Ship It Or Rip It Part 6

So here is the 6th installment of Ship It Or Rip It! I am loving these posts, and I hope you are too. I've got lots of other great posts lined up so watch this space!

This is currently the last post as I only have 16 characters left and so 6 will carry on to when I've added more characters. 

Cress (The Lunar Chronicles) and Call (Magisterium)

I could actually see this happening? Call is such an unfortunte soul that I think Cress would do him a world of good, although he would probably find her too girly at first. She would dote over his heroism, just as she does Thorne.

Verdict: Ship it.

Ron (Harry Potter) and Tris (Divergent)

Hmm another interesting one! But, again, I think it would sort of work. Both have come from a loving family and have (sort of) willingly thrown themselves into danger to help others. They are both brave and selfless and whilst I imagine they would make better friends than lovers, I reckon they could give it a good go.

Verdict: Ship it.

Draco (Harry Potter) and Jem (The Infernal Devices)

Can't see this working at all. Don't get me wrong, I imagine Draco might admire what the Shadowhunters do and perhaps even good Draco would get along with Jem, but they definitely would never make a couple (as much as my fangirl heart kind of now wants it!)

Verdict: Rip it.

Jacin (The Lunar Chroncicles) and Maxon (The Selection)

I actually see this working! They're both a little flat (although I do prefer Maxon) and with Maxon being a Prince and Jacin being a guard.. yes! Someone write this cross over now, I actually need it.

Verdict: Ship it.

Diana (Gone series) and Izzy (The Mortal Instruments)

When I first saw this, I laughed. But now, I actually see it. They are both strong, fierce women and although Diana is a bit wacky, once she settles down I could see her and Izzy being a super bada** power couple!

Verdict: Ship it.

Read parts 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5.

Thanks for reading! I've loved doing these posts and the fantastic ships that come out of it. Are you enjoying them? If so, comment your views below and any characters you would love to see included next time!

Ship It Or Rip It Part 5

Welcome to the fifth installment of this. As always, I'd love to hear some feedback from you.

I've since added Call, Tamara and Aaron from the Magisterium series to the list of characters included. Let me know of your favourites that you would like to see!

Jace (The Mortal Instruments) and Newt (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them)

Nope. Could not see this happening at all. Jace is way too badass and moody to deal with my precious darling Newt. Newt cares too much about animals to have time for Jace's adventures. And besides, I could see Newt wanting to help save demons rather than slay them...

Verdict: Rip it.

Merlin (Arthurian legend) and Chase (Raised by Wolves)

Oh wow, this is actually worse than Jace and Newt! Merlin the magnificient sorceror and Chase, the moody werewolf. Definitely would never happen. I actually can't even vaguelly imagine it. 

Verdict: Rip it.

Luna (Harry Potter) and Aaron (Magisterium)

You know what? I actually can imagine this. Aaron is such a lovely, funny, sweet guy and Luna is so pretty and individual, it would just work so well. Luna wouldn't care about Aaron's fame and importance and would just love him for his bravery.

Verdict: Ship it.

Sam (Gone series) and Tamara (Magisterium)

Yes yes yes! The hero from the FAYZ and the heroine from the Magisterium?? Perfect match! Gosh, I ship Sam with anyone other than Astrid to be honest. Definitely down for this pair, they would get along so well!

Verdict: Ship it.

Drake (Gone series) and Aspen (The Selection)

So even though I hate both of these characters with a passion, I still don't think they would be good for each other. Drake is just pure evil. He doesn't belong with even the worst person ever. Aspen is just a whiny pining bloke who needs to grow a pair.. I think Drake would actually kill him rather than be with him.

Verdict: Rip it.

Read parts 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Thanks for reading! I've loved doing these posts and the fantastic ships that come out of it. Are you enjoying them? If so, comment your views below and any characters you would love to see included next time!

Also, as a personal update, I have now finished uni for the year so over the next few months I shall be catching up on the review posts I need to do, and hopefully sharing some other things too!

Ship It Or Rip It Part 4

Here is the fourth part of Ship It Or Rip It. I hope you're enjoying these installments. Let me know if there is anything else you would like to see on my blog.

Eddie Gallagher (These Shallow Graves) and Clary (The Mortal Instruments)

Oh gosh yes, definitely shipping this! Eddie loves girls thatare strong-willed and independent and who better than the fiery heroine of The Mortal Instruments! I could also see Clary falling for Eddie's charm and with, just as she did with Jace.

Verdict: Ship it.

Devon (Raised By Wolves) and Hermione (Harry Potter)

I am actually super torn about this one. On one hand, I can see Devon's jokes and sense of humour being on par with Ron's, but I also can't see that being enough. Even ignoring the fact that Hermione is made for Ron and only Ron, I just really can't see these two hitting it off. Friends, yeah definitely. But romantically? No way

Verdict: Rip it.

Harry Potter (Harry Potter) and Thorne (The Lunar Chronicles)

Woah not in a million years. Harry doesn't want someone who's so OTT as Thorne, and let's face it, Harry is not Thorne's typical gorgeous girl. They might be able to get on as friends (although I'm not entirely convinced) but definitely not as lovers. And besides, I ship them with their own respective partners way too hard anyway.

Verdict: Rip it.

Jacob (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them) and Marlee (The Selection)

I actually see these 2 working and it's kind of cute! Jacob is such a lovely guy and would definitely shower Marlee with the most amazing pastries ever, and Marlee is such a kind-hearted girl who would adore everything Jacob would do for her.

Verdict: Ship it.

Lake (Rasied by Wolves) and Wolf (The Lunar Chronicles)

Ohmygosh yes! Even though I'm not a particular fan of Wolf and I adore Lake, I can actually see this pair 100% working, even outside of their wolfish characteristics. Lake is such a sassy badass, just like Scarlet, and so I can see her being just fiery enough to keep Wolf happy and on his toes. Wolf is a complete hero, just as Lake adores. I want this to happen!

Verdict: Ship it.

Read parts 1, 2 and 3

Thanks for reading! I've loved doing these posts and the fantastic ships that come out of it. Are you enjoying them? If so, comment your views below and any characters you would love to see included next time!

Ship It Or Rip It Part 2

Welcome to the second installment of Ship It Or Rip It! Who shall get paired up today?

Grover (Percy Jackson) and Tessa (The Infernal Devices)

Wow what a pair! Whilst Tessa would totally accept Grover once she is introduced to the Shadow world, I just can't see the pair getting on. At all. Whilst admiring of each others braveness, I just don't think they could get together.

Verdict: Rip it.

Jessamine (The Infernal Devices) and Bronwyn (Raised By Wolves)

Another interesting pair, and one I think might just work. The only downside would be Jessamine's hatred of wolves due to their connection with the Shadow world. Bronwyn is brave, strong and a natural leader, whereas Jessamine prefers to be the lady of the house, but I somehow think that they might just pull it off.

Verdict: Ship it.

Scarlet (The Lunar Chronicles) and Alec (The Mortal Instruments)

Scarlet could definitely make it as a shadowhunter. She is bold, brave, confident and daring, willing to sacrifice anything for good. Alec would be a great partner to her and I reckon they would definitely work together. Whilst Alec is a little shy, he would compliment Scarlet really well and vice versa. Definitely shipping this pair!

Verdict: Ship it.

Will (The Infernal Devices) and Astrid (Gone)

Never in a million years. Whilst it's clear that Will is intelligent and likes women with brains too, I feel Astrid is just a bit too nerdy smart. Then there's the fact that she's not exactly brilliant at looking after her brother, which would certainly put Will off. I could see Astrid liking Will as he is a hero, but she's quite needy and Will's coldness (at first) would drive her away.

Verdict: Rip it.

Ginny (Harry Potter) and Celeste (The Selection)

I can see Celeste having no time for Ginny, especially as she is from a poor family whereas Celeste is very wealthy and I can also see Ginny hating Celeste for being so horrible. However, despite that, I can't help but think that they would make a pretty badass couple! 

Verdict: Ship it.

Read part 1 here!

Don't forget to comment your views on these ships, and list any characters you would like to see included below!

Ship It Or Rip It Part 1

Welcome to Ship It Or Rip It!

I saw this idea on booktube a while ago (can't remember who, sorry!) and fell in love with it. Essentially, you randomly pick two characters and decide whether you can see them as a couple (ship it) or think it's a terrible idea (rip it).

I currently have a list of 60 characters, and will be doing 5 pairings in each post, which means I have 6 posts lined up. But, (and here comes the fun part), I'd love to know who your favourite characters are too! Just leave a comment and I'll add them to the list!

America (The Selection) and Lucien (A Court of Thorns and Roses)

Initially I laughed, but I actually can sort of see it? America is a very strong willed girl, which matches Lucien well. I can also see America fitting in at The Summer Court quite well too! Plus, they both have gorgeous red hair and imagine their children! 

Verdict: Ship it.

Magnus Bane (The Mortal Instruments, etc) and Four (Divergent)

Magnus would try so hard to make it work. Four is definitely Mangus' type. Dark hair, moody, hiding a dark past. It's a shame that I don't think Four would ever even consider befriending Magnus, let alone dating him! 

Verdict: Ship it.

Percy Jackson and Magnus Chase

So, these two Rick Riordan characters... Nope, I just don't see it. I think they're too similar. Both halfbloods (one being Greek, the other Norse), and normal kid turned hero. They might make it as friends as they have a lot in common, but I just don't see them getting all cute together. 

Verdict: Rip it.

Queen Guinevere and Morgana/Morgan Le Fey (Arthurian Legend)

Nope. Nope. Nope. Okay, Gwen and Morgana from Series 1 of BBC's Merlin, yes, I could ship that forever. But Gwen and Morgana from actual Arthurian myths and from the numerous books I have read about them, just never in a million years.

Verdict: Rip it.

King Arthur (Arthurian Legend) and Jo Montfort (These Shallow Graves)

Hmm, interesting one! I can see Jo respecting Arthur for what he's done. Also, as a Victorian era girl, I can see her being swooned by the fact that he is royal. I can't see Arthur being all too fond of Jo though, as she is quite a forward woman for her time era. 

Verdict: Rip it.

So that's all for Part 1 of Ship It Or Rip It! I hope you enjoyed it. Let me know your opinion on these pairings in the comments below!

Book Review: Happily Ever After by Kiera Cass

Happily Ever After – Kiera Cass

*Warning – may contain spoilers*

Author: Kiera Cass

Publisher: HarperCollins

First published: 2015

Cover: Paperback

Pages: 387

Blurb:   America’s story wasn’t the only one with a happy ending…

               Before Amberly came to the palace… She was a Four in love with a One.

               Before Maxon met the girl of his dreams… He was the boy of someone else’s.

   Before Aspen opened his heart to someone new… He was determined to fight for his    first love.

               And before Marlee could fall for a prince… She was swept off her feet by a guard.

               Four stories to fall in love with!

History of my copy: At the beginning of May, I treated myself to a spot of book shopping.     (You can find my book haul post here.) Although I had been considering buying The Heir, when I had to choose between the two, I ended up choosing Happily Ever After as I wanted to finish America’s story.

I’m not really a short stories fan, but I read this selection pretty quickly and rather enjoyed some of them. I finished it around 3 weeks ago so I’m just going to give a brief review of each story.

Something that makes this book extra special is the illustrations. They are simplistic yet capture the characters wonderfully.

The Queen: I love Queen Amberly and only wished that she appeared in The Selection series more. She adored her son, Maxon, and was especially kind to all the girls. Because of this, I was super excited to read this story in an effort to find out why this wonderful woman ended up married to the monster that King Clarkson is. Thankfully, I wasn’t disappointed. Whilst I still dislike the couple, the story itself was rather sweet and it was nice to see how the Selection was for these two. One thing I would’ve preferred though was if there was a bit more history to the story. As the story was set probably at least a couple decades before The Selection, I felt as if things should’ve changed a bit within those 20 years. On the other hand, perhaps that’s just part of Illéa – that it never changes (until America became Queen of course).

The Prince: Whilst this story was okay, I didn’t really feel much for it. I guess it was nice for Cass to give us a background as to why Maxon is so terrible around girls at first, but aside from that it didn’t really add anything to the series.

The Guard: Aspen. Ugh. Hated him from the start and still hate him now. Honestly, his whole character felt like an excuse to make Maxon jealous, to let America cheat and just to have a love triangle. Yawn. Most of the story focussed on his feelings for America and I really couldn’t care less about that, so I very nearly didn’t finish it. I did power through, however, and whilst his relationship with Lucy was a little better, it still didn’t do anything for me.

The Favourite: Marlee! I don’t have much to say about this one, apart from the fact I loved it! The whole scenario between Marlee and Carter was one of my favourite in The Selection series as it showed how Maxon was ready to defy the set rules to protect not only America, but to do what is right.

Scenes From Celeste: Throughout The Selection series, I really loved Celeste. That is, until she was ruined by making her good underneath it all. She was the only girl besides America and Marlee that actually stood out and was different. These scenes from her point of view were quite refreshing, and did make her change of character feel a little more realistic. They were a nice addition to the collection but still, I’d rather Celeste stayed a cow right up to the end.

The Maid: Just like The Guard, I wasn’t a fan of this story. Lucy and Aspen, America’s closest maid and her ex, as if that hasn’t been seen before. I will, however, admit that I did prefer this to The Guard as I liked hearing Lucy’s views, and there was a lot less of Aspen pining over America.

After The One: If you read my review of The One, you’ll know that I was highly disappointed by the ending to America’s Selection. This scene though was the ending I wanted. It was perfect. It was set long enough after The One that everything had died down, it was sweet, and it gave it that final conclusion. In my opinion, this one part was written better than the entire final book and should be included in it. I loved it!

Where Are They Now?: This is a short update on what 3 of the girls, Kriss, Natalie and Elise, did after The Selection. This did nothing for me, mainly because all but America, Celeste and Marlee felt like the exact same person so by the time I read these, I had no idea who Kriss, Natalie and Elise were and so didn’t care what they were up to. I guess this was a really nice addition for anyone who connected with any of these girls, but to me it seemed really pointless.

To read or not to read: Don’t read. For those of you who absolutely adored the series, I totally recommend this collection. For me, Happily Ever After contained two good stories (The Queen and The Favourite) along with the notable After The One and Scenes From Celeste, which leaves 3 stories I didn’t particularly like, along with the pointless Where Are They Now?. With more bad than good, Happily Ever After kind of left me a little disappointed. 

| The Selection | The Elite | The One |

Book Review: The One by Kiera Cass

The One – Kiera Cass

*Warning – may contain spoilers*

Previous reviews: TheSelection; The Elite

Author: Kiera Cass

Publisher: HarperCollins

First published: 2014

Cover: Paperback

Pages: 323

Blurb:    When she was chosen to compete in the Selection, America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown – or to Prince Maxon’s heart. But as the end of the competition approaches, and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realises just how much she stands to lose – and how hard she’ll have to fight for the future she wants.

History of my copy: I bought The One, along with Lady Midnight (review here) and Winter to make the most of the postage I paid to receive Lady Midnight on release day and, after loving The Selection and The Elite so much, The One leapt to the top of my TBR list.

I have just realised that the covers of The Selection series are blue, red and white, coincidentally the colours of the American flag, and I can’t help but wonder whether this was done on purpose or not, especially as the main character is called America.

Plot: I can’t help but feel highly disappointed in the final instalment of Maxon’s Selection. The story itself had so many little twists that had the potential to become something fantastic, but were wrapped up much too soon. The alliance with the Northern rebels could have been developed so much more, giving an interesting side plot to the story as Maxon and America worked against the King for a different Illéa. Furthermore, the attack when the pair sneak out of the Palace also could have been a bit more dramatic and a lot less confusing, with perhaps one of them getting kidnapped. And what even happened to Paige after that?

         In terms of The Selection process itself, the book focusses on the remaining four girls: America, Celeste, Kriss and Elise. However, they don’t seem to do much. In fact, most of the book is Clarkson being harsh on America. The only vaguely interesting development was the Convicting.

         And then there is the ending itself, and the events leading up to it. C’mon, if you’re going to have a massive attack, make it interesting! Make it good! It seemed much too rushed, much too sudden and much too quickly brushed away and replaced by the wedding.

         Then there’s the matter of character development and the way Cass used the characters for different things, which I shall delve into later.

         I also feel as if having both the King and Queen dying in the attacks was a bit too strong. Yes, she died for him, but it just seemed a bit too sudden and a bit too much. Plus, Maxon didn’t even seem too bothered about it. I know he was a jerk, but he was your Father and your Mother was nothing but an angel. Show some respect.

Setting: Admittedly, Cass kept the setting up. I still want to go to the Palace and see how beautiful it is for myself. Maxon’s room sounds amazing. I also enjoyed how, when America went home, there was that contrast between her old home and her new one.

Characters: My first problem regarding the characters is the way Celeste entirely changed. For some reason, Cass decided to show a ‘nice’ side to the girl who had been a right bitch throughout, and the other girls seemed to forgive her? Why? Oh yes, just so that when she gets shot the reader is supposed to feel something for her. Sorry, didn’t happen. Celeste was more interesting as a mean girl, and the change in her character did nothing for me.

                Then there is America’s father’s death. Not sure why that happened either, maybe just to send America away from the Palace over Christmas, despite how beautiful any festive scenes between Maxon and America would have been? Oh and yes, of course, Aspen had to give America away at the wedding, a little symbol of their relationship between them. Didn’t like that at all, it felt like his death was just to show that, and to show that he was a Northern rebel. But it was nice to see why America had that name.

                And now to Maxon, who I did love but now I hate. His reaction to Aspen and America was ridiculous. At least give the girl a chance to explain! Jheez, grow up, don’t act all petty just because she had a previous romance and you didn’t.

To read or not to read: Don’t read. I know, if you’ve reached this far you just want to get to the end of Maxon and America’s story, but this book is such a disappointment compared to the other two. Sure, read it to finish this part of the series, but don’t go expecting much. I almost wish I’d finished The Elite and decided that I could imagine them ending up together and how it happened without picking up The One.

Book Review: The Elite by Kiera Cass

The Elite – Kiera Cass

*Warning – may contain spoilers*

Author: Kiera Cass

Publisher: HarperCollins

First published: 2013

Cover: Paperback

Pages: 323

Blurb:    America Singer is one of The Elite and Prince Maxon only has eyes for her.

If she wins the competition for his heart, she will leave her pre-destined life for a world of luxury. But the outcome is less than certain; the threat of rebel violence just beyond the palace walls is escalating into war and bitter rivals are ready to take her down.

And as America’s feelings for Maxon grow stronger, ex-lover Aspen waits for her in the shadows. Where do her loyalties truly lie?

History of my copy: I bought this book only 2 days ago after a day at Plymouth university. Having read The Selection (review here) only a month ago, I was dying to get my hands on The Elite.

Anyone who knows me will know that 2 days is a very short time for me to read a book. I’d say I’m an average speed reader, but I like to have many books on the go at once. For me to leave a book for months is certainly not a bad sign, but rarely am I in the right mood to read a book in only a few days.

Plot: The Elite continues on from The Selection, with only a few girls left. In terms of diminishing the competition, this book sort of fails as only two girls sent home. However, this book delves into the caste system, and each of the remaining girl’s personalities more. With only a small number left, it’s much easier to set them tasks, such as the project towards the end of the book. The Elite also allows us, the reader, to explore Maxon’s relationships with the other girls more too. Understandably, America is upset by his closeness with Kriss and Celeste, despite it being expected. I also side with Maxon in all this – he has given America everything, yet she has done little but throw it back in his face and instantly think the worse of him.

Setting: The Elite continues to be set in the palace, but Cass’ description of the different settings, especially the receptions and the devastation after the rebel attacks, still keeps you immersed in the world.

Characters: Many people dislike America, and I am starting to see why. Whilst I adored her in The Selection, I feel that in The Elite she lost her five-ness, and became a bit more of a spoilt brat. Whilst she has other fantastic qualities, I will admit that there were a few occasions when I wanted to slap her for how hypocritical she can be. She complains at Maxon dating the other girls, something that, although horrible, is part of the competition and something he is allowed to do. Whilst he’s doing this, she is seeing Aspen behind Maxon’s back, which, as we see with Marlee, is treason!

                Maxon, on the other hand, I am starting to fall in love with as a character. The Elite explores him more, and we get to see the man behind the impassive Prince face. He tries so hard to please America and to be honest with her, whilst still partaking in The Selection. He also has compassion, something his Father really lacks. Although I feel that the whole abuse thing is a little cliché, it just makes me ache for Maxon more.

To read or not to read: Read. This book isn’t really my usual style, but it’s light reading and ridiculously addictive. I would recommend The Elite and the rest of the series to anyone, especially those wanting something more than a typical YA love triangle. Whilst The Elite does contain one, the extra complication of all the other girls makes it so much different!

Book Review: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

Scarlet – Marissa Meyer

*Warning – may contain spoilers*

Author: Marissa Meyer

Publisher: Puffin Books

First published: 2013

Cover: Paperback

Pages: 452

Blurb: Scarlet Benoit’s grandmother is missing. The police have closed her case. The only person Scarlet can turn to is Wolf, a street fighter she does not trust, but they are drawn to each other.

Meanwhile, in New Beijing, Cinder will become the Commonwealth’s most wanted fugitive – when she breaks out of prison to stay one step ahead of vicious Queen Levana.

As Scarlet and Wolf expose one mystery, they encounter Cinder and a new one unravels. Together they must challenge the evil queen, who will stop at nothing to make Prince Kai her husband, her king, her prisoner…

History of my copy: So this was the third book I got from Waterstones just after Christmas. (You can find reviews for the other two books, Reasons to Stay Alive and The Selection here.) Having read and loved Cinder, I knew I just had to get my hands on the next book in the series, and I am so glad I did.

I absolutely loved this book! I will admit that I found the beginning a bit slow and confusing as we were suddenly faced with the new character Scarlet, when all I cared about was Cinder escaping! But after a few chapters, I really did start to get into it and I ended up adoring this one more than Cinder. Now I just have to wait a long time to get my hands on Cress…

Plot: Probably my only major problem with Cinder was just how predictable it was. (I know, it’s based on Cinderella, but it still felt just a bit too obvious). So, of course, when I started Scarlet I was expecting Wolf to have killed Grandma and be horrible to Scarlet. Wrong! This book was hardly like the fairy-tale at all! Whilst it of course kept key parts (I especially loved Scarlet’s red hoodie, bringing a modern feel to the traditional red cloak), this book was nothing like what I expected. And the way it weaved into the story from Cinder was exquisitely done! I would have preferred a little more development on Wolf’s, Scarlet’s and Thorne’s character, but I’m hoping there will be a lot of that to come in the next books.

Setting: I am still so in love with the way Meyer has set these fairy tales to be in the future after the Fourth World War. It adds such an interesting spin to it all! And perhaps to give us hope that, even in a world of destruction, lunar wars and a horrendous plague, fairy tales really do still exist. As a fugitive, Cinder obviously cannot remain in New Beijing, and thus most of this book takes place in France, mainly Paris, which gives us a chance to see how other countries are faring in this modern world. Meyer is a brilliant writer at settings, and just truly makes you feel that you really are there alongside them.

Characters: Cinder still remains one of my favourite characters of course, and this book does well with showing how she is coping with her new found identity. If you read my review of the previous book, you will know that I wasn’t a huge fan of Prince Kai. However, throughout Scarlet, I have learned to like him a little more now that we get to see the side of him that’s running a country, not the side that’s of course, flirting with and falling in love with the main character.

             Captain Thorne and Scarlet are both new characters in this book, and two that I would like to know more about. At first, Thorne annoyed me, but he has grown on me, just as he has on Cinder. Scarlet, however, is much more likable, and I particularly like how well she and Wolf complement each other.

Which, of course, brings me to Wolf! He’s probably one of the most interesting characters I’ve discovered in a while. Is he good, or bad? Do I love him or hate him? Can I even trust him? Who knows! I need more of him in my life, and I really hope Meyer delves into his back story some more at some point so we can see just why he is the way he is.

Iko! How could I discuss the characters without mentioning my beloved Iko! She is still hilarious and just so Iko-like, despite now being in a much, much larger body. I’m so glad Iko came back, and we don’t have to lose her for a long time again any time in the future.

To read or not to read: Read. Read! Read! Read! Honestly, stop reading reviews and go buy the book right now. Even if you weren’t a huge fan of Cinder, go read Scarlet because, in my opinion, The Lunar Chronicles have just got even better!

Book Review: The Selection by Kiera Cass

The Selection – Kiera Cass

*Warning – may contain spoilers*

Author: Kiera Cass

Publisher: Harper Collins

First published: 2012

Cover: Paperback (and I must add, the cover is stunning!)

Pages: 327

Blurb: In a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels, The Selection is the chance of a lifetime: to compete for the gorgeous Prince Maxon’s heart. But for America Singer, it means turning her back on her secret love, and leaving home for a prize she doesn’t want.

Then America meets Maxon and all her plans start to crumble. Can the life she’s always dreamed of compare to a future she never imagined?

History of my copy: Along with Reasonsto Stay Alive, The Selection was one of the three books I bought with my Waterstones gift card, and a little of my own money.

To all my friends, this book is the kind of book I should hate. Honestly, I told one of my best friends about it, and he actually laughed (well, it was through text but judging by his words, he was totally laughing. Although it wasn’t as great as his reaction to The Lunar Chronicles…) But, contrary to popular belief, despite everything, I am still a teenage girl, and we all need a soppy, love triangle from time to time, right?

Plot: Seriously though, this is the kind of book even I think I should hate, but I actually loved it! I’m not a fan of reality TV shows at all, but something about this book made it all okay. It follows America Singer as she leaves her family and home behind to enter a competition to become Princess of Illéa, along with 35 other girls. She becomes a friend to the Prince and thus he keeps her in the competition for her companionship, and as a favour so that she can continue to be away from her previous love, Aspen. However, unsurprisingly, Prince Maxon ends up developing feelings for her, and she for him, so America makes it down to The Elite for reasons that are no longer to do with friendship.

         Along with the inevitable competition between the girls and dates between them and Maxon, there are also rebel attacks on the palace, which gives rise to a reason for some of the girls to not be his wife. It’s an interesting twist, and shows that not every fairy-tale is happy and safe.

Setting: One thing I loved about this book in particular was its setting. As a dystopian novel, it can be hard to create a unique world. This one involves castes, which dictate your jobs, and therefore income. America is a five and therefore belongs to the artists of the country. I found this world immersive and it had just enough similarities to make it comfortable and not forced. It also made it more believable.

Characters: First to the main character, America Singer. A lot of people complain about her name, along with many others in this book, but I see no problem with it. She’s named after the country Illéa used to be, there’s no issue with that. There is also the issue that America Singer is a singer. However, surnames used to come from the jobs and personality of the people, or they certainly did in Britain, so it only makes sense that a family of artists would have the surname Singer.

                I liked America a lot. Her character was developed, she was funny and she was brave. Unlike most YA romance books, she didn’t spend 90% of the book whining over her oh so difficult love life, which is a huge bonus!

                I also liked Prince Maxon. It was nice to see a Prince that wasn’t perfect, and had clearly never been allowed to date girls before, or had the time. He had his flaws, and it was entirely realistic that he had no idea how to deal with crying girls!

                As for a character I disliked, unlike many I’m not going to put Celeste. At least she was different! There were many girls in the book that seemed identical, and were only there to make up the numbers. They were all pretty, polite and lady-like *yawn*. I understand that they’re there just to make the competition bigger, but a little more individuality would have been nice.

To read or not to read: Read. I really enjoyed this book. It was an easy read and quite funny. I am really looking forward to reading The Elite, and I do hope we get to learn more about the Queen in it! If you’re looking for a romantic, easy-to-read book, go for this one. You won’t be disappointed!