The movies have tainted things, so here I go. ;)

Even though some of Meyer's vampire facts get a little silly, I still admire her innovation, even if the internet has had a hayday with it (myself included :)). It was a gutsy move to do something different than the long-standing status quos.

**SPOILERS**

I like that Edward wants to "wait" until marriage (call me old-fashioned): this was a big risk for Meyer.

However, marrying right out of high school seems awkward (please understand I'm not bashing anyone who has - I know plenty of happy people!). I just think it's awkward for this particular setting, but the reasoning makes sense (and in Edward's age, that's What People Did, I think).