Finally. I finished The Elite only earlier today, and I still haven't recovered from everything that happened in this book.
Here I am in this warm night, eager to share with you guys what I think about the sequel to The Selection, by Kiera Cass!
Details
Title: The Elite
Author: Kiera Cass
Number of Pages: 323 (Paperback)
Date of Publication: April 23, 2013
Publisher: HarperTeen
Synopsis
The Selection began with thirty-five girls. Now, with the group narrowed down to the Elite, the competition to win Prince Maxon's heart is fiercer than ever--and America is still struggling to decide where her own heart truly lies. Is it with Maxon, who could make her life a fairy tale? Or with her first love, Aspen, who she always thought was the one?
America is desperate for more time. But the rest of the Elite know exactly what they want--and America's chance to choose is about to slip away.
Review
In The Selection, we were shown America's rock-hard shell that she put around herself to not let Maxon get to her. We were also shown how this shell broke, making America actually care for the prince. Of course, problems were presented as well, such as the rebel attacks, Aspen's case, and Celeste. Additionally, America's personality gradually became prominent to the readers.
If The Selection were a ripple, The Elite would be a wave.
Firstly, since there were only 6 people left in the competition, it is fair enough to say that America's personality became more noticeable. Not only hers, but of everyone else's too. Every scene was intense. Of course, except for those regarding America's impending disaster: who to choose (more on that later on). More details about The Selection Series's world were laid down, such as the correlation of America and Illea's politics, details that were only appropriate to include in the sequel to a book in a series.
Now, regarding "America's choice". I was a bit bothered about America's confusion as to who to pick. It wasn't a big deal for me, but it took up much of the content of the book. And in my opinion the choice could've been obvious, if she permitted it to be. But there's no denying it-I really loved those sweet and romantic scenes with America and one of her boys.
This book also made a feat for me: actual tears came to my eyes TWICE!
Okay. I'm not talking about hardcore crying, as in sobs and all that. But my eyes really filled with tears when I found out what happened to Marlee and Carter. Again, when I sympathized with America with what she was feeling regarding Maxon (betrayal, I suppose). It's actually hard for me to cry, and I was (still am) surprised that this book managed to do that.
Again, much of the characters' personalities were exposed more in this installment. I was rather surprised when I found out about the real thing going on with the king and the prince (no malice there!). Yes, I was really mad. And that revelation made me sympathize with Maxon even more.
Oh, I forgot to mention this. I also found it really easy to sympathize with both America and Maxon. They carried a LOT on their backs, so it's hard for them not to break and put their own facades.
The romance was also very stunning (yet confusing, especially with Aspen around). Additionally, I found myself laughing in some parts. Maxon and America really know how to get to each other.
Overall, even though I was mad at Maxon for letting Celeste do that, and for making America doubt him because of Kriss, even though I was mad at the King and his tyranny, even though Aspen just made everything confusing for America, even though I was mad at America for letting Aspen, this was a really lovely book. It's perfect for Summertime.
The Elite is a light and lovely read with: contrasting themes and atmospheres, enchanting and provocative romance, and wonderful and unique world-building. The writing is fantastic too!
So if you're looking for a love story which isn't that ordinary, please do try The Selection series!
About the Author
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.
Okay. I have to say I was mesmerized by the time I reached the ending. I didn't mind picturing Maxon and/or America with exposed bodies as well. AND KIERA CASS IS COMING TO THE PHILIPPINES!
Tune in for more bookish ventures!
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