I have stayed away from kits for that reason. Sometimes prints do look cute folded up and then not so much when you open them. This can happen with fat quarters too.
Sorry you spent so much. Maybe you should try taking it back. The worst thing the store can say is no.

First kit I ever bought was in an Amish store. I would not have chosen the fabrics, but I do like them from a distance.
I bought another kit for a Turning Twenty quilt because they had a sample and I fell in love with it. Still love all the fabrics but one stinking piece. Oh well, it's only 3x5".
My most recent kit had the sample right there and I just loved it.