Hi friends, and happy Wednesday. I’m so excited to be here with you today. My thirteenth novel, One Wrong Move, was released last week. In celebration, I’m giving away an autographed copy of One Wrong Move.
Just comment below to enter!
One Wrong Move features hero Christian O’Brady.
I remember when I started out writing, I learned that heroes can be Alphas or Betas.
Raven Romance defines an Alpha hero as:
The Alpha Hero trope is a popular character archetype in romance novels, particularly in the sub-genres of paranormal, suspense, and military romance. These heroes are typically strong, dominant, and confident, with a commanding presence that demands respect and attention. They are often physically attractive and possess a set of skills that make them stand out from other characters in the story.
While they define a Beta Hero as:
Beta heroes, on the other hand, are typically more sensitive and emotional than alpha heroes. They are often described as being kind, caring, and nurturing, and they are usually the ones who listen to their partners and support them emotionally. Beta heroes are also known for being more in touch with their feelings, and they are often portrayed as being less concerned with material success than alpha heroes.
I don’t know about you, but I think characters are far more complex and nuanced than a set archetype. Yes, someone may be more confident and more in touch with their feelings, but I prefer a different kind of hero than a set archetype. However, I enjoy reading them, and great characters are written that way. But I, personally, love to write gentlemanly heroes. Men who are fiercely loyal and protective of those they love. They are strong and brave. But they are also respectful of the heroine. They value her intelligence and opinions. They are kind and care about others.
And I love to pair them with strong, intelligent heroines. Women who are brave, feisty, and can hold their own. However, they love and appreciate the hero’s multi-faceted personality.
Reader Question:
What kind of hero do you enjoy reading about the most?
Thanks for taking time out of your day to spend a little time with me. Remember to comment below to be entered to win an autographed copy of One Wrong Move.
Best,
Dani
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I prefer the gentleman who is loyal, protective, and courageous, a man of faith. He would not be intimidated by an intelligent, loyal woman, a woman of faith. Definitely not the bare-chested he-man on some of the mainstream romances! Congratulations on your new book!
Thanks so much and I love the hero you described.
“But I, personally, love to write gentlemanly heroes. Men who are fiercely loyal and protective of those they love. They are strong and brave. But they are also respectful of the heroine. They value her intelligence and opinions. They are kind and care about others.” I think you got my favorite kind of hero exactly right, Dani; I also like to see personal growth for the hero as the story progresses. What I don’t like is a cardboard hero who only follows a “type.”
Absolutely agree on character growth. So vital to a story. Thanks so much for sharing:)
I’m ALPHA all the way thanks to Tamara Leigh and Ronie Kendig books. But I will say their Alpha’s also have a gentlemanly side to them as well, so it’s the best of both worlds.
Absolutely the best of both worlds :))
Congratulations, Dani! Your new book sounds exciting! I like elements of both, but probably am more attracted to the beta male on the whole. I’m more of a fan of Mr Knightley than Mr Darcy (though I like both!) . Gilbert Blythe is another book crush of mine. But I do want the protection and provision characteristics that I think any godly man seeks to cultivate. Character is always more attractive & important than physical handsomeness if I have to choose between the two.
Thank you for the giveaway opportunity!
I love your description of a hero! Sounds like my kind of
guy!
Congratulations, Dani! I like a mix of both in my stories. Strong and confident, yet sweet, loyal, and a little vulnerable. They must respect the heroine. I think either Alpha or Beta alone is not dynamic enough. In real life, I love my sweet gentlemanly husband. 💕
Hmmm … I like when they’re brave and decisive, super protective but also supportive. There should definitely be good growth.