"Cruel Summer" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

Colby Cavendish (Protagonist)

Colby Cavendish is the main character and protagonist of the book "Cruel Summer" by Alyson Noel. The story primarily revolves around her experiences and challenges throughout the narrative.

Ashlyn Bell (Antagonist)

Ashlyn Bell serves as the antagonist in the story. She consistently opposes and creates obstacles for the protagonist, Colby Cavendish.

Harper Matthews (Sidekick)

Harper Matthews plays the role of the sidekick and best friend to the protagonist, Colby Cavendish. She provides support, advice, and companionship to Colby throughout the story.

Liam Sullivan (Love Interest)

Liam Sullivan is the love interest of the protagonist, Colby Cavendish. He plays a significant role in Colby's character development and her romantic journey.

Mrs. Sullivan (Supporting Character)

Mrs. Sullivan is a supporting character in the book. She is Liam Sullivan's mother and plays a minor yet essential role in the narrative.

Character Descriptions

Colby Cavendish

Colby Cavendish is a 17-year-old girl who is described as intelligent, curious, and independent. She has long, wavy brown hair and piercing blue eyes. Colby's fashion sense is unique and reflects her free-spirited nature. She often wears vintage clothing and accessories, setting her apart from her peers.

Ashlyn Bell

Ashlyn Bell is Colby's classmate and the main source of conflict in the story. She is characterized as mean-spirited, manipulative, and popular. Ashlyn has blonde hair, green eyes, and a slim figure. Her style is trendy and always up-to-date with the latest fashion trends.

Harper Matthews

Harper Matthews is Colby's best friend and confidant. She is described as loyal, funny, and outgoing. Harper has short, curly red hair and freckles. She enjoys wearing casual and comfortable clothing that reflects her laid-back personality.

Liam Sullivan

Liam Sullivan is a charming and kind-hearted boy who captures Colby's attention. He has messy brown hair, warm brown eyes, and a charismatic smile. Liam's style is casual and effortless, often seen wearing jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers.

Mrs. Sullivan

Mrs. Sullivan is Liam's mother and a supportive figure in the story. She is described as elegant and graceful, with silver hair and gentle blue eyes. Mrs. Sullivan's clothing choices are sophisticated, reflecting her refined taste.

Character Traits

Colby Cavendish

• Intelligent
• Independent
• Curious
• Free-spirited
• Determined

Ashlyn Bell

• Mean-spirited
• Manipulative
• Popular
• Jealous
• Competitive

Harper Matthews

• Loyal
• Funny
• Outgoing
• Supportive
• Adventurous

Liam Sullivan

• Charming
• Kind-hearted
• Charismatic
• Supportive
• Sensitive

Mrs. Sullivan

• Elegant
• Graceful
• Supportive
• Refined
• Caring

Character Background

Colby Cavendish

Colby Cavendish grew up in a small coastal town. She had a close bond with her parents, who encouraged her love for art and adventure. Colby's parents tragically passed away in a car accident, leaving her feeling lost and alone. She moved in with her aunt and uncle, who became her guardians. Despite her difficult past, Colby remained resilient and focused on her dreams.

Ashlyn Bell

Ashlyn Bell comes from a wealthy and influential family in the town. She has always been popular and used to getting what she wants. Ashlyn's parents prioritize success and image, which has influenced her behavior and attitude towards others.

Harper Matthews

Harper Matthews grew up in the same town as Colby. She has a supportive and loving family who have always encouraged her adventurous spirit. Harper has been friends with Colby since they were children and has remained a constant source of support in Colby's life.

Liam Sullivan

Liam Sullivan is a newcomer to the town and has recently moved with his mother, Mrs. Sullivan. He is known for his friendly and approachable nature. Liam has a reputation for being genuine and caring towards others.

Mrs. Sullivan

Mrs. Sullivan is a respected member of the community. She moved to the town with her son, Liam, seeking a fresh start. Mrs. Sullivan values family and shows unwavering support for her son.

Character Arcs

Colby Cavendish

Colby's character arc revolves around her journey of self-discovery and healing. Throughout the story, she learns to cope with her past trauma and find her passion for art once again. Colby also experiences personal growth by learning to trust others and embracing new relationships.

Ashlyn Bell

Ashlyn's character arc is centered around her transformation from a mean-spirited antagonist to someone who learns the value of kindness and empathy. As the story progresses, Ashlyn begins to question her actions and motives, leading to a change in her behavior.

Harper Matthews

Harper's character arc focuses on her unwavering support for Colby and her willingness to put her friend's needs before her own. Throughout the story, Harper learns to balance her adventurous spirit with the responsibility of being a loyal friend.

Liam Sullivan

Liam's character arc involves his journey of opening up to others and overcoming personal insecurities. As he falls in love with Colby, Liam learns to trust again and allows himself to be vulnerable.

Mrs. Sullivan

Mrs. Sullivan's character arc revolves around her role as a supportive mother to Liam. Although her presence in the story is relatively minor, she serves as a pillar of strength for Liam and provides valuable guidance.

Relationships

Colby Cavendish and Ashlyn Bell

Colby and Ashlyn have a strained relationship throughout the story. Ashlyn often belittles and undermines Colby, creating tension and conflict between them.

Colby Cavendish and Harper Matthews

Colby and Harper share a strong bond of friendship. Harper is always there for Colby, offering advice, comfort, and support. Their friendship acts as a source of strength for both characters.

Colby Cavendish and Liam Sullivan

Colby and Liam develop a romantic relationship throughout the story. Their connection serves as a catalyst for Colby's personal growth and healing.

Colby Cavendish and Mrs. Sullivan

Colby forms a positive relationship with Mrs. Sullivan, who becomes a supportive figure in her life. Mrs. Sullivan offers guidance and support to Colby as she navigates her relationship with Liam.

Overall, "Cruel Summer" by Alyson Noel presents a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique traits, backgrounds, and relationships. The character analysis highlights the growth and development of these individuals throughout the narrative, contributing to the overall depth and richness of the story.