For those of you who read my Twilight post, you know that I’m not exactly in the I Love Edward Fan Club. Before you cast the first stone, let me explain. Stephenie Meyer does a lot of things well. Bella’s clear and believable voice draws readers into the story and lets us experience her inner turmoil firsthand. Meyer has created a unique fantasy universe, recycling some of the vampire/werewolf stereotypes, but adding new twists. The plot progresses logically, if slowly. And she has created many memorable supporting characters (for example, Jacob Black).

Here’s the problem. I like strong female characters. Now Bella has her moments, don’t get me wrong. She is not a complete weakling, but she’s also no Buffy (at least not yet). The final scene in New Moon epitomizes my problem with the series. The scene features a hostile stand-off between Edward and Jacob (Bella’s two protectors), in which Edward thanks Jacob for keeping Bella alive while he was away. Now I recognize the fact that Bella may have some inner strength that the physically strong Edward and Jacob do not possess, but this doesn’t change the fact that Bella is dependent on the two males for her survival. I also recognize that Meyer does include several physically strong females (Alice, Victoria, etc.). It’s just the primary relationship between Edward and Bella that bothers me. Maybe once Bella becomes a vampire, I’ll finally be able to get behind this series 100 percent. (Oh, and once they replace all the gushy romance stuff with some slice and dice action :) ).

DweebMeter: 3/5

Links (okay, link)

StephenieMeyer.com - this has links to beaucoup fan sites, including a few in languages other than English!