What I liked:
- the premise of the selection was super interesting since it’s very old fashioned type event happening in a modern world 
- the camaraderie between all the girls competing. There’s always one who has to be a b**** but I liked that they all weren’t horrible to another
- Maxon was sweet and the friendship that blossomed with America was cute
- I actually didn’t end up minding the love triangle and I think this is what is pulling me into the next book
I actually felt myself conflicted between aspen and maxon since I think a lot of their moments with America were cute

What I didn’t like:
- maxon saying “my dear”. Too me it felt stilted and unoriginal and a bit creepy instead of endearing
- America jumped to a lot of quick and weird conclusions immediately instead of just thinking about it for more than 5 seconds and always thinking it revolved around her. I am proud of her for standing up for what was best for her tho in the end.
- the writing…was not the best. It felt very short and I wanted way more detail than I got. It’s such an interesting world and it felt like nothing was really painted for me. I can’t really even tell you what americas iconic red dress looked like…
- can I have more on this history of this world please? It’s sounds interesting but I still have a slim grasp of it all. 

Overall, it hooked me enough to read the next one. If you like a simple love story that includes competition and a triangle, this could be for you.