Who Are The Main Characters In The Occultists?

Elias, Lila, Reinhardt—this trio’s chemistry is electric. Elias’ scholarly intensity contrasts with Lila’s survivalist cynicism, while Reinhardt’s madcap wisdom ties them together. Seraphine’s villainy works because she mirrors Elias’ obsession, just twisted. Marlow’s snarky commentary lightens the darker moments. Their collective flaws make them feel real.

The Occultists' main cast is such a wild mix of personalities that they instantly hooked me. At the center is Elias Vane, this brooding, morally gray scholar who’s obsessed with deciphering ancient rituals—think Indiana Jones if he dabbled in forbidden magic. Then there’s Lila Cross, a street-smart thief with a knack for stealing occult artifacts; her banter with Elias is pure gold. The third standout is Professor Reinhardt, this eccentric old man who’s either a genius or completely insane (honestly, both). What I love is how their dynamics shift—Lila’s pragmatism clashes with Elias’ idealism, while Reinhardt’s cryptic advice keeps everyone guessing. Minor spoiler: their backstories intertwine in ways you’d never expect by volume 2.

Rounding out the crew are side characters like Marlow, a sarcastic bookstore owner who serves as their reluctant ally, and the villainess Seraphine, who’s terrifying because she genuinely believes she’s saving the world. The way the author balances their screen time is masterful—no one feels like filler. Personal favorite? Lila’s character arc from self-serving rogue to someone who risks everything for her found family. That scene where she burns her last escape route to save Elias? Chills.

Elias and Lila are the heart of 'The Occultists,' but what fascinates me is how the author subverts tropes with them. Elias isn’t your typical heroic lead—he’s reckless, often endangering others with his single-minded pursuit of knowledge. Lila compensates for his flaws with her sharp instincts, though her trust issues create constant tension. Then there’s Reinhardt, who steals every scene he’s in; his ‘harmless old man’ act hides depths of cunning. The antagonist Seraphine isn’t just evil for evil’s sake—her tragic backstory makes her almost sympathetic. What grips me is how their ideological battles (freedom vs. control, knowledge vs. power) play out through whispered rituals and betrayals. That moment when Lila realizes Seraphine was once like her? Haunting.

Let me geek out about the trio in 'The Occultists'—Elias, Lila, and Reinhardt are such a dysfunctional family. Elias’ obsession with the occult borders on self-destructive, and Lila’s the only one who calls him out on it (usually while pickpocketing him). Their mentor Reinhardt is hilariously unpredictable; one minute he’s quoting obscure poetry, the next he’s setting a library on fire 'for science.' The side characters add so much texture too: Marlow’s dry wit, Seraphine’s cult-leading charisma, even minor figures like the ghostly librarian Agnes. What stands out is how their relationships evolve—Elias starts off seeing Lila as a tool, but by the climax, he’s willing to sacrifice his life’s work for her. The coffee shop scene where Lila finally admits she stays for 'the damn books, not you'? Perfect character growth.