The first time I tried to read this book I couldn’t get past the description of the main character. That she would be anywhere near capable after a year in a work camp was laughable. 
At the insistence of good friends, I gave the book a second try. This time I chose to read it looking for the telltale signs of a teen writer in the height of her “not like other girls” phase and found it much more enjoyable. There are many ridiculous moments (Chaol being captain and having never killed or served in battle!), but we’re embracing the cringe this time. This book felt so nostalgic and appealed to the 14 year old in me who ate those kinds of stories up. If boys can have their Rands and their Harry Potters, then girls should be allowed to enjoy the cheese of a female power fantasy!