Lucy is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who moved to Phoenix to cover the city’s decline. Living in a dangerous city, she feels a strong connection to the place. Although she initially tries to keep a distance from her subjects, she becomes deeply involved, especially in the story of her friend Jamie's murder.

Maria is a young Texas migrant who lost her family while crossing into Phoenix. She survives by selling water and paying rent to the Vet. Despite her father's idealistic views, Maria sees the world realistically and learns that safety is an illusion, prompting her to consider escaping the collapsing city.

Known as the "Queen of the Colorado," Case is Angel’s boss and heads the Cypress developments in Las Vegas. She is calm, calculating, and ruthless, cutting off water supplies to protect her interests. Although she initially trusts Angel, that trust diminishes over time.

Jamie was a lawyer for Phoenix Water and a close friend to Lucy. He discovered senior water rights belonging to Phoenix and planned to sell them to California and Las Vegas. Cynical about people's lack of action in the water crisis, Jamie's decisions ultimately put him in a dangerous position.

Ratan was a water lawyer for Ibis in California. He bought the senior water rights from Jamie but planned to flip them for personal gain. He lived in Taiyang and was a client of Sarah. Ratan’s actions lead to a deadly deal involving the water rights.

Toomie is Maria’s friend and protector. A big, strong man who sells pupusas near Taiyang, he feels responsible for Maria and helps her against threats. Toomie serves as a father figure and refuses Maria’s romantic advances.

Julio is an agent for Case sent to Phoenix. He is shorter than Angel, with distinctive tattoos on his arms. Julio betrays Angel and Case in a bid for the senior water rights, making his own dangerous moves within the narrative.

The Vet is a gangster controlling slums around Taiyang. Described as solidly built, he enforces his power through thugs and a pack of hyenas. Residents pay him rent and taxes to live and work on his land, under the threat of violence.

Timo is a photographer who frequently collaborates with Lucy. A local of Phoenix, he was one of the first to help her acclimate to the city. Their partnership is mutually beneficial, with Timo providing art for Lucy’s stories and helping her in investigatory work.