Nina is a 32-year-old former schoolteacher who works as a successful food writer and cookbook author in London. Having been single by choice for three years, she begins to feel the pressure of seeing her friends settle down. She is fiercely independent and deeply connected to her childhood memories, balancing her search for romance with the stress of managing her father's cognitive decline.

Katherine is Nina's oldest childhood friend, now married and managing the demands of suburban motherhood in Surrey. She frequently projects an image of domestic perfection and judges Nina's single lifestyle. Her absorption in traditional family life creates a widening distance between the two women.

Lola is Nina's zany, relentlessly optimistic single friend. Despite her eccentric wardrobe and progressive facade, she deeply desires the security of a traditional marriage. She acts as Nina's guide through the murky rules of online dating, though she relies heavily on technology to obsessively track her own boyfriends.

Max is an outdoorsy accountant with rugged good looks and intense initial attentiveness. He sweeps Nina off her feet by matching her interests and rapidly proposing a serious commitment. Despite his charm, he remains guarded about his family background and past relationships.

Joe is Nina's former partner of seven years who has successfully transitioned into being one of her close friends. He is from Yorkshire and maintains a grounded, steady presence in Nina's life. His decision to settle down and propose to his new girlfriend forces Nina to reflect on what she truly wants in a partner.

Bill is Nina's 77-year-old father and a former high school teacher. He recently suffered a stroke and is beginning to experience symptoms of dementia. Once a vibrant intellectual who inspired his students, he now frequently confuses his reality with literature or childhood memories.

Nancy is Nina's mother, a lively woman who enjoys bright clothing, jewelry, and socializing. Facing her husband's cognitive decline, she struggles to cope and distracts herself with yoga classes and literary salons. Her approach to caregiving often clashes with Nina's more empathetic perspective.

Angelo is an Italian immigrant from Parma who lives in the apartment below Nina. He frequently plays loud music late at night and acts hostile toward his neighbors. His disruptive behavior ruins the peace Nina usually finds in her home.

Lucy is Joe's confident and decisive girlfriend. She embraces traditional romantic milestones and openly prioritizes securing a commitment, which occasionally earns Nina's private judgment.

Mark is Katherine's husband, a man who comfortably fits into the suburban dad role. He frequently socializes with Joe and occasionally partakes in recreational drinking or smoking to relieve the stress of parenting duties.

Gwen is a cheery and practical nurse hired to help care for Bill. She provides necessary guidance on managing dementia symptoms, advising the family to validate Bill's reality rather than correcting his confusion.

Vivien is Nina's stylish, middle-aged publisher. She is honest and direct, pushing Nina to find stronger, more personal inspiration for her writing.

Jethro is a magician who begins a whirlwind romance with Lola. He is overly enthusiastic and speaks openly about intimate topics, making fast promises about buying a house and settling down.