I can't give anything like the detail in my opinion that you did - I read this back when it first came out and my memory is not what it was.
However, I agree this was a good book and worth reading.
I would make one comment about when the young man saved the princess. I think in a mostly rural world, it wouldn't be impossible that a protected young man still wouldn't be strong enough to do what needed to be done. I imagine those farm chores would definitely require strength.
I think you do make a point. If I remember correctly, one reason why he was willing to be brave and risk his life was because so many of his protector sisters were not available (didn't they travel into town or something?) So this could be a case of his actions being driven by need, and not otherwise typical.