Eliza Touchet
The main character and protagonist of the novel, Eliza Touchet, is a Scottish housekeeper and confidant of the famous novelist William Ainsworth. Although Touchet is an intelligent woman with varied interests, she is never given the chance to explore them by Ainsworth, who lords over her time with an iron grip. Initially, she was okay with this, but she slowly became disillusioned with her life.
As Ainsworth declines and his influence wanes, Touchet decides that she has had enough. She started to pursue her passions, like writing, abolitionism, and spending time with friends and family. She does all of that and more. Ultimately, she becomes successful and finally is able to lead the life that she has been craving.
Separately, she and the rest of the United Kingdom become captivated by the "Tichborne Trial."
Eventually, she becomes connected to a man named Andrew Bogle, who is a key witness in the trial. They work together to ultimately bring Ronald Tichborne to justice. That reflects her steadfast desire to do what is right, no matter the costs, and shows how easily she is able to work with people who are different than her.
Andrew Bogle
Andrew Bogle is a former slave from Jamaica who immigrated to the United Kingdom in search of a better opportunity. A kind-hearted, intelligent, and perceptive man, Bogle is a key witness in the "Tichborne Trial." His testimony is the key to ensuring a conviction in the case. Bogle never wanted to participate in the trial and thinks his participation in it would draw unnecessary attention to him, especially because all he wants to do is start integrating into English culture and earn a living.
Bogle has a number of friends and makes friends easily. That's how he comes across Eliza Touchet, whom he becomes fast friends with. The two eventually grow fond of each other and find the time to make their lives better.
William Ainsworth
The famous novelist William Ainsworth plays a small, but integral role in the novel. Initially, Ainsworth is portrayed as a cantankerous man with few redeeming qualities. He is undeniably a literary genius, but treats people poorly and lords over his loyal housekeeper, Touchet, who acts as a sort of mother to him. As he grows older, his control over Touchet loosens, but he is still the same cranky man. He just needs less.
