The Selection by Kiera Cass Review

The Selection by Kiera Cass
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Goodreads: For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

My thoughts: This is just a nice, refreshing read. It was sweet but not corny, dystopic but not dark, romantic but not slutty.

It's the future and the United States has been remade. There is a section of the book where the history is provided. America, the protagonist, is named after America, as in the United States of. Now the current geography consists of countries and districts of different names. There is a king and queen along with a prince. The caste system has been introduced and is going strong. The country is trying to survive but rebels seem to always attack someplace. Nobody really knows what they want.

Meanwhile, the prince, Maxon, comes of age and needs a queen. Anybody interested and in the age group apply, regardless of caste. America is a 5 which is not very good. Hunger not a stranger. She's in love with Aspen, a 6. They are always hungry and poor. 8's are homeless. Ones are elite. 35 girls are chosen from the masses. You can guess that America is one of them. They begin a royal series of "The Bachelor." Of course, since it is in the royal court, there are many differences. Those who love the Bachelor will enjoy a different take on it.

The story is easy to walk to into. The characters are interesting and provide depth. Maxon is not what one would expect. America is a likeable protagonist and a flying banner for being yourself.

Swearing: A couple of farm words
Sex: None -
Making out - yes
Violence - implied on the periphery

Highly recommend, especially for younger teenage girls. And their moms. :D

*I received a free copy of this book from publishing company in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.