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The One
The One
The One
Ebook301 pages4 hours

The One

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

4/5

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About this ebook

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

America Singer searches for her happily ever after in this swoon-worthy YA dystopian romance, perfect for readers who loved Veronica Roth’s Divergent, Lauren Oliver’s Delirium, or Renée Ahdieh’s The Wrath & the Dawn.

Entering the Selection changed America Singer's life in ways she never could have imagined. Since she arrived at the palace, America has struggled with her feelings for her first love, Aspen—and her growing attraction to Prince Maxon. Now she's made her choice . . . and she's prepared to fight for the future she wants.

 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 dateMay 6, 2014
ISBN9780062060013
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.

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Reviews for The One

Rating: 4.119263514407685 out of 5 stars
4/5

1,874 ratings140 reviews

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  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This was such a touching read. I loved Grace's narration and, even though I'm not a big fan of verse novels, this one worked and worked beautifully.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Very interesting book. I usually am not a fan of free verse novels but it was a good way to tell this story. I did not enjoy the amount of sweating and so would not recommend this book for younger readers, even though there are some great lessons and discussions to be had.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    The author wrote so well that I sometimes forgot that Grace and Tippi were conjoined. This was possible because it is written from Grace,s perspective. However, the bond between the girls is very evident. Sarah Crossan has given the reader an insight into the life of conjoined twins that enlightens and challenges our perceptions and judgements. I thought that life would be easier if they were separated but conjoined twins can feel differently. This story helped me to understand their perspective. It's so easy to have presumptions and assumptions. I loved this story because it exposed them in me. I would rather have this than be guided by ignorance. Ideal story for the theme of identity.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I picked this book a few hours ago and just put it down, finished. When I saw it was a novel written in verse, I was disappointed. But, once I started reading it, I literally couldn't stop. A story about conjoined twins, Grace and Tippi are joined at the waist. Now, 16 years old, they've already lived longer than expected. They're also starting to go to high school after being home schooled until now. Not a story about bullying which is what I expected but a wonderful story about being sisters who can't imagine their life apart. A must read!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This young adult novel is written in prose, making it a very quick read. It is the story of conjoined twins, Grace and Tippi, told in Grace’s voice. Grace describes their condition, their family history and how they came to start school as teenagers. She describes their relationship to each other, how they handle their situation and how others treat them, making this very compelling. Grace also describes the truly horrible decision they are forced to make and the results of that decision. It is both an uplifting and tragic tale that I enjoyed reading.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    So, I read this book a while ago and wanted to write this review then, but unfortunately, I never had the chance to get around to it. So when I received a complimentary copy from Bloomsbury Publishing, it was practically fate! I reread the book again and wrote this review and it's just as amazing as the last time I read it. From the moment I heard about the idea of One, I knew I had to read it. I've always been so intrigued about the psychological aspect of being conjoined twins and the emotions that come with it, which this book managed to portray VERY well. You have no idea how many emotions I went through as I read this book. Added bonus: it's written in free verse! Usually, I find that books written in verse lack the ability to make me connect with the characters or the plot or the story in general. However, One managed to pull that off flawlessly! The writing style really made the pages go by. One sitting is all it took to devour this story.This book is told from the POV of Grace, not Tippi. I didn't mind that it wasn't in dual POV because we still get to see both sides of the coin. Grace is the quiet, shy one and Tippi is the stubborn, outgoing one. They're so different, yet they're so in sync with each other -- it's beautiful! Sarah Crossan did a phenomenal job of providing insight into their lives; it's obvious a lot of meticulous research went into this. The story explores a variety of different problems. One example is the daily struggle of being conjoined twins and the difficulty they face in fitting in with others. Another example is Grace and Tippi's dysfunctional family - they aren't the only ones with problems - and their struggle to manage the medical bills. I also found many underlying themes such as love, friendship, and family.Also, can we talk about THAT ENDING. I can't say I didn't see it coming, but boy did I cry my eyes out. WHY IS LIFE SO CRUEL *sob*So, in short, One is a very thought-provoking and insightful read into the lives of two girls bound together. The free verse writing style and the topic of the book itself makes for a very unique read. Grace & Tippi were such complex, flawed characters and their dynamic with their family and friends was just so well-written. The way this book addressed everything was extraordinary and I just- *hugs book*.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did. Firstly - it is YA. Secondly, it is written in free verse. However, I enjoyed this very much, it is a very lovely and affecting story about a pair of conjoined twins, which packs an emotional punch.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    A compelling verse novel told through the viewpoint of one of a pair of conjoined twins shines a light on the profound power of love. While virtually everyone gawks at and pities the twins, the duo sustains the difficulties of the condition in which they were born, facing and overcoming great odds .
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    I read book one then skipped to book 3. I liked the strength and determination of America and found the rebel subplot added an extra level of interest. A quick and enjoyable read.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This review is full of spoilers.

    This book was not as good as the first one, but much better than the second. I really liked that the back and forth between Aspen and Maxon came to an end pretty early on. As I've said in my review of The Elite, I was not a fan of the love triangle. I still found the love story plot a bit tired. Maxon was selfish and obnoxious dating 3 people at once, although I do know that is the basis for this series. The thing that got me though was the childish games that America and Maxon played with each other. Who cares who says I love you first? Page after page of back and forth monologues about how she loves him but can't or won't say it unless he says it first, and then the arguments over who should say it! For Heaven's sake just someone say it and be done with it!

    As far as the political aspect, I thought it was amazing! I liked the way the northern rebels' story line played out and I absolutely loved the scenes with the Italians. This book had a feel that danger was right around the corner, but unlike the previous book, it felt important, and worth the risk.

    I also really enjoyed seeing the family dynamic in the Singer household and was genuinely sad when the father died. I did not, however like the 180 Celeste's character pulled. I think she started out too extreme and had to come too far too fast to make it believable. I did like her after said unbelievable character change.

    I think that the ending was rushed and a little bit of a cop out, but I saw it coming. Too much setup had been laid out for the Aspen reveal not to touch on it, and the king had to die to tie this up nicely. I didn't see the queen's death coming though, and was upset about that. I really liked her, she seemed like quite a lady.

    If someone liked the first two books, I think that they would really enjoy this wrap up of the series.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    “Don’t worry. The best people all have some kind of scar.”I really am glad I gave this series a chance after not loving book one. I am really enjoying it.While I am reading, I will type or write down notes. During The One, I had wrote down that I loved the relationship between America and her father. I did not know at the time where the story with her father was going to go. I had a great bond with my father and he passed away while I was still young. So, the story between America and her father really touched me in a way it may have not others who read this one.I also loved the development of the relationship between Maxon and America. I also love how strong a female character America is as she does not allow others to dictate how she acts and thinks.Great series so far!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I started this and finished it within a few hours.

    I am super reader.

    I am AWESOME.

    Of course, the quality of the book itself should get some credit too.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Better than the second one. I'm still not sure where she went from being in love with both to deciding she wasn't in love with Aspen anymore. Pretty sappy, but I know there are a lot of people who want that.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    The One is about a 17-year old girl who gets selected by the king himself to become the Queen of Illea and the beloved Prince´s Wife, but there are also 35 other girls who want the same thing. America Singer never actually wanted to become the prince´s Wife or The Queen at first but after meeting the Prince and knowing him better she slowely started falling in love with his personality and looks. The prince´s name is Maxon. In this book, the story continues wiht only 5 peope left in the selection and with America singer and prince Maxon being in Love and wanting to get married, but alot of things seem to happen between them and thats when their Relationship seem to be on the edge of a cliff. Also Maxon´s Father , the King of Illea, doesnt seem to like the attitude that America is given towards the Selection. He tries everything to stop them from getting married and ending the selection. There are also the Rebels who attack the Kingdom and are trying to stop the Selection and are trying to kill the Royal Family. The civilization live in castes, that means that if you are a One that means you belong to the royal Family. A two means you are a Celebrity : professional Model, actor, MTV-singers and you are a from wealthy families, also there are officers of any policing, militiary, firefighting, or guardian posititon assigned to by Draft. The threes, which are Educators of any kind. The Fours who are Farm, hotel, restaurants, shop owners, also head chefs, jewelers or real estate Agents. Fives which are professional muscians, singers, dancers and other things that have soemthing to do with Art. America is a Five, so a singer. Sixes which are secretaries, house keepers, cooks. Seven are gardeners, construction wokers, gutter andpool cleaners. Last but not least, there are the Eights : which are mentally or physcally disabled, criminals, runaways or homeless. America and Maxon are trying to put a stop to the castes. In the End, The King and the Queen get killed by the rebels. Maxon gets shot in the chest but survives and America gets married to maxon ; becomes the Queen of Illea and ends the caste system. The ENDI rated the book with four stars because, it shows how you might live if this Caste system existed, and what it would be like if the Selection was real. It also shows the live of a girl who gets selected to marry a prince with 35 other girls, she gets to experience the live of a princess and the otehr things that the book has to offer. The only downer part was that as much as i liked the book, it had alittle to much lovey-dovey parts which were alittle to cheesy and not my thing type. My favorite character in this book was the Queen of Illea (eventhough she wasnt in the book so much) because she was nice and she forgave other people no matter how many mistakes they made, gave the contestants courage, and showed that even a lower caste could become a queen. My second favorite character was the main character herself, America Singer because she was so different from the other contestants: she wore simple things instead of the other girls, never wore alot of make-up and was alot more natural with her looks and towards the prince. She treated her maids nicely, protected them, trusted them and always helped them when they needed it. She never wanted much or needed much, and she didnt care about the money or the fame, as long as she had her love by her side , she was happy. I enjoyed the whole series very much and i recommend it to those who like love, Royal, Fantasy, Action books.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    I enjoyed the first book in this trilogy, then became really annoyed with the main character by the second book, but since I had read that far I felt like I had to finish the series. I admit to enjoying the occasionally romance story, but I want a strong and determined female character, not one that defines herself by the man she loves. Reading this series was like watching a fish flop on the dock. Every other page the main character was changing her mind about who she loved, sabotaging her own chances at the Selection and quite accidentally helping the rebel forces with each move. By the last book in the series , I was far more interested in the rebellion and how Maxon would fair than I was in fickle-hearted America.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Well well well this series took a turn for the better. In this installment of the selection series, we reach the episode of The Bachelor where the dude is torn between two girls and the way he wants to make his choice is to see if he can get one of the girls to bite the bullet and tell him she loves him first. America being the spicy one with no intentions of showing her cards first is reluctant to play Maxon’s game. One thing that The Bachelor never really does is show the camaraderie between the ladies and in this one, the final four become better friends. Oh, and I finally got over what makes America unlikable.Once I remembered that I tend to judge people based on who they liked I just ignored it. Since I don’t like Maxon (still don’t) I didn’t like America. There’s something about him that rubs me the wrong way but hopefully he grows on me like America did. But seriously, I started enjoying this book a lot more after I got over how corny Maxon could be.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This book. OHMYGOD I'M OBSESSED. I literally was yelling "JUST TELL ME ALREADY!" in my family room and my mom turns and gives me this look like 'are you insane?'. Then she asks me "Are your characters not doing what you want them to?". Well, obviously... and I'm impatient. This series is really original. I loved it.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This is the final book in the selection series. America is one of the few remaining Elite. She and one of the other Elite, Celeste (the mean girl) become best friends. America is in love with the prince, Maxon. The King disagrees with America marrying Maxon. So, Maxon and America decide that they need to get the people to love her and the king will love her. The king announces a party in which the Elite have to invite two people. America invites a friend, Georgia, and the princess of Italy, Nicolette. They talk and the king receives a note saying that the Italians would appreciate it if America and the royal family would visit them. America is then told that her Father was dead. She goes home for four days and mourns her dad. When she returns to the palace the Maxon tells her he intends to marry her. Aspen (her old lover) is jealous, and the prince sees him hugging her. The prince tells America he will not marry her. Then the day of the announcement of who the prince will marry ,rebels attack. Maxon gets shot in the arm, his parents are dead and Maxon tells America how much he loves her and that if they make it through the rebels he will marry her. In the end Maxon marries America, and they live happily ever after. I love the selection series. I went every day to the library waiting for this book. It had a pretty fast beginning and a pretty slow ending. I love the tempo of the book. I love the intesity. I enjoy the way the book expresses her feelings. I like the way it makes me think about my future.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    America Singer and three others are left and she is getting nervous. About everything like who she really loves Aspen or Prince Maxon. When two Northern Rebels get into the castle and they request to talk to Maxon and America alone. They purposefully wait till the king is gone on work to talk. Because they know he is much more understanding. They tell America that see has to win if they wan t to keep the Soutern Rebels from winning and the Southern Rebles are just trying to scare the girls so they will stop the Selection from ending. And in the end America Singer becomes the princess of New Asia with Prince Maxon. What I loved about The One is that it is a charming love story. And is about courage and bravery and about who you really love. And it is also filled with action and drama. Plus It is the third book in the series. The books are The Selection, The Elite, The One, The Prince & The Guard. The Prince & The Guard is the story from Maxon the prince and from Aspen the guard.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    The book was the perfect way to end this series.America Singer has finally made it to The Elite, the best of the best, and now has to really fight for Prince Maxon. She has figured out that she has feelings for Prince Maxon, done some terrible things to hurt him, and now must win back his trust. While The Selection is going on, the entire country is in turmoil. The palace is being attacked almost daily and the King has no idea what they want. America and Maxon see the trouble of the nation and know something must be done all while trying to fix things between them. In the end, will Maxon choose America to be his princess bride?Overall I enjoyed this book/series. The story moved along at a really good pace that I wasn't bored to tears or left wondering what was going on. I liked how the characters actually developed and grew along the way. It was nice to see them do that over three books, not just during the last book within the last 50 pages.This was one of the more enjoyable reads of 2014 so I give this 4 out of 5 stars.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Can you guess who he picks? A must read for any fan of the series. You will keep guessing up to the last page. Drama, romance, trust, war...all in a full-blown reality show in book form. I enjoyed seeing the characters mature into themselves and make decisions. Loved every book in the series and especially the covers!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    It's been so long since I've read this, that I don't have a lot to say about it (sorry).[MAJOR SPOILERS THROUGHOUT]I can say that a heck of a lot of people died while I was waiting for my mom at the chiropractor. And it was my birthday. I mean, geez. Right when I started reading, they started dropping like flies. It was ridiculous.And it kind of annoyed me that Cass didn't tell us whether Kriss survived or not until she appeared at the wedding.Also, I just wanna say that I called the deaths of both America and Maxon's fathers. I'm really sad that Amberly died and that she'll never get to embrace America as a daughter. 3This is kind of random, but there were a couple of times when Cass said something like "She held her back", which I read as physically restraining someone, but was meant to mean returning a hug. I don't know if that misunderstanding was my fault or hers...Anyway, I'm super happy that America and Maxon ended up together and I am (was) excited to continue the series!
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    America and Maxon were pretty annoying in this book. Because neither of them wanted to be the first to say 'I love you' out loud. If one or the other had been brave enough to just speak the words, a whole lot of trouble could have been saved. I figured after the last book that the only way America was going to be able to regain Maxon's trust was to tell him the truth about Aspen. Because of that ultimatum, I can't help that feel that she doesn't deserve him. Then again, selection or no selection, he was cheating on her with all these other girls, making me wonder how she could trust him. Maybe they do deserve each other.

    Aspen was just as bad. He was a prideful, controlling jerk. In the first two books he abandoned America because he was to prideful to be with her, then changed his mind and tried to hang on to her when it would've been better for her if he'd let her go. Then in this book for some bizarre reason he decided not to bother telling America that he'd fallen in love with someone else (and I honestly think that Lucy deserves someone better) until he tried to do so at a time when she was upset, and didn't let him, but then when he saw America and Maxon in the same bed (though not sleeping together) he still reacted with the kind of anger that one would expect from a newly dumped boyfriend.

    In other words, I hate the three main characters. They're all such hypocrites. Kiera Cass needs to work on her character building. That said, her stories are very, very good. If it weren't for the hateable characters I think that this would be an amazing series. The ending was sort of weak. The only way to end this series with this book was to kill the king, otherwise it would have had to keep going and going until Maxon and America were able to get out from under his thumb, but it was a pretty clean ending to Clarkson's messy storyline that would have shown more depth to the two lovebirds if they'd had to be strong and stop letting him control them. The other thing I didn't like was the killing of Queen Amberly. Cass could've done so much with her character in the end chapters, but she chose to just kill her. That was very frustrating. And for her to kill off Anne (and with such an off-hand 'oh by the way, nobody cares about her Anyway' type of attitude) cleaned up Lucy and Aspen's love story more than I thought was necessary. America's father was another one. His death did have some plot-points with Maxon realizing his feelings for America (y'know, finally,) but there could've been another way to do that...and there was really no point in him being a rebel other than for America to recognize the star Kris was wearing marked her as a rebel, and, given the fact that America had just become friends with Georgia, there was already a much easier way for America to realize that.

    Another problem was Celeste. She'd been so mean in the first two books and suddenly she's being nice. That was a little bit too abrupt. I feel like she needed have been little clues that she wasn't as nasty as she was letting on in earlier books so that her sudden niceness wouldn't have felt so out of character. Then she has a freaking ton of character growth and then...she dies. Seriously? That is not what you do with a character who has just had a boatload of character growth.

    Okay, okay, just one more complaint. Both America and Maxon needed to prove themselves to each other (at least in my mind, with aforesaid approved cheating with the selection,) but only Maxon proved himself to America by saving her life, and realistically, because America had accepted that the selection, with it's sort of cheating was the way she was going to have to win Maxon, she really needed to prove herself to him even more than he needed to prove himself to her. For this reason I think it would have been more powerful if she had leaped in front of a gun to save Maxon, rather than the other way around. Plus, for all that she is a weak person when it comes to being honest, when it comes to being brave, America is very, very strong, so the fact that she just sat there while the rebel pointed the gun at Maxon felt out of character.

    Okay, so Kiera Cass needs to really work on making her characters more likeable, and on making her endings stronger. Other than that her stories are very good. Honestly because of the weak ending I'm trying to decide between giving the book two stars or three. Oh well I'll give her the benefit of the doubt and give her three because I was listening to it as an audiobook and the narrator was very good.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Great ending to the series. I thought it was better paced then the previous two. Loved the endings for each of the characters.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    America still made some really ridiculous decisions in this book but I did love how the series ended! Was looking forward to reading the next book but after reading reviews and learning is about their daughter I think I'll pass. I loved this series and don't want it ruined.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This was a good conclusion to the story either a HEA. But yet there are several more books. America was a bit less wispy washy I'm this book which made me happy. Again the story kept me on the edge of my seat needing to read until all hours of the night. Moving on to the next.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    This is the third book of the Selection trilogy. The field has been narrowed down to four girls. America has decided that she is a serious competitor and decides to fight for Maxon's affections. I have to admit I highly enjoyed this trilogy. I liked the author's writing style, pacing, and character development. I look forward to reading more by Kiera Cass.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Thought it ended abruptly. Still ok.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    excellent ending to a three book series. thank you for magical world I lived in for weeks. I am proud that I could even share this with my teen too. finally a great wholesome read.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    A dramatic end to a dramatic trilogy. A pleasant read with a few problems. We end the trilogy with a whirlwind of action, drama and tragedy and then quickly jump to a fairy-tale finish. All those loose ends were tied up too quickly and easily for them to be believable.I'm happy about the final main couple but the relationship I really appreciated was between America and Celeste. It showed real growth and real emotion.

Book preview

The One - Kiera Cass

CHAPTER 1

THIS TIME WE WERE IN the Great Room enduring another etiquette lesson when bricks came flying through the window. Elise immediately hit the ground and started crawling for the side door, whimpering as she went. Celeste let out a high-pitched scream and bolted toward the back of the room, barely escaping a shower of glass. Kriss grabbed my arm, pulling me, and I broke into a run alongside her as we made our way to the exit.

Hurry, ladies! Silvia cried.

Within seconds, the guards had lined up at the windows and were firing, and the bursts of sound echoed in my ears as we fled. Whether they came with guns or stones, anyone showing the smallest level of aggression within sight of the palace would die. There was no more patience left for these attacks.

I hate running in these shoes, Kriss muttered, a heap of dress draped over her arm, eyes focused on the end of the hall.

One of us is going to have to get used to it, Celeste said, her breath labored.

I rolled my eyes. If it’s me, I’ll wear sneakers every day. I’m already over this.

Less talking, more moving! Silvia yelled.

How do we get downstairs from here? Elise asked.

What about Maxon? Kriss huffed.

Silvia didn’t answer. We followed her through a maze of hallways, looking for a path to the basement, watching as guard after guard ran in the opposite direction. I found myself admiring them, wondering at the courage it took to run toward danger for the sake of other people.

The guards passing us were completely indistinguishable from one another until a set of green eyes locked with mine. Aspen didn’t look afraid or even startled. There was a problem, and he was on his way to fix it. That was simply who he was.

Our gaze was brief, but it was enough. It was like that with Aspen. In a split second, without a word, I could tell him Be careful and stay safe. And saying nothing, he’d answer I know, just take care of yourself.

While I could easily be at peace with the things we didn’t need to say, I had no such luck with the things we’d said out loud. Our last conversation wasn’t exactly a happy one. I had been about to leave the palace and had asked him to give me some space to get over the Selection. And then I’d ended up staying and had given him no explanation as to why.

Maybe his patience with me was falling short, his ability to see only the best in me running dry. Somehow I would have to fix that. I couldn’t see a life for me that didn’t include Aspen. Even now, as I hoped Maxon would choose me, a world without Aspen felt unimaginable.

Here it is! Silvia called, pushing a mysterious panel in a wall.

We started down the stairs, Elise and Silvia heading the charge.

Damn it, Elise, pick up the pace! Celeste yelled. I wanted to be irritated that she said it, but I knew we were all thinking the same thing.

As we descended into the darkness, I tried to reconcile myself to the hours that would be wasted, hiding like mice. We continued on, the sound of our escape covering the shouts until one man’s voice rang out right on top of us.

Stop! he yelled.

Kriss and I turned together, watching as the uniform became clear. Wait, she called to the girls below. It’s a guard.

We stood on the steps, breathing heavily. He finally reached us, gasping himself.

Sorry, ladies. The rebels ran as soon as the shots were fired. Weren’t in the mood for a fight today, I guess.

Silvia, running her hands over her clothes to smooth them, spoke for us. Has the king deemed it safe? If not, you’re putting these girls in a very dangerous position.

The head of the guard cleared it. I’m sure His Majesty—

You don’t speak for the king. Come on, ladies, keep moving.

Are you serious? I asked. We’re going down there for nothing.

She fixed me with a stare that might have stopped a rebel in his tracks, and I shut my mouth. Silvia and I had built a friendship of sorts as she unknowingly helped me distract myself from Maxon and Aspen with her extra lessons. After my little stunt on the Report a few days ago, it seemed that had dissolved into nothing. Turning to the guard, she continued. Get an official order from the king, and we’ll return. Keep walking, ladies.

The guard and I shared an exasperated look and parted ways.

Silvia showed absolutely no remorse when, twenty minutes later, a different guard came, telling us we were free to go upstairs.

I was so irritated by the whole situation, I didn’t wait for Silvia or the other girls. I climbed the stairs, exiting somewhere on the first floor, and continued to my room with my shoes still hooked on my fingers. My maids were missing, but a small silver platter holding an envelope was waiting on the bed.

I recognized May’s handwriting instantly and tore open the envelope, devouring her words.

Ames,

We’re aunts! Astra is perfect. I wish you were here to meet her in person, but we all understand you need to be at the palace right now. Do you think we’ll be together for Christmas? Not that far away! I’ve got to get back to helping Kenna and James. I can’t believe how pretty she is! Here’s a picture for you. We love you!

May

I slipped the glossy photo from behind the note. Everyone was there except for Kota and me. James, Kenna’s husband, was beaming, standing over his wife and daughter with puffy eyes. Kenna sat upright in the bed, holding a tiny pink bundle, looking equal parts thrilled and exhausted. Mom and Dad were glowing with pride, while May’s and Gerad’s enthusiasm jumped from the image. Of course Kota wouldn’t have gone; there was nothing for him to gain from being present. But I should have been there.

I wasn’t though.

I was here. And sometimes I didn’t understand why. Maxon was still spending time with Kriss, even after all he’d done to get me to stay. The rebels unrelentingly attacked our safety from the outside, and inside, the king’s icy words did just as much damage to my confidence. All the while, Aspen orbited me, a secret I had to keep. And the cameras came and went, stealing pieces of our lives to entertain the people. I was being pushed into a corner from every angle, and I was missing out on all the things that had always mattered to me.

I choked back angry tears. I was so tired of crying.

Instead I went into planning mode. The only way to set things right was to end the Selection.

Though I still occasionally questioned my desire to be the princess, there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to be Maxon’s. If that was going to happen, I couldn’t sit back and wait for it. Remembering my last conversation with the king, I paced as I waited for my maids.

I could hardly breathe, so I knew eating would be a waste. But it would be worth the sacrifice. I needed to make some progress, and I needed to do it fast. According to the king, the other girls were making advances toward Maxon—physical advances—and he’d said I was far too plain to have a chance of matching them in that department.

As if my relationship with Maxon wasn’t complicated enough, there was a whole new issue of rebuilding trust. And I wasn’t sure if that meant I wasn’t supposed to ask questions or not. While I felt pretty sure he hadn’t gone that far physically with the other girls, I couldn’t help but wonder. I’d never tried to be seductive before—pretty much every intimate moment I’d had with Maxon came about without intention—but I had to hope that if I was deliberate, I could make it clear that I was just as interested in him as the others.

I took a deep breath, raised my chin, and walked into the dining hall. I was purposely a minute or two late, hoping everyone would already be seated. I was right on that count. But the reaction was better than I’d hoped.

I curtsied, swinging my leg around so the slit in the dress fell open, leading nearly all the way up my thigh. The dress was a deep red, strapless and practically backless, and I was almost positive my maids had used magic to make it stay up at all. I rose, locking eyes with Maxon, who I noticed had stopped chewing. Someone dropped a fork.

Lowering my gaze, I walked to my seat, settling in next to Kriss.

Seriously, America? she whispered.

I tilted my head in her direction. I’m sorry? I replied, feigning confusion.

She put her silverware down, and we stared at each other. You look trashy.

Well, you look jealous.

I’d hit pretty close to the mark, because she flushed a bit before returning to her food. I took limited bites of my own, already miserably constricted. As dessert was being set in front of me, I chose to stop ignoring Maxon, and as I had hoped, his eyes were on me. He reached up and grabbed his ear immediately, and I demurely did the same. My gaze flickered quickly toward King Clarkson, and I tried not to smile. He was irritated, another trick I’d managed to get away with.

I excused myself first, giving Maxon a chance to admire the back of the dress, and scurried to my room. I closed the door to my room behind me and unzipped the gown immediately, desperate for a breath.

How’d it go? Mary asked, rushing over.

He seemed stunned. They all did.

Lucy squealed, and Anne came to help Mary. We’ll hold it up. Just walk, she ordered. I did as I was told. Is he coming tonight?

Yes. I’m not sure when, but he’ll definitely be here. I perched on the edge of my bed, arms folded around my stomach to keep the open dress from falling down.

Anne gave me a sad face. I’m sorry you’ll have to be uncomfortable for a few more hours. I’m sure it’ll be worth it though.

I smiled, trying to look like I was fine dealing with the pain. I’d told my maids I wanted to get Maxon’s attention. I’d left out my hope that, with any luck, this dress would be on the floor pretty soon.

Do you want us to stay until he arrives? Lucy asked, her enthusiasm bubbling over.

No, just help me zip this thing back up. I need to think some things through, I answered, standing so they could help me.

Mary took hold of the zipper. Suck it in, miss. I obeyed, and as the dress cinched me in again, I thought of a soldier going to war. Different armor but the same idea.

Tonight I was taking down a man.

CHAPTER 2

I OPENED THE BALCONY DOORS, letting the air sweeten my room. Even though it was December, the breeze was light and tickled my skin. We weren’t allowed to go outside at all anymore, not without guards by our sides, so this would have to do.

I scurried around the room, lighting candles, trying to make the space inviting. The knock came at the door, and I blew out the match, bolted over to the bed, picked up a book, and fanned out my dress. Why yes, Maxon, this is how I always look when I read.

Come in, I offered, barely loud enough to be heard.

Maxon entered, and I lifted my head delicately, catching the wonder in his eyes as he surveyed my dimly lit room. Finally he focused on me, his gaze traveling up my exposed leg.

There you are, I said, closing the book and standing to greet him.

He shut the door and came in, his eyes locked on my curves. I wanted to tell you that you look fantastic tonight.

I flicked my hair over my shoulder. Oh, this thing? It was just sitting in the back of the closet.

I’m glad you pulled it out.

I laced my fingers through his. Come sit with me. I haven’t seen you much lately.

He sighed and followed. I’m sorry about that. Things have been a bit tense since we lost so many people in that rebel attack, and you know how my father is. We sent several guards to protect your families, and our forces are stretched thin, so he’s worse than usual. And he’s pressuring me to end the Selection, but I’m holding my ground. I want to have some time to think this through.

We sat on the edge of the bed, and I settled close to him. Of course. You should be in charge of this.

He nodded. Exactly. I know I’ve said it a thousand times, but when people push me, it makes me crazy.

I gave him a little pout. I know.

He paused, and I couldn’t read his face. I was trying to figure out how to move this forward without being pushy, but I wasn’t sure how to manufacture a romantic moment.

I know this is silly, but my maids put this new perfume on me today. Is it too strong? I asked, tilting my neck so he could lean in and breathe.

He came near, his nose hitting a soft patch of skin. No, dear, it’s lovely, he said into the curve that led to my shoulder. Then he kissed me there. I swallowed, trying to focus. I needed to have some level of control.

I’m glad you like it. I’ve really missed you.

I felt his hand snake around my back, and I brought my face down. There he was, eyes looking into mine, our lips millimeters apart.

How much have you missed me? he breathed.

His stare, combined with his voice being so low, was doing funny things to my heartbeat. So much, I whispered back. So, so much.

I leaned forward, aching to be kissed. Maxon was confident, pulling me closer with one hand and stringing the other through my hair. My body wanted to melt into the kiss, but the dress stopped me. Then, suddenly nervous again, I remembered my plan.

Sliding my hands down Maxon’s arms, I guided his fingers to the zipper on the back of my dress, hoping that would be enough.

His hands lingered there for a moment, and I was seconds away from just asking him to unzip it when he burst out laughing.

The sound sobered me up pretty quickly.

What’s so funny? I asked, horrified, trying to think of an inconspicuous way to check my breath.

Of everything you’ve done, this is by far the most entertaining! Maxon bent over, hitting his knee as he laughed.

Excuse me?

He kissed me hard on my forehead. I always wondered what it would be like to see you try. He started laughing again. I’m sorry; I have to go. Even the way he stood held a sense of amusement. I’ll see you in the morning.

And then he left. He just left!

I sat there, completely mortified. Why in the world did I think I could pull that off? Maxon may not know everything about me, but at the very least he knew my character—and this? It wasn’t me.

I looked down at the ridiculous dress. It was way too much. Even Celeste wouldn’t have gone this far. My hair was too perfect, my makeup too heavy. He knew what I was trying to do from the second he walked through the doorway. Sighing, I went around the room, blowing out candles and wondering how I was supposed to face him tomorrow.

CHAPTER 3

I DEBATED CLAIMING THE STOMACH flu. Or an incapacitating headache. Panic attack. Really, anything to get out of going to breakfast.

Then I thought of Maxon and how he always talked about putting on a brave face. That wasn’t a particular strength of mine. But if I went downstairs at least, if I could just be present, maybe he’d give me some credit.

In hopes that I could erase some of what I’d done, I asked my maids to put me in the most demure dress I had. Based on that request alone, they knew not to ask about the night before. The neckline was a bit higher than the ones we typically wore in the warm Angeles weather, and it had sleeves that went nearly to my elbows. It was flowery and cheerful, the opposite of last night’s getup.

I could barely look at Maxon when I entered the dining hall, but I walked tall at least.

When I finally peeked at him, he was watching me, grinning. As he chewed his food, he winked at me; and I ducked my head again, pretending to be very interested in my quiche.

Glad to see you in actual clothes today, Kriss spat.

Glad to see you in such a good mood.

What in the world has gotten into you? she hissed.

Dejected, I gave up. I’m not up for this today, Kriss. Just leave me alone.

For a moment, she looked as if she might fight back, but I guessed I wasn’t worth it. She sat up a little straighter and continued eating. If I’d had any level of success last night, then I could justify my actions; as it was, I couldn’t even fake being proud.

I risked another glance at Maxon, and even though he wasn’t watching me, he was still suppressing a smug expression as he cut his food. That was it. I wasn’t going to suffer through a day like this. I was about to swoon or clutch my stomach or do anything to get me out of the room when a butler came in. He carried an envelope on a silver platter, and he bowed before placing it in front of King Clarkson.

The king took the letter and read it quickly. Damn French, he muttered. Sorry, Amberly, it looks like I’ll be leaving within the hour.

Another problem with the trade agreement? she asked quietly.

Yes. I thought we’d settled all this months ago. We need to be firm on this one. He stood, throwing his napkin on his plate, and made his way to the door.

Father, Maxon called, standing. Don’t you want me to come?

It had struck me as odd that the king didn’t bark out a command for his son to follow when he exited, seeing as that was his usual method of instructing. Instead he turned to Maxon, his eyes cold and his voice sharp.

When you’re ready to behave the way a king should, you’ll get to experience what a king does. Without saying anything more, he left us.

Maxon stood for a moment, shocked and embarrassed by his father’s choice to call him out in front of everyone. As he sat down, he turned to his mother. Wasn’t really looking forward to that flight, if I’m being honest, he said, joking away the tension. The queen smiled, as of course she must, and the rest of us ignored it.

The other girls finished their breakfasts and excused themselves to the Women’s Room. When it was just Maxon, Elise, and me remaining at our tables, I looked up at him. We both tugged our ears at the same time, then smiled. Elise finally left, and we met in the middle of the room, not bothered by the maids and butlers cleaning up around us.

It’s my fault he’s not taking you, I lamented.

Perhaps, he teased. Trust me, this isn’t the first time he’s tried to put me in my place, and he has a million reasons in his head why he thinks he should. It wouldn’t surprise me if his only motive this time was spite. He doesn’t want to lose control, and the closer I am to picking a wife, the more of a likelihood that is for him. Though we both know he’ll never truly let go.

You might as well just send me home. He’s never going to let you pick me. I still hadn’t told Maxon about how his father had cornered me, threatening me in the middle of the hall after Maxon talked him into letting me stay. King Clarkson had made it clear I was to keep my mouth shut about our conversation, and I didn’t want to cross him. At the same time, I hated keeping it from Maxon.

Besides, I added, crossing my arms, after last night, I can’t imagine you’re that keen on keeping me anyway.

He bit his lips. I’m sorry I laughed, but really, what else could I do?

I had plenty of ideas, I muttered, still embarrassed at my attempt to seduce him. I feel so stupid. I buried my head in my hands.

Stop, he said gently, pulling me in for an embrace. Trust me when I say, it was very tempting. But you’re not that girl.

But shouldn’t I be? Shouldn’t that be part of what we are? I whined into his chest.

Don’t you remember the night in the safe room? he said, his voice low.

Yes, but that was basically us saying good-bye.

It would have been a fantastic good-bye.

I stepped away and swatted at him. He laughed, happy to have broken through the uneasiness.

Let’s forget about it, I proposed.

Very well, he agreed. Besides, we have a project to work on, you and I.

We do?

Yes, and since my father is gone, this will be a convenient time to start brainstorming.

All right, I said, excited to be a part of something that was just between the two of us.

He sighed, making me nervous about what he was planning. You’re right. Father doesn’t approve of you. But he might be forced to bend if we can manage one thing.

Which is?

We have to make you the people’s favorite.

I rolled my eyes. "That is what we’re working on? Maxon, that’s never going to happen. I saw a poll in one of Celeste’s magazines after I tried to save Marlee. People can hardly stand me."

"Opinions change. Don’t let that one moment bring you down

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