Top 5 Tuesday is a weekly book discussion with a new topic every Tuesday hosted by Meeghan of Meeghan Reads (formerly by Shanah of Bionic Book Worm). It’s each blogger’s job to pick five book-related things (though you’re welcome to pick things from other media, if necessary) that fit the topic.
September is a theme month for Top 5 Tuesday! This month’s theme is favorite characters from A to Z. Each week, each blogger needs to name some of their favorite characters in alphabetical order. I missed last week because I didn’t realize Top 5 Tuesday was back, so I’m combining last week and this week to list my favorite characters all the way from A to J.
While Top 5 Tuesday is typically a book meme, this month I may be branching out to discuss some of my other favorite characters because, well, it’s my blog and I can do what I want. So there.
Alizayd “Ali” al-Qahtani
Ali is one of my favorite characters in the Daevabad trilogy. He just wants justice and equality for everyone. He’s a hero and a huge nerd. His religion is very important to him, something I can’t exactly relate to but respect. I also adore Ali’s friendship and eventual budding relationship with Nahri. I’m considering adopting him and making him another of my many fictional children.
Buffy Summers
I mean, she’s the Slayer. Chosen One characters tend to be divisive, but I love Buffy with all my heart. She’s brave, funny, selfless, loyal, and also flawed. She is not only my favorite character on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but one of my favorite characters of all time.
Crowley
Whether in the book or the TV adaptation, Good Omens’ resident demon is an absolute joy. He just wants to vibe and cause a little chaos along the way. He’s up to what I like to call “casual fuckery.” And his bromance (or, as I believe, romance) with Aziraphale is amazing. I love their dynamic and how they influence each other. But, even if Aziraphale couldn’t make it, I’d love to hang out and cause a little ruckus with Crowley.
Delilah “Lila” Bard
Lila is everyone’s favorite genderfluid pirate. What would Shades of Magic be without her brashness and dazzling ability to get in and out of trouble? Lila is cunning but rash, and never afraid to play dirty. Even when she drives me crazy, I respect the hell out of her.
Essun
Though I’m only a little ways into the second book in the Broken Earth trilogy, I already know Essun is a character I’ll carry with me for years to come. She’s one of the most determined and flawed characters I’ve ever read about. She will do whatever it takes, cross the world, to find her daughter. She’s survived so much trauma— made impossible choices— and come out harder but stronger. I cannot wait to continue her story.
Finnick Odair
Who else could I pick aside from the man, the myth, the legend? Not only is Finnick charming and pretty, he’s also a Hunger Games winner. It takes real skill to last in the Games, let alone win. I’m so glad he’s enjoying his life with his wife Annie and their baby, while living and being alive. 🙂
Gideon Nav
Everyone’s favorite lesbian (aside from me, of course) had to make this list. Gideon is hilarious and a prime example of a disaster gay. Hell, she’s a himbo but edgier. However, that doesn’t mean she’s not filled with substance. When the going gets tough, Gideon puts her whole heart into making sure the going goes. I love her and her signature sunglasses so much.
Harrowhark Nonagesimus
I wanted to add variety to this list by not picking characters from the same series, but I obviously needed to put the resident lesbian necromancer of The Locked Tomb on this list. Harrow is scarily smart and bitingly mean, but underneath is a vulnerable exterior. Harrowhark is a bitch and I like her so much.
Inej Ghafa
Inej has been one of my favorite characters since, like, 2015 when Six of Crows came out. I love how she’s able to retain her virtues and stick to her values, while living as a criminal. What’s more, she values herself. Even after all the trauma she’s endured, Inej looks toward the future. She’s also an amazing spy. It’s no wonder why she’s a fan favorite character.
Julian Blackthorn
Where do I even start with Julian? He had to become both a father and mother to his siblings at 12. He’s artistic and caring, but he also has a darker side. He’s cunning, willingly to throw anyone under the bus to protect his family. He has such antihero potential. I’m still pissed his arc in The Dark Artifices didn’t fully commit to that. I still love him though. He is one of my adopted children, after all.
Who are some of your favorite characters whose names start with a letter between A and J? Let me know in the comments!
Strange Storyteller 
Ooh i wanted to put Ali and Inej on my list as well, but I already had others haha!
(www.evelynreads.com)
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve definitely had to make cuts for these lists too… who knew I liked so many characters with the same first initial?
LikeLiked by 1 person