Stone does a good job of fleshing out her characters. By the time the book ends, the reader should have a clear picture of each of the characters and his or her motivation. But while the characters, especially the heroines, are very believable, they weren't particularly likable. Charlie got to Smith on a scholarship. She comes from a steel town and wants to have the good things in life.
Marina is a princess from an exotic country.
She's spoiled but loyal to her friends. She falls in love with two very different men while at Smith. After some years as a party girl, she settles down to help her country. Tess comes from a wealthy family who has picked out a husband for her. She's plain, artsy and shy.