For fans of young adult fiction who have already fallen in love with Kiera Cass’s The Selection series, this article is a must-read. The following paragraphs compile a list of 19 captivating books that offer similar themes of romance, rebellion, and self-discovery. From futuristic dystopias to thrilling adventures, these novels promise to take readers on new and spellbinding literary journeys.
1. Divergent by Veronica Roth
Divergent by Veronica Roth is a gripping dystopian novel that takes place in a society divided into factions based on personality traits. The story revolves around Beatrice Prior, a teenage girl who must decide which faction to join, only to discover that she is Divergent and does not fit into any one category.
The novel explores themes of identity, choice, and rebellion, making it similar to The Selection. Both books feature strong female protagonists navigating complex societies and facing difficult decisions. Fans of The Selection will appreciate the fast-paced action, romantic elements, and thought-provoking themes present in Divergent.
The Divergent trilogy, consisting of Divergent, Insurgent, and Allegiant, presents a complete story arc. The series has gained a large following and has been adapted into a successful film franchise.
For those who enjoyed The Selection and are seeking another captivating YA novel with dystopian elements, Divergent by Veronica Roth is a must-read. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of danger, self-discovery, and intrigue.
2. Matched by Ally Condie
Matched by Ally Condie is a gripping dystopian novel that takes place in a society where the government controls all aspects of life, including who individuals are allowed to marry. The story follows Cassia Reyes, who is delighted when she is matched with her best friend, Xander. However, when another face briefly appears on the screen, Cassia begins to question the system and the idea of true love.
The book blends romance, rebellion, and self-discovery to create an engaging and thought-provoking narrative. Readers who enjoyed The Selection series will appreciate the similar themes and captivating storyline of Matched.
The world-building in Matched is compelling, depicting a society where individuality is suppressed, and choices are predetermined. Condie’s writing style is lyrical and thought-provoking as she explores the concepts of love, free will, and the power of questioning authority.
3. Cinder by Marissa Meyer
Cinder, the first book in the Lunar Chronicles series by Marissa Meyer, is a futuristic retelling of the classic fairy tale, Cinderella. The story is set in a world where humans and androids coexist, and follows the journey of Cinder, a cyborg mechanic who gets caught up in a political conspiracy.
The book is a perfect blend of science fiction and fantasy, with a rich and imaginative world that captivates readers. Meyer explores themes of identity, love, and sacrifice, and keeps readers on the edge of their seats with a fast-paced plot and unexpected twists.
Cinder is a strong female protagonist who struggles with her own identity while navigating a forbidden romance and trying to uncover the truth about her past. The book offers a fresh and exciting twist on familiar tropes, making it a must-read for fans of The Selection and YA fiction in general.
4. The Maze Runner by James Dashner
The Maze Runner is a thrilling dystopian novel by James Dashner that tells the story of a group of young boys trapped in a dangerous maze in a post-apocalyptic world. The book is filled with action, suspense, and a gripping storyline that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. It explores themes of survival, friendship, and the complexities of human nature.
Similar to The Selection, The Maze Runner features a strong and determined protagonist who faces difficult choices and has to navigate complex relationships. Both books also highlight the importance of community and the power of teamwork.
The Maze Runner is a great choice for readers who are looking for a fast-paced and exciting YA book with a dystopian setting. It has a similar blend of action, romance, and suspense that made The Selection so popular among YA fiction fans. With its engaging plot and well-developed characters, The Maze Runner is a must-read for anyone who loves dystopian fiction.
5. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games is a popular dystopian YA novel set in the post-apocalyptic society of Panem. The book follows the story of Katniss Everdeen as she volunteers for the annual Hunger Games, a televised fight to the death among teenagers from each of the twelve districts. The book is similar to The Selection in its gripping plot and strong female protagonist. Both books explore themes of love, sacrifice, and the struggle against a corrupt society.
The Hunger Games offers a blend of action, romance, and thought-provoking social commentary that will keep readers on the edge of their seat. If you enjoyed The Selection and are looking for more books like it, The Hunger Games should definitely be on your list.
6. Legend by Marie Lu
Legend is a thrilling dystopian trilogy written by Marie Lu. The first book of the series, Legend, introduces readers to a future world that is divided by war and social injustice. The story follows two teenagers from vastly different backgrounds: June, a prodigy belonging to the elite ruling class, and Day, a notorious criminal and the Republic’s most wanted fugitive. When their paths cross, they unravel a dangerous conspiracy that could change their world forever.
Marie Lu’s writing style is fast-paced and engaging, making Legend a page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The world-building is captivating, and the characters are complex, adding depth to the story. Legend explores themes of societal hierarchy, forbidden romance, and the fight for justice, making it a must-read for fans of The Selection.
For those who enjoyed the thrilling romance and political intrigue of The Selection, Legend is a perfect addition to their reading list. This action-packed dystopian tale will leave readers craving for more and eager to uncover the secrets of the Republic alongside June and Day.
7. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
An Ember in the Ashes, a young adult fantasy novel by Sabaa Tahir, is a captivating story about the intertwined journeys of Laia, a Scholar girl, and Elias, a Martial soldier. The novel is set in a world inspired by ancient Rome, which is brutal and oppressive. The story explores themes of resistance, loyalty, and the power of hope.
The novel is filled with action, suspense, and political intrigue as Laia infiltrates the Martial Empire’s military academy to spy on her oppressors and rescue her imprisoned brother. Meanwhile, Elias grapples with his own desire for freedom and his duty as a soldier. As their paths cross, they become unlikely allies in a fight against a corrupt and tyrannical regime.
Tahir’s writing style is rich and descriptive, immersing readers in a vividly realized world. The characters are complex and layered, with motivations and struggles that make them relatable and compelling. The story tackles themes of oppression, identity, and the consequences of power, exploring the lengths people will go to protect those they love and to fight for what they believe in.
8. Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge
Cruel Beauty is a young adult novel that tells the story of Nyx Triskelion, a young woman who is destined to marry the evil ruler of her kingdom in order to save her people from a terrible curse. The book is a captivating blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end.
Nyx is a complex and strong-willed protagonist who is torn between her duty to her family and her desire for freedom. She is a relatable character who struggles with the weight of her responsibilities and the conflicting emotions that arise from her situation.
The world-building in Cruel Beauty is rich and immersive, with a blend of Greek mythology and fairy tale elements. The enchanted castle and its magical inhabitants provide a sense of wonder and danger, adding depth to the story. The book’s unique mythology and complex characters make it a must-read for fans of The Selection who are looking for a thrilling and romantic tale.
The romance in the book is both passionate and complicated. Nyx finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Ignifex, the ruler she was forced to marry, but also harbors a deep resentment towards him. Their relationship is filled with tension and twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
9. The Jewel by Amy Ewing
The Jewel is a dystopian novel written by Amy Ewing that revolves around the life of Violet Lasting, a young girl with a unique ability who is sold as a surrogate to the wealthy elite. The story is set in a society where young girls are trained to become surrogate mothers for the rich, and Violet must navigate the treacherous world of the Jewel to survive.
Ewing has created a vivid and rich world in The Jewel, filled with opulent settings and intricate politics. The stark contrast between the luxurious lifestyles of the royalty and the harsh realities faced by the surrogates creates an engaging narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The Jewel explores themes of love, power, and identity, similar to The Selection. Violet’s journey is a thrilling mix of romance, rebellion, and self-discovery. As she uncovers the secrets of the Jewel and its ruling class, she becomes a beacon of hope for the surrogates and a catalyst for change.
The Jewel is an exciting addition to the YA dystopian genre and a must-read for fans of The Selection. Both series feature strong-willed heroines who defy societal norms and fight for a better future. The book is a captivating read that will enthrall fans of dystopian novels.
10. Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton
Rebel of the Sands, a young adult fantasy novel by Alwyn Hamilton, is set in the desert kingdom of Miraji. The story revolves around Amani, a sharpshooter who desires to escape her oppressive society and small town. When she meets Jin, a mysterious foreigner, they embark on a dangerous journey to overthrow the tyrannical Sultan.
Hamilton blends Arabian mythology, Western-style shootouts, and a touch of romance to create a captivating adventure. Her vivid descriptions bring the desert landscapes and bustling cities to life, immersing readers in a rich and vibrant world.
Like The Selection, Rebel of the Sands features a strong and independent female protagonist who defies societal expectations and fights for her own freedom. Amani is a relatable and determined character, whose journey of self-discovery and empowerment will resonate with fans of The Selection.
The fast-paced plot, filled with twists and turns, keeps readers on the edge of their seats, while the rich world-building adds depth and complexity to the story. Hamilton’s engaging and evocative writing style makes Rebel of the Sands a page-turner from start to finish.
Fans of YA fiction who enjoyed the romance, adventure, and strong female characters of The Selection will find Rebel of the Sands a must-read. It offers a unique blend of genres and an immersive world that will leave readers eagerly reaching for the next book in the series.
11. The Wrath & the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh
The Wrath & the Dawn is a captivating young adult novel that blends romance, fantasy, and Eastern folklore. The story is set in a fictional version of ancient Persia and follows Shahrzad, a strong-willed young woman seeking revenge for the death of her best friend by marrying the murderous Caliph of Khorasan.
The novel is filled with intricate world-building, rich descriptions, and complex characters. It explores themes of love, betrayal, honor, and power as Shahrzad navigates the treacherous palace and unravels the mystery behind the Caliph’s murderous tendencies.
Ahdieh’s writing style is lush and poetic, immersing readers in a vividly imagined world of magic, intrigue, and romance. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged until the very end.
For those who enjoyed The Selection and are looking for a book with a diverse setting, strong female protagonist, and a mix of romance and fantasy, The Wrath & the Dawn is the perfect choice.
12. The Heir by Kiera Cass
The Heir is the fourth book in the Selection series by Kiera Cass. It is set twenty years after the events of the original trilogy and introduces readers to a new cast of characters. In this book, Princess Eadlyn is the first princess in Illea’s history to hold a Selection of her own. She has to choose a husband from a group of thirty-five suitors who are competing for her hand in marriage.
As Princess Eadlyn navigates the challenges of ruling a kingdom and finding love, she must also confront the expectations placed upon her and decide what kind of leader she wants to be. The Heir explores themes of love, duty, and sacrifice, while also introducing new themes such as the search for personal happiness and the pressures of living up to expectations.
The Heir is filled with romance, political intrigue, and the exploration of personal identity. It offers a fresh perspective on the world of Illea and allows readers to delve deeper into the lives of beloved characters from the original series. Kiera Cass’s writing style remains engaging and immersive, making it easy for readers to become invested in the story.
13. Everless by Sara Holland
Everless by Sara Holland is a captivating young adult fantasy novel that takes readers on a journey to the kingdom of Sempera, where time is currency. In this world, people can extract time from their blood and turn it into coins, which they use to pay for various things. The more time they have, the longer they live, while those who run out of time wither away and die prematurely. This unique concept creates a fascinating dynamic where the wealthy can hoard time and extend their lifespan, while the poor are constantly struggling to survive.
The protagonist of the story, Jules Ember, is a relatable and strong-willed character who captures readers’ hearts. As she navigates a treacherous court, uncovers dark secrets, and discovers her own hidden powers, she delves deeper into the mysteries of Sempera and the royal family. Alongside the thrilling plot and intricate world-building, Everless also explores themes of power, identity, and the consequences of one’s choices.
The world-building in Everless is rich and immersive, with vivid descriptions that bring the kingdom of Sempera and its inhabitants to life. From the opulent palaces to the dangerous Everless estate, readers will feel like they are right beside Jules as she navigates this treacherous world. The book also delves into the complexities of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, making it a captivating read for fans of young adult fiction.
14. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard is a captivating young adult novel set in a dystopian world where society is divided by blood. The Silver-blooded elite possess supernatural abilities and rule over the powerless Red-blooded commoners. Mare Barrow, a Red-blooded girl, discovers that she has a unique power of her own, which sets her on a dangerous path.
Aveyard’s world-building is immersive and vivid, with a stark contrast between the opulence of the Silvers and the poverty of the Reds. The political intrigue and power struggles add an extra layer of tension to the story as Mare finds herself caught up in a rebellion.
The characters in Red Queen are well-developed and complex, each with their own motivations and secrets. Mare is a strong and determined protagonist who must navigate a treacherous world where anyone could be an ally or an enemy. The romantic subplot adds an additional layer of tension and keeps readers hooked.
Readers who enjoyed The Selection will find similar themes of class divide, love triangles, and a strong-willed female protagonist in Red Queen. The fast-paced plot and high-stakes action will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to see what happens next.
15. The Glittering Court by Richelle Mead
The Glittering Court is a young adult novel that follows the story of Adelaide, a countess who escapes an arranged marriage by enrolling in a prestigious finishing school known as The Glittering Court. The novel is set in a fantasy world inspired by colonial America and offers a unique blend of romance, adventure, and political intrigue.
Adelaide faces numerous challenges as she adapts to her new life, including secrets and plots that threaten to unravel everything she holds dear. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and personal identity in a beautifully crafted narrative that will keep readers engrossed until the very end.
With its strong-willed protagonist and richly detailed world-building, The Glittering Court is a must-read for fans of The Selection. The novel’s storytelling prowess shines through in this enthralling tale that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
Readers who enjoyed the romance and glamour of The Selection will find much to love in The Glittering Court. The novel’s captivating narrative and well-developed characters make it a standout in the young adult genre.
16. The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey
The 5th Wave is a gripping dystopian novel that follows the journey of Cassie Sullivan in a world devastated by waves of deadly attacks from an alien species. The book is filled with suspense, action, and gripping plot twists that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Cassie navigates this dangerous landscape while searching for her younger brother, who has been taken by the enemy. Along the way, she encounters other survivors and forms alliances to fight against the alien threat. The novel explores themes of survival, trust, and the blurred lines between humanity and inhumanity.
The story is divided into four parts, each representing a wave of the alien invasion. The first wave is an electromagnetic pulse that wipes out all forms of technology. The second wave is a series of tsunamis that destroy coastal cities. The third wave is a deadly virus that kills most of the remaining population. The fourth wave is the infiltration of the alien species into human society, resulting in chaos and confusion.
The 5th Wave is a well-written novel that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is fast-paced and full of surprises. The book raises important questions about the nature of humanity and the lengths people will go to survive.
17. Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth
Carve the Mark is a young adult novel that follows the lives of two protagonists, Cyra and Akos, who belong to opposing nations but are brought together by fate. The novel is set in a dystopian universe and is filled with action, adventure, and complex characters.
Veronica Roth, the author of the popular Divergent series, has created an intricate world-building and unique magic system that will captivate readers. The novel explores themes of power, fate, and the choices we make in the face of adversity.
The deep emotional connections between the characters will keep readers invested in the story. Carve the Mark offers a thrilling mix of plot twists, complex relationships, and a richly imagined world that will keep readers turning the pages.
Readers who enjoyed The Selection series will find Carve the Mark to be a must-read. The novel offers a similar blend of romance, political intrigue, and strong female protagonists.