Posted on my blog:: Check it out.The Book Twins | YA & Adult reviews
There was so much hype surrounding this book. Both positive and negative, but I, for one, like to test things out for myself and form my own opinion. And that is just what I did.
I think we can all agree, the cover is absolutely gorgeous. It makes you feel as if you are at some dance or ball. It even looks like someone might wear to a fancy event in the 1800's.
I have to applaud the publishers and artist designer for making this book look quite pretty. I certainly approve.
I quite enjoyed this book. It gave an interesting take on the dystopian world. Sure, there was similarities to other books, but when you are writing in a genre where a lot of books have been done over over, it's natural that things tend to get similar at some point. But it still managed to stand out on its own.
America was an interesting character. She believed in love, tough and stubborn. If there was something she didn't want to do, she wouldn't do it. But of course, if she thought by doing something it might help or benefit her family, who she loves dearly, then she would do anything to make sure they have the best life possible.
You see, America is a number 5, which means artists, singers, performers. And by that stands for food not always being there on the table. You have to work for it and work for their kind of talents just doesn't come easily.
When she enters The Selection, she never imagined she would get chosen. But when she does, she'll soon have to get real because not only is this a competition where some girls would do anything to win, but it's also an experience she could never have envisioned for herself.
Then, we have her two love interests. Yes, girls and boys, there is a dreaded triangle. I know, I know. It seems they are everywhere these days. But I suppose, it's what makes things interesting, although in most cases you can tell which way things will go. But that's not always the case, like in this example.
We have Aspen, who is from America's home town, but in a lower caste then her. So, in some cases it might seem like their love is forbidden, because he'll never feel good enough for her.
But then we have Maxon. Who is royalty and has the country's needs at his hands. That's a tough position to be in.. for someone so young.
When America is forced to leave Aspen and meets Maxon, things aren't picture perfect. Hell, they don't even get along at first. Although, with everything, that take a little time.
And by the end, America will see that he is an option for her affections, and she won't be sure what she should do, or where her heart lies.
This book is more about the romance then it is about any rebellion, although I am sure that will come up before the end of the series. I don't think it will be as bad or horrible as other Dystopian novels, such as, The Hunger Games and Divergent, but I think it will be there nonetheless.
I would like to point out that while I do like Aspen, and things are about to get interesting, not to mention complicated, I am FULLY TEAM MAXON!
I look forward to see how things progress in the next book of this series. At this point I can't see who she will choose and end up with. It could be either of them, although I do secretly hope for Maxon.
Rating: 4/5