"Deadly Little Games" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In "Deadly Little Games" by Laurie Faria Stolarz, the main character Camelia Hammond is a high school student who becomes entangled in a dangerous game of obsession and love. Ben Carter, the love interest, plays a significant role in Camelia's life as their relationship develops amidst mysterious events. Kimmie, Camelia's best friend, provides support and advice throughout the story. Wes, the antagonist, poses a threat to Camelia's safety. Other characters such as Matt, Mrs. Kranz, Mr. Hammond, and Dr. Kinsley contribute to the overall plot and character development.

Character Descriptions

1. Camelia Hammond: Camelia is a smart and captivating protagonist who is known for her artistic skills and her ability to see glimpses of the future in her drawings. She has long brown hair, expressive hazel eyes, and a determined personality. Camelia is often seen as independent and courageous, always trying to uncover the truth behind the mysterious events happening in her life.
2. Ben Carter: Ben is the charming and enigmatic love interest of Camelia. He has dark, tousled hair, piercing blue eyes, and a captivating smile. Ben's mysterious background and his ability to understand Camelia's unique abilities make him an intriguing character. He is protective and caring towards Camelia, but his secrets and actions keep the readers guessing about his true intentions.
3. Kimmie: Kimmie is Camelia's loyal and vivacious best friend. She has a vibrant personality, often adding humor and lightness to tense situations. Kimmie has a distinctive style and loves experimenting with fashion. She provides emotional support to Camelia and helps her navigate through the challenges they face together.
4. Wes: Wes is the antagonist in the story, who becomes obsessed with Camelia. He has a dark and brooding demeanor, often lurking in the shadows. Wes's chilling presence adds suspense and danger to the plot, as he constantly seeks to manipulate and control Camelia's life.
5. Matt: Matt is Camelia's friend, who adds an element of normalcy to her life. He is outgoing, athletic, and always there to lend a helping hand. Matt's friendship provides a contrast to the intense and mysterious relationships Camelia finds herself entangled in.
6. Mrs. Kranz: Mrs. Kranz is Camelia's art teacher, who recognizes her talent and encourages her artistic pursuits. She serves as a mentor figure to Camelia, offering guidance and support throughout her journey.
7. Mr. Hammond: Mr. Hammond is Camelia's father, who is protective and concerned for her well-being. He plays a minor role but contributes to the familial dynamics and the overall plot.
8. Dr. Kinsley: Dr. Kinsley is a psychologist who helps Camelia understand and cope with her unique abilities. He provides insights into the psychological aspects of her experiences and offers guidance to navigate the challenges she faces.

Character Traits

1. Camelia Hammond: Determined, independent, artistic, intuitive, brave
2. Ben Carter: Charming, mysterious, protective, understanding
3. Kimmie: Loyal, vivacious, humorous, supportive
4. Wes: Obsessive, manipulative, menacing, secretive
5. Matt: Outgoing, athletic, friendly, reliable
6. Mrs. Kranz: Supportive, encouraging, mentor-like
7. Mr. Hammond: Protective, concerned, minor presence
8. Dr. Kinsley: Insightful, supportive, knowledgeable

Character Background

Camelia Hammond is a high school student with a unique ability to see glimpses of the future through her drawings. She has always been drawn to art and uses her talent to express herself. Ben Carter appears in Camelia's life, and their connection grows stronger as they navigate the dangerous game of obsession and love.

Kimmie, Camelia's best friend, has been by her side since childhood, providing emotional support and advice. Wes becomes a menacing figure, obsessively pursuing Camelia and threatening her safety. The relationships with other characters, such as Matt, Mrs. Kranz, Mr. Hammond, and Dr. Kinsley, contribute to Camelia's growth and understanding of her abilities.

Character Arcs

Throughout the story, Camelia's character arc revolves around discovering the truth about her abilities and navigating the dangerous situations she finds herself in. She starts off as a talented artist with a sense of curiosity about her unique gift. As the plot unfolds, Camelia becomes more determined and courageous, facing the challenges head-on.

Ben's character arc is intertwined with Camelia's, as his true intentions and past are gradually revealed. The reader witnesses his transformation from a mysterious figure to a complex individual with his own vulnerabilities and struggles.

Wes's character arc revolves around his obsession with Camelia and the lengths he is willing to go to possess her. His dark and manipulative nature escalates throughout the story, leading to a climactic confrontation.

Relationships

The relationships in "Deadly Little Games" play a significant role in shaping the plot and character development. Camelia's bond with Ben is a central focus, filled with chemistry, intrigue, and uncertainty. Kimmie's friendship provides a source of stability and emotional support for Camelia amidst the chaos.

The relationship between Camelia and Wes is one of obsession and danger, creating a sense of suspense and fear throughout the narrative. Other relationships, such as those with Matt, Mrs. Kranz, Mr. Hammond, and Dr. Kinsley, contribute to Camelia's growth and understanding of herself and her abilities.

In conclusion, Laurie Faria Stolarz's "Deadly Little Games" presents a captivating array of characters with distinct roles, traits, and relationships. Camelia's journey of self-discovery, intertwined with a dangerous game of obsession and love, keeps the readers engaged and invested in the story. With its well-developed characters and intricate plot, "Deadly Little Games" offers a thrilling reading experience.