The Elite (The Selection, #2) – A Love Triangle That Missed the Mark
When I first delved into The Elite, the second installment of Kiera Cass’s The Selection series, I was intrigued by the blend of royal drama and reality TV-style competition that had captivated many readers, including myself in the first book. Admittedly, I was drawn in by its premise—an echoing similarity to The Bachelor, a guilty pleasure of mine. Yet, while I dove in expecting another fun read, I came out feeling more like I had endured a rollercoaster of frustration rather than joy. Actual Rating: 2.5 stars.
In The Selection, we follow America Singer, a character I found refreshingly relatable amidst the glitz of palace life. But in The Elite, she morphs into a figure of incessant insecurity, caught in a convoluted love triangle with Prince Maxon and her first love, Aspen. The plot, which should resonate with themes of self-discovery and romance, primarily revolves around this triangle that often feels less like engaging storytelling and more like an episode of reality TV prolonged beyond its expiration date.
In the previous book, the competition was tangible and thrilling, but this time, it often felt overshadowed by America’s endless oscillation between Maxon and Aspen. Her constant doubts about being "princess material" grated on my nerves. I kept wondering, why can’t she just make a choice? With a world filled with revolution and danger around her—one that should be central to the plot—the story largely sidesteps these tensions, relegating the rebel attacks to the background. The rebels, ironically supposed to be a significant threat, fade into mere plot devices, appearing only briefly and without substantial impact.
While I appreciate Cass’s ability to create a rich world, I found the pacing in The Elite uneven. The dialogue often lagged, substituting meaningful communication between characters with angst-filled monologues. Characters I had fond memories of, like Maxon and even the other contestants, felt underdeveloped and occasionally out of character. Maxon’s earnestness from the first book transformed into a more serious demeanor; a shift that made him less endearing.
Amidst my frustration, there were indeed moments of authenticity, such as America’s bold choice to challenge the caste system in front of the country. This represented a spark of bravery that I wished had been more prevalent throughout the book. Yet, just as I admired her courage, she returned to her indecisive nature, diminishing my enjoyment.
As I reflect on this book, I can’t help but feel that it will resonate with fans who thrive on romantic drama. If you enjoy stories where conflict lies primarily within the heart, rather than the stakes of an external world, then The Elite may still hold value for you. However, if you’re looking for the same thrill and enjoyment as the first book, prepare for a different kind of ride—one filled with ups and downs that might leave you longing for clarity.
Despite my mixed feelings, I find myself curious about how Kiera Cass will resolve this tangled web in The One. There’s something about this world and its characters that keeps pulling me back, even as certain elements frustrate me. In the end, isn’t that what reading is all about? The journey of curiosity and open-ended questions, even when the path gets a bit rocky along the way.
Discover more about The Elite (The Selection, #2) on GoodReads >>