A French enslaver who owns Tété and becomes the antagonist of the story. His interactions with Tété highlight his role in perpetuating the oppressive system of slavery.

The son of Eugenia and Valmorain, Maurice is a sensitive and empathetic character closely bonded with Tété and Rosette. He stands firm in his beliefs against slavery, influencing those around him.

Tété’s daughter with Valmorain, she is bright and charming, which earns her a special place in the household. Her close relationship with Maurice plays a significant role in the narrative.

A kind and sensible courtesan who becomes a supportive friend to Tété. She later marries Étienne Relais and provides a nurturing home for Tété’s first child, Jean-Martin.

Acts as the cruel overseer on the Saint-Lazare plantation, known for his sadistic treatment of enslaved people. His ambition creates tension with Valmorain’s authority.

A young African man who represents a figure of rebellion and strength. He shares a romantic bond with Tété before joining the Maroons to fight for freedom.

A compassionate and intelligent physician who critiques slavery and forms a covert relationship with Adèle, a free woman of color. He is a friend of Valmorain.

A respected Catholic priest in New Orleans known as Père Antoine, who offers Tété friendship and support. His character is based on a historical figure.

Valmorain’s first wife and Maurice’s mother, whose mental health deteriorates upon arrival in Cuba. Her fear of Voodoo symbolizes her unease with the colonial environment.

Eugenia’s brother and Valmorain’s business partner who later becomes a friend to Tété. Though he benefits from the slave trade, he privately harbors negative feelings about it.

A sophisticated major-domo in Le Cap and Tété’s later love interest. He strives for freedom through intelligence and influence, contrasting with Gambo’s revolutionary approach.

A French soldier who marries Violette and helps raise Jean-Martin. He represents duty and loyalty, maintaining a focus on following orders and serving France.

Violette’s loyal assistant who plays an essential role in running her business and later ventures. Although initially enslaved, she forms a pure friendship with Violette.

A Voodoo priestess and mentor to Tété, she imparts important knowledge of healing and spirituality. As Tété’s godmother, she serves as a significant influence in her life.

Tété’s first child, who is raised by Violette and Étienne as their own. He grows up with a sense of duty and joins the French army like his adoptive father.

An Irish couple who oversee Valmorain’s New Orleans plantation with humanity, advocating for better conditions for the enslaved people. They eventually start their own farm in Canada.

Valmorain’s second wife, who is manipulative and ambitious. Her actions cause strife within the family, particularly affecting Maurice and Rosette.