Book review: The Selection by Kiera Cass

The young-adult novel, The Selection by Kiera Cass, has stood the test of time to still have a cult following. However, the reason why I decided to write a review about the novel now, which was first published in 2012, is because it is being made into a movie for Netflix, which is an exciting prospect, and, because we are being treated to a new book by Cass, called The Betrothed.

About the book

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 a palace and compete for the heart of 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.

Verdict

First, let me start off with a knee-diving laugh at the early comparison of The Selection being similar to The Hunger Games – (one of the most powerful examples of dystopia) meets The Bachelor reality television series.

It’s not, by any means dystopian, even though it is set in a caste system in a revolutionary world where history has been altered. But, it is nothing like the Hunger Games. The Bachelor on the other hand, they may have a point there. This book is a marshmellow wrapped in a blanket of fluff. 

America, our heroin, is compassionate, down to earth and definitely a girl you’d want to be friends with, but with two guys gunning for her affection, who knows who she’ll end up with. Don’t think you’ll find out that easy though!  

To be honest, this isn’t the most exciting book I’ve ever read, but it is definitely a spellbinder. Yes, I immediately got a hold of The Elite, which is the follow-up to The Selection to see what happens next. I will let you know what I thought as soon as I finish it.

So, even though the characters weren’t very unique, from America who would make the perfect princess to other contestants who were the perfect bitches, it still captured my imagination.

The concept is not original but there is romance, and if you are a romance novel lover, like me, then this one is for you. 

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

About the Author

Kiera Cass is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Selection series and The Siren. She is a graduate of Radford University and currently lives in Christiansburg, Virginia, with her family.

Other books by the author

The Queen (0.5)

The Prince (0.6)

The Selection (1)

The Elite (2)

The Guard (2.5)

The Favorite (2.6)

The One (3)

The Epilogue (3.1)

The Heir (4)

The Crown (5)

The Siren
The Betrothed