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The Heir
The Heir
The Heir
Ebook325 pages4 hours

The Heir

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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A new era dawns in the world of Kiera Cass’s #1 New York Times bestselling Selection series

America and Maxon’s fairy-tale romance enchanted readers from the very first page of The Selection. Now find out what happens after happily ever after in this fourth captivating novel, perfect for fans of Veronica Roth’s Divergent, Lauren Oliver’s Delirium, or Renée Ahdieh’s The Wrath & the Dawn.

Twenty years ago, America Singer entered the Selection and won Prince Maxon’s heart. Now the time has come for Princess Eadlyn to hold a Selection of her own. Eadlyn doesn’t expect anything like her parents’ fairy-tale love story...but as the competition begins, she may discover that finding her own happily ever after isn’t as impossible as she’s always thought.

A new generation of swoon-worthy characters and captivating romance awaits in the fourth book of the Selection series!

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 5, 2015
ISBN9780062349873
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 Heir

Rating: 4.01685393258427 out of 5 stars
4/5

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  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Wow! What a jump in time. I wish this would have been part of a spin-off of the The Selection series, as I was not expecting new characters and such a jump into the future. I will mention I went into this not reading the synopsis, as that is how I prefer to read books. I still ended up enjoying it. I liked seeing Maxon and America as parents, and the children they have raised. I do feel the ending was rushed and I did not connect with any of the love interests except the one (which was who you are supposed to love). I also did not love the ending. Yes, it is a cliff hanger for you to continue on. But, I just did not love it as it was very rushed. I also do not like that similar things happened like in the last book with the ending. We will see where the rest of the series goes.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Eadlyn makes a more interesting character than her parents - she is entitled and actually a bit shy, I think. She hides behind her fate as the next ruler and lets that separate her from her siblings and from other people in general. She gets roped into a "selection" for the morale of her people, but that is a mixed blessing. She deals with jerk guys and despite herself begins to see the other men as real people with value. I liked watching Eadlyn grow up, although the selection idea is just weird. Maybe it's because I don't watch the Bachelor.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Fluffy and the start of a new cycle of fluff :)
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    I was really looking forward to this book after reading The Selection Trilogy. And yes, it read as a trilogy. Book 4 almost feels like Kiera got such great reviews and feedback that she decided to extend the series even though it pretty much wrapped up on book 3. This book is about Maxon and America's daughter who will become queen and Maxon has decided to help distract everyone from the unrest that there needs to be another selection. This book is a very fast read, you could read it in one day. It wasn't bad, but it didn't capture my interest like the first three. Kiera is a really good writer but I feel like this book is just regurgitating the last three. This book can stand on it's own, and you don't need to have read the first three in order to read this one. Don't get me wrong, it's very well written and entertaining, just not my favorite of the series.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    An enjoyable successor to the previous series. It lacks in the same areas of character development and predictability that weakened the previous series, but all in all it's an enjoyable guilty pleasure novel.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    First of all, this is my favorite of all the Selection covers. IT'S SO PRETTY.So, just like with the first three books, I had heard that the protagonist was annoying, but I didn't think she was.I did think it was weird that she kept saying "I am the most powerful person in the world." Like, what about your dad? The king? Remember him? Idk.I can see how some readers might think her mistakes are annoying, but I kind of liked them. Like, she thinks she's following in her father's footsteps, but she doesn't realize how her people are going to interpret her actions. She's lacking an ability to empathize with others and she doesn't know it. That's a realistic flaw and one that I would enjoy seeing her overcome.[SPOILER]It was interesting to see where some of the characters from the original trilogy ended up. Although, I hated that America's sister died.[END SPOILER]This selection seems much more like a game show to me than the first one did. Maybe that's because we're in the mind of the star of the show, where there's more acting going on, versus the minds of the competitors, who aren't used to being on camera.[SPOILER]As for whom she's going to end up with (because, come on, of course she's not going to follow through on her plan to remain single), I would bet it's either going to be Kile or Erik because Kile is one she's against from the start and Erik isn't supposed to be a contender (but he totally is). Granted, I'm writing this review after reading the fifth book. It's possible I wasn't quite so confident when I read this book.[END SPOILER]
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I really enjoyed The Selection trilogy and had my doubts that I would enjoy a spin-off series. Shockingly, I think I may have enjoyed this more than all of the other books! I like that there isn't a set romance in place. I like that the main character isn't completely obsessed with romance and finding "the one." I did not like how bratty the main character could be. If you enjoyed The Selection Trilogy, then this is one not to be missed!
  • Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
    2/5
    1 of 5 stars[ 2 of 5 stars ]3 of 5 stars4 of 5 stars5 of 5 starsI was honestly really disappointed with this one.Having loved the first three books of the series, I was really excited to start this one (although a little wary after realizing that it wasn't about the original generation).Anyways, I felt like this book lacked the depth and organization that the previous stories had, and I felt extremely disconnected from the characters - especially Eadlyn, who I thought was bratty and simply unlikeable.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Another fun read in the series. Yeah, this book series is a bit on the girly side, in addition to the dystopian and serious political elements, but there's nothing wrong with that. Kiera Cass built a very serious and well-established fictional universe here, which is well worth reading about. And, this time around, we get to experience a new generation of the story.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Not going to lie, I don't really like Eadyln. She's not nearly as likable as her mother but for some reason I feel for her. She's so stubborn and at times quite fake but she eventually grew on me. Sometimes I just wanted to shake her and tell her to wise up and think about herself and her own happiness for once. That being said, I can't wait until next year to find who she ends up with and I hope it's Erik or Kile. Truthfully, these books are not the best written stories but they are interesting. I can say I did enjoy the others more than this one. I found Eadyln's parents romance must more interesting to read.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Fun to read.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    This book was a bit harder for me to get into as compared to the rest of the series so far. I do think it's because I didn't care for Eadlyn so very much at the beginning of the story. Granted by the end of the book I was captivated again and excited for the remainder of the series.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    EXCUSE ME but I didn't know this was going to be about Maxon and America's DAUGHTER. I guess that's what I get for not looking up the summary before continuing on with this series. I really thought this was going to be about America and Maxon dealing with the aftermath of the abolition of the caste system. But clearly not...In fact, the first chapters are what that one episode of The Bachelor: After the Final Rose wishes it could be. It's a nice inside into what happens when the show is successful. In this case, The Selection did its job and helped the prince find love and create a family of four kids. Then it introduces the next season of the spin-off: The Bachelorette starring Eadlyn Shreave. Confession time: I hate The Bachelor but The Bachelorette is my guilty pleasure. I can’t stand to watch girls hate on each other but when guys do it I kind of chuckle. I’m so sorry for my double standards...Anyway, so Eadlyn is 18 years old and has been training and studying with her father King Maxon to one day ascend the throne. There is unrest in Illea due to the prejudices still haunting the recently abolished caste system. As a ploy to keep those negative opinions out of the press and put the people at ease, Maxon and America beg Eadlyn to go through a Selection with 35 dudes and pick a husband. Naturally, Eadlyn doesn't want to but after giving it some thought she gives in with the condition that she is under no obligation to accept a proposal at the end of three months. Eadlyn is a mean girl. She is essentially the "poor little rich girl". This girl has never had outside exposure for some reason and she doesn't get to socialize with many people outside of the castle/mansion she lives in so her only friends are her twin brother Ahren, her mom's friends Miss Marlee and Miss Lucy and sometimes her maid Nina. No one tells her how horrible she is being until it affects them but to be fair I think all of us do it because it's kind of funny until it's directed at you. She's not a horrible human being but just ignorant. Eadlyn lashes out at Marlee's kid, Josie a 15 year old girl for wanting to touch her shiny tiaras (and like, who wouldn't??) She thinks Kile, also Marlee's kid, is lame for being a bookworm. She doesn't even try to be friends with them. But it's okay I was willing to give her the benefit of the doubt.The actual selection is kind of boring. Someone put Kile's name so now he's competing for Eadlyn's affections but after the initial appeal to this arc fizzled out I'm not sure if I care who she ends up with because there are actually a lot of decent guys that I liked. It's kind of obvious who she's going to end up with but I'm hoping to get something good out of the next book. For as lame as Maxon could be, I will admit that he had as much chemistry with America as Aspen did when he was still in love with her. Which is more than I can say about Eadlyn and some of her supposed frontrunner suitors.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    Note: Spoilers for Books One, Two, and ThreeAt the end of The One, America and Maxon married, with Aspen - now in love with the maid Lucy - serving as Best Man. As America explained: “Aspen had shifted to fill a desperate place in my life. Not my boyfriend, not my friend, but my family. Maxon, being more or less perfect, is okay with that.This fourth book, The Heir, is from the perspective of Eadlyn, 18 and the oldest child of Maxon and America, who have now been married for twenty years. Once again there is unrest in the kingdom, and Maxon and America ask Eadlyn, heir to the throne (she preceded her twin brother Ahren by seven minutes), to create a distraction for the populace by holding a “selection” for a mate. Eadlyn is appalled, but loves her dad so much, and he looks so worried and tired all the time….Eadlyn, as some of the selected boys let her know, is arrogant and spoiled but, as we know because we know and love her parents, not irredeemably so. In fact, exposure to the boys of the selection is very good for her, as her parents knew it would be. She not only learns humility, but she loses some of her comtempt for the people she loved mainly in theory only.As the selection proceeds, we aren’t sure who will win, but of course there are favorites, not only for Eadlyn, but for the readers. The selection has to be deferred however, when tragedy strikes the royal family.Evaluation: The book and the others in the series read like fan fiction (in a mashup of The Bachelor, Hunger Games, Matched, and the like) and aren’t very well-written, but they’re still as addictive as even not-your-favorite cookies. This book was a bit more entertaining for me than the others in some ways, as the competition among a group of boys brings out much different sorts of behaviors than among a group of competing girls.
  • Rating: 1 out of 5 stars
    1/5
    Diese und weitere Rezensionen findet ihr auf meinem Blog Anima Libri - Buchseele

    Oh weia… Das hier ist ein klarer Fall von zu viel des Guten. Hätte Kiera Cass es nach dem dritten Band ihrer „Selection“-Reihe bleiben und die Trilogie so für sich stehen lassen, die Serie wäre wohl auf ewig eine meiner liebsten Trash-Serien geblieben. Mit Band 4, das eigentlich eher der Beginn einer neuen Teilserie ist, hat die Autorin es aber eindeutig übertrieben. Ja, schon die drei Romane rund um America und ihre beiden Lieben Maxon und Aspen waren teils nur schwer zu ertragen, aber Eadlyn hebt das ganze in „Selection: Die Kronprinzessin“ auf ein ganz neues Level.

    Ihr habt die ersten Romane von Kiera Cass gelesen? Dann kennt ihr America, die naive, entscheidungsunfreudige und irgendwie nicht so recht lebensfähig erscheinende Protagonistin der ersten „Selection“ Romane. In „Selection: Die Kronprinzessin“ ist nun ihre Tochter Eadlyn die jenige, die mitten in einer Selection steckt und zwar ihrer eigenen, denn als Kronprinzessin braucht sie schließlich einen passenden Prinzen und überhaupt macht es doch einfach Sinn jetzt plötzlich eine neue Selection zu veranstalten, oder? Naja, eher nicht… Eine wirklich sinnvolle Grundlage hat dieser Roman also nicht, aber das ist noch der am wenigsten störende Teil der ganzen Geschichte.

    Das Hauptproblem ist Eadlyn. Ihr dachtet America wäre eine nur schwer zu ertragende Protagonistin? Falsch, ihre Tochter ist noch viel, viel extremer. Eadlyn ist schlicht und ergreifend schrecklich. Sie ist grenzenlos naiv, absolut ignorant und völlig missraten, ein verzogenes Miststück, das sich selbst für das größte Geschenk an die Menschheit hält, weshalb sie auch grenzenlos egoistisch ist und sich dann wundert, warum keiner sie mag. Das Gewicht der Welt lastet auf ihren schmalen Schultern und diese Last muss natürlich ständig allen unter die Nase gerieben werden und als Entschuldigung für jedes noch so unsoziale Verhalten herhalten. Und charakterliche Weiterentwicklung? Fehlanzeige, denn Eadlyn entwickelt sich nicht, sie beschließt lediglich, dass sie jetzt anders, besser ist als zu vor – weil das so ja auch funktioniert. Kurzum, Eadlyn ist einfach lächerlich und als Protagonistin nicht einmal ansatzweise ernst zu nehmen. Dadurch kann man natürlich auch den Rest der sowieso alles andere als ersten Geschichte nicht mehr ernst nehmen.

    Alles in allem war „Selection: Die Kronprinzessin“ von Kiera Cass in ziemlicher Reinfall, der allein schon dadurch deutlich wird, dass meine Lieblingsszene die war, in der Eadlyn von einem ihrer Brüder endlich mal einen Dämpfer verpasst bekommt und er ihr sagt, dass sie nicht so gut ist, wie sie sich selbst immer darstellt. Solange man also nicht wirklich absolut hart gesottener Fan der ersten drei „Selection“ Bände ist, braucht man es mit diesem hier wohl gar nicht erst versuchen.ier ist ein klarer Fall von zu viel des Guten. Hätte Kiera Cass es nach dem dritten Band ihrer „Selection“-Reihe bleiben und die Trilogie so für sich stehen lassen, die Serie wäre wohl auf ewig eine meiner liebsten Trash-Serien geblieben. Mit Band 4, das eigentlich eher der Beginn einer neuen Teilserie ist, hat die Autorin es aber eindeutig übertrieben. Ja, schon die drei Romane rund um America und ihre beiden Lieben Maxon und Aspen waren teils nur schwer zu ertragen, aber Eadlyn hebt das ganze in „Selection: Die Kronprinzessin“ auf ein ganz neues Level.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I want to refer to this as a spin-off of The Selection Trilogy, and not a continuation.

    The Heir was a very quick read, probably because I was so excited for it to be here and didn't put it down all day. It was interesting to see the selection completely through the eyes of a future queen. The different romantic standards the public is already holding her to, like calling her a slut for kissing one of the boys, is probably exactly what would really happen.

    I was kind of annoyed by how spoiled and unaware of the outside world she was acting, but that turned out to be a plot point. Regardless, I find it hard to believe America would raise a child that doesn't understand how the world works outside of the castle.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    "No one in the world is as powerful as you."

    Meet Eadlyn Schreave, daughter of King Maxon and Queen America and the next ruler of Illéa. This young girl believes power is hers by birthright and she hasn't the first clue how to interact with people, let alone rule a country. She believes everyone adores her simply because she's Eadlyn Schreave.

    Yes, the first half of this book was exhausting. When King Maxon decides to hold a Selection to boost the the country's moral, Eadlyn reacts like a spoiled brat. She's disrespectful to her parents and awful to everyone around her, especially to the Selected. I only kept reading to see if the author could turn this character around. There are a few positive signs at mid-point and by the end of the book let's just say I'm hopeful, but it's going to be a long road for this character. She's dug a deep hole for herself.

    As for the guys, there are several gems among them - they should be knighted for putting up with Eadlyn's behavior - and several scenes in the last half of the book that made me smile. They made this book worthwhile. I especially enjoyed Kile, Henri, and Erik.

    I can't say I was wild about the big cliffhanger ending. I hate the long wait between books and cliffhangers don't make those any easier.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    So this is the story of America and Maxon's daughter Eadlyn who is the heir of Illia, after all the changes that has happened since Maxon started ruling, it still wasn't enough. So, there comes the first Selection for 25 men to win the future queen's heart. In truth I didn't like Eadlyn, but the ending was good so I'm looking forward to "The Crown". I like Kile the architect... I had a hard time knowing who's who and keeping up with the whole cast, Erik is okay too but I still prefer Kile Woodwork.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Good

    I enjoyed the continuation of this story. Look forward to reading the next one. Clean and appropriate for teen audiences.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    "If you didn't like America, wait until you meet her daughter." Or so I was told. Truthfully, I didn't find Eadlyn as unpleasant as America. She still isn't the kind of character that you love and cry when she cries, but at least I'm not rolling my eyes every time she does anything the way I was with America (I still hated a lot of the things that she did, but at least my anger at her wasn't quite as constant as with America.

    The reason for the selection was ludicrous. People are unhappy with the monarchy. Maxon decides that a selection would distract people from their misery, and decides to force this on his daughter--despite the fact that he was forced into it and didn't like it (until he fell in 'love' with America) when he was eighteen. Yeah, because watching Louie the XVI and Marie Antoinette live lives of luxury distracted the French, and watching the Romanovs living extravagantly while they were starving to death did not please the Russians. I'm not a history expert, but I believe that the Romanovs at least did this to their people purely because they were not taught how to rule. They didn't know how to take care of their people, and they didn't know how to live without every luxury they could possibly want. Not entirely their fault, but something they could have fixed none the less. But America lived in poverty, and what Maxon didn't learn about ruling from his father, he should have learned from her. You would think that these two could have come up with the idea to stop wearing such extravagant clothing and eating whatever expensive, out-of-season ten-course meals they wanted, and shown their people that they actually understand what they are going through. I know a novel idea right? It's funny isn't it, that even in this book Maxon and America's stupidity manages to bother me. It's also kind of strange that Maxon and America have managed to stay in love all this time, because honestly, I don't think that they had enough trust for one another at the end of The One. I mean, Maxon was about to marry someone else because he had a temper tantrum because America failed to tell him that her (sort of) ex-boyfriend was a guard in the palace, even though he kept claiming that he only wanted her, yet went out kissing scantily clad girls in dark hallways. They were both at fault for the lack of love that I felt at the end of that book, but there was still a weak relationship that I don't think could have lasted very long. They are clearly in love in this book, but I truly cannot see how they got to this point.

    Like I said above, I (surprisingly) did not find Eadlyn as hateable as her parents. That doesn't mean that she was an especially likeable one. Her treatment of Josie, while identifiable, bordered on cruel, and her belief that she can't be vulnerable and strong at the same time bothered me. I hated the way that she uses Kile to take her mind off of her problems. I don't like it when relationships are established through lust, which this one clearly is, and this makes Eadlyn's treatment of Kile painfully reminiscent of the Aspen/America one in the other books (I personally think that the first three books were a trilogy and this is a companion book.) The only thing that makes the Eadlyn/Kile better is the fact that Kile is actually a likeable character. Though that might actually make it worse, now that I think of it, since Aspen and America would have deserved each other, almost as much as Maxon and America did by the end of the series. Anyhow, selfish relationship aside, the only time that Eadlyn's decision-making skills were truly worthy (in a bad way) of America's, was when she tried to convince Ahren not to love the woman who he loves (a lot more that I felt Maxon loved America.) Not only was that stupid, it was beyond selfish. There were times when I didn't really like Eadlyn, but that was the only time I hated her the way I hated America in the other series (like I said, in my opinion this is a companion series.) At least, unlike America, Eadlyn seems to realize that she was stupid and selfish, especially with the cost of her selfishness. Possibly her mother, and possibly her brother. I do hope that when she through the glass in rage it was rage at herself and not her brother, since the whole situation was her own fault, not her brothers. I think she (also unlike America) realized how selfish and stupid she was, and hopefully she will behave more maturely that America would have in her place.

    My complaints about her aside, Eadlyn was in a bad situation, and sometimes I truly did feel sorry for her. I don't have very much in common with her, so the fact that I could identify with her is a very good thing. The difficult thing with the first trilogy is that I hated America and Aspen, and, while I liked Maxon well enough at first, by the end of the series, I found him to be as detestable as the other two, so I wasn't really rooting for either of the potential love interests. The difficult thing with this series is that, while Eadlyn pretty self-centered, and I sometimes don't like her, quite a few of the boys who are love interests are truly pleasant people. I like Kile, Hale, Henri, Fox and Eric/Ikko (please don't kill me on spelling, I am listening to these books as audiobooks.) Because of the lustful start to Kile and Eadlyn's relationship, I don't think that they should be together. Fox doesn't seem to be a priority as we've only heard a little bit about him, but I really, really liked the single one-on-one conversation Eadlyn had with him. It was sweet. Hale seems to get along with Eadlyn pretty well. I really admire how much chivalry he shows. I like that he opened up to her, and I hope that she will do him the same favor, whether or not they end up together. Henri is just a wonderful guy. He's having trouble learning English, but why doesn't Eadlyn consider trying to learn Swinish? She might be as bad at it as he is at English, but it would help with the language barrier a little bit. I think Henri might be good for Eadlyn because he is so sweet and loving, while she has a forceful personality, and might have to be reminded to be loving. While I really like all of these guys as characters, the one that Eadlyn seems to have the most potential with is Eric. I don't like this because if these two do fall for each other, not only will it be bizarre since Eric isn't actually a part of the selection, but given Henri's earnestness, if Eric and Eadlyn end up together, it will surely hurt Henri dreadfully, and I would hate for that to happen to him. But Eadlyn and Eric truly seem to have the best potential relationship: Their starting as friends instead of trying to force romance before friendship. They're honest with each other (as are Eadlyn and Kile,) but don't have a relationship based on one using the other (unlike Eadlyn and Kile.) Eric softens Eadlyn in a way that I think is good for her, and Henri was the only other one who was able to soften her that way. I actually find it quite distressing to be favoring this relationship because of how much it will hurt Henri if Eadlyn and Eric do end up together. So there you have it. The problem with the original trilogy is that I hated the only two love interests, the problem with this one is that there are two many that I like (and ultimately ended up favoring the one that will hurt the others the most.)

    While Kiera Cass actually (and surprisingly) managed to write a main character I don't hate, and a slew of potential love interests that I actually do like, I hope that she will continue to improve in her character writing so that, one day, her characters will be as good as her writing style.

    Sorry this review was all over the place. I found it hard to organize how I felt about the characters, and the book in context with the other three.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Eadlyn was born seven minutes before her brother Ahren, by doing she became the heir to the throne. It makes her feel powerful but overwhelmed. Earlier her father eliminated the castes but some people weren't happy with that so the country is at war with its self. To distract the attention of the public her parents suggest that Eadlyn should go through her own Selection. Eadlyn hates the idea but has to go through with it for the good of her country. 35 men are randomly selected, among them Kile Woodwork, he hates the idea of him in it and so does Eadlyn who grew up with him living in the castle with her. To impress the country, she organizes a parade through the city, but it ends terribly wrong when the public throws rotten tomatoes and other thing at her. To pick the people’s interest, Eadlyn publicly eliminates 11 of the Suitors, but the public says she is a strict mean princess not wanting to be in her own selection. To make the public happy she decides to stir up some romance by going on dates which some end terribly badly. Eadlyn decides to invites to the palace the French princess Camille, or aka, Ahrens girlfriend. While she is there Ahren makes a rash decision, he decides to run off and marry her! leaving Eadlyn alone to face the selection by herself. At that moment though, she learns that her mother has had a heart attack! Eadlyn finally realizes the importance of love in her life,stating that at the end of the Selection, she "will have a wedding ring on her finger''. I was so excited for the heir to come out, when I read though it dipped below my expectations. I thought I would fall in love right away with Eadlyn's character, It turns out I fell in hate with her instead. She was an extreme brat , I understand she was a princess but I hated her. She kind of thawed out by the end but she was still so mean and cold. Everything else though was superb! I strongly recommend this book , make sure you read the first 3 books first though.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I wanted to read The Heir because I flew through the rest of the series and hoped the same for this one. I ended up liking it the same and would have read the whole book in one sitting if my meds wouldn't have knocked me out. Eadlyn is fierce, and she has been raised to lead the country next. She has let in her parents and siblings, but she hasn't really formed many friendships or relationships outside of them. When there is some unrest in the country even after the abolishment of the caste system. And Maxon and America had the idea to have a selection for Eadlyn. She was completely against it at first, and I can understand because it was something that she'd never really prepared for. She wasn't ready to get married, she wanted to keep learning and getting ready to take over the throne. But she does care for Illea and she begins to see some wisdom in this, giving the people something to cheer for, and take their minds off of their instability. Eadlyn had a hard time when the men came to the castle, but when she finally did realize she needed to put forth full effort, and flirt a bit, we got to see some of the guys personalities and who they were. I actually had a favorite, and it was someone who shouldn't have even been in the selection to begin with, but she kept getting closer to him because he was seen as a safe person, and she wanted to give something to the media. But as the book progressed and she got to know some of the guys more, I also formed soft spots for them, and could see how they could make her happy. There were also some scandals, some of the guys were violent, some didn't show respect for Eadlyn. But like Maxon, and America, she figured it out more and more as the process went on. It went from a duty, to something that she got so much out of emotionally and intellectually. She was able to sympathize, and have new ideas that could work with the new violence and people not understanding they have more control over their life instead of their hardships being solely on the monarchy. It ended at a cliffie spot, and like the previous, I am totally ready for the next one. Bottom Line: Flew through it just like 1-3.
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    The Heir by Kiera Cass is sort of the fourth book in The Selection series. It takes place about 20 years after The One.The caste system has been abolished, but people have a hard time letting go of old prejudices. If one wants to marry someone who is from a "7" family, the higher ranking family can't let go that this family is beneath them. There's also growing pains. People can do whatever they desire, for they are no longer trapped in their caste. The problem is that sometimes freedom can be stressful because there are so many choices and people have to find their own way. If someone wants a raise, he/she asks for it based on performance. The owner may feel that this person is not as good as another worker and refuses the raise. The person refused the raise assumes it's based on her former caste position. Therefore, there is unrest. The people also aren't terribly fond of the future queen, Eadlyn. There is strong talk of getting rid of the monarchy. In response, America and Maxon (now King and Queen) ask Eadlyn, the oldest daughter to participate in a selection in hopes of bringing the country together.Eadyln is very independent and feels that the citizens are her people. She feels the responsibility of being queen, seeing the people as beneath her yet feeling very responsible for their welfare. She feels that showing her emotions makes her look weak, so she appears to be aloof. The people, consequently, don't like her. She's determined to reject all of the men brought for the selection and remain single. She doesn't need help, for how could someone understand the role she plays? She quickly learns that when she thinks she's being decisive and queenly by removing 50% of the selection, the people see her as mean. She finally decides to actually get to know the men and finds that several are quite interesting. One, in particular, has been raised in the palace, yet they've never liked each other. She relies on him to distract the people with her. Come to find out, they actually like each other and discover they should have been friends all along. The abrupt ending is a cliffhanger setting up for the next book, where Eadlyn must solve the country's problems with a mate.If you liked The Selection series, you'll definitely want to read this book. I did miss Lady America and Maxon--of course, they are in the book, but they're minor characters, and you almost don't see their personalities. They've kept they courtship antics a secret from their three children. These are fun, escapist novels with some thought-provoking concepts, but mostly they are for an afternoon of distraction.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Ahhhh expect a cliffhanger. Curses! I do love this entire series -- rightly labeled a mix of The Bachelor/ette and The Hunger games -- for its easy reading and lavish style. Fun, fun, fun!
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Twenty years after Prince Maxon’s Selection, the country is once again facing turmoil and rebellion. Though Maxon ended the caste system, some citizens of Illéa still base decisions (hiring, marriages, etc.) on the old castes. This is creating unrest, and King Maxon and Queen America have an idea of how to bring some peace and to stir up some patriotism — a Selection for their eldest daughter, Eadlyn.

    Eadlyn has spent her formative years training to take on her birthright: the throne and all the responsibility that comes with it. So when her parents want her to put politics on the back burner and try to find her “one true love,” she’s less-than-ecstatic. She agrees to do the Selection on a few conditions that she believes will protect her from actually having to marry one of the boys who she is sure will be foolish and immature — in other words, unworthy of her and the duty of ruling Illéa. But just like her mother and father’s story before her, the Selection doesn’t turn out to be what it seems.

    "The Heir" is the first of two books in Eadlyn’s story (the second of which with no known title or pub date yet). I highly enjoyed coming back into Illéa to learn about some of its new royalty and I am excitedly anticipating the release of the sequel.
  • Rating: 1 out of 5 stars
    1/5
    Oh sweet baby Jesus. Why, oh why, did I read this book? I disliked The Selection series immensely, but apparently that wasn't enough for me to not pick this book up and, once again, immerse myself into this stupid world. I thought that America was bad. Oh no, she was a complete peach when compared to her daughter, Eadlyn. Eadlyn, to be succinct, is the brattiest brat this side of bratville. She keeps going on and on about how powerful she is - except she's just the princess. Yes, she's in line to rule once her father steps down (which is apparently pretty soon; seems that good ol' Maxon doesn't want to wear that crown much longer), and she is the first female to do so in the relatively short-lived monarchy of Illéa, but still - she's completely incapable of ruling a nation with the behavior that she deems acceptable. She also complains about all of the "work" she has to do, but we never see her doing much of anything except sketching, sunbathing, and getting dressed. Her attitude needs a serious adjustment. She makes fun of others regularly. She seems to think, like her equally stupid mother America, that servants are just there to serve and that they looooove serving them. It's not like they are people with their own hopes or dreams or anything. When one of Eadlyn's maids confides in her that she'd like to have another job someday, Eadlyn is shocked - there is nothing better than what that maid has right now! Umm. Maybe she doesn't want to waste all of her life waiting hand and foot on a lazy (she won't even organize her own closet), shallow, spoiled princess.When Eadlyn isn't criticizing others' spelling, making fun of others, bad talking others...well, you are getting the drift here...she is complaining about how much WORK she has to do (which she never seems to be actually, you know, DOING). She also looks forward to being beloved by her subjects for no good reason.Fortunately, not all of Illéa runs around Eadlyn. Although the caste system has been abolished (so we are told, at least; like Cass' other books, this MAJOR DEVELOPMENT is not explained. Knowing what a doofus Maxon is, he probably just said something along the lines of "uhh, the castes don't exist anymore, so go play nice children."), there is still a lot of unrest. Probably because, you know, you can't abolish something that has been in effect for a long time without expecting some adjustment time. For a rough comparison, look at the abolishment of slavery in the United States and how freaking long it took for African Americans to get civil rights - and things still aren't on a level playing field over one hundred and fifty years later. But hey, twenty years? That should do the trick.Funnily enough, the monarchy is still in place. I personally think it's time for the citizens of Illéa to rebel and overthrow the leaches, to be honest.Anyway, there's civil unrest. People want and need jobs. They need protection. There are murders, fights, and fires. So how do the esteemed members of the monarchy react?They decide that their oldest daughter, Eadlyn, needs to have a Selection of her very own to distract everyone.Jesus Fucking Christ.Yeah, nothing will solve all of those problems like dressing up the princess in pretty dresses and watching her be courted by thirty-five guys at once. That will SURELY make things ALL better. Who needs food when there is a Selection underway?Fuck this series, man. I am done.The best part of the book? When pissed off people pelt her with rotten produce. THE BEST. I wish that I could have done the same.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    In this continuation of The Selection series, Maxon and America's daughter, Eadlyn, is eighteen and heir to the throne. The caste system has been abolished, but in the face of much unrest, Eadlyn's parents ask her to consider a Selection of her own to try to divert the country, buying the king time to find a solution.Let me first state that I am not unaware that there are problems with the whole set up of this novel. I internally debated through much of my reading if that wasn't part of the point that the author was trying to make or if she really thought "love conquers all" even over huge social issues that are barely addressed. And I have to wait for a fifth book to see. But the simple truth is Eadlyn grew on me. She starts out as such a brat I almost quit reading at page 32, but in the end I read the book in a day. The castes may be gone, but Eadlyn still has the attitude - has been raised? - that she is above it all, the chosen one, and she holds herself apart accordingly, never letting herself be vulnerable. The Selection becomes more about her than the boys. I'm sure I will read the final book when it comes out next year.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    I quite enjoyed this addition to the series. The portrayal of a self-absorbed character is spectacular and I am eager to see the rest of Eadlyn's journey to understanding and appreciating others. I can empathize with other viewers who are confused about how she became so vapid and rude considering her parents seemed to be quite the opposite. However, I do think it's quite the comment on how even though someone's parenting may be fantastic, children will develop their own characteristics. Not to mention she was taught from birth that she was special, one of a kind, and no one could do what she did. If I was in that position, I believe I would be just as self-assured as Eadlyn. Enough of my rebuttals to complaints I have heard. Eadlyn's insulting, but well-meaning comments made me quite nervous at the beginning, but as she starts to let people in she notices that people often aren't what they appear to be on the surface. I am confident that over the course of the next book or two, we will get to watch someone with a closed, slightly immature mind develop into an insightful, potentially self-less human being. I could go on, but I will definitely be picking up the next book. If you enjoy a challenging transitional story, this is for you.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    The Heir is officially my favorite Selection book! I don’t know how Kiera Cass does this, luring me in every time with each new installment. I believe I rated the other three books between 3-4 stars, but they’re fun, quick reads. It’s like being addicted to your favorite candy.In this book, we meet Maxon and America’s precious babies. One of them, of course, is Princess Eadlyn who is having her own Selection. The first female to do so. She is also the first female who will one day rule the country by her own right.She was such a spoiled brat, but I loved that about her. All princesses can’t be kind, soft spoken, little pretty things. A good deal of Eadlyn’s problems, although, did come from misinterpretations of her personality. She came off as somewhat cruel and distant to the public, when that wasn’t really what she was like or intending to be seen.Maxon and America were such a cute couple. I loved all their moments together. They’re such good parents, but I think they spoiled their babies a little too much. Especially Eadlyn, I mean she’s supposed to be eighteen years old, and she is just now learning about some things she should have already known.My favorite guy of the whole group was Henri. He was so adorable and perfect. I hope she chooses him, or maybe the translator. All the other guys can go, even Kile. I just felt like everyone else was there just to use Eadlyn for money and position, and Kile wants leave the palace, so away with them.And that cliffhanger. Man, that really burst my happy bubble. I need another book ASAP.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Eadlyn Schreave. The daughter of the Amazing Queen America Singer. This is the fourth book the selection series, but this time it is not about America Singer, who was the main character for the last three, but about her daughter! Eadlyn Shreave (her last name says it all) is the olderst of all her siblings, including her twin brother Ahren, who she beat to the throne by 7 minutes. This book takes place 20 years after America and Maxon get married, and now, its time for their daughter to carry on the tradition of the selection. Their kingdom is in trouble, after finally eliminating all the castes, their people have been starting to protest against their rules, and the king and queen think a selection is the perfect way to distract the people while they think of a solution to their problems. Eadlyn on the other hand hates the entire idea of it. She does not want to have 35 loud crazy boys in her home for the next three months, and most of all, she does not want to get married! But she finally agrees and as the selection goes on she realizes that she has actually started to like the boys and will be sad to have them go. In the end of the book she decides that at the end of her selection, she will have a ring on her finger. I loved this book!!! It was amazing! I liked everything about it except for the terrible cliff hanger! The next book comes out next year so I'll have to wait an entire year before I find out what happens next! I loved the main character Eadlyn Shreave, mostly because I can relate to her and her reasons for why she did things throughout the book. I thought it was really exciting the see all the characters from the last three books 20 years later! It was always fun to recognize a name from the last three books and see where they turned up 20 years later. I liked the switch of the selection, where it wasn't 35 girls competing for one guy, but instead it was 35 guys competing for one girl. All in all it was a great book, and even though I wasn't expecting it, I cried in the end and I cannot wait for the next book!

Book preview

The Heir - Kiera Cass

CHAPTER 1

I COULD NOT HOLD MY breath for seven minutes. I couldn’t even make it to one. I once tried to run a mile in seven minutes after hearing some athletes could do it in four but failed spectacularly when a side stitch crippled me about halfway in.

However, there was one thing I managed to do in seven minutes that most would say is quite impressive: I became queen.

By seven tiny minutes I beat my brother Ahren into the world, so the throne that ought to have been his was mine. Had I been born a generation earlier, it wouldn’t have mattered. Ahren was the male, so Ahren would have been the heir.

Alas, Mom and Dad couldn’t stand to watch their firstborn be stripped of a title by an unfortunate but rather lovely set of breasts. So they changed the law, and the people rejoiced, and I was trained day by day to become the next ruler of Illéa.

What they didn’t understand was that their attempts to make my life fair seemed rather unfair to me.

I tried not to complain. After all, I knew how fortunate I was. But there were days, or sometimes months, when it felt like far too much was piled on me, too much for any one person, really.

I flipped through the newspaper and saw that there had been yet another riot, this time in Zuni. Twenty years ago, Dad’s first act as king was to dissolve the castes, and the old system had been phased out slowly over my lifetime. I still thought it was completely bizarre that once upon a time people lived with these limiting but arbitrary labels on their backs. Mom was a Five; Dad was a One. It made no sense, especially since there was no outward sign of the divisions. How was I supposed to know if I was walking next to a Six or a Three? And why did that even matter?

When Dad had first decreed that the castes were no more, people all over the country had been delighted. Dad had expected the changes he was making in Illéa to be comfortably in place over the course of a generation, meaning any day now everything should click.

That wasn’t happening—and this new riot was just the most recent in a string of unrest.

Coffee, Your Highness, Neena said, setting the drink on my table.

Thank you. You can take the plates.

I scanned the article. This time a restaurant was burned to the ground because its owner refused to promote a waiter to a position as a chef. The waiter claimed that a promotion had been promised but was never delivered, and he was sure it was because of his family’s past.

Looking at the charred remains of the building, I honestly didn’t know whose side I was on. The owner had the right to promote or fire anyone he wanted, and the waiter had the right not to be seen as something that, technically, didn’t exist anymore.

I pushed the paper away and picked up my drink. Dad was going to be upset. I was sure he was already running the scenario over and over in his head, trying to figure out how to set it right. The problem was, even if we could fix one issue, we couldn’t stop every instance of post-caste discrimination. It was too hard to monitor and happening far too often.

I set down my coffee and headed to my closet. It was time to start the day.

Neena, I called. Do you know where that plum-colored dress is? The one with the sash?

She squinted in concentration as she came over to help.

In the grand scheme of things, Neena was new to the palace. She’d only been working with me for six months, after my last maid fell ill for two weeks. Neena was acutely attuned to my needs and much more agreeable to be around, so I kept her on. I also admired her eye for fashion.

Neena stared into the massive space. Maybe we should reorganize.

You can if you have the time. That’s not a project I’m interested in.

Not when I can hunt down your clothes for you, she teased.

Exactly!

She took my humor in stride, laughing as she quickly sorted through gowns and pants.

I like your hair today, I commented.

Thank you. All the maids wore caps, but Neena was still creative with her hairdos. Sometimes a few thick, black curls would frame her face, and other times she twisted back strands until they were all tucked away. At the moment there were wide braids encircling her head, with the rest of her hair under her cap. I really enjoyed that she found ways to work with her uniform, to make it her own each day.

Ah! It’s back here. Neena pulled down the knee-length dress, fanning it out across the dark skin of her arm.

Perfect! And do you know where my gray blazer is? The one with the three-quarter sleeves?

She stared at me, her face deadpan. I’m definitely rearranging.

I giggled. You search; I’ll dress.

I pulled on my outfit and brushed out my hair, preparing for another day as the future face of the monarchy. The outfit was feminine enough to soften me but strong enough that I’d be taken seriously. It was a fine line to walk, but I did it every day.

Staring into the mirror, I talked to my reflection.

You are Eadlyn Schreave. You are the next person in line to run this country, and you will be the first girl to do it on your own. No one, I said, is as powerful as you.

Dad was already in his office, brow furrowed as he took in the news. Other than my eyes, I didn’t look much like him. Or Mom, for that matter.

With my dark hair, oval-shaped face, and a hint of a tan that lingered year round, I looked more like my grandmother than anyone else. A painting of her on her coronation day hung in the fourth-floor hallway, and I used to study it when I was younger, trying to guess at how I would look as I grew. Her age in the portrait was near to mine now, and though we weren’t identical, I sometimes felt like her echo.

I walked across the room and kissed Dad’s cheek. Morning.

Morning. Did you see the papers? he asked.

Yes. At least no one died this time.

Thank goodness for that. Those were the worst, the ones where people were left dead in the street or went missing. It was terrible, reading the names of young men who’d been beaten simply for moving their families into a nicer neighborhood or women who were attacked for trying to get a job that in the past would not have been open to them.

Sometimes it took no time at all to find the motive and the person behind these crimes, but more often than not we were faced with a lot of finger-pointing and no real answers. It was exhausting for me to watch, and I knew it was worse for Dad.

I don’t understand it. He took off his reading glasses and rubbed his eyes. They didn’t want the castes anymore. We took our time, eliminated them slowly so everyone could adjust. Now they’re burning down buildings.

Is there a way to regulate this? Could we create a board to oversee grievances? I looked at the photo again. In the corner, the young son of the restaurant owner wept over losing everything. In my heart I knew complaints would come in faster than anyone could address them, but I also knew Dad couldn’t bear doing nothing.

Dad looked at me. Is that what you would do?

I smiled. No, I’d ask my father what he would do.

He sighed. That won’t always be an option for you, Eadlyn. You need to be strong, decisive. How would you fix this one particular incident?

I considered. I don’t think we can. There’s no way to prove the old castes were why the waiter was denied the promotion. The only thing we can do is launch an investigation into who set the fire. That family lost their livelihood today, and someone needs to be held responsible. Arson is not how you exact justice.

He shook his head at the paper. I think you’re right. I’d like to be able to help them. But, more than that, we need to figure out how to prevent this from happening again. It’s become rampant, Eadlyn, and it’s frightening.

Dad tossed the paper into the trash, then stood and walked to the window. I could read the stress in his posture. Sometimes his role brought him so much joy, like visiting the schools he’d worked tirelessly to improve or seeing communities flourish in the war-free era he’d ushered in. But those instances were becoming few and far between. Most days he was anxious about the state of the country, and he had to fake his smiles when reporters came by, hoping that his sense of calm would somehow spread to everyone else. Mom helped shoulder the burden, but at the end of the day the fate of the country was placed squarely on his back. One day it would be on mine.

Vain as it was, I worried I would go gray prematurely.

Make a note for me, Eadlyn. Remind me to write Governor Harpen in Zuni. Oh, and put to write it to Joshua Harpen, not his father. I keep forgetting he was the one who ran in the last election.

I wrote his instructions in my elegant cursive, thinking how pleased Dad would be when he looked at it later. He used to give me the worst time over my penmanship.

I was grinning to myself when I looked back at him, but my face fell almost immediately when I saw him rubbing his forehead, trying so desperately to think of a solution to these problems.

Dad?

He turned and instinctively squared his shoulders, like he needed to act strong even in front of me.

Why do you think this is happening? It wasn’t always like this.

He raised his eyebrows. It certainly wasn’t, he said, almost to himself. At first everyone seemed pleased. Every time we removed a new caste, people held parties. It’s only been in the last few years, since all the labels have officially been erased, that it’s gone downhill.

He stared back out the window. The only thing I can think is that those who grew up with the castes are aware of how much better this is. Comparatively, it’s easier to marry or work. A family’s finances aren’t capped by a single profession. There are more choices when it comes to education. But those who are growing up without the castes and are still running into opposition . . . I guess they don’t know what else to do.

He looked at me and shrugged. I need time, he muttered. I need a way to put things on pause, set them right, and press play again.

I noted the deep furrow in his brow. Dad, I don’t think that’s possible.

He chuckled. We’ve done it before. I can remember. . . .

The focus in his eyes changed. He watched me for a moment, seeming to ask me a question without words.

Dad?

Yes.

Are you all right?

He blinked a few times. Yes, dear, quite all right. Why don’t you get to work on those budget cuts. We can go over your ideas this afternoon. I need to speak with your mother.

Sure. Math wasn’t a skill that came to me naturally, so I had to work twice as long on any proposals for budget cuts or financial plans. But I absolutely refused to have one of Dad’s advisers come behind me with a calculator to clean up my mess. Even if I had to stay up all night, I always made sure my work was accurate.

Of course, Ahren was naturally good at math, but he was never forced to sit through meetings about budgets or rezoning or health care. He got off scot-free by seven stupid minutes.

Dad patted me on the shoulder before dashing out of the room. It took me longer than usual to focus on the numbers. I couldn’t help but be distracted by the look on his face and the unmistakable certainty that it was tied to me.

CHAPTER 2

AFTER WORKING ON THE BUDGET report for a few hours, I decided I needed a break and retreated to my room to get a hand massage from Neena. I loved those little bits of luxury in my day. Dresses made to my exact measurements, exotic desserts flown in simply because it was Thursday, and an endless supply of beautiful things were all perks; and they were easily my favorite parts of the job.

My room overlooked the gardens. As the day shifted, the light changed to a warm, honey color, brightening the high walls. I focused on the heat and Neena’s deliberate fingers.

Anyway, his face got all funny. It was kind of like he disappeared for a minute.

I was trying to explain Dad’s out-of-character departure this morning, but it was hard to get it across. I didn’t even know if he found Mom or not, as he never came back to the office.

Do you think he’s sick? He does seem tired these days. Neena’s hands worked her magic as she spoke.

Does he? I asked, thinking that Dad didn’t seem tired exactly. He’s probably just stressed. How could he not be with all the decisions he has to make?

And someday that will be you, she commented, her tone a mix of genuine worry and playful amusement.

Which means you will be giving me twice as many massages.

I don’t know, she said. I think in a few years I might like to try something new.

I scrunched my face. What else would you do? There aren’t many positions better than working in the palace.

There was a knock on the door, and she didn’t have a chance to answer the question.

I stood, throwing my blazer back on to look presentable, and gave a nod to Neena to let my guests in.

Mom came around the door, smiling, with Dad contentedly trailing her steps. I couldn’t help but notice it was always this way. At state events or important dinners, Mom was beside Dad or situated right behind him. But when they were just husband and wife—not king and queen—he followed her everywhere.

Hi, Mom. I walked over to hug her.

Mom tucked my hair behind my ear, smiling at me. I like this look.

I stood back proudly and smoothed out my dress with my hands. The bracelets really set it off, don’t you think?

She giggled. Excellent attention to detail. Every once in a while Mom let me pick out jewelry or shoes for her, but it was rare. Mom didn’t find it as much fun as I did, and she didn’t rely on the extras for beauty. In her case, she really didn’t need it. I liked that she was classic.

Mom turned and touched Neena’s shoulder. You’re excused, she said quietly.

Neena instantly curtsied and left us alone.

Is something wrong? I asked.

No, sweetheart. We simply want to speak in private. Dad held out a hand and ushered us all to the table. We have an opportunity to talk to you about.

Opportunity? Are we traveling? I adored traveling. Please tell me we’re finally going on a beach trip. Could it just be the six of us?

Not exactly. We wouldn’t be going somewhere so much as having visitors, Mom explained.

Oh! Company! Who’s coming?

They exchanged glances, then Mom continued talking. You know that things are precarious right now. The people are restless and unhappy, and we cannot figure out how to ease the tension.

I sighed. I know.

We’re seeking a way to boost morale, Dad added.

I perked up. Morale boosting typically involved a celebration. And I was always up for a party.

What did you have in mind? I started designing a new dress in my head and dismissed it almost as quickly. That wasn’t what needed my attention at the moment.

Well, Dad started, the public responds best to something positive with our family. When your mother and I were married, it was one of the best seasons in our country. And do you remember how people threw parties in the street when they found out Osten was coming?

I smiled. I was eight when Osten was born, and I’d never forget how excited everyone got just over the announcement. I heard music playing from my bedroom practically until dawn.

That was marvelous.

It was. And now the people look to you. It won’t be long before you’re queen. Dad paused. We thought that perhaps you’d be willing to do something publicly, something that would be exciting for the people but also might be very beneficial to you.

I narrowed my eyes, not sure where this was going. I’m listening.

Mom cleared her throat. You know that in the past, princesses were married off to princes from other countries to solidify our international relations.

I did hear you use the past tense there, correct?

She laughed, but I wasn’t amused. Yes.

Good. Because Prince Nathaniel looks like a zombie, Prince Hector dances like a zombie, and if the prince from the German Federation doesn’t learn to embrace personal hygiene by the Christmas party, he shouldn’t be invited.

Mom rubbed the side of her head in frustration. Eadlyn, you’ve always been so picky.

Dad shrugged. Maybe that’s not a bad thing, he said, earning a glare from Mom.

I frowned. What in the world are you talking about?

You know how your mother and I met, Dad began.

I rolled my eyes. Everyone does. You two are practically a fairy tale.

At those words their eyes went soft, and smiles washed over their faces. Their bodies seemed to tilt slightly toward each other, and Dad bit his lip looking at Mom.

Excuse me. Firstborn in the room, do you mind?

Mom blushed as Dad cleared his throat and continued. The Selection process was very successful for us. And though my parents had their problems, it worked well for them, too. So . . . we were hoping. . . . He hesitated and met my eyes.

I was slow to pick up on their hints. I knew what the Selection was, but never, not even once, had it been suggested as an option for any of us, let alone me.

No.

Mom put up her hands, cautioning me. Just listen—

A Selection? I burst out. That’s insane!

Eadlyn, you’re being irrational.

I glared at her. "You promised—you promised—you’d never force me into marrying someone for an alliance. How is this any better?"

Hear us out, she urged.

No! I shouted. I won’t do it.

Calm down, love.

Don’t talk to me like that. I’m not a child!

Mom sighed. You’re certainly acting like one.

You’re ruining my life! I ran my fingers through my hair and took several deep breaths, hoping it would help me think. This couldn’t happen. Not to me.

It’s a huge opportunity, Dad insisted.

You’re trying to shackle me to a stranger!

I told you she’d be stubborn, Mom muttered to Dad.

Wonder where she gets that from, he shot back with a smile.

Don’t talk about me like I’m not in the room!

I’m sorry, Dad said. We just need you to consider this.

What about Ahren? Can’t he do it?

Ahren isn’t going to be the future king. Besides, he has Camille.

Princess Camille was the heir to the French throne, and a few years ago she’d managed to bat her lashes all the way into Ahren’s heart.

Then make them get married! I pleaded.

Camille will be queen when her time comes, and she, like you, will have to ask her partner to marry her. If it was Ahren’s choice, we’d consider it; but it’s not.

What about Kaden? Can’t you have him do it?

Mom laughed humorlessly. He’s fourteen! We don’t have that kind of time. The people need something to be excited about now. She narrowed her eyes at me. And, honestly, isn’t it time you look for someone to rule beside you?

Dad nodded. It’s true. It’s not a role that should be shouldered alone.

But I don’t want to get married, I pleaded. Please don’t make me do this. I’m only eighteen.

Which is how old I was when I married your father, Mom stated.

I’m not ready, I urged. I don’t want a husband. Please don’t do this to me.

Mom reached across the table and put her hand on mine. No one would be doing anything to you. You would be doing something for your people. You’d be giving them a gift.

You mean faking a smile when I’d rather cry?

She gave me a fleeting frown. That has always been part of our job.

I stared at her, silently demanding a better answer.

Eadlyn, why don’t you take some time to think this over? Dad said calmly. I know this is a big thing we’re asking of you.

Does that mean I have a choice?

Dad inhaled deeply, considering. Well, love, you’ll really have thirty-five choices.

I leaped up from my chair, pointing toward the door.

Get out! I demanded. Get! Out!

Without another word they left my room.

Didn’t they know who I was, what they’d trained me for? I was Eadlyn Schreave. No one was more powerful than me.

So if they thought I was going down without a fight, they were sadly mistaken.

CHAPTER 3

I DECIDED TO TAKE DINNER in my room. I didn’t feel like seeing my family at the moment. I was irate with all of them. At my parents for being happy, at Ahren for not picking up the pace eighteen years ago, at Kaden and Osten for being so young.

Neena circled me, filling my cup as she spoke. Do you think you’ll go through with it, miss? she asked.

I’m still trying to figure a way out.

What if you said you were already in love with somebody?

I shook my head as I poked at my food. I insulted my three most likely candidates right in front of them.

She set a small plate of chocolates in the middle of the table, guessing correctly that I’d probably want those more than the caviar-garnished salmon.

Perhaps a guard then? Happens to the maids often enough, she suggested with a giggle.

I scoffed. That’s fine for them, but I’m not that desperate.

Her laughter faded.

I saw immediately that I had offended her, but that was the truth. I couldn’t settle for any old person, let alone a guard. Even considering it was a waste of time. I needed a way out of this whole situation.

I don’t mean it like that, Neena. It’s just that people expect certain things from me.

Of course.

I’m done. You can go for the night; I’ll leave the cart in the hallway.

She nodded and left without another word.

I grazed on the chocolates before completely giving up on the food and slipped into my nightgown. I couldn’t reason with Mom and Dad right now, and Neena didn’t understand. I needed to talk to the only person who might see my side, the person who sometimes felt like he was half of me. I needed Ahren.

Are you busy? I asked, cracking open his door.

Ahren

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