Review: The Elite by Kiera Cass

Title: The Elite 

(Selection #2)

Author: Kiera Cass

Summary:

Thirty-five girls came to the palace to compete in the Selection. All but six have been sent home. And only one will get to marry Prince Maxon and be crowned princess of Illea.

America still isn’t sure where her heart lies. When she’s with Maxon, she’s swept up in their new and breathless romance, and can’t dream of being with anyone else. But whenever she sees Aspen standing guard around the palace, and is overcome with memories of the life they planned to share. With the group narrowed down to the Elite, the other girls are even more determined to win Maxon over—and time is running out for America to decide.

Just when America is sure she’s made her choice, a devastating loss makes her question everything again. And while she’s struggling to imagine her future, the violent rebels that are determined to overthrow the monarchy are growing stronger and their plans could destroy her chance at any kind of happy ending

Review: 

I have been waiting anxiously to get my hands on a copy of The Elite, ever since I finished reading The Selection! And it did NOT disappoint!

The story starts right where the Selection stops. There are 6 girls left, including America, in the running of trying to win the heart of Prince Maxon and becoming the princess. America continues to care for Maxon, but her heart still feels for her first love, Aspen, who is a soldier there in the palace.

There are more rebel attacks, one so severe that America was almost captured. I have a feeling the rebels will be a bigger part in the next book (*crosses fingers*) So there was constant action.

By the end of the book, there are only 4 girls left… one of them going out in a very tragic way. (don’t worry, she doesn’t die)

I will say that this book actually made me tear up a few times. Once when America receives recognition and praise from her father, after she did something most people would condemn (but she felt strongly about) and another towards the end when she is saying goodbye to one of the guys. (no spoilers here)

Really, I don’t even think she made up her mind about which one she wants. I mean, I think its clear, but its so hard to be sure since she wavers so much., and I cant blame her. Aspen is great and steady and she knows he loves her. But Maxon is great in his own way (though I don’t like him now as much as  did in the first book)

This book is grittier. Some crazy things go down. And I still cannot wait for the next one. Just found out theres a little novella… so Im gonna try and find that

Rating: 5 stars