One of the best things as a writer is creating characters readers love and root for. Characters whose relationships feel so natural and compelling that fans eagerly "ship" them. But what makes a fictional relationship stand out? Chemistry isn’t really enough; truly ship-able characters need depth, quirks, and moments that make their bond feel real. Whether you're writing a slow-burn romance, a playful friendship, or a love-hate dynamic, certain elements can make the relationships feel more engaging and believable. Here are five key tips to help you craft characters that readers will fall in love with!
Make Sure They "Click"
For your character's relationship to feel realistic and ship-able, the characters need to have chemistry. There needs to be something about both of them that makes them "click." This doesn't mean they have to be perfect for each other from the start, but their interactions should be fun and engaging, whether through banter, playful teasing, or deep emotional connection. For example, if one character is always serious and the other is lighthearted, their conversations might balance humor and sincerity in a way that draws readers in. As the writer, you need to think about how they respond to each other in different situations and why they are good for each other. For instance, do they instinctively know how to comfort the other when they’re struggling? When characters "click," their relationship just feels inevitable, making readers want to root for them.
Give Them Shared Interests
While there are times that opposites do attract, your characters also need some shared interests. If they are completely different and have completely opposing views, their relationship would feel very unlikely. Shared interests allow characters to bond naturally and feel realistic. For example, maybe both characters love classic literature and spend late nights debating the best book, or maybe they’re both skilled gymnasts and are always pushing each other to improve. Even something as simple as a shared love for old music could be a recurring theme in their relationship, strengthening their connection.
Incorporate Vulnerability
We all know that your characters need to be vulnerable with each other at some point in the story and their relationship. A great ship-able relationship isn't just about fun, and flirtation—it’s also about moments of vulnerability. Letting characters see each other at their lowest makes their bond feel more profound and real. Maybe a typically strong-willed character confesses their fears of never being enough, and the other reassures them in a way no one else has. Overall, vulnerability makes relationships feel much more genuine. Plus, it creates a foundation of trust that draws readers in and makes them want to love the pairing.
Give Them Teaching Moments
The best relationships allow both characters to grow, and one way to highlight this is through teaching moments. These don’t have to be huge life lessons, rather small, personal insights can be just as important. Maybe one character teaches the other how to bake, and in doing so, helps them overcome their perfectionism. Or maybe a reserved character teaches their more outgoing partner the beauty of being quiet with your thoughts. Whatever it is, teaching moments will make the relationship feel dynamic and realistic.
Include Relationship Quirks
No relationship is perfect, and quirks are great for showing that. Quirks add fun, humor, and realism to any character, and readers love them. So, make sure the relationship feels real and endearing by adding quirks. Maybe one character always forgets their umbrella, so the other keeps an extra one just in case. Or perhaps they have a tradition of leaving silly doodles in each other’s notebooks. Little details like inside jokes, odd habits, or unique ways of expressing affection (like always tying the other’s shoelaces when they come undone) are sure to add charm and authenticity. These quirks make the relationship feel authentic and something readers can imagine continuing beyond the pages of the story!
Readers and writers alike love characters with authentic and adorable relationships. Characters that make you smile when they are together are the best, but they can also be hard to master. Thankfully, the tips above are here to help! So, make sure to incorporate these tips to ensure readers fall in love with your characters. Happy early Valentine's Day!
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