"When" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In the book "When" by Victoria Laurie, the main character, Maddie Fynn, takes on the role of the protagonist. She is a young woman with a unique ability to see the death date of anyone she looks at. Maddie's ability becomes a crucial tool as she uses her gift to help others and solve mysteries.

Stubby, Maddie's best friend, plays a supportive role throughout the story. He provides emotional support to Maddie and helps her navigate the challenges that arise from her ability. Ryan, Maddie's love interest, adds a romantic element to the plot and becomes an important ally in her quest to uncover the truth.

Gretchen, the antagonist, acts as a formidable adversary for Maddie. She possesses a similar gift but uses it for malicious purposes, creating conflict and danger for Maddie and those around her. Detective Dom and Chief Ramirez are supporting characters who assist Maddie in her mission by providing resources and guidance.

Character Descriptions

Maddie Fynn

Maddie Fynn is a young woman in her early twenties with long, wavy brown hair and piercing blue eyes. She is described as having a petite frame and a kind and compassionate demeanor. Maddie's appearance often contrasts with the weight of her ability, as she carries the burden of knowing people's death dates.

Stubby

Stubby is Maddie's best friend and confidant. He is described as tall and lanky, with messy brown hair and a perpetual smile. Stubby is fiercely loyal to Maddie and provides unwavering support throughout the story, often acting as her voice of reason and comic relief.

Ryan

Ryan is a charming and handsome young man who captures Maddie's heart. He has tousled brown hair and warm brown eyes. Ryan is portrayed as intelligent and caring, and he becomes a source of stability and love for Maddie amidst the chaos caused by her ability.

Gretchen

Gretchen is the primary antagonist of the story. She is described as having a striking appearance, with long black hair and piercing green eyes. Gretchen is cunning and manipulative, using her ability to exploit others for personal gain. Her actions create significant obstacles for Maddie and pose a constant threat throughout the book.

Detective Dom

Detective Dom is a seasoned investigator who works closely with Maddie. He is described as having a stern yet caring demeanor. Detective Dom recognizes the value of Maddie's ability and relies on her insights to solve cases. He becomes a mentor figure and trusted ally to Maddie as they work together to unravel the mysteries they encounter.

Chief Ramirez

Chief Ramirez is the head of the police department and oversees the investigations in the story. He is depicted as a no-nonsense leader with a gruff exterior, but he genuinely cares about justice and the safety of his community. Chief Ramirez provides the necessary resources and support to Maddie and Detective Dom as they pursue the truth.

Character Traits

Maddie Fynn

• Compassionate
• Determined
• Empathetic
• Cautious
• Resilient

Stubby

• Loyal
• Supportive
• Witty
• Optimistic
• Adventurous

Ryan

• Charming
• Intelligent
• Protective
• Patient
• Loving

Gretchen

• Manipulative
• Calculating
• Ruthless
• Self-serving
• Deceptive

Detective Dom

• Experienced
• Observant
• Trustworthy
• Tenacious
• Supportive

Chief Ramirez

• Authoritative
• Caring
• Resourceful
• Fair
• Dependable

Character Background

Maddie Fynn

Maddie Fynn grew up in a small town with her parents, who were supportive of her unique ability. Her ability to see death dates manifested during her childhood, making her aware of the finitude of life at a young age. This early exposure to mortality shaped Maddie's compassionate nature and desire to help others. Despite the challenges her ability presents, Maddie uses it to make a difference in the lives of those around her.

Stubby

Stubby, whose real name is Sam, has been friends with Maddie since childhood. He shares a deep bond with Maddie and has always been a source of unwavering support. Stubby's own experiences with loss and tragedy have made him empathetic and understanding, making him the perfect confidant for Maddie.

Ryan

Ryan grew up in a neighboring town and moved to Maddie's town a few years before the events of the book. He is drawn to Maddie's compassionate nature and is fascinated by her ability. Ryan's background in psychology provides him with a unique perspective on Maddie's gift, and he becomes a pillar of strength for her as they navigate the challenges together.

Gretchen

Gretchen's background is shrouded in mystery for much of the book. She possesses a similar ability to Maddie but uses it for personal gain and manipulation. Gretchen's motivations and dark past gradually unfold as the story progresses, revealing the extent of her malevolent nature.

Detective Dom

Detective Dom has a long history in law enforcement and has worked on numerous high-profile cases. His experience and dedication to justice have earned him the respect of his colleagues. Detective Dom's background provides him with insights and resources that prove invaluable in Maddie's quest to solve the mysteries she encounters.

Chief Ramirez

Chief Ramirez has been in law enforcement for many years and has risen through the ranks to become the head of the police department. He is dedicated to maintaining law and order in the community and is known for his fair and impartial leadership. Chief Ramirez's background in law enforcement provides him with the knowledge and connections necessary to support Maddie and Detective Dom in their investigations.

Character Arcs

Maddie Fynn

Throughout the story, Maddie's character arc revolves around embracing her ability and using it to make a positive impact. Initially burdened by the weight of her gift, Maddie learns to accept and understand it better, ultimately finding her purpose in helping others. She grows in confidence, becoming more assertive in her actions and decisions.

Stubby

Stubby's character arc focuses on self-discovery and personal growth. He starts as a fun-loving and carefree individual but gradually realizes the importance of his role as Maddie's best friend. Stubby learns to balance his adventurous spirit with a deeper sense of responsibility, becoming a reliable and steadfast companion for Maddie.

Ryan

Ryan's character arc centers around his understanding and acceptance of Maddie's ability. Initially skeptical, he becomes fascinated by her gift and actively supports her in her endeavors. Ryan also confronts his own fears and insecurities, allowing himself to be vulnerable in his relationship with Maddie.

Gretchen

Gretchen's character arc is one of escalating villainy. As the story progresses, her actions become increasingly malicious and dangerous. Gretchen's background is gradually revealed, shedding light on the dark path she has chosen. Her character arc culminates in a climactic showdown with Maddie, where her true nature is fully exposed.

Detective Dom

Detective Dom's character arc revolves around his growing trust and reliance on Maddie's abilities. Initially skeptical of her gift, he slowly recognizes its value and integrates it into his investigative work. Detective Dom becomes a mentor figure to Maddie, guiding her and helping her develop her skills.

Chief Ramirez

Chief Ramirez's character arc is one of steadfast support. He remains a constant presence throughout the story, providing the necessary resources and backing for Maddie and Detective Dom. Chief Ramirez's unwavering belief in justice and his commitment to protecting his community remain consistent, making him a reliable ally for Maddie.

Relationships

Maddie and Stubby

Maddie and Stubby share a deep and enduring friendship. They have known each other since childhood and have supported each other through thick and thin. Stubby's lighthearted nature complements Maddie's more serious demeanor, and their bond strengthens as they face the challenges presented by her ability.

Maddie and Ryan

Maddie and Ryan's relationship evolves from curiosity to love. Ryan's genuine interest in Maddie's ability and his unwavering support create a strong foundation for their romance. They learn to navigate the complexities of Maddie's gift together, ultimately forming a deep emotional connection.

Maddie and Gretchen

Maddie and Gretchen's relationship is one of intense conflict. As individuals with similar abilities, they are pitted against each other. Maddie's compassionate nature clashes with Gretchen's malicious intent, leading to a dangerous rivalry that drives the plot forward.

Maddie and Detective Dom

Maddie and Detective Dom's relationship evolves from skepticism to trust and respect. Initially wary of Maddie's ability, Detective Dom gradually recognizes its value and relies on her insights to solve cases. Their partnership becomes a crucial element in unraveling the mysteries they encounter.

Maddie and Chief Ramirez

Maddie and Chief Ramirez share a professional relationship based on mutual respect. Chief Ramirez recognizes Maddie's unique gifts and provides the support necessary for her to use them effectively. His guidance and belief in justice align with Maddie's own values, fostering a strong working relationship.

In conclusion, "When" by Victoria Laurie presents a diverse range of characters, each with their own unique backgrounds, traits, and relationships. Maddie Fynn, the protagonist, undergoes significant character growth as she embraces her ability and uses it for good. The supporting characters, such as Stubby, Ryan, Gretchen, Detective Dom, and Chief Ramirez, add depth and complexity to the story, driving the plot forward and influencing Maddie's journey. Through their interactions and character arcs, the book explores themes of friendship, love, trust, and the pursuit of justice.