payment page
Evie Porter / Lucca Marino
The protagonist of the novel. Evie operates under multiple aliases and is sharp, resourceful, and emotionally complex. She struggles to reconcile her desire for a normal life with her morally ambiguous work.
Read an in-depth analysis of Evie Porter
Ryan Sumner
A businessman who becomes romantically involved with Evie, unaware of her true identity. Charismatic and enigmatic, Ryan is both supportive and secretive, drawing Evie closer while keeping his own motivations guarded.
Read an in-depth analysis of Ryan Sumner
Mr. Smith
A master manipulator who exerts control over Evie and other operatives through carefully orchestrated schemes. Calculating and elusive, Mr. Smith conceals his identity behind layers of deception, always staying one step ahead of those who work for him.
Read an in-depth analysis of Mr. Smith
Devon
Evie’s closest ally and a brilliant hacker. Devon is pragmatic and dependable, using his technical expertise to aid Evie throughout her missions. Though he tends to stay in the background, his loyalty motivates him to protect those closest to him.
James
Ryan’s troubled friend, struggling with addiction and financial problems. His relationship with Ryan is strained, and his desperation for help ultimately plays a pivotal role in the unraveling of Evie’s plans.
The Woman / Lucca Marino
An enigmatic woman posing as Lucca Marino, new James’ girlfriend. The imposter’s presence complicates Evie’s mission, creating a tense dynamic as both women test each other.
Andrew Marshall
A politician whom Evie manipulates during one of her missions. Well-intentioned but naive, Andrew provides Evie with a glimpse of an alternate, more honest life.
George
Initially posing as an ally who works for Mr. Smith, George is later revealed to be a key figure in the novel’s web of deception.
Rachel
Evie’s sharp and unflappable lawyer, who helps navigate the police investigation into Amy Holder’s death. Rachel’s calm demeanor and legal expertise make her a valuable ally during critical moments.
Amy Holder
A former target of Evie’s. Her fate is central to the mystery of the novel and the quest to discover Mr. Smith’s true identity.
Victor Connolly
A crime family leader who initially trusts Mr. Smith to protect his interests. Ruthless but calculating, Connolly is a powerful figure whose loyalty is tested when the truth about Mr. Smith’s deception surfaces.
Mitch Cameron
A college football coach whom Evie targets during one of her missions. Mitch is principled and well-respected, making it difficult for Evie to find leverage against him.
Tyron
An NFL player and old friend of Evie’s who provides her with an alibi during the police investigation. Tyron’s loyalty and friendship offer Evie a rare moment of genuine connection amidst the chaos.
Ralph Tate
An oil tycoon whose painting becomes the object of one of Evie’s missions. Wealthy and eccentric, Tate’s personal collection and security measures present a formidable challenge for Evie.
Phil Robinson
A wealthy college booster whom Evie blackmails to remove Mitch Cameron from his coaching position. Phil embodies the corrupting influence of money in college athletics.
Sara
One of Ryan’s close friends who interacts with Evie socially, providing insight into Ryan’s personal life. The kindest and most conciliatory of Ryan’s friends, Sara represents the kind of stable, conventional existence that Evie longs for but struggles to achieve.
Allison
Another friend in Ryan’s circle who is suspicious of Evie.
Heather
Amy’s sister, separated from her as a child but reconnected in adulthood.
Sadie
Heather’s young daughter, whom Mr. Smith uses as leverage against Amy.
