Publisher: HarperTeen
Series: The Selection #3
Pages: 323
Genre: Dystopian
Synopsis: The time has come for one winner to be crowned.
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 realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants.
Review: This is one of the most frustrating series I have ever read. It is ridiculous and shallow and more of a romance than a dystopian...but it is insanely addictive. Seriously, the entertainment value is high. Every time I read one of these books, I was completely enamored. Of course, when I actually look back and notice the many, many flaws, it doesn't seem to great, but I stand by the fact of how fun these books are to read.
As a series finale, The One is pretty satisfying. The series isn't too deep, it focuses more on the romance between Maxon and America than the rebels and dystopian society, and that becomes even more apparent in The One. Thankfully, in this last book, the fate of the government and castes becomes a larger issue. More is revealed about the Northern and Southern rebels in this book, though it did sort of feel like too little too late. I wish there were more background on the fall of the USA and he rise of the new monarchy. The world isn't fleshed out too much, and that doesn't change drastically here. The conflicts are glossed over with parties and drama, as per usual, only the dilemmas in The One have a grander affect, it being the last in the series and all. The Selection ends and the love triangle loses a side. If a bit too neatly and perfectly, this book ties up nicely.
I have never been blown away by the writing, and this series has never been one known for the in-depth word building or characterization. It's a lot of telling, not showing. The characters lack subtlety and depth, as does the society they live in. One of the main issues is a lack of driven plot or certain antagonist. It is a little wishy-washy, and has even been related to The Bachelor. I cannot say I disagree. It is certainly as amusing as a decent reality TV show.
America Singer is one of the most exasperating characters I have ever read about. She is president of the procrastination club and constantly makes rash decisions, because she also happens to be queen of bad ideas. She seems to be quite smug, though she makes so called 'selfless' choices, which makes me feel like she does it to make herself feel better about herself. Maxon is okay, I suppose, if a little too perfect. And as for Aspen, I don't have too many strong feelings toward him either. Actually, none of the characters really stand out to me. Even the King, made out to previously be sadistic and powerful ruler, but turns out to be more of a disagreeable child who gets everything he wants. However, I enjoy Celeste much more in this book than the previous two. She stops acting so...bitchy (and no, I couldn't think of a better word) and more like an actual person with actual human feelings.
How the love triangle resolves seems a little shaky, but I always expected America to end up with who she did end up with (no spoilers, I swear). Like Twilight, really, because though there was Team Edward and Team Jacob, did you ever really expect Bella to end up with Jacob? Not really. The same in The One, it is predictable, but not in any way displeasing.
Over all, The One is exactly as it is expected to be, fast-paced, gripping, and totally entertaining. I like the series in general, but if you want a fantastic, beautifully written, complex dystopian, look elsewhere.
3 Keys
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