Bride

Lowe Moreland is Misery’s Were love interest. He is a variation of the stock Alpha male werewolf in paranormal romance novels. Like other Alpha male werewolves, he is muscular, with good looks, and is both dangerous and strong. When it comes to his love match and his pack, he is kind, protective, and loyal. He is a savvy diplomatic leader, with brains to match his brawn. His artistic streak suggests that he is a sensitive creative, one attractive in body, mind, and soul. To keep him from being too perfect, Hazelwood makes Lowe inept when it comes to technology. This allows Misery to have the upper-hand in at least one area. He differs from many stock Alphas in that he has a kind, good heart. For example, he is good with children, no matter the species.

Until meeting Misery, he doesn’t perform the ritual Were physical acts designated for mates. This makes him a combination of experience and innocence, which complements Misery’s virginal status. They explore their physicality with fresh, unclouded minds; the result is their physical relationship is elevated to a higher level, one that is unique to them alone.

Owen Lark is Misery’s fraternal twin. Misery’s opinion of him during the novel changes dramatically when she realizes that his sarcastic, playboy exterior is how he deals with feelings. Owen is the only resource Misery has about her own people, and is the person she asks about their biology and what happens when they feed. In comparing her brother’s behavior to the Weres, Misery is able to see how her own prickly psychology isn’t unique, but a cultural aspect of being a Vampyre.

Throughout the novel, Owen shifts from being a playboy to being a powerful leader. This mirrors Misery’s own journey toward self-discovery. Like Misery, Owen must accept his identity and feelings before he can become the next leader. Owen had suppressed his feelings about failing to protect his sister. This resulted in his playboy sarcasm, which covered the depth of his anger and despair. When he, like Misery, faces his feelings, he finds it necessary to act. While Misery’s growth as a character results in romance, Owen’s results in the hostile takeover of a government.

Serena is Misery’s best and only friend for most of her life. She is largely absent during the majority of book, seen mostly in flashback form until the end. She is, however, the catalyst for the action—her disappearance is what convinces Misery to marry Lowe. Through memories of Serena, Misery explores what makes her a Vampyre, and illuminates how Vampyres differ from the typical vampire.

Serena is going through her own identity crises and is a victim of Misery’s father. This emphasizes the depth of Henry Lark’s cruel manipulation. Like many of the characters in the novel, Serena is grappling with Identity, Self-Acceptance, and Belonging. She shows her growth when accepting her Were traits and learning how to use them.

Ana is Lowe’s little sister. Half Were, half Human, she is a symbol of the unity that is possible between the species, both inside the world of the novel and between people overall. Because of this, Henry fears her. Protecting her is Lowe’s top priority.

Ana also symbolizes the love, joy, and unity children can bring. She is instrumental in helping Misery be accepted by the Weres, and forces Misery to soften and accept herself. Her positive presence and attitude toward others shows the possibility of the unity of the species.