From Eye-Roll to Rage: Crafting Antagonists That Hit a Nerve

They slam doors, sabotage dreams, and say the wrong thing at precisely the wrong time. The best antagonists aren’t just obstacles—they’re emotional landmines. Whether they’re petty, manipulative, or maddeningly smug, these characters worm their way under readers’ skin and stay there. In this post, we’ll explore how to build antagonists who don’t just oppose your protagonist—they provoke your audience. From subtle irritants to full-blown rage-inducers, let’s dive into the delicious art of making readers squirm.