Elisa's granddaughter, a travel writer and journalist, who explores her Cuban heritage and family secrets while visiting Cuba after her grandmother's death.

The most rebellious and beautiful of the Perez daughters, whose actions and daring nature lead her into decisive roles during the family's time of upheaval.

The pragmatic patriarch of the Perez family, who strives to protect his family during the Cuban Revolution and eventually takes them into exile in the United States.

A history professor in Cuba and Marisol’s love interest, who navigates the complexities of his country’s history while maintaining a rebellious streak against its political oppression.

The nanny of the Perez children, who provides nurturing care and represents the lives of ordinary Cubans while maintaining her beliefs amidst the changing political landscape.

Elisa’s passionate love interest during the Cuban Revolution, whose involvement and decisions have significant impacts on the events surrounding the revolution.

History interweaves with narrative as he emerges as a prominent revolutionary leader, influencing the lives of characters like the Perezes and Pablo through his political actions.

A pivotal figure in the Cuban Revolution, whose revolutionary zeal and actions leave a lasting impact on the country and characters like Emilio.

A historic dictator of Cuba, whose regime’s corruption and eventual downfall set the backdrop for the novel’s events, influencing many characters indirectly through his political tenure.

Elisa’s best friend and Luis’s grandmother, who becomes a matriarch in Havana, influencing Marisol’s understanding of her heritage and choices.