An FBI agent with a personal agenda tied to her brother's experience in the Vietnam War. She partners with Bosch, and her character presents a complex interplay of professional duty and personal motives.

A former tunnel rat in Vietnam and the murder victim whose death propels the novel's action. Meadows struggles with postwar life and becomes entangled in a network of crime.

A 17-year-old runaway and witness to key events in the novel. His encounter with Bosch evokes sympathy due to their similar troubled childhoods.

The head of LAPD's Internal Affairs Division, known for his strict adherence to protocol and trying to protect the LAPD's reputation. He oversees Bosch and represents institutional authority.

An Internal Affairs officer assigned to surveil Bosch, notable for his physical appearance similar to Detective Clarke. He is part of a duo tasked with monitoring Bosch's actions.

Lewis's partner in Internal Affairs, following Bosch for signs of misconduct. His role is nearly indistinguishable from Lewis in their pursuit of Bosch.

An FBI agent involved in bank robbery investigations and associated with a past connection to Vietnam. His complicated role blurs lines between duty and corruption.

A crime reporter for the Los Angeles Times with longstanding ties to the LAPD. Bremmer is known for his investigative reporting and collaboration with police officers like Bosch.

Bosch's partner in the LAPD, notable for his professionalism and side job in real estate. Edgar often provides a more balanced perspective within his partnership with Bosch.

Bosch's commanding officer, characterized by his quick temper and disdain for smoking within the office. Pounds manages the administrative side of cases in the Hollywood Division.

A Vietnam War veteran and tunnel rat, now turned to crime. He has connections to other key characters involved in the novel's central plot.

Another former tunnel rat from Vietnam, entangled in postwar criminal activities. His past overlaps significantly with other main characters, shaping the novel's criminal landscape.

Previously a Saigon police captain engaged in the illegal heroin trade during the Vietnam War. Currently, a successful businessman whose past ties influence the ongoing narrative.

Similar to Binh, Tran was involved in the Saigon heroin trade and is now a figure with legitimate business interests in Los Angeles. His history continues to impact current events in the story.