I realize there are anti-heroes in literature. Some are unique and lovable in spite of themselves. Written with creative twists in their character, they're entertaining. However, if you can't give me a character I like even a little bit, I don't want to read your novel. There. I said it.
I recently read a novel where the character began her story as likable, had a softness, a caring, loving personality. However, an event occurred, not the least bit tragic or dangerous, having to do with something she wanted to do. It turned her into someone I couldn't stand. She made me angry and I almost didn't finish the book. Yes, she did a doubletake of herself, but I'd come to dislike her so much, I didn't care that there was a relatively "happy" ending. She wasn't who I thought she was, and it was more than just disappointing because of who she became. I could find no valid excuse for her change.
As an author, you can experiment with characters, but be very careful with your main characters. If you take one too far away from their appeal, make them do a turnaround from who you start them out to be, or create them to be completely unlikable at some point in the story, the risk is your readers might just slam the book closed and give it away after throwing it against the wall. Just sayin'.
Father, thank you for your writers and authors. What a privilege to put words down and hope they will be directed to bless others. Apart from you, I can do nothing. And thank you will never be enough. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.