liise_christine's review against another edition
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
1.5
Spoiler
when I first read that book around 10 years ago, I liked it.now I reread it and it's horrible. the "not like other girls" syndrome America has is not cute. it's annoying. she's like someone who actually thinks they're the main character. she describes the other girls as shallow.
the overall world building is bad - how do we decline to a monarchy with a caste system in the future again.
americas ex-boyfriend is every patriarchal red flag that exists. once he actually sexually assaults her.
her inability to choose could be relatable, if aspen was likable. her inability to COMMUNICATE is absolutely annoying. once she's sure about a decision about who she wants but doesn't tell the other guy. she quite literally says "no I don't even like him" to one of them while she promised the other that she'll stay with them.
people from other countries (such as Germany or Italy but especially China) get described in a VERY stereotypical way that borders on racism (looking at the description of Elise's family)
it's not cute. it's frustrating.
also. the writing is just bad. (though that could be the translation)
If I want the same plot I'd just watch the bachelor tbh.
also, go read the one star ratings on Goodreads. they are hilarious.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexism and Misogyny
Minor: Racism
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