Four Psychological Thrillers Whose Female Characters Have Few Redeemable Qualities (if any)

Is it so wrong for me, as a reader, want to root for my characters? How about genuinely care about their well-being? I find that the more concerned, interested and invested I am in a character, the more I enjoy their story, and the more likely I am to continue reading.

Lately, I’ve found this very difficult in the Psychological Thriller/Suspense genre. To me, the main characters in these books have been so totally without any positive qualities that I almost quit reading, tossing the book on the top of my DNF pile. While I did, in the end, finish these books, it was not because I was invested in the success of the main character. Rather, it was out of sheer curiosity and a need for closure.

I would like to discuss four very popular, well written, complex, NY Times best-selling novels, a few of which have been optioned for block buster movies, in the thriller/suspense genre whose characters have absolutely no redeemable qualities – and sadly they’re all women.

Spoilers ahead, proceed at your own risk

Seven Reasons to Love Gabriel Oak

For some reason when it comes to classic literature there seems to be no man more coveted or admired than Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Women worldwide swoon over him and I'll admit I was one. That is, until I read Thomas Hardy's Far From the Madding Crowd and was introduced to Gabriel Oak. While there are similarities between the two, ie: rejected first time marriage proposals, an attraction to strong willed women, and a strong/silent disposition, Gabriel Oak stole my heart and will forever (in my opinion) be superior to Mr. Darcy and here's why:

1. He's Calm and Steadfast.

Gabriel Oak is the most steady character in the book. His strength never waivers and he never veers away from doing the right thing. He's counted on for his knowledge, advice and is the only person Bathsheba can truly trust. Even when things aren't going his way - he remains calm and collected.

2. He Takes Rejection Well.

When we are first introduced to Gabriel Oak, he's a bachelor making a meager living as a farmer. While not making buckets of money, he has a business plan and goals for his future - which he details in his first proposal to Bathsheba. She refuses him. Instead of getting all broken up about it, he graciously leaves her alone - and though their paths cross in the future he never bothers her about it again. Thank goodness he's not a needy, whiner.