The protagonist of the 1911 timeline, a young woman who aids an American story collector and navigates her own personal growth amid the folklore-rich setting of Thornwood.

An American anthropologist with a deep interest in Irish folklore, who arrives in Thornwood to collect stories and becomes a significant figure in Anna Butler's life.

An antagonist in the 1911 storyline, an Anglo-Irish gentry member with a charming facade that conceals a darker nature.

George's twin sister, who shares his elitism and cruelty, functioning as a secondary antagonist with a disdainful attitude toward the local villagers.

A central character in the contemporary storyline, a conservation officer and single father whose emotional struggle with grief forms a connection with Sarah Harper.

Oran's perceptive teenage daughter, who bridges the narratives by providing Sarah with a crucial book on folklore.

Oran's father and a practical farmer, who helps facilitate Sarah's journey to Ireland.

Anna's father, a traditional farmer deeply rooted in his land, whose wariness reflects the period's socio-political tensions.

Anna's mother, who encourages her daughter's intellectual pursuits in contrast to traditional farm life.

Anna's politically engaged brother, involved with the Irish Republican Brotherhood, reflecting the period's tumultuous historical landscape.

A contemporary folklorist known as "The Fairy Whisperer," who provides insight into the enduring significance of Irish folklore.

A local seeress in the 1911 timeline, who supports Anna's beliefs in fairy folklore and offers critical plot exposition.