The Selection by Kiera Cass

Be warned now, so you don't follow in my footsteps. I went into The Selection thinking it was a fantasy novel. If you are looking for fantasy, stop right there. It is a dystopian novel and an amazing one at that. But it is not fantasy, no matter what the cover suggests. Now, on with the show.

The Selection is an excellent story. I loved it and was surprised at every turn. The main character is lovable and an obvious fighter. I love that her name is America. When you find out the details of her name, it's definitely a wonderful choice. The other characters are well-developed as well. The love triangle is strong, though doesn't show up until closer to the end. Which is just as well, I don't mind reading a story without a love triangle.

The plot is interesting and sets its own course. Nowadays, it seems like most YA novels follow a strict set of rules, but this is WAY outside the box. I find that wonderful. I can't wait for the next book, The Elite, which comes out in the spring. I give the book five stars.
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 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 crowns 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 always dreamed of may not compete to a future she never imagined.

Title: The Selection
Author: Kiera Cass
Release: April 24, 2012
Publisher: HarperTeen
Series: The Selection
Pages: 336