Cady: Cady, at the beginning, is fine with the kids during what they want as long as they're safe. But when Bales comes to get her to help investigate, her mindset changes. Halfway through the investigation, they realize that they are no longer looking for a missing girl, and they suspect a kidnapping. When Cady gets this info, she sends the kids back to the house, to insure their safety. Cady is the basic mother figure.
Kira: Kira is the main character. In the beginning, we learn about her past, and how at one point she was a missing child. Cady adopted her. Since the adoption she has had to cope with her PTSD from having to survive on her own in the forest. Throughout the story we see her thoughts and how she copes with everything. By the end of story, she has become stronger in facing things that bring up flashbacks. She also knows how to express her feelings better to the people that actually care about her.
Jude: Jude is the typical brother, he causes trouble, picks on Kira, and shows his love for family in various ways. Jude is fairly quiet other than voicing his opinion on things he knows a lot about. In the end, Jude has to accept the fact that Mac is his father, and he has to be able to show his father that he is a good kid and that his feelings run deep for everyone he comes in contact with. His character doesn't change a ton.