Johnny Truant
As his name implies, protagonist Johnny Truant is a careless kind of person. He lives for the moment, often neglecting his responsibilities, but he has a lifestyle which allows for this. Working at a tattoo parlor in L.A., Traunt is accustomed to meeting wild characters. After moving into Zampano's apartment under the recommendation of a friend, Truant discovers Zampano's manuscript for The Navidson Records, which mysteriously claims all of Truant's attention for the rest of the novel. Eventually he is driven crazy by the document and moves to Virginia to live in the house which is the subject of the document. He spends his time trying to understand the seemingly supernatural events of the book, meeting the eyewitnesses and attempting to calm his paranoia.
Lude
Lude is Truant's friend. He's involved in the underground scene in L.A., a cool cat who remains unpredictable. He used to be roommates with Zampano. He thinks Truant will enjoy living in the author's most recent residence because Zampano's was such an eclectic character.
Zampano
Zampano was a blind old eccentric. His death sparks Truant's adventure with the Navidson story, but he never expected anyone to find the manuscript. In fact, Zampano writes at length about a film documenting The Navidson Record which appears to have been a delusion of his.
Karen
Karen partners with Navidson to write The Navdison Record. Her name appears throughout the manuscript, having made many interviews with members of the community near the house.
Johnny's Mom
She writes to Truant after he moves, concerned for his health. He left L.A. in a troubled state of mind. Her letters of concern are intermingled with the notes in Zampano's manuscript.
