Armand Gamache is the central protagonist of this novel. He is a character who exemplifies a sympathetic protagonist. He has a loving family whom he would die for, close friends whom he is loyal to, and he puts himself in grave danger for the safety and wellbeing of others. He is the driver of the plot, a moral compass, and a role model for the other characters. Armand knows how to listen to his gut and closely analyze small details around him. Armand believes in the essential goodness of people, but he is also no stranger to dealing with how evil people can be. 

Jean-Guy Beauvoir is Armand’s son-in-law and former second-in-command of homicide investigation. Brusque and more aggressive than Armand, Jean-Guy is nonetheless a loving father and a good friend. He has struggled with substance abuse in the past and has a tinge of anger for the world. But with the help of Armand, Jean-Guy has evolved into a responsible and happy person. He is very loyal and trustworthy. Jean-Guy is astute, brave, and looks through the people who try to manipulate him. In this book, Jean-Guy is nervous about bringing more children in to the world, knowing how dangerous that world can be.