Content Warning: The source material uses outdated language regarding psychological conditions and mental distress. This is only replicated in quoted material in this guide. 

Mona is a 14-year-old girl who works in her Aunt Tabitha’s bakery. She is the narrator and protagonist of the novel. Her parents died when she was young, and she was taken in by her aunt and uncle. She now lives in a small apartment above the glass blower’s shop.

Mona is a strong-willed, clever girl with a minor magical ability that works on bread and other baked goods. Though she initially believes her magic ability is weak and useless, she learns through the course of the novel how to use her ability to help others, gaining self-confidence and a better understanding of the theories of magic in the process. Mona has a strong sense of justice and the obligations those in power have to the community. This leads her to stand up against Inquisitor Oberon, while also fueling her anger with the Duchess and other adults for not behaving as she believes they should. Because of Mona’s growth throughout the story, from a young baker to the defender of the city, willing to step up to defend her people, Mona is a rounded and dynamic character.