Coventina Lyncook (Covey/Eleanor Bennett)
Covey is the novel’s protagonist, who later takes the identity of Eleanor Bennett. Covey is a biracial woman raised by a Chinese father. While in London, Covey meets Eleanor Douglas, whom they revolve to travel together to Scotland to start their new jobs. Unfortunately, the train they are traveling in crashes, and Eleanor dies. The rescuers mistake Covey for Eleanor, and she takes the new identity. After several years, Covey returns to London and reconnects with her love, Gibbs, with his new identity as Bert. The two lovebirds relocate to Southern California to start their life and are blessed with two children.
Covey is a secretive woman who hides her identity from her children until she dies. Before she dies, Covey records herself revealing her history and identity and directs her lawyer to play the recording to her three children, Benny, Byron, and the long-lost daughter.
Etta Pringle
Etta Pringle (Bunny) is Covey’s best friend, and the author describes her as outgoing, friendly, and ambitious. Bunny loves swimming, and she encourages Covey to explore new distances. Bunny is attracted to Covey sexually but does not know how to express her feelings because that goes against the norms.
Benedetta (Benny)
Benedetta (Benny) is the daughter of Covey (Eleanor Bennett) and Bert (Gibbs Grant). Benny is rebellious, eccentric, and a pessimist. Benny drops out of school severely because she looks forward to becoming an artist or doing business in Manhattan. Benny is antisocial, and she likes living alone. After their parents’ deaths, Benny reunites with her brother and stepsister to fulfill their late mother’s wishes.
Byron
Byron is the brother of Benny and the son of Covey (Eleanor) and Bert (Gibbs). Byron is an ambitious man who wants to achieve his dreams. In addition, Byron is intelligent and diligent because he remains focused until he becomes a renowned oceanographer globally.
Gibbs Grant (Bert)
Gibbs Grant (Bert) is Covey’s husband and father of Benny and Byron. Gibbs is a caring and loving husband who cares for his wife and children. Unfortunately, Gibbs dies before he can see his children succeed at following their dreams.
