BOOK REVIEW- THE SELECTION

BOOK REVIEW- THE SELECTION-  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. AMAZON


This is the first book in a Series, something that I forgot when I started reading this book. So, of course I was somewhat dismayed when it didn't finish in this story. 
The author did a really good job of painting the picture of the people of this culture. A very clear line between the "have's" and "have not's". America's caste is somewhat near the middle, although she has had her share of hunger, lack and worry. Her boyfriend, Aspen has it so much harder and almost works himself to death helping his family. And he often goes hungry so that his family can eat. America smuggles left over food to him when she can. That's bad enough, but there are other caste of people who have it even worse than Aspen. Then, there is the Prince. Maxon really has no idea of how people suffer in his family's kingdom, he's been so protected.   That's not something that is that hard to believe.  As the story unfolds you find out that Maxon has so much more to offer than the stiff formal person he appears to be.  America had a kind of culture shock when she went from the plainess of her families life to the richness of the palace. One of her main goals though was to still remain herself. Now, that's something that she really does do pretty well. And along the way, she makes friends because of it. And yes of course, enemies too, because this is a competition where winner takes all. 

On the downside- The story is often slow moving.