·       Victor Sassoon: The protagonist of the novel, a member of the Sassoon family, a wealthy Jewish family from Baghdad who made their fortune in the opium trade in Shanghai. He is a charismatic and ambitious man who is determined to make a name for himself in Shanghai. He is also a bit of a ruthless businessman who is not afraid to do whatever it takes to succeed.

·       Ellie Soong: Victor's wife, a beautiful and intelligent woman who is determined to help her husband achieve his goals. She is also a bit of a schemer who is not afraid to use her beauty and charm to get what she wants.

·       Sir Victor Sassoon: Victor's father, the patriarch of the Sassoon family. He is a kind and compassionate man who is determined to protect his family's fortune. He is also a bit of a traditionalist who is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in.

·       Sir Evelyn Sassoon: Victor's uncle, a brilliant and ruthless businessman who is determined to take over the Sassoon family's fortune. He is also a bit of a bully who is not afraid to use his power to get what he wants.

·       Rebecca Solomon: Victor's cousin, a beautiful and intelligent woman who is determined to make a name for herself in Shanghai. She is also a bit of a free spirit who is not afraid to break the rules.

·       T. V. Soong: The son of Charlie Soong, a powerful Chinese businessman who is determined to make a name for himself in Shanghai. He is a charismatic and ambitious man who is determined to succeed. He is also a bit of a ruthless politician who is not afraid to do whatever it takes to win.