Effective & Useful Character Tropes

Some tropes make for great storytelling and really connect with readers. Here are a few favourites:

• Antiheroes & Antivillains: They’re morally complex and emotionally unpredictable. Readers are drawn to characters who challenge the idea of good vs. evil and force them to question their own values.

  Example: Walter White from Breaking Bad

• The Funny Best Friend: Provides humour and emotional support, revealing new sides of the protagonist through their interactions. They lighten tense scenes, deepen relationships, and often stand out without overshadowing the main story.

• Enemies to Lovers: Built-in tension, forced vulnerability, and explosive chemistry. The emotional arc from hatred to intimacy is incredibly satisfying.

• Fake Dating: It’s a lie that begs to become the truth. Sparks fly as characters pretend not to feel what they obviously do, thus creating irresistible romantic tension.

• The Weird Small Town: The town and its denizens offer a closed system full of secrets, charm, or quiet dread, perfect for layered storytelling.

  Example: Stars Hollow in Gilmore Girls

• The Found Family: It hits deep emotional notes about acceptance, healing and love. These relationships are built, not inherited, offering a sense of belonging and support where it was once missing.

  Example: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

Whether you're crafting a grumpy mentor, a reluctant hero, or a charming rogue, the right trope can instantly anchor your character in the reader's imagination.

Follow me on Instagram for more practical writing tips and writing-life strategies.

Click this link to grab your free writer tools - Worldbuilding worksheets, Form, Style, & Voice Sheets and more.