Estimated read time: 13 min read
Table of Contents
- List of Characters in "Obsidian" by Laurann Dohner
- Role Identification
- Character Descriptions
- Character Traits
- Character Background
- Character Arcs
- Character Relationships
- In-Depth Character Analysis
- Character Interactions and Dynamics
- Thematic Exploration Through Characters
- Character Growth and Resolution
- Conclusion
List of Characters in "Obsidian" by Laurann Dohner
| Character Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Obsidian (880) | Protagonist, New Species male |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Protagonist, Human female doctor |
| Shadow | New Species, Obsidian’s friend |
| Justice North | Leader of New Species |
| Moon | New Species, Obsidian’s comrade |
| Breeze | Female New Species, nurse |
| Harley | New Species, security |
| Dr. Harris | Human doctor, minor antagonist |
| Smiley | New Species, friend to Obsidian |
| Jessie Dupree | Human, liaison for New Species |
Role Identification
| Character Name | Primary Role in Narrative |
|---|---|
| Obsidian (880) | Central figure, focuses on self-discovery |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Romantic interest, catalyst for Obsidian’s growth |
| Shadow | Support system, friend during integration |
| Justice North | Mentor, authority, provides guidance |
| Moon | Ally, supports Obsidian's adaptation |
| Breeze | Caregiver, assists Allison, shows compassion |
| Harley | Protector, maintains security |
| Dr. Harris | Represents old scientific antagonism |
| Smiley | Encouraging friend, helps lighten the mood |
| Jessie Dupree | Bridge between New Species and humans |
Character Descriptions
Obsidian (880)
Obsidian is a New Species male, recently rescued from Mercile labs. He is physically imposing, with dark features and a guarded demeanor. He is unfamiliar with the outside world, especially human culture and emotions.
Dr. Allison Baker
Allison is a compassionate human doctor, brought in to help Obsidian recover from trauma. She is intelligent, empathetic, and fiercely protective of her patient.
Shadow
Shadow is a New Species male who befriends Obsidian. He is patient, understanding, and helps Obsidian adjust to life outside captivity.
Justice North
Justice is the leader of the New Species. He is authoritative, fair, and deeply cares about the well-being of his people.
Moon
Moon serves as a supportive comrade to Obsidian. He is friendly and open-minded, helping Obsidian navigate new experiences.
Breeze
Breeze is a female New Species who works as a nurse. She is nurturing and supportive, especially towards Allison and the other wounded.
Harley
Harley is a security specialist among New Species. He is vigilant and responsible for the safety of his community.
Dr. Harris
Dr. Harris is a minor antagonist, representing the clinical detachment of the medical establishment that once imprisoned New Species.
Smiley
Smiley is a friend to Obsidian. Optimistic and humorous, he helps ease tense situations.
Jessie Dupree
Jessie is a human liaison, bridging communication between New Species and humans. She is diplomatic and understanding.
Character Traits
| Character Name | Key Traits |
|---|---|
| Obsidian (880) | Protective, possessive, loyal, instinctive |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Empathetic, patient, determined, courageous |
| Shadow | Calm, supportive, patient |
| Justice North | Authoritative, strategic, compassionate |
| Moon | Open-minded, friendly, encouraging |
| Breeze | Caring, gentle, resilient |
| Harley | Responsible, alert, dependable |
| Dr. Harris | Detached, clinical, unsympathetic |
| Smiley | Cheerful, optimistic, light-hearted |
| Jessie Dupree | Diplomatic, understanding, adaptable |
Character Background
Obsidian (880)
Obsidian was bred and raised in Mercile laboratories, where he experienced severe trauma, loss, and imprisonment. His mate was killed by Mercile staff, causing deep emotional scars. Upon his rescue, Obsidian is thrust into a world he doesn’t understand and must learn to adapt while coping with his grief.
Dr. Allison Baker
Allison comes from a medical background, specializing in trauma recovery. She volunteers to help the New Species, driven by empathy and a desire to heal. Her past shows a deep compassion for her patients, often putting their needs before her own.
Shadow
Shadow’s history is similar to other New Species—he was also imprisoned and experimented on. Having adapted better to freedom, Shadow uses his experience to help newcomers like Obsidian adjust.
Justice North
Justice’s past is marked by hardship and responsibility. As a leader, he must balance the needs of his people with external threats, always striving for peace and integration.
Moon
Moon’s background involves learning about human culture and supporting his fellow New Species emotionally. He acts as a bridge for new arrivals.
Breeze
Breeze endured captivity but emerged strong. Her nurturing role as a nurse stems from her desire to alleviate suffering among her people and their allies.
Harley
Harley’s experience in security comes from his time in captivity and later training. He is dedicated to protecting the vulnerable.
Dr. Harris
Dr. Harris represents the impersonal scientific approach that harmed the New Species. His background is rooted in clinical detachment rather than compassion.
Smiley
Smiley’s optimistic nature was forged by adversity. He chooses to focus on the positive and uplift those around him.
Jessie Dupree
Jessie’s experience as a liaison demands adaptability and cultural sensitivity. She is instrumental in helping New Species integrate.
Character Arcs
| Character Name | Arc Details |
|---|---|
| Obsidian (880) | Begins traumatized and hostile; learns trust, love, and self-acceptance through interaction with Allison. |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Starts as a caregiver; grows into a partner, learning to accept Obsidian’s differences and love him deeply. |
| Shadow | Serves as a guide; his arc is steady, representing stability. |
| Justice North | Maintains leadership, faces new challenges as Obsidian tests boundaries. |
| Moon | Modestly develops by expanding his supportive role. |
| Breeze | Gains confidence in her abilities, especially through helping Allison. |
| Harley | Consistently embodies security, but grows to trust Obsidian’s intentions. |
| Dr. Harris | Remains largely static, symbolizing ongoing societal prejudice. |
| Smiley | Reinforces his role as comic relief and morale booster. |
| Jessie Dupree | Continues developing diplomatic skills, building bridges between species. |
Character Relationships
| Character 1 | Character 2 | Nature of Relationship |
|---|---|---|
| Obsidian | Dr. Allison Baker | Romantic and therapeutic; Allison helps Obsidian heal, leading to mutual love |
| Obsidian | Shadow | Friendship; Shadow helps Obsidian adapt to New Species society |
| Obsidian | Justice North | Authority and mentorship; Justice guides Obsidian through integration |
| Obsidian | Moon | Comradeship; Moon provides support and understanding |
| Obsidian | Breeze | Professional; Breeze cares for Allison, earning Obsidian’s respect |
| Obsidian | Harley | Security; Harley is initially wary but comes to trust Obsidian |
| Obsidian | Dr. Harris | Adversarial; Harris represents the kind of humans who hurt Obsidian |
| Obsidian | Smiley | Friendship; Smiley helps Obsidian laugh and relax |
| Obsidian | Jessie Dupree | Respectful; Jessie aids in bridging cultural gaps |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Breeze | Collegial; they work together to care for Obsidian and other New Species |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Justice North | Professional; Justice evaluates Allison’s fitness to interact with New Species |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Shadow | Friendly; Shadow helps Allison understand New Species culture |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Harley | Cooperative; Harley ensures Allison’s safety |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Dr. Harris | Adversarial; Harris’s clinical approach conflicts with Allison’s empathy |
| Justice North | All New Species | Leadership; Justice’s relationships are based on his duty to protect and guide his people |
| Jessie Dupree | New Species | Diplomatic; she builds trust and facilitates communication |
In-Depth Character Analysis
Obsidian (880)
Description and Traits
Obsidian is a product of genetic engineering, combining human and animal DNA. His physical strength and animalistic instincts make him formidable, but his emotional wounds run deep. He is fiercely protective, especially of those he loves, and struggles with possessiveness due to his traumatic past.
Background
Raised in captivity, Obsidian’s life was defined by violence and loss. The death of his mate in Mercile’s labs left him emotionally scarred and distrustful. Upon his rescue, Obsidian is thrust into an unfamiliar world, surrounded by strangers and new customs.
Arc
At the start, Obsidian is closed off, defensive, and occasionally violent. His journey is one of healing—learning to trust, love, and accept himself. With Allison’s help, he confronts his trauma and finds purpose beyond survival.
Relationships
Obsidian’s relationship with Allison is central. She becomes his anchor, teaching him about compassion, patience, and love. His friendships with Shadow and Moon provide additional support, helping him integrate into New Species society. Obsidian’s interactions with Justice North are marked by tension, as he resents authority but ultimately accepts guidance.
Dr. Allison Baker
Description and Traits
Allison is compassionate, intelligent, and courageous. She is drawn to Obsidian’s vulnerability and strength, seeing him as more than the sum of his traumatic experiences.
Background
A skilled doctor, Allison has a history of working with trauma victims. Her motivation is rooted in empathy, and she is willing to defy protocol to do what’s right for her patients.
Arc
Initially, Allison’s role is that of a healer. As she grows closer to Obsidian, she becomes his partner and advocate, challenging the prejudices and fears of those around them. Her journey involves learning to accept love from a man so different from herself.
Relationships
Allison’s relationship with Obsidian is transformative for both. She also bonds with Breeze, finding a kindred spirit among the New Species. Allison’s clashes with Dr. Harris highlight her commitment to compassion over clinical detachment.
Shadow
Description and Traits
Shadow is calm, patient, and understanding. He has already adapted to freedom and acts as a mentor to Obsidian.
Background
Like Obsidian, Shadow was a Mercile captive. He has since found peace and stability, making him ideal for helping others transition.
Arc
Shadow’s arc is steady. He represents the hope that healing is possible, providing a model for Obsidian to follow.
Relationships
Shadow’s friendship is crucial for Obsidian’s adjustment. He also supports Allison, helping her understand New Species dynamics.
Justice North
Description and Traits
Justice is authoritative, strategic, and deeply compassionate. His leadership is marked by a commitment to his people’s well-being.
Background
Justice’s history is one of hardship and resilience. As leader, he must constantly balance internal and external pressures.
Arc
Justice’s arc involves guiding the New Species through new challenges, including integrating traumatized members like Obsidian.
Relationships
Justice’s relationship with Obsidian is complex—he must assert authority while understanding and accommodating Obsidian’s trauma.
Moon
Description and Traits
Moon is friendly, open, and supportive. He’s quick to offer encouragement and help others adapt.
Background
Moon’s experience with integration makes him empathetic to newcomers.
Arc
Moon grows by taking on greater responsibility, helping both Obsidian and Allison.
Relationships
He forms bonds with both Obsidian and Allison, acting as a bridge between cultures.
Breeze
Description and Traits
Breeze is nurturing and resilient. She channels her experiences into caring for others.
Background
Her background as a captive informs her desire to heal.
Arc
Breeze gains confidence, especially in her role supporting Allison and other humans.
Relationships
She and Allison work closely, forming a strong collegial bond.
Harley
Description and Traits
Harley is vigilant and dependable. He places safety above all else.
Background
His training and experience make him a trusted protector.
Arc
Harley learns to trust Obsidian and Allison, easing his initial suspicions.
Relationships
He works with Justice and other New Species to maintain order.
Dr. Harris
Description and Traits
Dr. Harris is detached and unsympathetic, representing institutional prejudice.
Background
His clinical detachment is a product of his scientific background.
Arc
Dr. Harris’s arc is static, serving as a foil for Allison’s empathy.
Relationships
His adversarial relationship with Allison highlights the conflict between compassion and detachment.
Smiley
Description and Traits
Smiley is cheerful and optimistic, providing levity in tense situations.
Background
He endured hardship but chooses to focus on the positive.
Arc
Smiley’s role as a morale booster is consistent, helping others cope.
Relationships
He forms friendships with Obsidian and others, spreading positivity.
Jessie Dupree
Description and Traits
Jessie is diplomatic and adaptable. She bridges gaps between species.
Background
Her work as a liaison demands cultural sensitivity.
Arc
Jessie continues to develop her skills, building trust between communities.
Relationships
Jessie’s relationships are professional but crucial for integration.
Character Interactions and Dynamics
| Pairings | Interaction Dynamics |
|---|---|
| Obsidian & Allison | Healing, romance, mutual growth |
| Obsidian & Shadow | Mentorship, friendship |
| Obsidian & Justice | Authority vs. independence, eventual respect |
| Allison & Breeze | Collegial, mutual support |
| Justice & New Species | Leadership, guidance |
| Harley & Obsidian/Allison | Initial suspicion, eventual trust |
| Allison & Dr. Harris | Conflict, ideological opposition |
| Smiley & Group | Light-hearted, supportive |
| Jessie & New Species | Diplomatic, bridge-building |
Thematic Exploration Through Characters
Healing from Trauma
Obsidian and Allison’s journeys are emblematic of trauma recovery. Obsidian must confront and process his pain, while Allison learns to love despite differences. Shadow, Moon, and Breeze reinforce the theme that healing is possible.
Prejudice and Acceptance
Dr. Harris and Jessie Dupree represent opposing forces. Harris embodies prejudice, while Jessie works for acceptance. Justice North mediates between these extremes, striving for integration.
Power and Vulnerability
Obsidian’s physical strength contrasts with his emotional vulnerability. Allison’s courage is emotional, driving her to protect and nurture. Justice’s leadership is shaped by both strength and empathy.
Character Growth and Resolution
| Character Name | Starting Point | End Point |
|---|---|---|
| Obsidian (880) | Traumatized, closed-off, mistrustful | Healing, open, loving, integrated |
| Dr. Allison Baker | Compassionate, cautious, clinical | Deeply committed, loving, advocate |
| Shadow | Patient, steady mentor | Continues as supportive figure |
| Justice North | Authoritative, cautious | More accommodating, understanding |
| Moon | Open, helpful | More responsible, supportive |
| Breeze | Nurturing, cautious | Confident, essential to community |
| Harley | Suspicious, protective | Trustful, supportive |
| Dr. Harris | Detached, unsympathetic | Remains unchanged, symbolizes systemic issues |
| Smiley | Optimistic, humorous | Continues to uplift others |
| Jessie Dupree | Diplomatic, bridging gaps | Deeper integration, more trust built |
Conclusion
"Obsidian" by Laurann Dohner offers a nuanced exploration of trauma, healing, and the search for belonging through its characters. Each character, from the deeply wounded Obsidian to the empathetic Allison, contributes meaningfully to the novel’s themes of acceptance, integration, and the transformative power of love. Their backgrounds, arcs, and relationships intertwine to create a compelling narrative about overcoming the past and forging new futures together. These well-developed characters ensure "Obsidian" stands out as a powerful entry in the New Species series.
