So Long at the Fair

A young Englishwoman visiting Paris for the Exposition Universelle. She is determined, perceptive, and willing to risk discomfort to find her missing brother. Her resolve drives the investigation and her growing connection with George.

Vicky’s older brother who vanishes after a night at the Hôtel de la Licorne. His room is mysteriously walled over, and his fate is initially hidden from all but a few.

An English painter who aids Vicky, notices the anomaly in the hotel, and helps uncover the hidden room. He develops a romantic connection to Vicky and uses his observational skills to piece together the truth.

A friend who delivers a loan repayment letter to Johnny; she unknowingly becomes a conduit linking George to Johnny’s situation. Her role highlights the thread between social encounters and the mystery.

The Hôtel de la Licorne’s manager who orchestrates a cover-up to hide Johnny’s presence and protect the hotel’s reputation. Her dual role as host and conspirator drives the central deception.

The physician who diagnoses bubonic plague when Johnny seeks help. He becomes part of the decision to relocate Johnny away from public view, underscoring the era’s fear and the attempt to manage a crisis discreetly.

The hotel maid who attended Vicky and had information about the balloon ride; her forthcoming balloon accident becomes a key plot element that foreshadows the danger surrounding the guests.

Madame Hervé’s brother who assists with the hotel’s concealment. His actions illustrate the collaboration that sustains the hotel’s deceptive cover-up.