Characters are the heart of books for me, so, as usual at this time every year, it’s time for me to talk about my favorites!
The way authors can create entirely new people and make them feel real is always incredible, but there are some characters that stand out more than others, whether it’s because they’re so relatable or unique or interesting or sweet, and these are my favorites (which may have turned out to be a couple more than ten, oops) from the books I read this year, in no particular order!
Kett – Dowser Series (Books 4-6)
I know I’m always partial to vampires, but Kett was the most interesting character to me from the start in this series. He started out so cool, calm, and collected, but he got even more interesting the more human he became.
Edward – The Ex-Princess
Edward was earnest, open, patient, sweet, a big nerd, and overall just adorable.
Dominic – Dark Destinies Series
I didn’t take to Dominic immediately, but as the series went on and I got see what an emotional, compassionate person (or vampire) he was, how much he cherished his relationships with others, he really grew on me.
X – Captives
The gruff, imperfect, but good-hearted Hell Diver who manages to survive on sheer determination alone sometimes. Gotta love him.
Neil – Thieves Series
I love many characters in this series, and I’ve mentioned some specific ones before in previous years, but this year I wanted to give Neil a shoutout, since I don’t think I have yet. He’s been through so much, but he never let any of it turn him cruel. He’s such a loyal person to those he cares about and an amazing friend.
Reylan – Arcardia Trust Series
Reylan has really grown on me as the series has gone on. He has a good, compassionate side, but he also has a colder, more vampiric side that I find interesting.
Mykal – The Last Hope
I loved Mykal and his roughness and cheerfulness and emotion. I loved how he was always whittling and sewing and doing things the Grenpale way. He was so sweet to those he cared about. But honestly, I loved all the characters in this book.
Simon & Baz – Simon Snow Series (Books 1 & 2)
Baz is a grumpy vampire, Simon is an explosive ball of magic and violent energy, both are adorable, and I love them.
Fetching – The True Bastards
Fetching was such a badass, holding her own in a position of leadership in a man’s world. She had to deal with so much and make so many difficult decisions, but she did a fantastic job, and she never lost her compassion in the process.
Thornby – Salt Magic, Skin Magic
Thornby was unique and just the right amount of quirky to be realistic but fun to read about. I loved his his absurdity, his confidence, and his cheekiness.
Tom – Baal’s Heart Series
I know I said these were in no particular order, but I do like to choose a #1 favorite, the character who made me fall completely head over heels as a reader. And oh, Tom. What do I even say about Tom? Who couldn’t love this loud, foul-mouthed, mischievous, violence-loving pirate? And then this ruffian turned out to have a secret sweet, emotional side, and gaaaaah. He stole my heart, that sneaky, little thief.
I have not read any of these, though, I am familiar with Baz and Simon from Fangirl. That cover for Shadows, Maps, and other Ancient Magic is yummy, I just had to mention that.
I actually haven’t read Fangirl, but I do love these books! The Meghan Ciana Doidge books always make me crave cupcakes since the MC is a baker lol.
This list is reminding me that I need to read Rowell’s series! Oh and Hell Divers!! I was trying to read the first Hell Diver book by the end of the year, but obviously I completely failed at that challenge. Maybe next year😁
Yes, you do! They’re both great!
One of my favorite characters from books I read in 2019 is the Fool from Robin Hobb’s Farseer Trilogy. His witty remarks and friendship with Fitz really made the series for me.
Aww he sounds great!
Thanks for the reminder to start the Hell Driver series!!! I have them but keep forgetting lol
Karen @ For What It’s worth
Ahhh, you definitely should try them!
Great characters are the best part of books I think! I haven’t read any of these but I did like Simon & Baz from Fangirl- I love that she expanded their story into their own books! And Thornby sounds fun. 🙂
Hope you had a great holiday!
Agreed! I love kinda quirky characters like Thornby lol.
Thanks, you too!
I’m glad you could enjoy these books so much and really love the characters too. I haven’t read any of them before, but I did meet Simon and Bax briefly for moments in Fangirl. I’m not sure the Carry On series is for me but I do plan to try it next year. My faves this year are Grey, Harper and Rhen from A Curse so Dark and Lonely!
Thanks! Ahhh I’m nervous for you about Carry On lol. Ooh that’s good news since I want to read that book!