoi that makes it impossible to put down. Readers will absolutely devour it, and despite the love triangle being a bit over done, it is still a lovely story. Those who have been anxious for more world building will not be disappointed as Kiera Cass provides us with a healthy dose of history for Illea. At it’s heart, The Elite is a twisted, tangled love story and I am so looking forward to the conclusion, which will hopefully end happily for both Maxon and America.
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that particular plot twist.After having read The Elite, I am happy to report that the Aspen story line wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. The Elite sucks you in, just as The Selection did and it is impossible to put down! I absolutely devoured it and cheered for America and Maxon the pretty much the entire time.
Reading The Elite was a wonderful experience, in part because I read The Prince first. The Prince is a novella told from Maxon’s point of view, and while it isn’t critical to the plot in anyway, it does provide crucial insight into Maxon’s character. There are so many times that I wondered what Maxon was thinking, and The Prince gave me the understanding I needed to figure it out.
My only gripe with The Elite is that it is very love triangle focused. The Selection was more of a complicated love story, and although there was a love triangle, it was more muted than in The Elite. The entire novel felt like a love triangle this time instead of a Maxon-America love story. I can’t help wondering what this novel would have been like as a stand alone, since it feels like the love triangle overdose exists to draw the story out into a trilogy, when it certainty could have been wrapped up very nicely by adding another 50 pages to The Selection.
We did learn more about Illea’s history, how the United States came to an end, and why the caste system evolved. I’d love to say it was interesting, but I’m not really interested in the world-building since the love story is why I am reading The Elite. Readers will instantly draw parallels between our current political situation and leaders and the history of Illea, and I have to commend Kiera Cass for making a statement whether I agree with it or not (note: I’m not stating whether I do or don’t agree, but it’s nice to see political issues addressed in YA, subtle or not).
The Elite still has that je ne sais quoi that makes it impossible to put down. Readers will absolutely devour it, and despite the love triangle being a bit over done, it is still a lovely story. Those who have been anxious for more world building will not be disappointed as Kiera Cass provides us with a healthy dose of history for Illea. At it’s heart, The Elite is a twisted, tangled love story and I am so looking forward to the conclusion, which will hopefully end happily for both Maxon and America.
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LibraryThing member middlemedia2
I enjoyed this book. America is wishy washy is this book so I kept thinking how is this only the 2nd book! I kept trying to figure out what was going to happen at the end and was blown away by what happens. Can't wait for the next one!
LibraryThing member STACYatUFI
America is still torn between her love for Aspen and her growing feelings for Maxon. The group of girls is getting smaller and America might not be the focus of Maxon's attention anymore. As time runs out America is left searching her feelings and deciding what she wants out of life.
America has
Like book one, THE ELITE was an easy read. I love Kiera's writing style and the ever suspenseful plot. The character growth was great and the stakes are high. AH how will it all end. The last book entitled THE ONE (I think, Goodreads says it is at least) won't be out until spring 2014 *pout*
America has
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grown a lot since she was selected. I really like her views on how things should be and the way she fights for what is right even though her views are not well liked. She has legitimate concerns about what kind of queen she would be and is really confused about what she should do. The king is a real piece of work. I hope that she can rise above him in book 3. Although I like both of the men in this series I was starting to get sick of the back and forth between Aspen and Maxon. America was playing with feelings and it was getting old. I was really happy with America's decision at the end and I completely understood Maxon's decision but it made me want to kick him just the same. Some crazy stuff happens with the girls in THE ELITE and some people really surprised me. I love Marlee and hope we will get more of her in the last book.Like book one, THE ELITE was an easy read. I love Kiera's writing style and the ever suspenseful plot. The character growth was great and the stakes are high. AH how will it all end. The last book entitled THE ONE (I think, Goodreads says it is at least) won't be out until spring 2014 *pout*
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LibraryThing member paisean13
So...this is how my reading experience went with this book.
First part of the novel I felt like: Ugh! Why is America so annoying in this novel? She is so indecisive I want to throw my Kindle across the room. At this point I just wish Maxon would eliminate her useless bum!
Middle of book: America you
Last part of the novel: Hmmm...okay. America ends up redeeming herself. Sort of. I just hope she gets it together by the next book.
That about sums it up.
First part of the novel I felt like: Ugh! Why is America so annoying in this novel? She is so indecisive I want to throw my Kindle across the room. At this point I just wish Maxon would eliminate her useless bum!
Middle of book: America you
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need to freaking get real or else....ELIMINATE!!! (if I was a Dalek) Last part of the novel: Hmmm...okay. America ends up redeeming herself. Sort of. I just hope she gets it together by the next book.
That about sums it up.
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LibraryThing member Jellyn
I was writing the review in my head as I read it. I was going to write how the book started out with the main character being all sappy with her two boyfriends and wishywashy and whatnot, but then the book got better.
Except that it didn't. The whole freaking book is 'does he love me?' 'can I love
The competition at the heart of these books isn't advanced much. There's a little bit of political stuff, but not much. She's in actual danger.. not often.
It's just very blah, unless you /like/ teenage main characters who can't choose between two guys and spend an entire book waffling.
Nothing is resolved in this book. Absolutely bloody nothing.
I shouldn't expect much from second books in the YA dystopia genre, I really shouldn't, yet I keep doing it. This one didn't disappoint me half so much as Insurgent (sequel to Divergent), and I will probably pick up the third book. But oh em gee, you guys, I begin to see why some people can't stand to read YA.
Maybe I am finally getting too old for this genre!!
Except that it didn't. The whole freaking book is 'does he love me?' 'can I love
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him?' 'is he a good guy or a bad guy?' and her crying over this, that and the other thing. Teenage angst, thy name is The Elite. Seriously, both guys should drop her and go for someone who can make up her freaking mind. Or she should just choose BOTH OF THEM like any REASONABLE PERSON. Well, any reasonable poly person anyhow.The competition at the heart of these books isn't advanced much. There's a little bit of political stuff, but not much. She's in actual danger.. not often.
It's just very blah, unless you /like/ teenage main characters who can't choose between two guys and spend an entire book waffling.
Nothing is resolved in this book. Absolutely bloody nothing.
I shouldn't expect much from second books in the YA dystopia genre, I really shouldn't, yet I keep doing it. This one didn't disappoint me half so much as Insurgent (sequel to Divergent), and I will probably pick up the third book. But oh em gee, you guys, I begin to see why some people can't stand to read YA.
Maybe I am finally getting too old for this genre!!
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LibraryThing member kctlagman
"From the beginning, I've really only looked at you, wanted you...I've been looking for a suitable alternative, but the truth is, there's only you."
The Elite continues off right where The Selection began, in which America has made the decision to stay in the competition towards becoming the
But things hit a rough patch when a situation close to America's heart results in unbelievable and unethical consequences. And when she puts the blame on Maxon, it seemingly all starts to fall apart. Maxon seems to have secrets of his own. The competition is not as final as Maxon has made it seem... while he has chosen with his heart, he must also consider other important factors: the public, the King, America's indecisiveness... When the rebels are closer than they all were lead to believe, America sees that there are better, infinitely more suited options left in The Elite for Maxon. And out of anger, she makes a decision that she can't help but regret... Not only for her sake, but for Maxon's as well. And perhaps, all of the kingdom.
The Elite is not how I expected America's story would unravel. I felt that her character regressed greatly from the strong, loud-spoken girl that she was in The Selection. There were times when I felt that it was impossible for this to be the same girl. It was similar with Maxon, whom I absolutely loved in the first book. While Maxon was proclaiming the solidity of their future and his love for her in the start of the book, his actions that follow speak anything but. I missed the friendship between Maxon and America that lead me to love them in the first book. Aspen came off as annoying and irresponsible, and I could not fathom that this boy loved America as much as he said he did if he was willing to risk her life so often considering the situation.
Regardless, I am excited to see how this series will end in The One. Illea needs a lot of changes for it to become the kingdom that it has the potential to become, and I think that America and Maxon have a large say in how change will come in regards to the caste system and the poverty. I think that they have a lot of potential to change everything. A lot of questions were left unanswered, and Cass is going to have to bring it up a notch and provide her readers with a mindblowing conclusion.
"I know there was a time, when our country was new, when the assignment of these numbers helped organize something that was on the brink of not existing. But we are no longer this country. We are so much more now."
The Elite continues off right where The Selection began, in which America has made the decision to stay in the competition towards becoming the
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Princess of Illea, and the bride of the one-day-will-be-King, Maxon. America and Maxon's relationship was rooted in friendship in the first book, and for the first few chapters, it is all rainbows and butterflies for the two.But things hit a rough patch when a situation close to America's heart results in unbelievable and unethical consequences. And when she puts the blame on Maxon, it seemingly all starts to fall apart. Maxon seems to have secrets of his own. The competition is not as final as Maxon has made it seem... while he has chosen with his heart, he must also consider other important factors: the public, the King, America's indecisiveness... When the rebels are closer than they all were lead to believe, America sees that there are better, infinitely more suited options left in The Elite for Maxon. And out of anger, she makes a decision that she can't help but regret... Not only for her sake, but for Maxon's as well. And perhaps, all of the kingdom.
The Elite is not how I expected America's story would unravel. I felt that her character regressed greatly from the strong, loud-spoken girl that she was in The Selection. There were times when I felt that it was impossible for this to be the same girl. It was similar with Maxon, whom I absolutely loved in the first book. While Maxon was proclaiming the solidity of their future and his love for her in the start of the book, his actions that follow speak anything but. I missed the friendship between Maxon and America that lead me to love them in the first book. Aspen came off as annoying and irresponsible, and I could not fathom that this boy loved America as much as he said he did if he was willing to risk her life so often considering the situation.
Regardless, I am excited to see how this series will end in The One. Illea needs a lot of changes for it to become the kingdom that it has the potential to become, and I think that America and Maxon have a large say in how change will come in regards to the caste system and the poverty. I think that they have a lot of potential to change everything. A lot of questions were left unanswered, and Cass is going to have to bring it up a notch and provide her readers with a mindblowing conclusion.
"I know there was a time, when our country was new, when the assignment of these numbers helped organize something that was on the brink of not existing. But we are no longer this country. We are so much more now."
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LibraryThing member julie.billing
Gobbled this one up, too. Not as good as the first one. Interested to see who she picks but we have awhile to wait. Complete mind-candy.
LibraryThing member Corazie
I haven't read the first in this series, so this is a proper test for The Elite. Can it stand out as a good book in its own right?
The answer? No. This is a 2.75 rounded up to 3.
Warning: this review is a little angry, I didn't enjoy this book as much as that overly-fussy yet still pretty cover made
It's a decent enough story, if not terribly confusing, as it apparently picks up exactly where the last one ended. I often pick up a book and read it without checking to see if it's part of a series - and usually that's perfectly fine, it's great, it makes me want to read all of the other books. In a series there is usually a run-down of what happened in the previous book(s) if not only to remind you of what happened. Even House of Night managed that (but, you know, nowadays that'll be a book in itself. FINISH IT ALREADY!). It's the mark of a strong series, that it's easily accessible. The Elite just isn't unless you're already invested in the series.
And then on to the characters. Dear god, America, what kind of girl are you? Do you want him or don't you? She's all "oh I don't want to be with him!" and then he shows the slightest interest in someone else and she's all "back off bitch!" and angry. Not everyone loves you, you spoilt Mary-Sue, who's only redeeming quality seems to be that she was once poor and is a bit of a slag. Maxon is a spoiled brat pretty much until the very end, and Aspen just needs to go away and stop screwing with Mer's head. I liked the queen though, and Marlee.
The world seems very flat too. For a dystopian novel this isn't good at all, oh no. This story seemed to focus on the mansion and all the pretty things and the lavish lifestyle. There wasn't much of the hardship displayed, only a few raids during which all the characters are tucked away safely. Except for America of course, she's a Mary-Sue so can run faster than anyone, ever.
Good points? Yes, there are some. The story was sweet in places and I really felt for Marlee. And for Kriss, as it feels like she's being led along. And America's maids, she was quite nasty to them, even when they devoted themselves to her. And by the end I was beginning to piece the obscure world together a little and better understand the motives driving some of the characters. Maxon's not all bad, but he's not all good either, I'm definitely team Maxon. There was tension and conflict between the characters, they weren't all 2D, they had emotions.
The ending was a bit of a relief for me. It was predictable, yes, but a good predictable. It wrapped up well but kept enough back to set the scene for another book, you know to resolve the whole Selection process. And there was even more tension added, you know, because it's the end.
If I had read the first I'd probably like this story more, as I'd know what was going on.
Thanks, NetGalley for a copy of this.
The answer? No. This is a 2.75 rounded up to 3.
Warning: this review is a little angry, I didn't enjoy this book as much as that overly-fussy yet still pretty cover made
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me think I would. Boo for pretty covers and my judging a book by its cover. But it's still got (almost) 3 stars, so it's not all that bad.It's a decent enough story, if not terribly confusing, as it apparently picks up exactly where the last one ended. I often pick up a book and read it without checking to see if it's part of a series - and usually that's perfectly fine, it's great, it makes me want to read all of the other books. In a series there is usually a run-down of what happened in the previous book(s) if not only to remind you of what happened. Even House of Night managed that (but, you know, nowadays that'll be a book in itself. FINISH IT ALREADY!). It's the mark of a strong series, that it's easily accessible. The Elite just isn't unless you're already invested in the series.
And then on to the characters. Dear god, America, what kind of girl are you? Do you want him or don't you? She's all "oh I don't want to be with him!" and then he shows the slightest interest in someone else and she's all "back off bitch!" and angry. Not everyone loves you, you spoilt Mary-Sue, who's only redeeming quality seems to be that she was once poor and is a bit of a slag. Maxon is a spoiled brat pretty much until the very end, and Aspen just needs to go away and stop screwing with Mer's head. I liked the queen though, and Marlee.
The world seems very flat too. For a dystopian novel this isn't good at all, oh no. This story seemed to focus on the mansion and all the pretty things and the lavish lifestyle. There wasn't much of the hardship displayed, only a few raids during which all the characters are tucked away safely. Except for America of course, she's a Mary-Sue so can run faster than anyone, ever.
Good points? Yes, there are some. The story was sweet in places and I really felt for Marlee. And for Kriss, as it feels like she's being led along. And America's maids, she was quite nasty to them, even when they devoted themselves to her. And by the end I was beginning to piece the obscure world together a little and better understand the motives driving some of the characters. Maxon's not all bad, but he's not all good either, I'm definitely team Maxon. There was tension and conflict between the characters, they weren't all 2D, they had emotions.
The ending was a bit of a relief for me. It was predictable, yes, but a good predictable. It wrapped up well but kept enough back to set the scene for another book, you know to resolve the whole Selection process. And there was even more tension added, you know, because it's the end.
If I had read the first I'd probably like this story more, as I'd know what was going on.
Thanks, NetGalley for a copy of this.
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LibraryThing member Daydreambooks
Hmm not very impressed with maxon right now. If you love someone you wouldnt be looking for a backup plan with kriss.
LibraryThing member ShellyPYA
Amreica has made it to the elite group of girls vying for Prince Maxon's heart. She still can't decide if she really wants to be there, and even when she admits she has feelings for Maxon, she's not sure she'll make a good queen.
LibraryThing member pollywannabook
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
I’m actually a little embarrassed by how much I liked the first book in The Selection series, because I loathe the entire concept of The Bachelor (and THE SELECTION was described as The Bachelor meets The Hunger Games). I gave it a shot based on a few
My hatred for The Bachelor still remains, but the whole concept of girls competing for one guy actually translates to a much more tolerable situation in this series (plus it actually reminded me more of the book of Esther from the Bible). Because The Selection is a traditional practice designed to elevate a ‘commoner’ to royal status and in a sense offer the people a sense of inclusion in the government, the whole concept takes on a different light.
But really, it’s the relationship between America and Prince Maxon that continues to keep me riveted. There are so many obstacles between them (and I’m not even talking about the other girls), and not one feels contrived. The friendship-turned-something-more is full of agonizing betrayal, juicy secrets, and heartbreaking sacrifices. We learn so much more about Maxon this time too. His crown isn’t quite as untarnished as we thought, but neither is America’s–regardless of her justifications.
And Ilea itself is so fascinating since it has its roots in the USA that we all know. I loved digging more into the radical transformation that created the world that America and Prince Maxon live in. From the origin of the caste system, the first King, the rebels, and so much more. The balance between the romantic developments, character growth, and worldbuilding was so well done. I’ll be be anxiously looking forward to the final book in The Selection series, THE ONE, when it’s published on May 6, 2014. It’s really too bad the the TV show didn’t get picked up. I would have loved to watch this story almost as much as I loved reading it.
Sexual Content:
Kissing, mild sensuality
I’m actually a little embarrassed by how much I liked the first book in The Selection series, because I loathe the entire concept of The Bachelor (and THE SELECTION was described as The Bachelor meets The Hunger Games). I gave it a shot based on a few
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reviewers who likewise were surprised by how fun the debut was, and honestly, I couldn’t put it down once I started and I had a similar experience reading THE ELITE.My hatred for The Bachelor still remains, but the whole concept of girls competing for one guy actually translates to a much more tolerable situation in this series (plus it actually reminded me more of the book of Esther from the Bible). Because The Selection is a traditional practice designed to elevate a ‘commoner’ to royal status and in a sense offer the people a sense of inclusion in the government, the whole concept takes on a different light.
But really, it’s the relationship between America and Prince Maxon that continues to keep me riveted. There are so many obstacles between them (and I’m not even talking about the other girls), and not one feels contrived. The friendship-turned-something-more is full of agonizing betrayal, juicy secrets, and heartbreaking sacrifices. We learn so much more about Maxon this time too. His crown isn’t quite as untarnished as we thought, but neither is America’s–regardless of her justifications.
And Ilea itself is so fascinating since it has its roots in the USA that we all know. I loved digging more into the radical transformation that created the world that America and Prince Maxon live in. From the origin of the caste system, the first King, the rebels, and so much more. The balance between the romantic developments, character growth, and worldbuilding was so well done. I’ll be be anxiously looking forward to the final book in The Selection series, THE ONE, when it’s published on May 6, 2014. It’s really too bad the the TV show didn’t get picked up. I would have loved to watch this story almost as much as I loved reading it.
Sexual Content:
Kissing, mild sensuality
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LibraryThing member NicoleGorr
I loved this sequel, although America's constant doubt in Maxon and her ability to handle the pressures of the job was a little dizzying. I loved the plot twist with Marlee, I had my suspicions but I never grasped the consequences until I read The Elite and, like America, I was incensed. The way
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Maxon handled the aftermath redeemed him in my mind, but I'm still not counting Aspen out. We also got to see more of the background behind the rebels and what they are most likely looking for, and America plucked up the courage to propose restructuring the caste system of Illea, with mixed reactions on all levels. There was a lot of development in this novel, but I'm looking forward to the next book, The One, to see some solid decision-making and hopefully see some changes to the system! Show Less
LibraryThing member pahel
Warning- Loads of cursing present.
P.S- This probably isn't an actual review since it just states my feelings! :P
I literally don't know what to write. This book disappointed me soooooo frikking much!
All because of the pathetic-ness that was America, Aspen- the manipulator & how can I forget the
This series was on my most fave-series list. However despite the frustrating things people said I still had hope but once I started it...BAM. All of it went flying out of the window!
First letz start with America. God this girl irritated me so much! Who the fuck did she think she was!? Jumping from Maxon to Aspen whenever she felt like it! Toying with both their feelings like they were her play-things! I get it that the main concept of the book was romance with the whole 'selection' thing but instead of growing as a person America just acted like a whiny 5-yr old!
Second comes Aspen- although he seemed nice enough, all sweet and caring with America; I got a really sure feeling that he was manipulating her! Sweet talking her about how much he loved her more than Maxon and pointing out Maxon's weaknesses. On top of that he was just driven by his thirst for revenge and instead of embracing his present to make the life of others better he solely concentrated on his so called revenge and America.
Lastly, the biggest fucking disappointment idiot in this book- Maxon fucking Schreave. I felt like ripping out his face when he made out with Celeste. Only word I could muster at that time- Asshole. Suits him after he admitted that he did that because he wanted to feel loved. I mean who the hell does that? If he really loved America he wouldn't have done that. Truthfully he was just being selfish and thinking abt himself only.
Anyway despite all this I don't know what is wrong with my brain cz I still wanna read the next book, Im kind of desperate to see a happy ending between Maxon and America. *rolls eyes*
Annnnd all this put me in a confusion since on one hand I feel like giving it 5 frikking stars because of the drama and all but on the other hand I wanna give it 2 stars because of itz sheer pathetic-ness. It was kind of like a soap-opera to be exact.
And that results in me not giving it any stars for now...
P.S- This probably isn't an actual review since it just states my feelings! :P
I literally don't know what to write. This book disappointed me soooooo frikking much!
All because of the pathetic-ness that was America, Aspen- the manipulator & how can I forget the
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biggest dickhead in the book- Maxon.This series was on my most fave-series list. However despite the frustrating things people said I still had hope but once I started it...BAM. All of it went flying out of the window!
First letz start with America. God this girl irritated me so much! Who the fuck did she think she was!? Jumping from Maxon to Aspen whenever she felt like it! Toying with both their feelings like they were her play-things! I get it that the main concept of the book was romance with the whole 'selection' thing but instead of growing as a person America just acted like a whiny 5-yr old!
Second comes Aspen- although he seemed nice enough, all sweet and caring with America; I got a really sure feeling that he was manipulating her! Sweet talking her about how much he loved her more than Maxon and pointing out Maxon's weaknesses. On top of that he was just driven by his thirst for revenge and instead of embracing his present to make the life of others better he solely concentrated on his so called revenge and America.
Lastly, the biggest fucking disappointment idiot in this book- Maxon fucking Schreave. I felt like ripping out his face when he made out with Celeste. Only word I could muster at that time- Asshole. Suits him after he admitted that he did that because he wanted to feel loved. I mean who the hell does that? If he really loved America he wouldn't have done that. Truthfully he was just being selfish and thinking abt himself only.
Anyway despite all this I don't know what is wrong with my brain cz I still wanna read the next book, Im kind of desperate to see a happy ending between Maxon and America. *rolls eyes*
Annnnd all this put me in a confusion since on one hand I feel like giving it 5 frikking stars because of the drama and all but on the other hand I wanna give it 2 stars because of itz sheer pathetic-ness. It was kind of like a soap-opera to be exact.
And that results in me not giving it any stars for now...
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LibraryThing member Turrean
An irritating followup to a good beginning. Could not believe the main character meets in secret with a man mere days after seeing the horrific punishment meted out to another couple guilty of the same "crime." Was she not paying attention when the prince explains about the presence of cameras in
And America blushes and cries too much!
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the palace? Could not believe the royal family in an authoritarian society, with such a tight grip on its lower classes, has a castle that gets overrun by rebels approximately once a week. I kept expecting the author to give us a little more on conditions in the country--the author measures out information by the teaspoon. I kept expecting Aspen to turn out to be a secret rebel to justify his continued presence in the story; no such luck. And America blushes and cries too much!
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LibraryThing member LaneLiterati
I felt some parts of this book were a little tedious. A lot of the same thing as book one, can we get on with the story here?
LibraryThing member ErlangerFactionless
I don't know what it is about these books. My review of the first in the series was, er... less than positive in the meta-sense but I admitted that I enjoyed reading.
There's nothing I said about that book that I wouldn't say about this one. I'm still sick of love traingles, trilogies, YA dystopias
I mentioned sexist claptrap in my last review, too. This book has its fair share of that, too. Not only can America not stop giggling, for goodness sake, but she also states that the only moment she's ever imagined about her wedding is her daddy handing her over to her new owner... I mean husband. Seriously? Not even, like, what vows she'd like to use or... or... something else? Anything else? America has daddy issues.
But, honestly, I still devoured this book! It's like cake. You know you shouldn't but you just can't stop. And now I'm going to have to wait for the last book and I'm irritated, because Cass really stepped it up on the love triangle this time 'round.
There's nothing I said about that book that I wouldn't say about this one. I'm still sick of love traingles, trilogies, YA dystopias
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and, while I'm at it, I should mention I am tired of books written in the first person present tense. It's awkward. I mentioned sexist claptrap in my last review, too. This book has its fair share of that, too. Not only can America not stop giggling, for goodness sake, but she also states that the only moment she's ever imagined about her wedding is her daddy handing her over to her new owner... I mean husband. Seriously? Not even, like, what vows she'd like to use or... or... something else? Anything else? America has daddy issues.
But, honestly, I still devoured this book! It's like cake. You know you shouldn't but you just can't stop. And now I'm going to have to wait for the last book and I'm irritated, because Cass really stepped it up on the love triangle this time 'round.
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LibraryThing member deslivres5
After enjoying the first book in this trilogy, The Selection, I was eagerly awaiting this second book in the series. America is still a compelling heroine, but something about this second book really irritated me. I *think* it was the constant oscillation of America's feelings for Prince Maxon,
I really took a dislike to Maxon and his behaviors in this second book, even as he has supposed explanations for them. (I guess I have always pulled for Aspen to win out in the end anyway).
I will definitely read the final book in the series, just to see how all of this royal intrigue get resolved.
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loving him-hating-him-not trusting him- making up, and rinse/repeat.I really took a dislike to Maxon and his behaviors in this second book, even as he has supposed explanations for them. (I guess I have always pulled for Aspen to win out in the end anyway).
I will definitely read the final book in the series, just to see how all of this royal intrigue get resolved.
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LibraryThing member CherieReads
Ughhh.... I was holding out hope that I would like The Elite more than I liked The Selection, but sadly that was not the case.
One of my main problems with the first book was the lack of world-building and that is about the only part of this book that was improved upon over the first. We learn much
In The Selection, I didn't really feel strongly about any of the characters. In The Elite, my feelings towards America, Maxon and Aspen are much stronger - but not in a positive way. America drove me nuts throughout the book. She was wishy-washy and whiny and selfish and I just did not like her very much. Aspen was manipulative and took advantage of America's insecurities. Maxon, who I liked the best in the first book, completely lost my support with his actions and then his flimsy explanations.
There's a little more action in this book but nothing is really described so I wasn't all that excited. Even the ending was somewhat disappointing to me.That Maxon takes beatings from his father but can then convince him to let America stay just didn't make any sense to me. I was hoping for some better reason for her to be there in the end. In my opinion, America needs to go back home and forget about both guys. Or leave and join up with the more peaceful Northern resistance.
Reading this book was frustrating to me. I'm now invested in the plot so I want to keep reading to see what happens next but these characters have personality flaws that make me dislike them, the world they live in still doesn't seem quite real to me, and I think (as I did with the first book) that the writing is somewhat juvenile. There are some neat ideas here but I'm just not a huge fan of the execution.
I will probably read the final book at some point but it will be a loan from the library rather than spending my money on it. As I said in my review of The Selection, I think tweens and young teens would probably love this book and fans of the first one will definitely love it as well. It just wasn't for me.
One of my main problems with the first book was the lack of world-building and that is about the only part of this book that was improved upon over the first. We learn much
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more about the history of the country and how the caste system was set up, and about why things are the way they are. Although some of my questions from the first book were answered, I still don't really feel like this world is real. It doesn't seem fully fleshed out to me. In The Selection, I didn't really feel strongly about any of the characters. In The Elite, my feelings towards America, Maxon and Aspen are much stronger - but not in a positive way. America drove me nuts throughout the book. She was wishy-washy and whiny and selfish and I just did not like her very much. Aspen was manipulative and took advantage of America's insecurities. Maxon, who I liked the best in the first book, completely lost my support with his actions and then his flimsy explanations.
There's a little more action in this book but nothing is really described so I wasn't all that excited. Even the ending was somewhat disappointing to me.
Reading this book was frustrating to me. I'm now invested in the plot so I want to keep reading to see what happens next but these characters have personality flaws that make me dislike them, the world they live in still doesn't seem quite real to me, and I think (as I did with the first book) that the writing is somewhat juvenile. There are some neat ideas here but I'm just not a huge fan of the execution.
I will probably read the final book at some point but it will be a loan from the library rather than spending my money on it. As I said in my review of The Selection, I think tweens and young teens would probably love this book and fans of the first one will definitely love it as well. It just wasn't for me.
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LibraryThing member Jennifer35k
Most little girls and boys have heard of Cinderella or Snow White in their lifetimes. A fairytale story where a girl with an uncommon history finds herself in the middle of a castle with a prince on the end of her arm. It is the dream of most little girls to be that princess and too have a happy
I have to admit that I really could not get into this book. I don't know what it was about it, but I just was not able to enjoy it at all. I found the idea of classes to be disturbing and found America to be annoying and shallow. I did not see her character grow a great deal and was disappointed on how the common people were treated. I gave my best on this and got past page 75 with this book. I really could not force myself to continue to read it. I am not proud of that and normally try to see every book through to the end. Normally I don't have issues with young adults books, but this series is just way to simple and annoying for me. I honestly believe the author is talented, but I just can't bring myself to like her characters. I can't recommend this book and would have to say that I think most mature readers would get bored. This includes teenagers that are mature for their age as well. I think a 12 or 13 might get some enjoyment of this story, but that is it!
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ever after ending. However, life it not a fairytale and most princes turn into toads. This story is another version of the fairytale princess theme with a twist. It is about a young woman named America that finds herself listed in a pageant that determines the kingdom's future queen. It is a contest that will decide the fate of one girl and the rest of her family. This story takes place in a time where China has attacked The United States of America. Thus, causing world war III. Countries are torn apart and civilization is rerouted and rewired to have a monarchy instead of a democracy. Classes of people exist that oppress the masses and allow the elites to live a pampered existence. America finds herself torn between her love for the prince,the love of her family, and past childhood sweetheart. She is in a world of champagne while the common folks struggle to have clean water. Who will America choose to spend the rest of her life with? Can her conscience guide her and allow her to make the correct decision?I have to admit that I really could not get into this book. I don't know what it was about it, but I just was not able to enjoy it at all. I found the idea of classes to be disturbing and found America to be annoying and shallow. I did not see her character grow a great deal and was disappointed on how the common people were treated. I gave my best on this and got past page 75 with this book. I really could not force myself to continue to read it. I am not proud of that and normally try to see every book through to the end. Normally I don't have issues with young adults books, but this series is just way to simple and annoying for me. I honestly believe the author is talented, but I just can't bring myself to like her characters. I can't recommend this book and would have to say that I think most mature readers would get bored. This includes teenagers that are mature for their age as well. I think a 12 or 13 might get some enjoyment of this story, but that is it!
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LibraryThing member heike6
The story is still interesting, but this really felt like the middle book of a trilogy... a mostly unnecessary one. The main character just goes back and forth in her feelings for the two love interests. Blah.
LibraryThing member Brainannex
I wasn't sure if I was going to pick this up because I enjoyed some parts of The Selection but not all of it. I enjoyed the political parts, the intrigue parts, the upstairs/downstairs parts. I couldn't have cared less about the girls and the competition aspect of it all. I found myself having
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similar feelings this time around. There's some interesting bits that include homework for the elite and there are some situations that are heartbreaking *cough*Marlee*cough* but I still found the competition framework a little lackluster. Show Less
LibraryThing member BornBookish
Ugh, America Singer you may just be the death of me! Your inability to choose who it is your in love with makes me SO angry. I thought a decision would finally be made in this book but no, America continues to bounce between Aspen and Prince Maxon like a ping pong ball. At this point, I'm going to
Cass continues to do a great job of drawing the reader into the world she has created and leaving us emotionally invested. After all that's what it's all about right? Getting lost in another world, caring about the characters as if they are real, feeling all the different emotions when things go bad or things work out. Even though it drives me crazy most of the time, I still love it.
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feel bad for whatever guy gets kicked to the curb because they've both been lead on for so long. The one good thing about this infuriating love triangle is that I do like both guys, which pretty much never happens, so either way I'm happy. Cass continues to do a great job of drawing the reader into the world she has created and leaving us emotionally invested. After all that's what it's all about right? Getting lost in another world, caring about the characters as if they are real, feeling all the different emotions when things go bad or things work out. Even though it drives me crazy most of the time, I still love it.
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LibraryThing member RivkaBelle
Review originally published on my blog: AWordsWorth.blogspot.com
The Selection process is over, and now only the Elite remain. These six girls are so much closer to being Prince Maxon's bride, and changing their families' lives forever. America is one of those six.
I enjoyed The Elite as much as The
Despite the love triangle-aspect becoming a much bigger deal in this middle book, I'm desperately waiting for the final installment (The One!). I'm totally a Team Maxon girl, and want to be Team America too -- if she'll just grow up already. It's an intense story, in a crazy-different world, and I find myself somewhat addicted.
The Selection process is over, and now only the Elite remain. These six girls are so much closer to being Prince Maxon's bride, and changing their families' lives forever. America is one of those six.
I enjoyed The Elite as much as The
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Selection, and read it crazy fast. It's one of those stories you get really drawn into, and it takes twists and turns you don't always see coming. The tensions are rising, both among the remaining Elite girls and in general (kingdom unrest, rebels making statements, you know the drill). I just ... yeah. This book ... the way this is developing, and the surprises coming out of left field. The love, the agony, the hurts and joys. This stuff is real, y'all. I don't want to give away too much -- you really need to read this one through yourself, because there are some HUGE plot developments. I will tell you this, if by the end of the book you haven't formed strong opinions about the characters, then you are a lucky person. Ha! I kid, sort of. Maybe not. I got rather annoyed with America during The Elite -- she's wavering, waffling, being incredibly undecided and changing her mind every time her companion/setting changes. I believe in this girl, I believe she can do great things and she does have a heart of gold -- but she's got to stop falling prey to smooth words and the stranglehold of memories. She can hear what's in her heart, she knows what she wants to see changing in the Kingdom, and it's in her power to make stuff happen ... if she'd be brave and believe in herself the way I believe in her. The way Maxon believes in her.Despite the love triangle-aspect becoming a much bigger deal in this middle book, I'm desperately waiting for the final installment (The One!). I'm totally a Team Maxon girl, and want to be Team America too -- if she'll just grow up already. It's an intense story, in a crazy-different world, and I find myself somewhat addicted.
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Awards
Los Angeles Public Library Best of the Year (Teen — 2013)
Language
Original publication date
2013-05-01
Physical description
336 p.; 5.12 inches
ISBN
0007466706 / 9780007466702