Martha Russell Friel

At first glance, Martha is a 40-year-old cynical woman who is difficult to please and prone to behavioral extremes. The eldest of two siblings, she deeply resents her parents for their failure to provide her with a happy childhood and more generally, she looks down on them for their lack of life achievements. She despises her mother’s loose lifestyle and her father’s acceptance of it. Though she avoids her mother, she does show her father affection, and gladly welcomes his help in dire times. She values her sister’s support and friendship, but is often jealous of Ingrid’s natural charm and better looks. Martha also criticizes her aunt Winsome and uncle Rowland, especially for their lavish way of life. She does develop a fondness for her eldest cousin Nicholas, their son, whom no one in the family seems to view as trustworthy, and...