One example could be Mr. Darcy from 'Pride and Prejudice'. He has a certain aloofness and pride at first which might seem 'killer' in the sense of being intimidating. But as the story unfolds, his true nature of kindness and deep love for Elizabeth Bennet emerges. Another is Rhett Butler from 'Gone with the Wind'. He's a complex character with a devil - may - care attitude and is very much a hero in his own way, especially in the tumultuous historical backdrop of the American Civil War.
Well, Heathcliff from 'Wuthering Heights' can be considered in a way. He is a brooding and passionate character. His love for Catherine is all - consuming, and his actions, though often dark and vengeful due to his difficult past and unrequited love, make him a complex hero. He has a certain 'killer' intensity in his emotions and his determination to get what he wants in the midst of the historical and social context of the Yorkshire moors.
Mr. Darcy from 'Pride and Prejudice' is a very popular hero. He is initially seen as proud and aloof but is actually a man of deep feeling. Another is Edward Cullen from the 'Twilight' series. He is a vampire hero who has to navigate his love for a human while dealing with his own vampire nature. Then there's Christian Grey from 'Fifty Shades of Grey', who is a complex and wealthy hero in a rather controversial romance.
In some Chinese historical romance novels, there are heroes. For example, in novels set in the imperial court, the intelligent and chivalrous princes can be considered heroes. They often fight for their love while also dealing with court intrigue. They are brave in protecting their beloved ones and use their wits to overcome various obstacles, whether it's political schemes or family opposition in the name of love.
One Hispanic hero in romance novels could be Alejandro from 'The Spanish Love Deception'. He is charming, passionate and has a strong sense of family values. Another is Diego in 'A Kiss in the Rain'. He is brave and caring, always there to protect the heroine. And then there's Ramon in 'Under the Spanish Sun', who is gentle yet firm in his love.
One such novel could be 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon. It features a strong - willed female protagonist and a complex hero. The historical setting of 18th - century Scotland adds to the allure, with their relationship full of passion and challenges.
Christian Grey from 'Fifty Shades of Grey' can be considered a brooding hero. He has his own demons and a complex personality that makes him brood a lot. However, this series also contains some adult - themed content. Another example is Heathcliff from 'Wuthering Heights'. He is brooding due to his unrequited love and difficult upbringing, which makes him a very complex and tortured character in the world of romance novels.
Strength is a key factor. If a hero in a historical romance is physically strong and an excellent fighter, like a knight or a warrior, that can make him 'killer'. For example, a hero who can defeat multiple foes in a sword fight. Another aspect is his confidence. A self - assured hero who can charm the heroine and outwit his rivals easily can be seen as 'killer'.
These heroes often have a strong sense of honor in a historical context. Even if they seem cruel in their actions, it could be in line with the moral code of their time. They may be cruel to enemies but show a different, more gentle side to the heroine. For example, a knight might be ruthless in battle but tender with his lady love.
Well, possessive heroes in historical romance novels can be portrayed in multiple ways. Sometimes they are depicted as domineering. They might make decisions for the heroine without her consent, thinking it's for her own good. However, this possessiveness can also be seen as a sign of their deep love. They are so in love that they can't bear the thought of losing the heroine. Like in a medieval - set novel, a knight would keep the lady in his castle under his watchful eye, believing the outside world is too dangerous for her.
Mr. Darcy from 'Pride and Prejudice' is also a vulnerable hero. His pride initially masks his vulnerability. But as he falls in love with Elizabeth, his true feelings are exposed. He is vulnerable to her rejection because of his social status and his own insecurities about his personality. He fears that she will not return his love due to his perceived haughtiness.
Mr. Darcy from 'Pride and Prejudice' is often considered one of the best. His initial haughtiness gives way to deep love and self - realization. He's wealthy and powerful, but it's his transformation for Elizabeth that makes him a great hero.