Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Anna Howe

When life is looking bleak, you've always got your BFF. Anna's got Clarissa's back, for sure, but she also doles out life advice by the barrelful. Early on, she pushes Clarissa to consider whether she's actually in love with Lovelace. But Anna really pulls through when Clarissa is cut off from the rest of her friends and family. While everyone else is worried about catching Clarissa's reputation, Anna is plotting escape plans and consoling her bestie. She's not just a buddy—she's Clarissa's lifeline.

John Belford

Belford is pulling double duty on the whole guide/mentor bit. Not only does he consistently dole out advice to Lovelace, but he steps in for Clarissa when she needs a helping hand. While Belford is always Lovelace's bud, he starts taking a stricter tone with him partway through the book. In other words, Belford starts telling Lovelace what's what. Lovelace may not always follow his pal's advice, but there's a reason he keep him on speed-dial. When Belford sees that Clarissa is stranded in jail, he does the right thing without thinking twice. Although they barely know each other, Clarissa trusts the guy enough to make him her executor. Belford may be late on the scene, but he's definitely a power player.