Darcy is a beautiful, self-absorbed Manhattan public-relations executive who believes her good looks entitle her to a charmed existence. She uses her appearance to gain social power and perks, relying entirely on external validation to build her identity. When her engagement collapses and she becomes pregnant from a separate affair, her superficial life falls apart, prompting her to flee to London. She is forced to confront the hollowness of her vanity and relies on a new environment to figure out who she truly is.

Ethan is a writer living in a small basement apartment in London. He has known Darcy and Rachel since their childhood in Indiana. Unlike the men Darcy usually associates with, Ethan values intellectual pursuits and authenticity, making him immune to Darcy's superficial charm. He acts as a truth-teller in Darcy's life, directly challenging her selfishness and materialism.

Marcus is an unambitious, emotionally detached man who engages in an affair with Darcy. He prefers a lifestyle of avoiding responsibility and prioritizes physical connection over emotional intimacy. When Darcy becomes pregnant, his pragmatic and unsupportive nature quickly surfaces, stripping away Darcy's romantic illusions.

Rachel is Darcy's childhood best friend, a studious and reserved lawyer living in New York. Having lived in Darcy's shadow for years in a relationship characterized by an unequal power dynamic, Rachel shocks Darcy by engaging in a secret relationship with Dex. Her actions destroy their friendship but force both women to reevaluate their lives.

Dex is a handsome, successful Manhattan lawyer who perfectly fits Darcy's vision of an ideal, high-status partner. He calls off his wedding to Darcy to pursue a relationship with her best friend, Rachel. His departure shatters the perfect image Darcy had constructed for her future.

Geoffrey is a handsome, wealthy, and successful English doctor based in London. He embodies the kind of stable, perfect-on-paper partner Darcy has historically pursued. He offers Darcy a life of luxury and devotion during a highly vulnerable time.

Claire is Darcy's colleague and former roommate in New York. She is eager to step into the role of Darcy's new best friend following the falling out with Rachel. However, her loyalty is tied entirely to Darcy's social status, and she quickly abandons Darcy when her circumstances become complicated.

Meg is a friendly local mother in London who welcomes Darcy into her social circle. She offers practical advice, introduces Darcy to a more grounded community, and recommends Dr. Moore.

Charlotte is a mother living in London who, along with Meg, befriends Darcy. She directly recommends Dr. Moore, passing along his calling card.

Sondrine is an attractive French curator living in London. She begins dating Ethan shortly after Darcy arrives in the city, introducing a new dynamic into the household.

Hugh is Darcy's father, a successful dentist living in Indianapolis. He is part of the image-conscious, upper-middle-class world that shaped Darcy's values.

Dee is Darcy's mother, a woman who used her pretty face and impeccable taste to secure a comfortable life. She acts as the blueprint for Darcy's superficial worldview and reacts terribly to Darcy's pregnancy.

Jeremy is Darcy's younger brother. His engagement shifts the family's attention away from Darcy, triggering her jealousy over losing her status as the family's bride-to-be.

Annalise is a childhood friend of Darcy's from Indiana. When Darcy is isolated and panicking in New York, Annalise provides the crucial idea for her to stay with Ethan.