Another option could be 'Ancillary Justice' by Ann Leckie. The story features a powerful female protagonist who plays a dominant role in a complex sci-fi universe with multiple political and social dynamics.
Another example is Katniss Everdeen from 'The Hunger Games'. She takes charge in a very difficult and life - threatening situation. She is the one leading the fight against the Capitol and making decisions that not only affect her own life but also those of many others. She is a dominant female figure in a non - erotic, action - packed and thought - provoking story.
In science fiction, females are often portrayed as strong and intelligent. For example, in 'Star Trek', Uhura is a highly capable communications officer. She breaks gender barriers in a futuristic setting.
There are quite a few feisty females in science fiction. For instance, Sarah Connor in the 'Terminator' series. She starts as an ordinary woman but transforms into a strong fighter who can take on the seemingly indestructible Terminators. Her determination to protect her son and save the future is truly remarkable. Lieutenant Uhura from 'Star Trek' is also feisty. She breaks barriers as a female and African - American character in a science - fiction world, being confident and capable in her role on the starship Enterprise.
Their strength is a big part. In a male - dominated genre like science fiction, feisty females stand out. They are often independent and can handle difficult situations on their own. For example, Ripley in 'Alien' doesn't need a man to save her. She saves herself and others multiple times. It gives a sense of empowerment to the female audience.
Females in early science fiction often played support roles. They were typically the ones taking care of the home base while the male characters went out on adventures.
In 'Avatar', the plotline involving Neytiri is really interesting. She meets a human who is in an avatar form and they form a bond. Their relationship is crucial as they fight together against the human invaders who want to exploit Pandora's resources. Neytiri's connection to her people and her planet drives a lot of the story.
In early science fiction, females were often portrayed as damsels in distress. They were secondary characters mainly there to be rescued by male protagonists. For example, in some classic pulp science fiction stories, women were depicted as weak and in need of male protection in the face of alien threats or other perils.
Early science fiction often had female characters in more traditional, supporting roles. They were the damsels in distress or just love interests. For instance, in some old pulp science fiction stories. But as time passed, we saw more independent female characters. Like in 'Battlestar Galactica' reboot, female characters hold important military and leadership positions.
The hottest females in fiction are typically very confident. Consider Black Widow from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She is confident in her skills as a spy and an assassin. Physical beauty also plays a part. Characters like Wonder Woman have a statuesque and beautiful appearance. But more importantly, they have inner strength. Daenerys Targaryen endures a lot of hardships yet still manages to rise to power. Her inner strength and her ability to lead are what make her a hot fictional character. And many of them are independent thinkers, like Elizabeth Bennet who doesn't conform to society's expectations easily.
Often they are portrayed as nurturing. For example, many female characters in fairy tales are the ones taking care of the family or those in need.