Edward is a young English aristocrat and the heir to the Waverley estate. Raised with little formal discipline, he indulges heavily in romantic fiction, leading him to cultivate a vivid fantasy life rather than practical skills. He struggles to manage the conflicting political ideologies of his Hanoverian father and Jacobite uncle as he begins his military career in Scotland.

Fergus, also known as Vich Ian Vohr or Glennaquoich, is a powerful Highland clan chief. Educated in France, he utilizes his charismatic leadership and strategic mind to rally neighboring clans for a Jacobite uprising. He operates as a shrewd politician who willingly maneuvers others to secure wealth and power for his people.

Flora is Fergus’s sister, raised alongside French royalty and wholly dedicated to the Jacobite cause. She possesses intense idealism and a pure passion for restoring the Stuart monarchy. She frequently uses her knowledge of art and poetry to preserve and celebrate her clan's history.

The Baron of Tully-Veolan is a proud, somewhat self-important Scottish gentleman. A veteran of the French military and a staunch Jacobite, he holds a deep fascination with his family's ancestry. He maintains a warm, tolerant nature despite holding strict political allegiances.

Rose is the seventeen-year-old daughter of Baron Bradwardine. She embodies traditional grace and quiet intellect, enjoying literature discussions with Edward. Though she cannot inherit her father's estate due to property laws, she remains deeply attentive to her father's needs and well-being.

Often known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, Charles is the charismatic leader of the Jacobite cause. He presents himself as a merciful, brave royal who easily charms supporters from various classes into fighting to restore his family to the throne.

Sir Everard is Edward's wealthy bachelor uncle and a conservative Tory with Jacobite sympathies. He hopes to groom his nephew to carry on the family legacy, though his lack of strict oversight allows the boy to grow up mostly unguided.

Richard is Edward’s father and a Whig politician holding a position in the government. His political divergence from his older brother Everard creates a permanent family rift, prompting him to maneuver his son into a military career to advance his own standing.

Rachel is Edward’s aunt, who resides at Waverley-Honour. She worries about Edward's daydreaming and actively encourages his departure for the military to separate him from unsuitable local women.

Evan is Fergus Mac-Ivor’s foster brother and a fiercely loyal Highlander. He acts as a guide and ambassador for his chief, introducing Edward to the customs, laws, and rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands.

Donald is an outlaw and leader of a band of Highland thieves. Despite his criminal activities, he presents himself as a knowledgeable figure who leverages his political connections with clan chiefs to maintain his operation.

Alice is the daughter of the Highland outlaw Donald Bean Lean. She moves quietly within her father's camp and occasionally assists travelers who pass through the rugged territory.

Colonel Talbot is a Hanoverian soldier who travels to Scotland specifically to locate Edward out of a sense of obligation to Sir Everard. He holds deep prejudices against the Scots but honors his personal debts and friendships.

Colonel Gardiner is Edward’s commanding officer in the Hanoverian army. He attempts to warn his new officer about associating with Jacobite families in Scotland but ultimately loses control over the young man's wavering loyalties.

Davie is a disabled servant at the Bradwardine estate, often referred to as simple by the residents. He frequently sings songs and delivers messages for the family.

Balmawhapple is a hot-tempered Jacobite guest of Baron Bradwardine. He holds strong anti-Hanoverian sentiments, which lead him to provoke Edward and nearly engage in a duel over political differences.

Major Melville is a local Laird and Hanoverian loyalist. He attempts to conduct a fair but strict investigation of Edward, warning him of the serious treason charges he faces after being caught traveling near Jacobite forces.

Mr. Morton is a local pastor who shows compassion toward captured travelers. He advocates for a fair hearing and tries to assist young men facing serious legal troubles.

Gilfillan is a fanatical military commander aligned with the Cameronian sect. He holds strict puritanical religious beliefs and treats his prisoners with a rigid, self-important attitude.