Something Borrowed characters

Appears from the start

A conscientious New York lawyer whose thirtieth birthday prompts an uncomfortable review of the cautious choices she has made. She has spent much of her life accommodating her charismatic best friend Darcy, even when doing so has meant suppressing her own wishes.

Appears from the start

Rachel's lifelong best friend and Dex's fiancée. Beautiful, socially confident, and accustomed to being the center of their shared circle, she organizes Rachel's birthday celebration while looking forward to her own approaching wedding.

Also known as Dex

Appears from the start

Darcy's fiancé and Rachel's former law-school classmate. Rachel introduced him to Darcy despite having feelings for him herself, and he is now weeks away from marrying her best friend.

First appears in chapter 4

Rachel and Darcy's close friend, now living in London. Direct and perceptive, he knows the history of their friendship and becomes the confidant to whom Rachel can admit what she is hiding from everyone in New York.

First appears in chapter 8

Rachel's frank colleague and friend. Less invested in Darcy's charm than the rest of the social circle, she offers Rachel a judgment that is loyal to Rachel rather than to the appearance of harmony.

First appears in chapter 10

Dex's single friend, whose easygoing manner makes him a plausible date for Rachel during the group's summer weekends. He avoids commitment and generally treats romance more casually than Rachel does.

First appears in chapter 13

A friend in Rachel and Darcy's New York circle who is openly interested in Ethan. Her questions and expectations make Rachel's attempts to conceal the truth within the group more complicated.

First appears in chapter 18

A childhood friend of Rachel and Darcy in Indiana. Her settled married life gives Rachel another perspective on the rivalry and compromises that have shaped the old friendship.