I'm about halfway through, and I like it.
I do think it is a little on the tough side, which is fine, but it's not exactly like we have a shortage of tough levels on these forums. I'm convinced at this point easier levels are actually harder to make because it requires restraint.
As for the confusing exit at the beginning, I think it's fine. I wouldn't look at that as bad level design or something that needs "fixing". I think it's just another type of challenge utilizing the warp lines to give some rooms (mostly the first one) a maze type feel.
I'll let you know when I finish. So far, it seems very polished though with no glaring bugs. I think the level design looks nice and you should maybe "advertise" it a little by putting some screenshots up. Couldn't hurt.