Known mainly as Max, he is Jacaranda’s enigmatic, flamboyant friend and fixation, associated with lavish parties and a wealthy social circle.

Jacaranda’s high-school boyfriend and fellow surfer, later reunited with her; he is also an accomplished Los Angeles artist known for balance and manners.

An acting instructor who becomes Jacaranda’s lover for five years and teaches Gilbert, another of her romantic interests.

Jacaranda’s famous New York literary agent, who links her with magazine editors and presses her to write a book.

Max’s wealthy, temperamental friend and party guest, who may finance Max’s lifestyle and has an intimate relationship with Jacaranda.

Colman’s student and Jacaranda’s romantic interest, who introduces her to Max and later becomes an actor.

Also called Wini, she is Jacaranda’s California friend who shares a rented New York suite with her and remains unimpressed by celebrity culture.