*Books eligible could be published in any year, they just had to be read by me in 2018.
Clicking on book cover brings you to my review of the book.
Nominees:
1. Aunt Milagros - Lovesick by Angeles Mastretta
Guiding, giving advice, and supporting the main character, Aunt Milagros was a treasure. She was politically involved, never failed to speak her mind, and seemed to have a past that was infinitely fascinating, plus a younger poet was in love with her and worshiped the ground she walked on.
2. George - The Duke of Deception by Darcy Burke
The brother of the hero, George perfectly demonstrates how readers can get a deeper look at the main character through a secondary. How the hero treated him, along with some internal thoughts and feelings, and George interacted and felt about him, gave great detail to what kind of person the hero was; perfect use of a secondary.
3. Dahlia (Grace) - Wicked and the Wallflower by Sarah MacLean
A possible childhood love story gone wrong, owner of a women's bordello, and only one to point out that childhood pacts may be a tad immature to continue following in adulthood. It is obvious she will at sometime get her own story and I can't wait for it, as she seemed to have a general all around kick-ass attitude.
4. English Civil War - The Black Madonna by Stella Riley
In a year where I definitely brought down the complain hammer in feeling like there was a dearth of historical feel in historical romance, this blew me out of the water. It could be argued that this book and series is more historical fiction but there is just enough romance in it to satisfy my sweet tooth. The author did an amazing job interweaving historical occurrences, real historical people, and providing a feel for the emotional political times. The English Civil War steals the show a bit but what a ride.
5. Faith - Small Town Girl by LaVryle Spencer
Duh, duh, duh...the other woman character! Faith has a long term relationship with the hero, it is comfortable, not particularly setting sheets on fire but providing the companionship while still able to retain independence relationship Faith wants, or at least is comfortable with. Finally, an other woman who is not cartoon-y evil, jealous, or "bitchy". There were deep layers to Faith and while I buddy read this, I think a whole book club session should be devoted to discussing Faith. This has a little bit of an older publishing date and status quo comfortable while wanting non-traditional or frowned upon freedom would be great issues to discuss about this character.
6. India - Not Quite a Husband by Sherry Thomas
Another story that was fantastic utilizing the setting and historical context. The research the author put into crafting the history, scenes, and feel of the times was evident. The story and characters were so much more rich because of it.
7. Miss Potts - The Vixen and the Vet by Katy Regnery
Oh, Miss Potts. I wish everyone could have a Miss Potts in their life. She is the hero's housekeeper and at times she comforts, scolds, pushes, and loves him. Loved, this tough kindly character and again, their interactions, thoughts, and feelings brought out different facets of our hero.
8. The Sultan - Traitor to the Throne by Alwyn Hamilton
If you've read this story, you're probably gasping at me nominating the villain of the story. I love when authors take the time to develop and add depth to their villains. Caricatures or cartoon villains add nothing to the story and give nothing for the main characters to build on. Rhymes and reasons are important components to a story. The Sultan definitely has his evil moments but his thought process for what he is trying to accomplish, as he speaks to the heroine, almost convinces her for a moment. Having his pov and depth to his character only enriched the story and again, added emotion and depth to the heroine.
9. Regan - Breathless by Beverly Jenkins
The sister to the heroine, Regan captured my attention right off the bat. Sometimes there are characters, for whatever reason, I have better emotional connection with; I felt bonded to Regan. Her strengths and vulnerabilities hit me on an emotional wave length that has me highly anticipating her story.
10. Ned - My One and Only Duke by Grace Burrowes
I'm guessing it might be a couple years before we get Ned's book, if we ever do, as he is a younger kid but oh am I anticipating it. He's in jail with the hero but when hero gets out, he makes sure to make a deal to spring Ned out too. He's the hard knocks life, resourceful, smart as a whip, caring, and tough kid that I just know will be a sexy, banter champ, and fun hero.
Winner:
Aunt Milagros
She came very, very close to stealing the show (if she'd had more screen time, she'd probably done it) but she made the main character have more depth and enriched the story. I want a whole separate book about this woman's life! What better compliment for a secondary character :)
2017 Winner
2016 Winner
2015 Winner
2014 Winner
Who were your favorite secondary characters from 2018?
Next Award, Best Scene...
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