A teenage girl dealing with the recent loss of her mother and best friend. She has a strained relationship with the adults around her, particularly Jules, but eventually begins to see her as family.

A key male character in the novel, he is a detective inspector involved in the investigation of Nel's death. He has a complicated past and is navigating his professional responsibilities along with personal relationships.

A detective sergeant transferred from London to Beckford, known for her distinctively casual speech and outsider status. She is involved in investigating the central mystery of the story.

The mother of Katie and Josh Whittaker, coping with her daughter's death and wrestling with misunderstandings about those around her.

A young boy and Katie's younger brother, he is sensitive and holds secrets in order to protect his sister's memory.

A schoolteacher who was involved in a controversial relationship with Katie, leading to consequences that affect several characters.

A former police officer with a significant background in the town, providing a link to the central mystery that involves several key characters.

Sean's wife and head teacher at Lena's school, dealing with anxiety and trying to keep her family intact amidst surrounding scandals.

An eccentric local woman who claims to have psychic abilities, often viewed with skepticism by the townsfolk.

Lena's best friend who had a close but complicated connection with Mark Henderson and whose death serves as a pivotal event in the story.

Jules's sister whose mysterious death leads Jules back to Beckford and whose life becomes the focus of the unfolding narrative.