Claudia is a passionate, unconventional journalist and historian reflecting on her life while receiving medical care. Born in the early 20th century, she consistently defies the social expectations placed upon women by pursuing a fiercely independent career and an untraditional personal life. Known for her red hair and green eyes, she possesses a keen competitiveness and an egocentric worldview that she applies to her kaleidoscopic historical writing.

Tom is a British army tank commander stationed in Egypt during the Western Desert Campaign of World War II. Thoughtful and capable, he offers a calm presence away from the brutal realities of the conflict he fights in. He keeps a diary of his military experiences and brings out a more optimistic, romantic side to Claudia during their time together in Cairo and Luxor.

Gordon is Claudia’s older brother, a handsome and highly intelligent economist. He shares his sister's competitive drive and sharp wit, often engaging in passionate debates with her well into adulthood. His ambition leads him to advise governmental agencies and teach at prestigious universities, though his most defining trait remains his unusually close and intimately intertwined bond with his sister.

Jasper is an ambitious and self-interested businessman who maintains a decades-long connection with Claudia. Supported by his aristocratic English mother and Russian father, he enjoys a privileged life full of international travel and lucrative networking. He values his independence as much as Claudia does, making them well-suited for an unconventional relationship without formal commitment.

Lisa is the daughter of Claudia and Jasper, raised primarily by her grandmothers due to her parents' independent lifestyles. As a middle-aged woman, she presents a neat, conventional facade that conceals a vivid imagination and private frustrations. She harbors deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and resentment toward her mother, longing for an affection and approval she rarely received.

Laszlo is a volatile, passionate art student from Hungary who becomes stranded in London due to political unrest in his home country. Struggling to adapt to a new language and culture, he finds a dedicated patron and surrogate family in Claudia. His emotional exuberance provides a direct opposition to Lisa's conventional demeanor, and he relies heavily on Claudia's emotional support and acceptance.

Sylvia is Gordon’s timid and comfort-seeking wife. Soft-spoken and conventional, she serves as a quiet foil to the loud, outspoken Hampton siblings. She frequently feels inadequate, frustrated, and intentionally excluded when in the presence of Gordon and Claudia, unable to penetrate their tight-knit dynamic.