1. Alex #1: A young girl known as "Alex #1" is the protagonist of the novel and the one who initially discovers the body of the murdered girl, Sarah. She grapples with her fear, guilt, and longing for acceptance as she becomes increasingly involved in the case.
2. Ashley #2: Ashley #2 is a classmate and friend of Alex #1. She is portrayed as a bubbly and caring individual, but also harbor insecurities and struggles with feeling overshadowed by her more popular peers.
3. Nicki #3: Another classmate of Alex #1 and Ashley #2, Nicki #3 is often perceived as the most popular and beautiful girl in school. However, she hides her vulnerability behind a self-assured exterior, and her interactions with the other characters reveal hidden layers of her personality.
4. Nina #4: Referred to as "Nina #4," this character is known for her wild and unpredictable behavior, often displaying rebellious and nonconformist tendencies. She represents an element of unpredictability within the group of friends and adds complexity to the narrative.
5. Sarah: Although not physically present in the novel, Sarah is the central figure around whom the story revolves. Her murder remains unsolved and her absence haunts the characters as they confront the loss of their childhood innocence and the fragility of their friendships.
Each character contributes to the themes and dynamics explored in the book, which touch upon issues of friendship, identity, guilt, and the transition from adolescence to adulthood.