I struggled to like the protagonist in first six chapters - she was so monotonously self-pitying. Seen through her eyes, her family members were also universally unlikable. I nearly gave up on the read as a result. Am glad I didn't though, as the story picked up after Valancy started interacting with colorful characters beyond her family. I enjoyed watching her growth and her appreciation of nature - her description of the scenery was often beautiful and lyrical. Ended up feeling quite satisfied with this read.