Alpha females aren’t just for raiding tombs anymore. This dynamic character shows up time and again in paranormal romance. Actually, the alpha female is showing up regularly in all genres of fiction, and thankfully in more and more areas of the real world too.
This isn’t just a statement of women’s rights or liberation. Although, dynamic women in the real world certainly affect how female characters behave on the page.
For paranormal romance writers like me, I think it boils down to giving the reader what they can relate to, or giving the reader a believable escape.
Very few readers want to spend those few hours of spare time with a heroine who can’t make up her mind or move proactively to solve her problem. Alpha heroines deliver for the savvy reader.
Paranormal romance writers consistently apply alpha heroines, in my opinion, because it enriches the escape factor for the reader. Female characters faced with daring challenges need to find an internal strength – and in most paranormal romance novels they need to find it fast.
They may not make the right decision every time, but alpha heroines have the determination and drive to try to resolve the problem – however mysterious or bizarre. Alpha heroines aren’t afraid of making the move. Alpha heroine take responsibility for their own happiness.
Female readers today, whether housewives or corporate executives, relate to the alpha heroine facing long odds and tough choices. Seeing that heroine strive and succeed inspires readers inside and outside the story.
An empowered woman willing to apply her skills, test her strength, and risk her heart for a goal that matters is the very definition of an alpha female heroine.
And therein lies the appeal.
Live the adventure!
