Redford “Red” Kenny is the novel’s protagonist. She is also the sniper’s target since she knows the secret he is after. Red’s mother, Grace, who was a police captain, was killed after a phone call with Red five years ago, and their last interaction was an argument. Red deeply regrets her actions, blaming herself and her hateful words for her mother’s death. Since then, she has been dealing with trauma and poverty, as she and her father often cannot afford to buy food or pay their bills. Under the influence of Catherine Lavoy, Red becomes a false eyewitness against Frank Gotti, who has been accused of killing Joseph Mannino. Catherine promises to pay Red $20,000 and insinuates that Frank is responsible for Grace’s death, which motivates Red to testify.

Red is best friends with Maddy Lavoy, who is Catherine Lavoy’s daughter. Red has romantic feelings for Arthur, but questions if Arthur feels the same way about her, since she does not think of herself as a likable person. She feels alienated from her friends as a result of her trauma, economic hardships, and the secrets she keeps. Red has a strong moral code, always working with the group to solve problems and sacrificing herself to save a police officer at the end of the novel.