Self-imposed angst and trauma. Yeah, not really appealing. Ditto for dealing with things in ways that just enhance it. (and so 90% of fandom's hot angstmuffins do nothing for me.)
The thing about Sabriel and Lirael is that, as a person, Sabriel is where she needs to be at the start of the book. This makes her a good heroine and likable character, but there's no real need for growth or change. Lirael and Sameth both start with a long way to go. But while Lirael (despite what seems to be almost pathological shyness) is actively trying to do something and get somewhere, Sameth is hiding away and whining. Lirael's narrative has more room for growth and change, and so more possibilities.
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The thing about Sabriel and Lirael is that, as a person, Sabriel is where she needs to be at the start of the book. This makes her a good heroine and likable character, but there's no real need for growth or change. Lirael and Sameth both start with a long way to go. But while Lirael (despite what seems to be almost pathological shyness) is actively trying to do something and get somewhere, Sameth is hiding away and whining. Lirael's narrative has more room for growth and change, and so more possibilities.