The book centers on Keladry, the first girl openly training for knighthood in a traditionally male-dominated society. Her sex is foregrounded constantly, and success often seems to hinge on defying sexism rather than organic character development or skill. Narrative tension often leans heavily on gender issues rather than deeper personality arcs or unique growth.

Traditional gender roles are heavily challenged, masculinity is frequently portrayed as limiting or problematic, while femininity is elevated. There's little positive portrayal of traditional family or religious values; old customs are often dismissed as backward in favor of modern sensibilities.

While dissent about female knights appears among antagonists, alternative worldviews are mostly lampooned. There's little attempt to depict traditionalists with nuance or good faith, and nearly all hero characters espouse the same progressive moral views.