The book I am reading (is wonderful) has a main character who references the strong literary women she loves and who influenced her life. I am sure you can guess them. And part of this made me sigh so heavily. Are these women used because they're just well known?
But I also had Rachel and Cassie, who taught me different types of strength. I had Catherine Morland, who I still emulate every time I think I see a ghost. I had Jessica Darling, I had Matilda.