My Hero

Ah, the hero *swoon* Okay, you’re right; I wouldn’t swoon, I’d leer. I can’t help it. It’s a prerequisite for dirty old ladydom. However, I do love a good hero. I’m going to list what I think a hero is and let y’all haggle over whether you agree or not.

First and foremost, a hero is the main love interest of the heroine of a story. I’m not talking every day heroes (police officers, fire fighters, soldiers, etc.) although the every day hero can make a great love interest in a romance book. He’s the character we want the heroine to end up with. How they get there is the best part of the story as far as I’m concerned.

I prefer a hero who has issues; it makes him seem more real, even if he’s a paranormal creature. His past experiences are what makes the story rich and colorful. Or he could be an anti-hero; not quite good, but not entirely bad either. Or, he could be bad and redeem himself. The possibilities are endless!

Then there’s how he treats the heroine. My sister, mother, aunt, and I discussed this not long ago. We all adore Alpha males who are considered assholes by everyone else, but who’re completely wrapped around their woman’s finger. When I read a book and the hero is this big, bad boogeyman with everyone except the heroine, it makes my heart go all mushy. It’s because he’s still a bad ass, but once his woman is in range, he’s putty in her hands.

These characteristics are what make a great hero for me. He’s a man who can be from any walk of life with a dark, or traumatic past that gives him texture as a character. He’s strong and powerful, but when it comes to the heroine, he’s a teddy bear.

What do you think?