Wonder Women — in fact and in fiction

As we have seen in this month's posts, the term "Wonder Woman" creates different images for different people. For example, some might argue the women pictured above are not Wonder Women. Really? I'm fairly certain they can do a lot of things I can't do, which makes them Wonder Women in my book. In this article, however, I'd like to address one flesh-and-blood variety and three fictional ones who in very diverse ways also fit this category for me.

In the past, I've shared my admiration for fantasy author S. K. Randolph. As her editor, I've witnessed her evolution into a true Wonder Woman Writer who creates and develops three-dimensional characters of salvation, of purpose, and of revenge. A former ballerina and dance instructor, she has transferred her creative skills into a choreography of words. Her first novel, The Dimensioner's Revenge published in 2011, took seven years to write because she was working full time. The following three novels and eleven companion shorts (all together totaling some 738,000 words) have since been completed and published, a most respectable accomplishment. Beyond the impressive word counts, she exhibits a rare excellence in her expressive use of language and overall attention to detail, imparting not only extraordinary stories, but also moments of insight and wisdom appropriate to readers of all ages and genres.

One of Randolph's many memorable characters, Jaradee Myrlindah dedicates her life to preserving her people and her culture from annihilation, thus qualifying for Wonder Woman status. Loyal, focused, and committed, she sacrifices herself to save her young daughter. Her story, related in Jaradee's Legacy, speaks of the powerful good that women can bring to the most desperate situations.

Speaking of characters who make the Wonder Women team, I would like to submit two of my own. Katherine Kohler, protagonist of my soon-to-be-released A Brother Betrayed, endures the death of her beloved husband, the loss of her job, the wrath of her daughter, and the vendetta of her brother-in-law to regain control of her life. At times in doubt of her ability to cope with one more tragedy, she finds a strength she didn't know she possessed to push ahead against overwhelming odds that seem determined to defeat her.

Another character from this novel who earns Wonder Woman kudos, Yoshiko Yamamoto loses her mother at an early age, lives under the thumb of her emotionally distant father, and falls into the clutches of an abusive man. Walking a tightrope of terror to protect herself and her young son, this gentle woman finds support in others who see hints the strong person residing behind the wall of fear that rules her life. Finally mustering the strength to face her demons, she emerges to become more than she ever believed she could be and a true Wonder Woman.

Editor Linda Lane has returned to her first love—writing—while maintaining her editing work. She also helps new and not-so-new writers improve their skills through posts on Blood Red Pencil and offers private mentoring as well. You can contact her through her writing website, LSLaneBooks.com. Also, you can visit her at DenverEditor.com.