Arvay is initially jealous of her. In the beginning of the novel, she marries Rev. Carl Middleton, whom Arvay had had feelings for. Later in the novel, Larraine's jealousy of Arvay's lavish lifestyle further drives them apart. Earl "David" Meserve: Earl is the first and oldest son of the Meserves. He is born with several defects and intellectual disabilities that make his parents averse of him. Although Arvay tries her best to raise Earl normally, he is apathetic to his parents and is somewhat violent. After allegedly trying to shoot his younger brother, Kenny, he assaults a young woman. He is later shot during a standoff, after attempting to shoot his father. James "Kenneth" Meserve: James is the second son of the Meserves. Throughout the novel, he is referred to as "Kenny." Kenny is a rumbustious young boy and soon picks up after his mother's love for music. He starts with the piano, before Joe teaches him how to play guitar with a bottleneck. As the novel progresses, Kenny demonstrates a talent for music. He joins the band at University of Florida, eventually playing with a famous band in New York. Angeline Meserve: Angeline is the he only daughter and youngest child of the Meserves. As a child, she demonstrates clear preference for Jim over Arvay. As a child, Angeline enjoys spending time with her brother and the two are depicted as being close. As a teenager, Angeline feels that she is too young to be with the boy she loves named Hatton. However, Jim quickly warms up to him. Together, Angeline and Hatton become successful real estate dealers. Maria Henson: Maria is the mother of Lairraine and Arvay. Although not a prominent character in the novel, she is shown as being one of the few characters who genuinely cares for Arvay. Before her death, she gives Arvay sole possession of their house in her will. Brock Henson: Brock Henson is described as being "a cracker from way back." He works hard, though he cannot provide much for his family. Joe Joe is an African American and friend of Jim Meserve. The two become acquainted at a turpentine camp, where Joe works under Jim. They form a deep friendship with one another. Joe eventually follows Jim to Citrabelle, also becoming a successful distiller before taking up more legal business. Dessie: Dessie is Joe's wife and friend of Arvay. She acts