Of course they can and they have been since the dawn of time. Romance as an industry quietly embraced the ideals of a heroine taking her future and her destiny into her own, very capable hands. Starting back with Kathleen Woodiwiss, Victoria Holt, and Virginia Henley. Now when you think of Scarlet O’Hara or Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, perhaps Kick Ass heroine is not what you think of, but it was these characters who were the budding start to a powerful burst we are now witnessing in the genres of action/adventure.
Look to Harlequin’s new line
BOMBSHELL. The Bombshell heroines are self-reliant, tough, and more than capable of handling the perils of life. Now the heroine can stand tall and proud, saving the hero if necessary.
Dorchester is releasing its line of kick ass heroines as well, think Susan Grant and The Legend of Banzai Maguire, or Liz Maverick and The Shadow Runners.
It started back when the damsel in distress decided that instead of whimpering in the corner, she would fight back. She might only throw a note from her tower cell, but she chose action. For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction – people liked it.
There is a trend, a vital trend releasing internationally as well. People are finally accepting the empowerment of women. And they are relegating that fine line between bitch and strength. Women can do it all and still be beautiful, caring, nurturing women in the process.
All we need to do is look to the current Hollywood phenomena of strong female characters.
Charlie’s Angels I & II,
Kill Bill I & II,
Underworld,
Resident Evil I & II ,
Tomb Raider I & II,
Alias and the list goes on and on Look to where the hero’s are strong…they often now have a female counterpart who is just as vital to the story role.
Blade III Trinity , any of the
Matrix. Strong female characters are grabbing our interest and holding it.
If you enjoy strong, reliable, intelligent heroine who can carry the story but don’t forget love is as powerful as hate…check out some of the following authors.
