I'm able to ignore a lot when I read romance novels. A. LOT. It's fiction, I don't take it too seriously. But the TSTL, self-sabotaging heroine is one of the things that really hits my rage button. For example...
Khela describes her grandparents' relationship and confesses her fears for her own life to Carter...
“I make it up. I write books that let me dream about what I want because I’m scared I’ll never find it in real life.”
So....fast forward a little and Carter asks Khela on a real date in return for his favor to her to attend her writing conference...
“I’m flattered, Carter, I really am, but…” She swallowed, but the tiny lump in her throat only wedged itself more firmly. “I’m not interested in a relationship.”
Uh...um...didn't she just say she was afraid she'd never find true love??? Therefore implying she wanted to find true love??
Carter doesn't pressure Khela and leaves...
“Only a fool would turn down a man like him, Khela thought, her heart as heavy as her footsteps as she bypassed the stairs to take the elevator. Then again, that’s me. Your typical romantic fool…”
Wait...so at least she realizes that she's a self-saboteur...I feel better now. NOT.
WHY do female writers portray their female characters like this???
1
 - Crystal Hubbard)
