A strong-willed and industrious young woman with hazel eyes, blond hair, and sharp features. Bound as an indentured servant from the age of five, she feels trapped by the limitations imposed upon her by her gender and lack of wealth. Deeply moved by the ideals of the American Revolution, she decides to take control of her destiny by disguising herself as a young man named Robert Shurtliff to enlist in the Continental Army.

A tall, brawny brigadier general in the Continental Army with auburn hair. Left a widower by the sudden death of his wife, he carries a deep sense of guilt and disillusionment regarding the war's endless toll. Despite his internal struggles, he possesses a strong sense of justice and remains dedicated to fighting for the fledgling nation's independence.

A freeborn Black man serving as an aide-de-camp to Colonel Kosciuszko. He possesses a flashing smile, high confidence, and a noted affinity for mischief. Beneath his playful exterior lies a deeply patriotic and fiercely loyal friend who actively supports the cause for independence while understanding the hypocrisies of a nation that still permits enslavement.

One of the ten Thomas brothers, characterized in his youth by his speed, impulsiveness, and competitive nature. He views Deborah as a worthy equal, pushing her to run faster during their childhood. After enlisting in the Continental Army, the harsh conditions and the loss of his brothers slowly drain his fiery spirit.

John Paterson's first wife and the niece of Reverend Sylvanus Conant. She is described as small, elegant, and exceptionally kind, managing her family's estate while her husband goes to war. Though she passes away early in the narrative, she leaves a lasting impact on Deborah through their decade-long correspondence.

A compassionate and politically active clergyman who serves as a vital father figure for Deborah. He encourages her education by providing books and writing supplies and arranges her correspondence with his niece. His passionate sermons about liberty profoundly shape Deborah's understanding of the revolution.

A practical and hardworking farmer in Middleborough who takes Deborah in as an indentured servant. He provides a stable environment but expects strict obedience, sometimes viewing Deborah's independence as inappropriate pride.

The resilient mother of ten sons who manages the sprawling Thomas farm during the war. She treats Deborah with a level of maternal warmth the young girl has never known, eventually inviting her to stay indefinitely once her servitude ends.

The oldest of the Thomas brothers, who becomes a lieutenant in the Middleborough Militia. He is protective of Deborah and eventually expresses romantic interest in her, proposing that she choose him over his brothers.

The youngest of the Thomas brothers, who quickly bonds with Deborah upon her arrival. He gives her the boyish nickname 'Rob' and provides her with a rare sense of familial acceptance.

One of the ten Thomas brothers who signs up to fight against the British following the battle at Breed's Hill. He is one of the few brothers to eventually return home.

One of the ten Thomas brothers who signs up to fight against the British following the battle at Breed's Hill. He is one of the few brothers to eventually return home.

A harsh and abusive woman who utilizes Deborah as an indentured servant from the time the girl is five years old. She subjects the child to constant criticism and physical discipline.

A commanding officer in the Continental Army's light infantry. He is observant of his soldiers' capabilities and frequently praises Deborah for her excellent form and dedication.

A young soldier in Deborah's regiment who openly fears death on the battlefield. He finds comfort in Deborah's recitation of Scripture during their night watches.

A soldier in the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment who endures the grueling marches and dangerous skirmishes in the neutral zone.

A brave soldier in Deborah's company who fights to protect his comrades when their camp is ambushed by loyalist cavalry.

A military officer who originally hails from the same Massachusetts town as Deborah. He is a capable leader who assists General Paterson in managing the troops and suppressing mutinies.

A loyalist commander who leads a dangerous group of scavengers and profiteers between West Point and New York City, posing a constant threat to the Continental forces.

An affluent loyalist living on an estate in the neutral zone. He attempts to evade his required duty to assist wounded officers until physically threatened.

An enslaved man working on the Van Tassel estate. He is brave and compassionate, assisting Continental soldiers at personal risk while prioritizing the safety of his wife and son.

A disgruntled soldier in the Continental Army who plans to mutiny over unpaid wages and poor conditions, later becoming highly antagonistic when his plans are thwarted.

A neighbor who offers to purchase land from the Thomas family in exchange for marrying Deborah. He objectifies her, inspecting her with a deeply repugnant attitude.

Deborah's estranged father, who abandoned his family years earlier, forcing his children into indentured servitude. He later serves as a captain and remains entirely disconnected from his daughter's life.

General John Paterson's sister, who lives in Philadelphia. Though initially shocked by her brother's unusual requests, she proves to be a trustworthy and supportive confidante.

Anne's husband and a local clergyman in Philadelphia. He discreetly aids his wife's family and offers spiritual grounding during tense moments.

A dedicated European officer serving the Continental Army. He relies on Agrippa Hull as his aide-de-camp and contributes significantly to the military engineering efforts.

A physician attached to the Continental Army who treats officers and soldiers alike, inadvertently creating moments of intense anxiety for disguised recruits.

A highly respected, self-taught war hero and general in the Continental Army. His reputation precedes him, drawing the admiration of young soldiers.

General Knox's wife, known for her dedication to traveling beside her husband from camp to camp throughout the Revolutionary War.

The Commander in Chief of the Continental Army. He issues broad strategic orders and delegates critical diplomatic and disciplinary tasks to trusted generals.

General Washington's Black valet, who actively participates in camp security and maintains order alongside his commanding officer.

A civilian physician in Philadelphia who treats patients during a deadly fever outbreak, playing a crucial role in providing medical care during a vulnerable time.

One of John and Elizabeth Paterson's three daughters. Raised primarily by her mother while her father fights in the Revolutionary War, she eagerly awaits his return.

One of John and Elizabeth Paterson's three daughters. Raised primarily by her mother while her father fights in the Revolutionary War, she eagerly awaits his return.

One of John and Elizabeth Paterson's three daughters. Raised primarily by her mother while her father fights in the Revolutionary War, she eagerly awaits his return.