She later angrily confronts him, asking to leave. America is later crushed when she sees Maxon kissing a half-naked Celeste in the hallway. The palace ends up losing connection with the king and Maxon. Maxon and King Clarkson go to New Asia and plan to stay at Elise's parents' house. The two girls talk about Marlee's new life, where she cooks in the kitchen and has married Carter Woodwork, the former guard. He shows her the Princess's suite and reveals her best friend, Marlee whom he had hidden without the king's knowledge. After this, Maxon asks to speak with America. Celeste shows America an article that shows that she is now the least favorite, and Celeste is the highest. After much planning, America and Kriss's reception with the Italian Royalty is successful. Then, the girls must plan an event and are split into two teams: America and Kriss, and Natalie, Celeste, and Elise. Upset and angry that Maxon would let such a thing happen to Marlee, America reconsiders her feelings for Maxon. The episode results in her becoming an Eight. America feels sure about marrying Maxon.Īfter the ball, it is discovered that Marlee has been having a secret affair with one of the guards, and as a consequence, is severely caned. At the ball, Maxon and America dance, and he tells her that he will propose to her after the Selection at the right time so that it is easy for her to say yes. In order to do so, Maxon meets their families and throws a Halloween Ball, at America's suggestion.

Maxon must find a wife among these girls. Prince Maxon has narrowed down his selection candidates to an Elite of six girls: America, Kriss, Celeste, Elise, Natalie, and Marlee. The castes range from eight to one, with Eights being the homeless and Ones being the royal family. The book takes place 300 years in the future in a country called Illéa (formerly the United States) that has a strict caste system. The Elite tells the story at the stage in the competition where there are only six girls left and tensions are high from both the competition and the dangerous rebels. It is narrated by America Singer, a 17-year-old girl who is selected to compete with 35 other girls to become Prince Maxon's wife and become queen.

The Elite is the second novel in the Selection series by Kiera Cass.

The one kiera cass series