#kieracass

The Selection Creamy Balsamic Pasta 🍓✨

Forget the palace drama, darling. Even a future queen needs a moment of quiet indulgence. Inspired by the soft, secret moments and surprising delights of The Selection series, we've created a pasta dish that’s as romantic and unexpected as America Singer herself.

This isn't your average creamy pasta. We're infusing sweet strawberries with a hint of savory garlic, then swirling it into a luscious cream cheese sauce that clings to every delicate farfalle. A crown of rich balsamic glaze adds that touch of royal decadence we all secretly crave. It’s light enough for a whispered confession, yet satisfying enough to fuel you through the next round of eliminations.

Perfect for a quiet night in, dreaming of your own happily ever after, or sharing with your chosen one. No Prince required (but always welcome 😉).

Here’s a sneak peek at the magic:

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Serves: 2 (or one very hungry monarch!)

Budget Level: Under $10.00 – because luxury doesn't have to break the royal bank!

Taste Profile: Creamy, sweet, savory, with a surprising tangy finish.

qotd: “I’d been getting into the habit of kissing boys when I oughtn’t” — @partylikeawordstar​

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𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

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When I saw that Barnes and Noble was selling a signed copy of Kiera Cass’ “The Betrayed,” I knew that I had to get my hands on it! I am so glad I decided to purchase this book, because I definitely liked it much more than the first in its duo, “The Betrothed.”

In my previous review of “The Betrothed,” I mentioned that I struggled with the absence character development. That issue was definitely resolved in “The Betrayed!” After Silas’ death, Hollis matured and really came into her own. It was also exciting to follow Etan’s character. When the reader is first introduced to Etan in “The Betrothed,” he is incredibly rude and guarded. It was exciting to watch him let his guard down and grow into a soft, lovable character as he began to accept Hollis for who she was in this second book.

In addition, the imagery improved in “The Betrayed.” I felt like I could really picture Isolte because Cass took the time to describe how the architecture and clothing differed from that of Coroa. The world building I admired from the first book also carried over into “The Betrayed” in the form of Isolte traditions like how birthdays were celebrated and “bread day” which was awesome!

One of my favorite aspects from “The Betrayed” was the introduction of an enemies to lovers romance. The banter between both Hollis and her new love interest was incredibly entertaining and enjoyable to read. Further, I found it more realistic / believable than Hollis’ romance with Silas from the first book.

Though I loved this book, there were still a few problems that I ran into.

The pacing was still a bit too fast for my tastes. I also found the departure of King Jameson, King Quentin, and Hagan to be way too convenient. I feel as though these issues could have been ironed out if the book were lengthened by a few chapters.

All in all, I found “The Betrayed” to be yet another fun summer read with little surprises spread throughout! I am very happy with how this duology was concluded and I am looking forward to Cass’ next work!

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