The protagonist's half-sister with the ability to see and communicate with ghosts, providing a spiritual counterpoint to Olivia's rational worldview. Her stories about past lives guide Olivia toward emotional and spiritual truths.

Olivia's husband, whose lingering attachment to his deceased former girlfriend impacts their marriage. His emotional world adds complexity to Olivia's experiences of loyalty and loss.

Olivia's mother, whose inconsistent attention and idealistic pursuits shape Olivia's childhood experiences. Her maternal unreliability influences the formation of Olivia's bond with Kwan.

A historical character within Kwan’s past-life narrative, who embodies themes of cultural dislocation and moral conflict. Her experiences during the Taiping Rebellion resonate with Olivia's journey.

A reimagined historical figure from the Taiping Rebellion era, whose shifting loyalties illuminate themes of identity and betrayal. His actions have lasting emotional impacts in Kwan's past-life story.