* Charlie "Bird" Baudelaire: The main protagonist, a young man struggling with grief, guilt, and a deep-seated fear of his own dark side. He is deeply affected by the death of his father and his growing connection to the supernatural.
* Angel: A mysterious and powerful entity, seemingly connected to Bird's father and the supernatural events that unfold. Angel's true nature and intentions remain unclear throughout the novel, adding to the intrigue and mystery.
* Lucy: Bird's love interest and a source of comfort and grounding for him. She represents the world of normalcy and offers Bird a chance at happiness amidst the darkness.
* The Detective: A mysterious and intriguing character who appears intermittently, aiding Bird in his understanding of the supernatural world. He acts as a guide and mentor, helping Bird navigate the perilous path he finds himself on.
* The "Beetles": A shadowy and malevolent force that haunts Bird, representing the darkness that threatens to consume him. They embody the fear and guilt he feels, pushing him to the brink of despair.
While there are other important characters, such as Bird's mother, his therapist, and the various figures he encounters in his investigations, these five characters are the ones most central to the narrative and its themes of loss, guilt, the supernatural, and the battle between light and darkness.