The Elite: A Book Review
Last week I shared my review for the first book in The Selection Series, so it only makes sense to continue with the series this week. As I mentioned last week, this was a series I just couldn't read fast enough. That has to be the plus to stumbling across a book series after it has almost all been published... no waiting for the next installment to be published!
 |
| * |
Oh I should add I can't help but give away some spoilers now, so if you haven't read The Selection, and don't want to know anything about where it leaves off, so finish it, and come back...
For everyone else.... here goes
Story Overview
The Elite by Kiera Cass is the second book in the series, and pretty much picks up where The Selection ends. Which was nice since I read them back to back, literally, I went straight into this one...
As America deals with the heartbreak of Aspen letting her go, more or less, she doesn't do much to help her standing in the competition. And this is a bad thing because King Clarkson simply does not want a girl of her caste in the selection. He is set on finding ways to get rid of her. That isn't that hard to do, since America does not try very hard to impress the royal family often.
This second book also gives us much more background on how America, the country, fell apart only to be rebuilt as Illea. More specifically, we learn about the Rebels - some are more violent than others. This leads to more political themes than the first book, which added a level to the story that Cass's amazing characters couldn't quite bring in the first book.
Most importantly, this book allows for America Singer to begin to mature, slightly, as she struggles to work through heartbreak, listen to what she actually wants for her life and family and future. She begins to socialize with the other girls more and more, which allows for more character development with some side characters; Celeste, Kriss and Marlee all become major players in this book.
As America deals with the heartbreak of Aspen letting her go, more or less, she doesn't do much to help her standing in the competition. And this is a bad thing because King Clarkson simply does not want a girl of her caste in the selection. He is set on finding ways to get rid of her. That isn't that hard to do, since America does not try very hard to impress the royal family often.
This second book also gives us much more background on how America, the country, fell apart only to be rebuilt as Illea. More specifically, we learn about the Rebels - some are more violent than others. This leads to more political themes than the first book, which added a level to the story that Cass's amazing characters couldn't quite bring in the first book.
Most importantly, this book allows for America Singer to begin to mature, slightly, as she struggles to work through heartbreak, listen to what she actually wants for her life and family and future. She begins to socialize with the other girls more and more, which allows for more character development with some side characters; Celeste, Kriss and Marlee all become major players in this book.
Personal Likes
I'm always a pulled into books that have complex characters, both the main characters and the side characters. So that is probably why I'm very drawn to these series. As the number of girls in the Selection are cut from 35 to 6 those Elite girls are able to be more open and known by the reader.
I also really appreciated the addition of more political story lines. It simply added to the predictable nature of easy YA lit especially since this series does play right into the Bachelor fandom.
And of course, as this is the second in the series, it ends with a major cliffhanger... so yes make sure you have The One lined up to read next.
I also really appreciated the addition of more political story lines. It simply added to the predictable nature of easy YA lit especially since this series does play right into the Bachelor fandom.
And of course, as this is the second in the series, it ends with a major cliffhanger... so yes make sure you have The One lined up to read next.
 |
| * |
Personal Dislikes
I did expect more from America Singer. I just wanted her to get over herself quicker. Granted, she does seem like a teenage girl to me, but still there were times when I just wanted to reach in and grab her shoulders in order to give her a swift shake.
I also had a hard time with many of the scenes with King Clarkson. He is not a nice guy, not with his son and not with the girls. He was violent and harsh,,, but it did lead to some great back story for Maxon so I guess I can't complain too much.
I also had a hard time with many of the scenes with King Clarkson. He is not a nice guy, not with his son and not with the girls. He was violent and harsh,,, but it did lead to some great back story for Maxon so I guess I can't complain too much.
Reasons to Read
If you read the first one, you have to keep going. Cass has done a marvelous job of creating a world full of characters that grab you. If you are slightly into fairy tales, princesses, fashion, or The Bachelor, then this is a series you're going to like. If you are a fan of competition shows and books this is for you. If you are a fan of dystopian stories that are not quite a graphic as The Hunger Games, this is for you.
Reading List Rating
I have to give this book four hearts. I loved it, but there was more violence and turmoil than the last one. And seriously America Singer... make up your mind!
My Suggested Audience
So the whole series is written for teenage girls. And I agree, this is the perfect series for a teenage girl. I'd say at least fifteen, as there are scenes that are not PG and hint at PG-13 in the intimacy levels and there was quite a bit of violence, although not gory, but still. I would say that all of the scenes were well written and needed to advance the story,
That leads me to parents of teenage girls... if your daughter is reading these books, pick them up and join her. It's the perfect opening for discussions that might be too hard to start otherwise.
Oh and like I said last time, anyone who enjoys a fun fictional story full of twists and pretty dress and competition... well this one is for you.
That leads me to parents of teenage girls... if your daughter is reading these books, pick them up and join her. It's the perfect opening for discussions that might be too hard to start otherwise.
Oh and like I said last time, anyone who enjoys a fun fictional story full of twists and pretty dress and competition... well this one is for you.
I have to know, have you read this one? What was the last book series you just couldn't stop reading?
I'd love to hear from you, please leave me a little note!
**If you are considering purchasing this book, please consider using the affiliate link here and support Reading List in the process.
***If you're interested in writing a book review on Reading List, please message me on the Facebook page! If you're curious about a book, ask me... I love to hear from you!
*Image credits: Kiera Cass & Epic Reads
Linking up with these fun hops:
0 coment�rios