The underdog! The underdog! My favorite protagonist hides grit, drive, and determination under a coat of grace and femininity.
“Girl Waits with Gun” by Amy Stewart introduces us to Constance Kopp, the first female deputy sheriff in the U.S. We have a single woman (and two sisters) in the early 20th century whom the bad guys intimidate and harass. I like the way she keeps her focus on solving the injustice, never buying into being the victim. Guess who wins.
Isabel Dalhousie from the Sunday Philosophy Club series by Alexander McCall Smith appears to live a tranquil life in Edinburgh as editor of a philosophical journal she runs from her home. But when new conundrums arrive she locks in with quiet doggedness. Someone arrives to request help in solving a mystery, correcting an injustice or righting an awkward social mishap. Her sleuthing takes center stage until it is complete and triumphant. She returns home to suffer digs by her loving but petty housekeeper. Isabel takes life in stride.
I don’t agree with all of the decisions Queen Elizabeth’s addresses in The Crown, but I admire her dogged determination to do what she believes she must do for the monarchy, and remain graceful and composed while doing it. Her feminine veneer is the counterpoint to her dogged rigidity to do what she believes is right.
My underdogs grow into their skin. They recognize that while they are perceived to be the ‘weaker sex,’ this isn’t the battle they choose to fight. Ironically, her antagonists believe they hold the cards while she slowly advances her agenda. Once she accomplishes her goal, life continues.
Maybe my southern upbringing influences my characters. When you match good manners with unbridled drive, the good gals win without the bad guys knowing what hit them.
I love a good underdog story, too, especially when it's a woman who surprises everyone. @mirymom1 from
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Yes, the key is 'surprises' She knows way before anyone else :)
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