Some characters only get a handful of pages, yet they steal the show. You know the ones, witty best friends, mysterious neighbours, or the child who says exactly what you needed to hear.
In The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune, Lucy and the other magical children often take centre stage, even though Linus is the main focus. Their quirks and heartfelt moments give the story its charm.
In Book Lovers by Emily Henry, Nora’s sister Libby lights up every scene she’s in. Her humour and heart provide balance to the romance, making her just as memorable as the leads.
In Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover, young Diem quietly steals every scene she enters. She is not there for drama; she is the heartbeat. Her small questions, sudden bursts of joy, and child-true logic keep the adults honest and give the story its light when things feel heavy. Diem turns big moral choices into simple human ones, and that clarity lingers long after the chapter ends.
Side characters add depth, contrast, and colour to a story. They can shift the tone, raise the stakes, or deliver the one-liner you’ll quote for weeks.
Which side character from our reviews stayed with you long after you closed the book?
The House in the Cerulean Sea
By T.J. Klune
A cosy, enchanting story about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected...
Book Lovers
By Emily Henry
One summer. Two rivals. A plot twist they didn't see coming...
Reminders of Him
By Colleen Hoover
A troubled young mother yearns for a shot at redemption in this heartbreaking yet hopeful story from...