The Queen: Review

Synopsis:

Before America Singer's story began, another girl came to the palace to compete for the hand of a different prince….

Don't miss this digital original novella set in the captivating world of Kiera Cass's #1 New York Times bestselling Selection series. This prequel story takes place before the events of The Selection and is told from the point of view of Prince Maxon's mother, Amberly. Discover a whole new Selection with this inside look at how Maxon's parents met—and how an ordinary girl named Amberly became a beloved queen.

***

This is a weird book. I mean, it's fun reading about Maxon's mother. It's just strange to read about Clarkson, who is my least favorite character (of course) in the trilogy. In fact, he's so hated that I don't understand Amberly's devotion to him. Amberly is obviously a nice girl. But really, she's too passive and obedient. I'm not used to reading about a relatively weak girl who relies on her husband to live. Clarkson... well, at least we will know why he's such a jerk in the trilogy. But I really don't expect him to be... kind. He's bossy though, even in his teenage years. It's hard to judge him fairly when I've been so accustomed to the horrible behavior of that son of a bitch. It's an experience though, and people say always go for new experiences.

Besides the fact that I'm weirded out, I actually feel nothing when I read the book. Definitely no swooning, because that will be kind of disgusting. It's not a bad novella though.

Rating: 6/10

Series Recap: The Selection Trilogy by Kiera Cass

Reading Order: (Sort by date)

The Selection (Book 1, Published on April 24, 2012)
The Prince (Book 0.5, Published on March 5, 2013)
The Elite (Book 2, Published on April 23, 2013)
The Guard (Book 2.5, Published on February 4, 2014)
The One (Book 3, Published on May 6, 2014)
The Queen [Not shown in here] (Book 0.4, Not yet published)

Click the titles to check out my reviews.

***

Synopsis recap:

It's the futuristic America... um, Illea, where people are divided into eight caste. The Ones are royals, while the Eights are the unwanted ones. America Singer is a Five. And she's about to join the Selection -- a public event of The prince choosing one of the thirty-five girls as his wife and be a princess -- almost against her will, because of various reasons. However, things get different when America gets to the palace and sees Prince Maxon truly for the very first time. Hearts are divided. Along with the journey, America discovers just how dark and twisted her country really is.


Thoughts Recap:

(Beware of harshness)

This trilogy is probably one of the most overrated I've ever read.

The first book is actually pretty interesting. No one has ever attempt to do this before (at least to my knowledge). And it's fun and witty. America is pretty amazing in the first book. So I had high hopes after I read The Selection. Yet my hopes were totally damned after I read The Elite because it just annoys the hell out of me. The One is slightly better, but still, I don't understand why I keep reading it in the first place.

Yes, annoying. You heard me right. Why? Duh, girl fights. Epic girl freaking fights, which is probably one of the most exhausting thing known to mankind. Especially in The Elite, where everything just goes to hell (according to my spiked-up temper). The next big frustrating part is the insecurity, which there are plenty of it. If you are not sure, just be brave and confront it! Don't go, "I still have time so I'm just gonna drop it for a little while.". No wonder there are so much drama. Unnecessary ones.

Of course, there are positive sides of the series. Like the first book, which I mentioned above. The rebels, which is awesome. And it will be better if the rebels play a bigger part in the story. King Clarkson, seriously. I hate this guy, but he still makes a good villain nonetheless. And Marlee, actually, who is defiant and loyal to her friends. But unfortunately the positive sides can't outweigh the negative sides.

So, basically, I'm not sure why all the hype about this series. It's not even that good.


Overall rating: 5/10
Do I recommend this series?: Not really, no.

The One: Review

Synopsis:

The Selection changed the lives of thirty-five girls forever. And now, the time has come for one winner to be chosen.

America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown—or to Prince Maxon's heart. But as the competition approaches its end and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants.

From the very first page of The Selection, this #1 New York Times bestselling series has captured readers' hearts and swept them away on a captivating journey... Now, in The One, Kiera Cass delivers a satisfying and unforgettable conclusion that will keep readers sighing over this electrifying fairy-tale long after the final page is turned.

***

(Contain spoilers of The Elite)

I wasn't sure I wanted to pick this book up after the epic showdown of girl fights, pointless argument and jealousy. I thought it would end with me so annoyed that I would bang my head to the door. It's better than that, to my relief. But I also have to say my feelings are really bipolar with The One. 

I am pretty happy to learn more about the rebels, especially the Northern rebels because they seem to be non-violent and quite interesting. In fact this is one of the parts that I actually look forward to in this book. I'm totally satisfied with this. I'm also very relieved that America finally clear things out with Aspen because the uncertainty is so annoying.

Now, forgive me for complaining a lot.

The main characters, aka America, Maxon and Aspen give me a hard time in this book. I want to slap each of them at least once, particularly with Maxon (which is why I want to slap him multiple times). Yes, Maxon, you heard me right. It actually kind of surprises me, but this guy is way more annoying than Aspen this time, and I don't even know that's actually possible. What's the deal with him? His uncertainty kills me. Be confident and grow a pair be a man, jeez. And as for America... I don't understand the hesitation of telling the truth. All the melodramatic scenes exhausts me. Aspen is actually the least slap-worthy out of the three of them, which is very surprising, because Aspen is my least favorite character in The Elite. I don't mind him being less annoying, though.

The rebel part also falls short in the book. Other than learning slightly more about the Northern rebels, nothing. I get this is not a straight-out dystopian novel. But I want a great taste of just how violent the Southern Rebels are and the deal with the Italian princess. They can be great storylines. And yet... there's almost nothing about them in The One, which is utterly disappointing. I'm so angry about this, because I'd love to see some action. 

There are actually a lot of smaller things that I can complain, but I'm gonna save it. (Besides, I can't talk about them without giving out spoilers of The One). 

So yes, I'm pretty bipolar about this book. On one hand I like the fact that the rebels are actually involved in this story and the lack of uncertainty between America and Aspen, on the other I'm pissed about a lot of things. I don't know how I view this book generally, but I'm certain that this is not gonna be one of my favorite endings.

Rating: 6.5/10

The Guard: Review

Synopsis:

Before America Singer met Prince Maxon . . .
Before she entered the Selection . . .
She was in love with a boy named Aspen Leger.

Don't miss this digital original novella set in the captivating world of Kiera Cass's #1 New York Times bestselling Selection trilogy. This brand new 64-page story begins just after the group of Selected girls is narrowed down to the Elite and is told from Aspen's point of view. The Guard also features a teaser to The One, the thrilling conclusion to The Selection trilogy.

***

I actually have no idea what to think of Aspen. I mean, it's obvious that he loves America. Because it's pretty clear that he puts her above all things, and he wants to keep her happy and safe. But I also don't like the fact that his jealousy is deep. Because in more ways than one, he doesn't have a right to be, not when he is the one who pushes America away. And then he acts like a jealous boyfriend? Yeah, It's safe to say I'm a little pissed. 

I think it's not necessary to read The Guard, because it's more like a Aspen's-point-of-view-in-scenes-in-The-Elite. But despite my uncertainty towards Aspen, it's still a fun read. Do I suddenly ship him or what? Most definitely not. But make no mistake, I still don't ship Maxon/America. I don't think he's good enough to deserve her, either.

Rating: 7/10

Cover Reveal: The One by Kiera Cass

Here's the cover! And while I'm not particularly fond of this series, I still want to know what happens next even though I'm sure at some point The One will annoy me.

So yeah, it's here:

I knew it! I know it would be white, and here she is, in a wedding dress.

That doesn't mean I'm happy, though.

Because I totally don't ship her with Maxon. (Not that I ship her with Aspen, but come on)

Here's my reason (in my review of The Elite):

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-elite-review.html

And it's too obvious. I mean, it's a wedding freaking dress. I'm not sure she will get a dress like that if America is marrying Aspen (I know he's a Two, but seriously)

Synopsis:

America must decide if she's truly the One.

Don't miss the captivating conclusion to The Selection trilogy.

The One will be released on May 6, 2014

Thoughtful Thursday: The One by Kiera Cass

The Elite was released on April 23 this year. And damn if it isn't one pain in the ass hell of a read. Okay, sorry 'bout the pain-in-the-ass but that is how I felt when I finished the book. \

Check my review of The Elite here: http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-elite-review.html

Okay, moving on to the finale of the trilogy, The One.

Avoid this post if you haven't read The Elite.

The title:

Personally, I think the title is way too spoilery. It's like declaring Maxon/America forever and I'm like "meh". Come on, neither of the boys deserve America. Unless you are telling me America is the ONE who overthrows the kingdom through rebellious ways. That will be much better (Although I highly doubt its possibility).

The cover:

Um... if the whole she's the future princess/queen thing is true, then I'm really expecting a wedding gown. Not that it is definitely white, but it might actually be a freaking wedding gown. But... white? A white book? That's a little hard to imagine....

What I expected would happen (HUGE SPOILERS AHEAD! DON'T READ THIS IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE ELITE YET!):

1) America vs Clarkson: Oh, if you remember the last scenes, it's Clarkson declaring war on America to get her out of the palace. I believe more word battle and glaring eyes will come alive in the third book

2) Rebellion: They will definitely be more savage/determined/desperate, especially when the Southerners are seemingly so... fond of America. That will be an interesting twist. I can't wait to see how this will be carried out

3) The Italians: If you remember, the Italians said that they will help America to get the crown if she asks them. I think this might actually happen since... if America truly wants the crown, getting help from the Italians is so much better than facing the obstacle alone.

4) Girl-fights: I have a feeling that girl fights might not be that intense in this book because America might be busy preparing to overthrow the caste system AT LEAST. I'm so freaking tired of Celeste.

5) Kriss: Yeah, the nice girl. I have a feeling it's either Kriss or America for Maxon. Although I will be more than okay for America to join the rebellion group...

6) Romantic moments: I'm the most unsure about this out of all. Personally, without Maxon screwing being with other girls, the romantic moments will be more pure. As for Aspen... I don't really give a damn to him. But I have a feeling that Maxon will find out "Officer Leger" and America sooner or later... (and Clarkson will have an excuse to kick her out of the palace. Duh.)

7) How it will end: I can think of two right now: Either America will be the future queen and promote revolutionary policies or America will achieve the fall of caste system through rebellious acts. I think the former is more likely than the latter, although I like the latter much better...

What are your thoughts? Feel free to sound off in the comment area below :)

The Elite: Review

Synopsis:

The hotly-anticipated sequel to the New York Times bestseller The Selection.

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.

***

(This might contain spoilers of The Selection)

The main characters have changed so much in this book and mostly... not in a good way. First is America. Her lack of confidence for herself is terrifying. And she cries a lot in this book. God, I really miss the carefree girl in The Selection. She's also annoying indecisive. She practically runs between two boys and dates BOTH boys. She just practically loses her own girl powers. I am quite disappointed at her until somewhere near the end of the book, where there are life-changing things revealed. And this is not good. At all. She should definitely join the rebellion if she is so sick of the caste system.

The two boys, Maxon and Aspen, aren't better than America either. Maxon first. Damn, sometimes I really want to kick him in his groin. He's a jerk. I completely understand his motives because of America's indecisiveness. But doing what he does is completely idiotic. I was prepared to root for Maxon when I finished The Selection and looking forward to The Elite. But now I can't no matter what he does anymore. 

I don't like Aspen. Not at all. Not only he's also a jerk. He thinks that America will run to him straight. Come on, who did the work of pushing America away at the first place? And he shows up like nothing has happened and demand America to make a choice? Who the hell does he think he is? Jeez, I don't like that guy at all. To be straightforward, I don't think Maxon or Aspen deserves to be with America. 

Mostly the book is about the love triangle and keen competitions between the girls. And that... finally annoys me. I said that The Selection is better than I thought it was because the competitions are not so tense. Not in this time and things get really messed up. I'm not a fan of girl-fights. And I'm certainly not a fan of a messed-up love triangle. This is the main reason why I can't like this book as much as I thought I would.

I think the better part of this book is about the rebellion. Finally the side plot tangles up with the main one. I think with the rebellion terrorizing Illea, things can get infinitely more interesting. Come on, changing the caste system and stuff is way better than just The Selection and all those competitions. I hope that more rebellion stuff will happened in the final book. Because I can't stand anymore PURE girl-vs-girl competitions.

Last line: Oh did I mention the most deserved-to-be-kicked-in-the-groin character? The King. He's not just a complete jerk. He's the perfect enemy for a rebellion group fighting for freedom.

Rating: 6.5/10

***

Info:

The third and the final installment of The Selection trilogy is called:

The One

Uh, I think that bit is too spoilery. You know what I mean.

Short Story Review Sunday: The Prince by Kiera Cass

Synopsis:

Before thirty-five girls were chosen to compete in the Selection...

Before Aspen broke America's heart...

There was another girl in Prince Maxon's life...

Don't miss this thrilling 128-page original novella set in the world of the New York Times bestselling novel The Selection. Also features a teaser to The Elite, Kiera Cass's hotly anticipated sequel to The Selection.

***

(This review is gonna be shorter)

To my surprise, The Prince sets in a time not long before the events in Selection. (Spoilers!) And some of it are the events in the time of The Selection. (End of Spoilers) It's really weird to picture a French princess (is she French?) with Maxon. Because that seems a little laughable. But that also explain his almost unnatural anxiety towards the thirty-five girls during The Selection. Nice work.

This is quite entertaining. Some scenes are more than the others. It's nice to see things in Maxon's point of view, since he's... almost like an ultimate good boy. And I can't keep giggling when I read the last 2 chapters. You will know what I mean once you read it. He's just cute in these two chapters. :D

Rating: 8/10

The Selection: Review

Synopsis:

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 a palace and compete for the heart of 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.

***

I like The Selection. I really do. It's very different from the YA novels I read before because... well, they are not fantasy, obviously. And they are not exactly dystopian. Change always has its advantage. But again, change always has its disadvantage, as well. 

I didn't really have high hopes on The Selection at first because it just sounds so weird. I mean, the selection among 35 girls? For a princess/future queen/whoever she is? That's kind of bizarre to me. The only reasons I read this are because it's kind of popular and there are many good reviews about it. But it turns out better than I thought. Way better. I'm never the kind of girl that is big on girl-fights. But no, there are no girl-fights and yes, the process is more entertaining than I thought it would be.

And there are rebel attacks too. I'm a big fan of dystopian world, so please don't judge me on this one. I really do think that Cass should write more about the rebel attacks. Yeah, I know the whole point of the book isn't like that, at least not in The Selection. But I think rebel attacks are more interesting. But there's clearly not enough about them. And the whole caste thing in the kingdom is another thing that can make a good background of a dystopian world. Yeah, I know that this is not a dystopian novel. But I think the caste system is something worth being written. I think that will make the book more interesting if multiple obstacles are happening at the same time.

America Singer is a... quite lively character, despite her claim of being quiet all the time. At least, that's when she's in front of Maxon. I think she's tough too. Not the dystopian-badass-tough. But more like those who endured and suffer from social problems and develop a toughness. And surprisingly she's really sweet. I mean, I expected her to be nice, but never SWEET. It's no wonder Maxon falls for her. But then, it's the plot.

There's nothing bad to say about Maxon. He's sweet. He's not snobby. He's... quite a cool guy. But he's just... a little of a flat character to me. Okay, he's way better than some of the other main male protagonist that I read before, but he's just too formal. and... okay, he's trained to show little emotion when it comes to unexpected situation. But jeez, a little too emotionless, okay? But maybe I won't think of him like that if I read this before I read Apollyon. You know what I mean. :)

I won't say Cass's words are exactly beautiful or poetic or energetic. But it's really comforting, considering it's... really lively. She uses slightly simpler words and easier description to write this book, and it has a good effect on this book. The only thing about her writing is that it's... somehow not enough to describe the whole thing or situation. But I think her words are really good.

I look forward to read The Elite, and hopefully more fun will come.

Rating: 7.5/10