Discover millions of ebooks, audiobooks, and so much more with a free trial

Only $11.99/month after trial. Cancel anytime.

The Elite
The Elite
The Elite
Audiobook7 hours

The Elite

Written by Kiera Cass

Narrated by Amy Rubinate

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

4/5

()

About this audiobook

The second book in Kiera Cass’s #1 New York Times bestselling Selection series

With even more glamour, intrigue, and swoon-worthy romance, this sparkling sequel to The Selection will captivate readers who loved Veronica Roth’s Divergent, Lauren Oliver’s Delirium, or Renée Ahdieh’s The Wrath & the Dawn.

Thirty-five girls came to the palace to compete in the Selection, and to win Prince Maxon’s heart. Now six girls remain, and the competition is fiercer than ever—but America Singer is still struggling to decide where her heart truly lies. Is it Prince Maxon—and life as the queen—that she wants? Or is it still Aspen, her first love?

Don’t miss The Betrothed, a glittering royal romance sure to captivate Kiera Cass’s legion of loyal readers and lovers of courtly intrigue alike!

LanguageEnglish
PublisherHarperTeen
Release dateApr 23, 2013
ISBN9780062253842
Author

Kiera Cass

Kiera Cass is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Selection series and The Siren. She is a wife and mom and too many other things to list. If she could make a crown out of anything, it would be the unending tears of her readers. You can learn more about Kiera and her books at www.kieracass.com.

More audiobooks from Kiera Cass

Related to The Elite

Titles in the series (5)

View More

Related audiobooks

YA Romance For You

View More

Related articles

Reviews for The Elite

Rating: 3.8748862688808003 out of 5 stars
4/5

2,198 ratings137 reviews

What did you think?

Tap to rate

Review must be at least 10 words

  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    I hated this book. I couldn’t get past chapter 11. I spent most of those chapters wanting to punch the main character in the face. She is bratty, whiny, selfish, and self centered. Oblivious to how she treats others and thinks she is never in the wrong. I have absolutely no desire to finish this book. Side note I did like the selection so I came in wanting to like this book.

    1 person found this helpful

  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    One quick fact check; America told Marlee that because the violin she had belonged to the royal family and not to America herself, Marlee could hit Celeste over the head with it (or something like that,) but in the first book it was mentioned that the instruments at the palace were much better than the ones that America herself owned, so in the highly unlikely event that she wasn't already attached to it, America wouldn't have wanted to hurt the violin because of its beauty and quality. Something related that I didn't mention in my review of The Selection, is that, given the price of musical instruments, plus new strings and bow rehairs from time to time, and the fact that they do have to be checked for (and sometimes repaired because of) open seams, cracks and shifted soundposts. Not to mention the amount of practice you have to put toward music, and the fact that you really do have to change teachers from time to time, it doesn't make a lot of sense to have such a poor caste be the musicians. I'm guessing that the author didn't bother to look up the price of a decent violin before considering her characters occupation and caste.
    Do I even need to talk about how annoying America was in this book? Her stupidity at the end had me face-palming. I completely understand her fury at Maxon, but did she really think that doing what she did would help in any way? Maxon said at the end that even though he loved her, he didn't trust, but he was kissing Celeste, effectively cheating on both America and Kris. It would make sense if America questioned whether she could trust him. And speaking of cheating, America's affections toward Aspen really bother me. I think that I established in my review of the first book that I don't like Aspen. He's too controlling. I can't even imagine what his response to America staying will be, but I doubt that it'll be gracious. After what happened to Marlee, I would have thought that Aspen and America would've put their relationship on hold--something they should have already done--if for no other reason then to try and protect each other. What's more is that, in order to regain Maxon's trust, one thing that America will have to do is admit that her ex-boyfriend is living in the palace, and I know she won't want to do that.
    I did like the revelation of Maxon's secret. I feel bad for him, and it certainly gave his character more depth.
    I did enjoy this book, but it would have been more enjoyable if the three main characters had stopped being so darn stupid. And I really hope that there will be an actual meeting between the three main characters (or at least America) and the rebels. Even though I like the general idea of selection plot, the fact that we've only had I've very brief glimpse of people who are actually part of one of the rebel groups is leaving quite a bit to be desired with conflict and action.

    1 person found this helpful

  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first, because the love triangle was more prominent than I prefer in books. Also, America and Aspen were often just plain stupid. However, I enjoyed the parts dealing with the girls a lot more, and I liked that the plot got a bit deeper with more page time devoted to the rebels.

    1 person found this helpful

  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    It's one of my absolute favorite books! Can't count the number of times I've reread it!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    amazing love it that's all I can say
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    My app keeps cutting the words out but other than that a good read!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Well... Honestly, this book did not reach by expectations. After reading the first book, I was sure that this series could be "the" one. But I'm unsure if I should consider this particular book as good, seeming as it had some sloppy areas and overall was just not cohesive enough?
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Ithink the book was great and I am happy to see that Maxon still has feelings for America. I still cant believe what he did with Celeste though. I think this was well put together and great.??
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I liked the storyline for this book. I just wish the author would not spread the whole story over multiple books. I’ve read the first two and still haven’t gotten to the part where Prince Maxin chooses Lady America.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    It's ok. It drags. It's a book for preteens for sure. Just kind of innocent and sweet.
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    I almost quit around chapter 12 but read helpful reviews that made me interested enough to press on. I have been so frustrated with America’s actions and her reasoning (or lack of) and her deceitfulness with the prince. Wanting to know the Prince’s story and having it finally unfold at the end of the book is what kept me listening.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Finished it in two days. Loved it!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I listened to the first book, it was such a cliffhanger!!!! I was going to buy the book in the stores but they didn't have it in stock, so they were going to order it for me which would take about 3 to 4 weeks. I came here and I found this book I downloaded it and I LOVE LOVE LOVE it!!!!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This book may not be momentous or philosophical and it certainly isn't inspirational and it doesn't really even have a clear theme, but it sure is entertaining. The selection series keeps you on your toes, throwing twists after twist you never see coming.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    America drove me bonkers in this book. She forgot about being a bright young girl with a strong spine and went completely wishy-washy over two guys. She finally found her footing near the end of the book, but getting there caused my eyes to roll at least a zillion times. Hopefully book 3 will get us back on track and reveal more about the rebels.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    SPOILERS: I dislike how quickly America changes her mind... I understand that she loves Aspen but while reading this book I just couldn't picture seeing her with Maxon because it was so obvious she was still very much in love with Aspen. I wish I had more confidence in their relationship, especially with me going into book 3. But don't get me wrong, I love her relationship with Maxon and I do see how much they care for each other, but with her cuddling with Aspen half the time and Maxon getting so close to the other girls, it's just hard to be secure sometimes. Idk maybe it's cause I hate love triangles that I'm thinking like this lol. But besides that, I love the books so far and I actually find the story line to be very interesting. I'm excited to see how the books continue, and I'm super excited to see how America's and Maxons relationship develops ❤️
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I'm a sucker for these kinds of stories, even though they're fairly predictable. I knew from the start of the first book that the prince would turn out to be more complex and likeable than America first assumed he would be, but he has nonetheless evolved into a character complex enough not to be predictable. I also knew that he and America would inevitably end up in some kind of romantic entanglement, but I wouldn't have guessed how that unfolded. The storyline also took some turns I wasn't expecting, which I always enjoy, so saying the story is somewhat "predictable" means only that you can pretty much guess how it's going to end -- but not what path you're going to take to get there!

    I do wish something more compelling than the tired old "love triangle" trope was responsible for moving the plot forward at times. I also would've enjoyed seeing two of the "chosen" girls fall for each other :-)
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Book 2, “The Elite” in this Series, picks up right where book 1, “The Selection” left off.

    America is still surrounded by enemies like, Other women participating in the Selection, Rebel invaders, but in Book 2, we learn just how little America actually knows about anything!

    While her feelings for Maxum? Maxus? Maxin? (I still haven’t figured out his name since the Narrator makes it sound differently at every turn, or perhaps it’s just me, and I simply can’t understand what she is saying), grow, then seem to wane, then suddenly grow again..(it’s like riding a rollercoaster, her emotions)...

    America learns the harsh reality of just what punishment she has been risking every time that her and Aiden have gotten together or shared a special moment...and the consequences do more than shake her to her core!

    With Rebel invasions seeming to be happening on the regular, America finds herself running for her life, and ends up face-to-face with a Northern Rebel...

    If that isn’t enough, as other competitors drop out like flies, and the finalist pool narrows further by the minute, America has to face the harsh reality that Maxim not only is spending “quality” time with the other candidates, but that he has genuine affection and feelings for some of them...

    Hurt in her heart, Confused about what she qwants or doesn’t want, or who she wants or doesn’t want, from one moment to the next, America some how has a rare talent for making things even worse for herself, and in this book things are no different.

    But, the stakes in the game have risen even higher than she could ever imagine..IN or OUT...DO? or DIE?...America + Maxim BOTH are running out of time to decide...and BOTH of their fates hang in the balance...

    In the End, America finally decides to make a stand, too bad that when she does, what she decides to stand up for, could cost her, her position, and even her shot at Love...not to mention her shot at the Crown... And, as if she didn’t have enough enemies, by her own actions America earns the wrath of the One person in the Palace that she can’t afford to have as her Enemy....It remains to be seen what America will or even what she can DO, to save herself and the potential future for her Family, her Love, the Country...and will America ever learn to stop lashing out in a fit of temper, and to stop being such a self defeating brat every time she gets mad?!?!
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    I'm finding myself frustrated with both the main character and Maxin.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This book was slower than the first, not much in terms of plot development.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    love it
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Not as good as book 1 with most of it dealing with America being very wishy-washy but I'm still going to keep with the series. I really want to find out more about the rebels and if/how things get changed with the society.

    I'm hoping Maxon is America's final choice.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I really wanted to LOVE this book, but between the main characters indecisiveness, to the constant, unnecessary bickering between everyone, it made me more annoyed than excited. I don't know how many times America could quickly say she loves Aspen, and then move on to saying she loves Maxson every time something she dislikes goes on. The question, "am I going home?" has been used more times in this book than ever. I love the story-line so much, but goodness it becomes whiny really fast. Still, I enjoyed the read. And the authors description about characters and scenes are amazing. Can't wait to read The One.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This book will keep you on the edge of your seat!
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    Man, I'm so done with love triangles. When done right, they can be excellent demonstrations of individual autonomy and identity. When it's done bad, however, it can seriously mess with your head. This is Katniss, Peetah, and Gail all over again. You don't have to worry you just read that; it's not a spoiler.

    The first book was so silly. There was hardly any story, any real conflict. Everything was so dulled down. Tamed. What could have been a powerful story now serves as a guilty pleasure for many readers.

    There are these rebels who attack the palace occasionally. Each time they attack, everyone goes into hiding. Rebels barge in without any resistance from the palace guards—and do whatever it is the rebels do—and leaves without a trace. Once they are gone, these people come out of hiding like rats and act as if nothing had happened. I was like—I mean, what the fuck is that? They just get robbed like that? An entire court?

    But things got slightly different in The Elite. The competition began (not fiercer than ever). Lives are at stake. Trusts have broken (trusts handed so easily). Choices have to be made. America is a mess (sort of). But that's enough considering where this book was. I knew there was a candy somewhere in this shitty wrapping; and I think I have found it.

    There is no point in claiming a bad book as bad over and over again. We have people for that. (don't we?) What we can do is try to find the things that make that book better and apply them to our lives.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    I started this book thoroughly excited at the prospects that it may hold. I enjoyed The Selection, it was quite refreshing to read a new breed of story, so I immediately pre-ordered The Elite and bumped it to the front of my "to read" list. So, it is with great disappointment that I proclaim my absolute annoyance with this book.

    It just went round and round in circles until three quarters of the way through the book. Maybe my teenage and immature crush on Maxon shrouded my judgement of The Selection, but The Elite did not live up to my expectations.

    Essentially, a lot whining, a lot of filler and not much else. Although, some shred of this abysmal story line captivated my attention for a few minutes, so I shall be continuing this series. It may be the wrong choice but my inner childhood princess is grasping at straws on this one. I suppose there maybe life in her yet.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Loved it. Great second book. Leaves you ready to jump into the 3rd.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    The book itself gets better the reader for the audio could be a bit less monotoned though...
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    meh..!!! 3.5

    Decisiones que te hacen querer apuñalar a la protagonista.
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    I thought the main character was quite inconsiderate to both of the men she was looking at. I did not appreciate how rude she was at times, and how she really did not think through her actions. I really hope she evolves in the next book.