The teenage daughter of Johnny and Kate Ryan, Marah struggles with grief after her mother's death and undergoes significant personal transformation throughout the novel. She is influenced by her surroundings and relationships as she seeks to find her identity.

Johnny is Kate's widower and Marah's father, who grapples with grief while trying to support his family. His close friendship with Tully becomes strained in the wake of Kate's death as they navigate their shared loss.

Tully's mother, who has battled substance dependency and works toward sobriety, impacting her relationship with Tully. Her efforts at personal growth and reconciliation with her past play a pivotal role in the story.

A goth character who influences Marah during her vulnerable period, Paxton deals with his own grief and engages in self-destructive behaviors. His relationship with Marah complicates her journey and affects her family dynamics.