Cora's light-hearted and fun-loving colleague from their crime scene clean-up job, known for his sensitive side and his hidden, undisclosed past.

A fierce and outspoken member of Cora's crime scene cleaning team, who fled her past life in a Chinese village and is protective of Cora.

Cora’s half-sister whose murder catalyzes the events of the story, remembered through Cora’s memories and experiences throughout the book.

Cora's maternal aunt, a white American Christian who offers conditional support and holds an insensitive attitude towards issues of race faced by Cora.

Cora’s paternal aunt, offering warmth and protection, and aiding Cora with cultural rituals to help her manage and understand her experiences.