Review: The Elite

 * Sequel to The Selection - which comes out April 23rd*

America's still at the Palace along with 5 other girls, all wanting Maxon's heart and hand in marriage. Maxon's waiting to hear that America's decided her future.

She's torn between the Prince and a boy from her home, who just happens to be at the castle too. Her heart and her head is torn. She's not sure she has what it takes to be a Princess and help  rule the land.

The longer she puts off her decision, the more contests pop up, showing off strengths and weaknesses of the other girls. The Rebels are also growing more and more daring. Soon it's not just America's heart that might not be safe.

My Thoughts: I devoured this book. I loved the tasks given to the girls to proof their ability to continue not only in the selection but also their lives as Princess. I enjoyed the various levels of comradery between the girls. I liked America unraveling her thoughts: her worries, her fears, and her desires. There were times when I wanted to tell her she was being silly, but I liked watching the process. There were so many emotions flailing through this book: horror, awe, adoring, scared, anxious.  I can't wait to find out how it all ends!

Cover Thoughts: Great!
Source: Sent for Review
Fun Fact: The Show for CW is still in the works!This makes me VERY excited!!

Review: The Selection

America's world isn't great, but it isn't bad either. There's always food on the tables. She loves her musical job. She has a secret boyfriend, whom she's planning a life with. But one moment changes all that.

Prince Maxon's looking for a wife and one girl from each province (35 total) will compete for his hand in marriage. America has no interest in throwing her name into the ring, but separately, Aspen and her mother convince her to participate.

America's stunned when her name is announced on the news. She's elevated into society and taken to the Palace with the other girls. There she will meet the Royal family, including the Prince.

In leaving her home, America's heart broke. She needs to stay at the palace to recover from her heartache, but also to help her family financially. The longer she's there, the more money her family receives. They could certainly use the help.

The first night, America befriends the Prince. Her low ranking among society and her beauty make her a favorite with the people. The more time she spends with the Prince, the more her heart starts to unthaw. Could she ever love him?

My Thoughts: I didn't realize this was the start of a new series  and was surprised when it ended, but I'm happy there's more coming. I devoured this book - I could not put it down. 


I really liked this world with the castes and society. I loved how America befriended the Prince and their first moments together. I loved their relationship - their easy manner, their banter, and their honesty. I love how America might be opening his eyes to all the castes of society and the hardship for the lower people. 


I liked America's family, especially her two younger siblings. I found them entertaining. I hope there's more of them in the upcoming books. 


I loved the Palace and the descriptions of the dresses. I liked the other girls, especially Anne, Mary and Lucy (her maids) and Marlee.  


I liked the ending and admired America.


Cover Thoughts: I adore the cover - although I wish it tied into the book. There were so many dresses described...


Source: my Library.


Fun Fact: There's talk of this becoming a show on the CW - which would be cool. They shot the Pilot, but are going back to change things. It's not slated for Fall release, but it might be a mid-season show.