A Texas philanthropist who dies at 78, leaving the majority of his $46.2 billion estate to Avery. A manipulative figure, Tobias's will is considered one of his final puzzles by his grandsons.

Tobias’s son who was presumed dead after a fire 20 years before Tobias's death. Known to Avery as Harry, a homeless man she played chess with, he sets off a significant plot twist.

Avery’s half-sister and supportive figure, seven years her senior. She works as an orderly before moving to Hawthorne House and has a complicated relationship with her ex, Drake.

The oldest of Tobias’s four grandsons, a laid-back cowboy uninterested in the inheritance. Previously engaged to Alisa Ortega.

The second oldest Hawthorne grandson, initially an antagonist, who questions Avery's intentions but eventually develops feelings for her, leading to a love triangle.

The third Hawthorne grandson, known for being wild and partnering with Avery to solve puzzles. He emerges as a love interest in the unfolding love triangle.

The youngest and most relaxed of the Hawthorne grandsons. He guides Avery through the Hawthorne world and serves as a bridge between her world and theirs.

Mother of the Hawthorne grandsons, characterized as carefree and uninvolved. Skye has a significant role in the novel's conflict.

Tobias’s daughter and her husband, who team up to discredit Avery and contest the will.

Tries to befriend Avery at her new school; ultimately a cunning and untrustworthy character closely related to the story's mysteries.

Libby’s abusive ex-boyfriend who becomes a significant antagonist, leaking Avery’s inheritance and attempting violence against her.

Deceased granddaughter of the Laughlins, who had a dramatic past with Jameson and Grayson. Her story resonates throughout the novel, impacting other characters.

Emily’s sister, quiet and shy, caught in personal and family traumas that affect the story's twists.

Deceased, having raised Avery in poverty. An enigmatic figure with unresolved secrets towards the book’s end.

Avery’s lawyer, assisting her in navigating the complexities of her sudden wealth and the Hawthorne family.

Avery's protective security detail after she inherits the estate, providing critical insights and observations.

Avery’s best friend and confidante, whose interactions help flesh out Avery’s thoughts and challenges.

Caretakers of Hawthorne House, Emily and Rebecca’s grandparents, involved in managing the estate.

Nash’s acquaintance working at Hawthorne House, implicated in the story’s suspense but ultimately innocent.

Tobias Hawthorne’s mother-in-law, who offers critical insights into the family's secrets.

Avery and Libby’s estranged father, whose reappearance poses minor threats and complications.