From America Singer to Hollis Brite

First things first -- I can't believe I didn't know Kiera Cass had released the first book of a completely new series until I saw it on the shelf at Barnes & Noble! I don't know how I didn't hear about it sooner, but as soon as I saw it there in the store, I knew I had to buy it. I have been a huge fan of her Selection series ever since I (finally) read it, and I had no doubt that her amazing storytelling talents would lead me to loving this book, too. And I was so impressed with The Betrothed! It started out almost predictable -- beautiful woman catches the eye of the king but also finds that she is falling for the foreign commoner in the castle and does not desire all that the royal crown promises. But the plot proves to get more and more intricately complex. I found myself having no idea what the next chapter would bring the farther I read. I think it is crafted to bring the classic fairytale sense to a story with a main character that suffers more than I was expecting. The conclusion of this serie's first addition was also not what I was expecting... I will be eagerly anticipating the next addition. All in all, if you liked Cass' Selection and other work, you will not be disappointed with her ability to create the world of a young woman named Hollis weaving through the tumults of love and the darker sides of royalty and monarchical life. I would also like to say that I always adore when the author chooses to "give" their readers an image to associate their character with by selecting a front cover that shows the character. Throughout the entire book, I was able to clearly picture Hollis' golden hair and wardrobe which made the reading all the more enjoyable. Go read this book!


Some of my favorite quotes from The Betrothed:

"You bring words out of me that I didn't know existed."

"To finally be kissed was a wondrous thing, and to be kissed by a king was even more thrilling."

"The most valuable thing you can own is the assurance of your place in someone's heart."

"But neither of us moved. Until we both did, meeting in the middle of the hallway for a stolen kiss."

"... there is an education that can only be received through travel."

"Hollis, even in the night, you are still my sun, bringing light to my world."

"And if I one day find the will to love again, I will only know if it's love... because you taught me what that was."

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