Swept Away by The Selection
YA novel a fantastic start to this romantic series
By PHOENIX CARLISLE
Cover courtesy of the book publisher
The Selection by Kiera Cass is a YA romance that is perfect for younger teens who want to get into reading. The first part of a series, the story follows America Singer throughout the Selection, when 35 girls are chosen through the caste system to compete for Prince Maxon’s hand in marriage. Although they don’t physically fight, the girls must stay in the palace in hope of wooing his highness. For America this is a nightmare — until she meets the prince. Readers will get swept up in the glittering gowns and drama of The Selection as they root for their favorite girl. Are you ready to see who wins the competition of a lifetime?
The Selection was one of the first books that got me into reading. I still remember the night I read it, staying up late to finish the novel.
One of the main things I loved about this book was how I didn’t just focus on the romance of whether America would be selected. I enjoyed the relationships between contestants. Instead of bickering with the other girls, America makes new friends. She becomes close with sweet Marlee and fierce Kriss. Each of the 35 girls has individual personality traits that make them all queen material. America starts off being a loner, and by the end of the first book she has tons of friends along with a major confidence boost.
Now for our love interest, Maxon Schreave. Prince Maxon is the definition of a golden retriever boy. He’s so sweet and fun. He makes bets with America then loses on purpose to see her happy. Maxon understands that America doesn’t want to be in the competition, so he makes a deal. She has to stay while enjoying the luxuries, aka royal food, yet she has to help Maxon learn to talk to and date girls. Maxon listens to her problems, knows what foods she loves. He cares for America and the other girls, and it pains him to have to eliminate them. Maxon is amazing. He sets the bar high, especially for girls that read about love at a young age.
The one character I didn’t like was Aspen, America’s secret boyfriend. He cheats and breaks her heart then gets a job working at the palace. While America tries to fall for Maxon, Aspen is trying to win America back. It’s an unnecessary love triangle that happens in many YA romances. Aspen was just so annoying and relentless. It dragged down the vibe, but luckily Maxon swoops in to save the story.
All in all, The Selection will hook young people into the world of reading. Experience the ups and downs throughout the five-book series that will make you swoon. Start with The Selection, then move on to The Elite, The One, The Heir and The Crown. Enjoy new readers!
