Tricia’s close friend and the deuteragonist, Charlene is a smart and beautiful woman who is outspoken and heavily involved in philanthropy. Her actions and presence significantly impact Tricia's life and the narrative.

Tricia’s husband, a civilian advisor for the CIA, whose perspectives help explore the gender dynamics of 1960s marriages and the political landscape in Vietnam. His relationship with Tricia is marked by love, though complicated by societal norms.

Charlene’s daughter and the secondary narrator, Rainey begins as a young child in the narrative and later offers adult reflections on her mother and past events through correspondence with Tricia.

A friend to Tricia and Charlene in Saigon, notable for his empathy and involvement in their charitable activities. Later in life, he becomes a family-oriented father, deeply connected to his son Jamie.

Tricia’s best friend from university, known for her outspoken nature and dedication to activism. Stella serves as a foil to Tricia's more reserved nature.

A Vietnamese seamstress working as a domestic servant for an American expat, whose craftsmanship inadvertently sets off significant events in the novel. Her name and role highlight the power dynamics between American expatriates and local Vietnamese individuals.