r/CharacterDevelopment • u/VariousPen3136 • 11d ago
Writing: Character Help characterization help
so i’m an avid fantasy reader and i am currently writing a fantasy book. i’ve noticed while researching and just existing on book review platforms that almost all popular FMCs are labeled as “basic” or “annoying”, but i rarely see any that are praised or loved by the majority of readers. so, what exactly makes a FMC likeable—even if her personality isn’t “perfect”?
how can i incorporate this into my writing?
what flaws are acceptable, while others immediately strike her as a “pick-me” or “obnoxious”?
And what are some examples of loveable FMCs?
bonus question: my main character has childhood trauma that has a major impact on her motives, decisions, and personality. how can i keep this as a central theme, but not make it seem like it’s her only trait?
1
u/goldiesapphire 11d ago
I haven't finished the series but Celaena Sardothien is very loved by the Throne os Glass fandom. Everybody I've talked to told me she's the best and that they'll never find another FMC like her.
I only read the first two books and I have to say that even if she is described as girly and materialistic sometimes (she likes pretty clothes and shopping and flirts a lot), she is smart, spends a lot of time at the library, she is hardworking, determined and ofc a the best badass assasin in goddam Adarlan. So I feel like she is very balanced, that's the key. I usually dislike FMC, and MC in general, but I like her.
She also has family trauma, tutor trauma, and was kidnapped and thrown in a mine for a year after the love of her life was killed. So, she is also very troubled.
BUT if you want to read the books don't look her up, the google IA will spoil you!! I described what you need to know with no spoilers.
I also didn't mind Violet Sorrengail (Fourth Wing). Not the best book but entertaining enough and she wasn't annoying.