I've never really asked myself what makes me like a character, male or female. Since you specifically asked about female characters, I thought of the TV series I usually watch and realised I like women if I can relate to them (i.e. we are similar in some way) or if I wish I was like them.

As for Lori, as I've already said, I find her two-dimensional, so I can't really relate to her. And, sure, she's very smart and good-looking, but I don't really look up to her. I don't dislike her, but I prefer Kono or Catherine. I mean, I bet some people will say Catherine is a total Mary Sue as well, but for some reason I don't have a problem with her, maybe because she was introduced as an old friend of Steve's, someone who was already part of his life?