Women who accept nontraditional roles and succeed with dynamic outcomes are the heroines in my novels. These are Glock-totin‘ gals with southern charm who understand grits aren’t just for breakfast. These women embrace their femininity with an added boost–they aren’t afraid to go after the bad guys or say they love Jesus. This style of heroine understands her peace can be more about the caliber of the piece in her purse than the state of her spiritual life.
What makes a contemporary woman choose a career that has the potential of ending her life? Experts often point to personality differences or a “risk-gene” as an explanation why some are risk takers and others are content in less stressful lifestyles. I prefer courageous heroines who’ve been wired with a few more endorphins to balance the adrenaline, and they thrive on it.
If my heroine races down a dirt road on a Harley in the dead of night, or scales a cliff while someone is shooting at her, or stuffs a weapon into the waistband of her jeans, it’s to get the edge on the bad guys.
My heroines are not satisfied unless they are placing their lives on the line to protect or save innocent victims. These women are warriors who are trained to protect, defend, and hopefully outsmart the ones who will stop at nothing to obtain money and power. 
Jack London said it quite well. “The adventurer gambles with life to heighten sensation–to make it glow for a moment.”
Of course, in a suspense novel the heroine ends up being the prey, but the heroine and the villain are balanced in their skills and intelligence. Who knows? The bad guy may be a woman.
Yep, I like a gutsy women who can work alongside a man, and a hero who appreciates her abilities, wit, dedication–and her beauty.
What about you? I want to hear what you like in a woman heroine.
Comments 2
You stole the words from my heart. Thanks for the reminder and the encouragement.
J.A.
I love a gutsy woman too. I have experienced being on the LEO side of things and to see some of the women you write makes me proud. I had to make a decision on whether or not I could take a life to protect someone else or myself. I love the Lord and I understand the commandment to not kill but there are sometimes extenuating circumstances. He realized that and provided for those times. I think these ladies are fantastic. Keep up the good work.