In "Nightwoods," Charles Frazier introduces readers to Luce, who finds herself in the unsettling position of caring for two new children who are both strangers and a part of her life. These children are described as small, beautiful, and violent, suggesting a blend of innocence and underlying chaos. Their presence challenges Luce to adapt to a new reality filled with complexities and unexpected emotional turmoil.

The characterization of the children highlights the themes of beauty intertwined with danger, reflecting Luce's inner conflicts and struggles as she navigates the responsibilities of guardianship. Their violent tendencies hint at deeper narratives and histories that will unfold, prompting Luce to confront not only her own past but also the precariousness of her new life.