The Selection (The Selection #1) by Kiera Cass - Restarting July 12th 2021

[Carolyn]

(view spoiler)[ America and Maxon are so cute! Why doesn't she want him? (hide spoiler)]

[Carolyn]

That last post was for 54%.

[Krystal]

20% (view spoiler)[ I do feel sorry for America and Aspen. They love each other so much but have so many difficulties in their way. (hide spoiler)]

[Krystal]

Katie_Potatie wrote: "This is my second time reading The Selection, but have not read the rest of the series. The first time around, I wasn't very interested, but I am finding my second read to be much more enjoyable.
..."

(view spoiler)[ I’m a mix on this. I’m glad she doesn’t automatically want to be a princess. Would I? Probably. But I’m glad she sticks to her guns for love. On the other hand, it would help her family and I’m glad she does end up going for at least that reason. (hide spoiler)]

[Krystal]

Carolyn wrote: "Didn't read much yesterday. Maybe I'll read on the beach.

7%: [spoilers removed]"

Me too!

[Carolyn]

76%: (view spoiler)[ Poor America. This must be what those poor Bachelor girls feel like. (hide spoiler)]

I'm going to go ahead and request for The Elite for today, since I'm almost done, alright?

[Carolyn]

Katie_Potatie wrote: "This is my second time reading The Selection, but have not read the rest of the series. The first time around, I wasn't very interested, but I am finding my second read to be much more enjoyable.
..."

(view spoiler)[ I think you may be a little bit cynical on love. America truly loves Aspen, so why would she want to try to enter in a competition to marry a prince when she's already found her "true love"? I could understand for the money, but don't forget about the draft. If Aspen is drafted and placed in the palace, that would make him a Two or a Three, giving them more money.

I can see where you're coming about the world building. It could use some work, but this is only Cass's second book. (hide spoiler)]

[Carolyn]

Katie_Potatie wrote: "Carolyn wrote: "Lots of beach reading today!

39%: [spoilers removed]"

I found that to be weird, and what is even weirder is that it doesn't really get address."

Right?!?

[Carolyn]

Katie_Potatie wrote: "Okay, finished up to chapter 16 and I have comments!

Chapter 10: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 11: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 13: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 15: Maxon is amazing and I love him...."

(view spoiler)[ Don't really agree on the linear frameworking, but totally agree on America and Maxon. Also, why are the rebels attacking? Not quite sure on that. (hide spoiler)]

[Carolyn]

Krystal wrote: "20% [spoilers removed]"

(view spoiler)[ Yeah, but Aspen is a jerk. (hide spoiler)]

[Carolyn]

100%: (view spoiler)[ Totally on Team Maxon. I hope Aspen will leave her alone now. His "love" for America is not worth dying. Can't not wait to read the next novel, The Elite . Super excited! (hide spoiler)]

Here's the link to my review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

I post the thread link for the next BR here.

[Krystal]

50% (view spoiler)[ Things are moving a bit slow to already be at 50 percent but I do love a good competition book! I wonder what the rebels are looking for. I don’t remember! (hide spoiler)]

Awesome!

[Katie_Potatie]

Okay all done!

(view spoiler)[ The Selection reads very Hunger Games to me without a solid ground of world building. However, as someone who does not like Love Triangles, I found the representation in The Selection to be fantastic. We were able to get a full understanding of both Aspen and Maxon. I ride and die with Maxon though.

I am leaving this book with the same feelings I had during my first read. I am not sure why it was separated into three books. I hope there is a good level of content for the next two. (hide spoiler)]

[Carolyn]

Here's the link to The Elite BR thread: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

[Krystal]

60% (view spoiler)[ Maxon was incredibly sweet to America with promising to keep her there. He really listened. I know America is still hurting but I wish she would open herself up a little and realize how much she enjoys spending time with him. (hide spoiler)]

[Krystal]

Katie_Potatie wrote: "Okay, finished up to chapter 16 and I have comments!

Chapter 10: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 11: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 13: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 15: Maxon is amazing and I love him...."

Haha, team Maxon! I agree with that. (view spoiler)[ Aspen thought he was doing the right thing but he really ruined it by bringing the other girl! (hide spoiler)]

[Krystal]

77% (view spoiler)[ I’m glad America is finally telling him he may have a chance! Honestly,, they fit so well together. (hide spoiler)]

[Carolyn]

Krystal wrote: "60% [spoilers removed]"

I know. It's a bit frustrating, but she's so oblivious that once she realizes it, she's going to pursue.

[Carolyn]

Krystal wrote: "Katie_Potatie wrote: "Okay, finished up to chapter 16 and I have comments!

Chapter 10: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 11: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 13: [spoilers removed]

Chapter 15: Maxon is a..."

Ha! (view spoiler)[ Aspen can be so stupid sometimes. :) Team Maxon, all the way. (hide spoiler)]

[Carolyn]

Krystal wrote: "77% [spoilers removed]"

They really do.

[Krystal]

Finished. (view spoiler)[ Ugh, Aspen.. While I'm happy he wasn't a complete douche, I don't want him in the picture any longer. (hide spoiler)]

[Krystal]

Katie_Potatie wrote: "Okay all done!

The Selection reads very Hunger Games to me without a solid ground of world building. However, as someone who does not like Love Triangles, I found the representation in The Selec..."

(view spoiler)[ The other two book are even better than this one but agreed the first two books could have just been one. And also team Maxon! Having read them all a long time ago, it's nice to reread and be surprised all over again. (hide spoiler)]

[As You Wish]

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Date changed. Restarting March 20, 2021. Happy Reading ☺

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[As You Wish]

Chapter 8:
(view spoiler)[ Barf. This Celeste person is the whole reason castes are a bad idea. I know there are people in real life who are born/raised thinking they’re better than other people, but a systemic classifying of people as being worth more or less based on their parents on back is deeply wrong. (hide spoiler)]

[As You Wish]

Chapter 10: I officially am hooked on this series

(view spoiler)[ Really identifying with America as she’s telling her new staff of maids to leave her alone so she can unwind. I’m such an introvert! This extra girl drama thing would wear me out, too. (hide spoiler)]

[BookLover]

Chapter 10 (view spoiler)[Same I can totally tell that she is soo not used to all of this and I hate the way the girls treat her but they all want this as bad as the next person so I kind of get it. I love how when America just wants to go outside and the guards don't let her, how Maxon comes and saves the day. And they kind of bond a little. Totally loving this book so far!(view spoiler)[ (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]

[As You Wish]

Chapter 17

(view spoiler)[

Top ten signs you’re living in a dystopian society: school is messed up and knowledge is controlled.

“Why is it that we don’t have any of this in a book? So we could study?”
“Dear girls, history isn’t something you study. It’s something you should just know.” (hide spoiler)]

[As You Wish]

Chapter 18:

(view spoiler)[

Squee!!!!! First kiss! I’m a sucker for romance. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 22:

(view spoiler)[ I am so mad at Aspen right now. How dare he. This could ruin America’s chances altogether and he couldn’t be bothered. No offence, but he’s the typical high school boyfriend who thinks the relationship is very mutual but he’s the one getting 90% of the benefits. America, you deserve better than him! If he screws he messes this up for her I'm leaving. (hide spoiler)]

[BookLover]

Chapter 18 (view spoiler)[I know me too! Love a good romance story. I love how honest America is during the interview and isn't afraid to speak her mind to Maxon. I love when America rubs Maxon's forehead and says that she is erasing his mind and they try the kiss again. It just makes me laugh.(view spoiler)[ (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]

[BookLover]

Chapter 21 (view spoiler)[I hate Celeste so much at this point like she couldn't get any worse than this. We all know she purposely spilled that drink on Kriss's dress. But again I love the moment that Maxon and America have when she finishes playing her song. It's just beautiful.(view spoiler)[ (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]

[BookLover]

Finished (view spoiler)[I totally loved this book from the beginning to the very end and can not wait to read the second one. But I hate Aspen for declaring his love for America in front of the royal family. But America also confuses me because she says to Aspen that she is choosing herself but when Maxon comes into her room later that night, they start making out. Guess we'll see what happens in the second book.(view spoiler)[ (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]

[As You Wish]

BookLover wrote: "Finished [spoilers removed]"

Yes, this feels very teenager-y in that regard. I'm choosing me....while making out with the available attractive person here. I hope we see growth for America's character in the next book and get more glimpses of what life is actually like for Maxon. He's very much a side character in this. I feel like we know Marlee better.

[BookLover]

JBask wrote: "BookLover wrote: "Finished [spoilers removed]"

Yes, this feels very teenager-y in that regard. I'm choosing me....while making out with the available attractive person here. I hope we see growth f..."

I would think that Aspen more of the side character but also America is just getting passed back and forth between Aspen and Maxon and Aspen is afraid that he might lose so he does that they stupid things of announcing his love in front of everybody.

[As You Wish]

@BookLover Do you want to read The Elite together also? I'm kinda embarrassed to admit I'm hooked and have put the entire series on hold at my library.

[BookLover]

JBask wrote: "@BookLover Do you want to read The Elite together also? I'm kinda embarrassed to admit I'm hooked and have put the entire series on hold at my library."

I would love to!

[Jenn]

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Date changed. Restarting July 12th 2021. Happy Reading ☺

★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★
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[Book_Fairy]

Sorry to Isha and Sunny Koala for getting this wrong.

[Isha]

No problem

[Book_Fairy]

So far this book, is exciting, though kind of a slow start. I am about a third of the way through. Here are my spoiler thoughts below:
Chapter 1-10:
(view spoiler)[I like the main character, she seems strong, driven, and independent in a world where woman can't really be. I like her relationship with her siblings, especially her youngest.

I like the world building that they do, that there is a hierarchy between the classes and it gives a sense of reality to all of it.

What I don't like is how much misagyny and classism is within this book, I can even make a list:
1. People of lower classes can't marry higher, because they are seen as less than.
2. It's illegal to have a woman lose her virginity before marriage.
3. It seems to be a running theme, that women are only supposed to look pretty, marry and have a family. I mean women can work, but that first part is more important.
4. Women royalty have to be married off to other kingdoms.
4. Also, one of the main parts that I felt was super rapey was that America wouldn't be able to say no to anything that the prince says and wants. So, he could literally have sex with her, and she can't say no.
(hide spoiler)]

[[deleted user]]

no problem Book_Fairy!

[[deleted user]]

So im on pg.150, and love it so far. Idk if its just me, but im getting Hunger Games vibes, which i love! I love Maxon, he is so sweet! I really would love for them to marry but I dont want to forget about her childhood love; it so hard! cant wait to finish the book!

[Book_Fairy]

Sunny wrote: "So im on pg.150, and love it so far. Idk if its just me, but im getting Hunger Games vibes, which i love! I love Maxon, he is so sweet! I really would love for them to marry but I dont want to forg..."

I honestly don't really like Aspen at all, so I prefer Maxon. I also feel the Hunger Games vibe, but instead of death you get the prince in the end.

[Book_Fairy]

Chapter 13:
(view spoiler)[Oh, how much I love Maxon; he is so funny and sweet. He cares for everyone, and I get the feeling he likes America a little bit more than the rest. I felt offended for Maxon when America accused him of "Not being a gentleman."

That would have to be scary with the rebels coming in, and I think it's so great how street smart America, compared to the other girls. She is such a badass!!
(hide spoiler)]

Chapter 14-17
(view spoiler)[I like the friendship between America and her maids and her friendship with Maxon too.
I agree with America; I like that Maxon can be more than just his "Royal princely exterior" and actually be a person.

I feel so much compassion for his genuine romantic issue. Most people have that struggle, they might not have the exact details, but they go through the sense of not knowing when or if you will find love.
I like Maxon's response to what America says that Aspen was with another girl at her send-off.
Such cute Maxon and America moments, friends, or more I don't care...they are just so cute!

I love Marlee too and love her and America's friendship.

This is sad that this whole Chinese-US history is so scarily close to now.
(hide spoiler)]

[Book_Fairy]

Chapter 18-23:
(view spoiler)[I do not like how much gossip these girls are doing. The book seems to be a combination of Hunger Games and Gossip Girl.
I'm not too fond of Celeste; she is such a jerk, but I love how basically every girl doesn't like her.
Maxon is such a sweetheart with America; he seems like he is the most himself with her.

I can't believe that they kissed; I seriously did not expect that so quickly.

It's kind of cute how America is so jealous of all the attention that the other girls are getting from Maxon.
I like the Queen's sister, she gets America, and I also like the insight into the Queen's excitement for this contest.

I want to know what is going on with Marlee and hope everything is okay with her.
I can't believe Aspen is there, DRAMAAAAA!!!!

Okay, I am starting to get kind of annoyed with America because she is letting her jealousy get to her a little bit too much. I wish she were acting more like Marlee, always nice to everyone. It's Chris's birthday, and she is not competing with you at this moment.
Celeste makes me roll my eyes a lot; she is very annoying. Why does she always ruin everyone else's chances?

Damn! I guess I understand Maxon's point of view; he doesn't see any of what is going on outside of what he's there for. It was wrong how he yelled at her like that, and I knew she was hurt from it.
Though Aspen kissing her was wrong, and I think her going along with it also was. I worry that they are going to all get hurt, especially America. She might not believe it yet, but she at least likes Maxon as more than a friend.

Okay, I understand Aspen a little better now, but I still like Maxon better.
I feel so proud of America and how she handles all of this. I love all of the maids and think they are pretty important, definitely as important as any of the ladies in the Selection.
(hide spoiler)]