The Selection by Kiera Cass

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 the palace and compete for the heart of the 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.

Sorry Book Club gals! I couldn't wait for the end of the year to read this. And I'm so glad I didn't. It would have been like when Divergent by Veronica Roth sat on my friend's bookshelf for half a year before she actually read it, and then she kicked herself for waiting six months to pick it up (because Divergent was AMAZING!!). I just couldn't let that happen with this book.

I loved this book. It was different than I was expecting, but it was in a GOOD way. In my head, I pictured this book being set in the past or at least having more of a fantasy feel to it, but it was actually closer to dystopian than fantasy. It's set in the future and has "castes" that reminded me a little (just the castes and VERY LITTLE) of The Hunger Games. The lower the number of your caste, the less privileged you are. For example, Ones are royalty and Sixes are servants. Eights (the lowest caste) are degenerates and criminals. As the book opens, you find that a questionnaire was sent to all the young women of a certain age in the country(?) about their interests and accomplishments. From there, thirty-five of them are chosen "at random" to take part in The Selection-- basically a royal version of The Bachelor.

Really, that's where the story became unique for me. I loved America, and I couldn't help but root for her and Prince Maxon, even when there wasn't much between them to root for at first. I thought their first meeting was hilarious and embarrassing and it was when America became really endearing to me. I love that she was so adamant about staying true to herself throughout the book. There was the little hiccup in her love life (ASPEN) that I didn't much care for, and I am anxious to see what happens next in the story. 

Like I said, I loved this book. I was disappointed that the story had to end, but I am excited for the next installment, even though this one was just released! As much as I hate to admit it, I am relieved that this book is not a stand-alone novel. It would have made things too rushed and I am happy that I don't have to say goodbye to America just yet. This is definitely one to add to your "TO BUY" pile. It was another favorite this year. I'm on a roll! ;)

Happy Reading!