12 Character Archetypes for Found Families
Last week, I introduced the notion of found family in literature; particularly in small town stories and paranormal packs. A great way to cast your family members is to look at Character Archetypes.
Character archetypes serve as familiar, universal patterns that help shape memorable and relatable characters. When woven into found family narratives, these archetypes enrich the emotional landscape of the story, creating layers of connection and tension between the characters. In small-town and paranormal romance, these archetypes not only shape the roles characters play but also highlight how people find belonging and purpose through chosen families.
One of the most common archetype is the character of The Mentor. Mentors are often the guiding lights of a found family. In a small-town romance, this might be the retired schoolteacher or the owner of a quaint bookstore, offering sage advice and life lessons to the protagonist. These characters anchor the hero or heroine, providing them with perspective during moments of doubt. In a paranormal romance, the mentor could take the form of an elder shifter or an alpha who has weathered the challenges of pack life. Their guidance is essential, teaching the protagonist how to navigate supernatural powers or new responsibilities within the pack.
The Shapeshifter archetype embodies unpredictability and fluidity, often challenging the protagonist’s assumptions. In small-town settings, this character might appear as a meddling neighbor who seems nosy or antagonistic but gradually reveals an unexpected depth, becoming a surprising ally. In paranormal romance, the archetype takes on a literal form through a rogue shifter or a mysterious character whose shifting loyalties keep everyone on edge, creating tension while ultimately proving their worth in moments of crisis.
Every found family needs a Sidekick, the ever-reliable friend who brings humor and unwavering support. In a small-town romance, this might be the best friend or coworker who shows up unannounced with a bottle of wine and comforting words, ready to help the protagonist navigate life’s ups and downs. In a paranormal story, the sidekick could be a snarky beta wolf or mischievous fae who lightens the mood and stands by the hero during perilous missions, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
The Caregiver archetype adds warmth and emotional depth to the family dynamic. In small-town romances, this might be the diner owner who serves the community not just with food but with compassion, listening to everyone’s troubles as if they were family. In paranormal romance, the caregiver could be a healer within the pack or a wise witch who offers both physical and emotional healing, reminding the characters that strength often lies in vulnerability.
The Rebel or outsider archetype brings complexity to the found family by stirring up the status quo. In small towns, this character might be a drifter or newcomer who initially doesn’t fit in but gradually earns the trust of the close-knit community. They challenge the protagonist’s worldview and push them to grow in unexpected ways. In a paranormal romance, the outsider could be a lone wolf or cursed shifter who resists joining the pack but ultimately finds belonging through shared struggles and mutual respect.
The Protector or guardian embodies loyalty and sacrifice, often taking on the role of the group’s defender. In small-town romances, this character might appear as the town sheriff or a devoted firefighter, always watching over the community and keeping its members safe from harm. In paranormal settings, the protector could be a dominant alpha wolf or a brooding vampire sworn to protect their coven, willing to lay down their life for the family they’ve chosen.
There's plenty more where that came from. Check out the book "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" by Joseph Campbell which explores more character archetypes.
The Lover seeks emotional connection and intimacy, often representing themes of love, passion, and belonging. In a found family context, they inspire the hero to open up emotionally, whether in romantic or platonic relationships.
The Jester brings humor, lightheartedness, and perspective, often easing tension during difficult times. In small-town romances, they might be the fun-loving friend with a sarcastic wit. In paranormal stories, this role could belong to a mischievous fae or playful beta wolf.
The Sage is different than the Mentor. They value knowledge, truth, and wisdom. They may be an intellectual, spiritual guide, or someone who helps the hero find deeper meaning. This could be an elder in a pack or a retired writer dispensing advice in a small-town romance.
The Innocent represents purity, optimism, and hope. This character believes in goodness and seeks happiness, inspiring others with their faith. In small-town romances, they might be a child or a new resident full of enthusiasm. In paranormal settings, they could be a young shifter eager to prove themselves.
The Ruler seeks order and control, often feeling responsible for others' well-being. In found families, they may take on a leadership role. In a small-town romance, this might be the town mayor or sheriff. In a paranormal context, this could be the alpha leading the pack.
The Shadow represents fear, doubt, or inner conflict—the darker aspects that characters must confront and overcome. In found family dynamics, the Shadow could appear as unresolved trauma or external opposition the group must face together. This archetype provides depth by challenging characters to grow through adversity.
I realize I forgot to mention the Hero! The Hero sets off on a journey of transformation, overcoming personal or external challenges to achieve growth and fulfillment. In found family stories, the protagonist often plays the hero, learning from the other characters and growing through their relationships.
Campell lists a total of twelve archetypes, but over the years others have added plenty more. In found family stories, these archetypes are not rigid roles but fluid identities that characters grow into or challenge throughout the narrative. The interplay between them—such as a mentor guiding a rebellious outsider or a caregiver softening a guardian’s edges—creates rich, emotionally resonant relationships. These archetypes not only deepen the characters' connections but also give readers familiar touchstones, making the journey from individual to family even more compelling.