America Singer is torn by indecision. Representing her district will bring financial and status benefits for her family, but it will also mean turning her back on Aspen, the man she loves. When America is chosen, she is devastated and is certain that she will find Prince Maxon arrogant and unpleasant. In a swirl of ball gowns and jewellery, America discovers that when your world turns upside down, the only thing you can do is remain true to yourself.
The Selection is a light, enjoyable teen romance with a difference, combining the reality-TV like format of the Selection with the emotional turmoil of America as she tries to choose between her long-time love and her growing affection for the charming Prince Maxon. The novel is given some depth thanks to the political intrigue of this dystopia future where a person's career path and relationship choices are determined by their social rank/caste.
I like that in the midst of the competition between the wannabe princesses and despite her own confusion, America still remains true to her own values.
The Selection takes readers only so far through the search for Maxon's princess and readers will be left eagerly awaiting the sequel to find out what choices America's heart leads her to make. I confess that I've already picked my favourite between Maxon and Aspen and I will be interested to see how Cass develops the story in the sequel.
Title: The Selection (Selection #1)
Author: Kiera Cass
Publisher: HarperCollins, $14.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 June 2012
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780007466696
For ages: 14+
Type: Young adult fiction
