Fanny is organised and well-mannered as any eldest daughter of an English vicar would be. Her marriage to Lord Ruskin appears to be a happy one and has afforded her both a house in London and a house out in the country. She is concerned about appearances and takes pride in her reputation as hostess of many social gatherings of the upper level of society known as 'the ton'.

Henry, Lord Ruskin is the fourteenth holder of the title of the Baron of Ruskin. As such, he is a well-established member of society and takes great pride in being a member of the House of Lords. His hobby is being an amateur historian and he is very knowledgeable about the history of his family and his country house.

As the younger daughter of an English vicar, Charlotte was raised to be modest and demure. However, after her marriage to the Duke a new side of Charlotte's personality has emerged and she is now (with her husband) a member of the Prince Regent's 'Carlton House set'. Having fulfilled her duty as a wife in providing her husband with an heir and several daughters, she has now got the reputation of being somewhat of a flirt. It is rumored that she may have caught the eye of the Prince Regent!

The Duke is an important member of society and part of the Prince Regent's 'Carlton House set'. He spends his days playing cards and gambling. He is known for his wit, his amiability and his loyalty. He claims to be happily married (a rarity for society in Regency England)and is known for partaking in many duels when his wife's honor has been questioned.

Charles is part of London society and spends his days at his club in London playing cards or dancing with the ladies. He is very proud to be the heir to the Ruskin title and is aware that the title will be his entrance not only into the House of Lords, but to a higher level of society. He walks with a slight limp.

Lucy is interested in everything to do with fashion and is always eager to be the first with society gossip. She is very fond of the new literature known as "horror novels" and her over-active imagination causes her to see the unexplained everywhere. Her in-laws' home is known to be the home of a ghost and Lucy is thrilled at the thought of having a ghostly encounter - like many of her favorite heroines.

The Captain was an active part of the British Navy for many years and his ship played a role in the Battle of Trafalgar. Now honorably retired, he spends his time at his country house (Abbey-Mill Farm) and adds to his collection of weapons.

Mary has always been the dutiful Naval wife - home alone for many months while her husband serves on his ship. She professes that she is very proud of her husband and his glorious Naval history - but she gets bored being on her own and has been known (within society) to have found her own, interesting amusements.

John Weston (referred to as 'Weston') was the Ruskin's faithful and effecient butler. Before joining the Ruskin household he was Captain Middleton's valet and accompanied him on his naval tours - including the Battle of Trafalgar.