The Elite (The Selection, #2) by Kiera Cass Published by HarperTeen on April 23rd 2013
Also by this author: The Selection
Pages: 336
Goodreads
The Selection began with thirty-five girls. Now with the group narrowed down to the six Elite, the competition to win Prince Maxon's heart is fiercer than ever—and America is still struggling to decide where her heart truly lies. Is it with Maxon, who could make her life a fairy tale? Or with her first love, Aspen?
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.
The Elite is the second book of the Selection series by Kiera Cass. I read the three books in quick succession since I wasn’t feeling great at the time and binged the three books, so forgive me if I confuse certain details from the books.
America Singer is still our protagonist and the only point of view character in the book. The group of girls has slimmed down to the Elite. One of them will be named the new princess and queen. What I liked most about this book was that we got to know the other girls more, and their backstory. All of them come from different ways of living and as we meet them, we learn more about the world as well. Where The Selection was a great setup, The Elite definitely delves deeper into the world and the characters.
The story itself is still somewhat predictable, but that’s okay. When I picked up these books I was looking for an easy and quick read. I didn’t need to be challenged, I just wanted to enjoy my time reading. And I definitely got that from them. I love the characters, America’s softness in a harsh world, but also Maxon’s kindness.
It does feel a bit strange that despite the king and queen the society is so strict and regulated. They don’t seem like the kind of people who would approve of such a system. But this book isn’t about them. It’s about America and Maxon, and what they are going to do, and what choices they make.
I give The Elite four stars. I enjoyed it very much for what it was. It’s not a masterpiece. It doesn’t have three layered deep meanings. It’s an enjoyable YA fantasy romance that’ll make you swoon. Highly recommended if you want a light read.
