The Trials of Morrigan Crow

Jupiter North is the eccentric owner of Hotel Deucalion and Morrigan’s sponsor for admittance into the Wundrous Society. He is associated with the colors orange and yellow, which illustrate optimism. He commands respect with his knack as a Witness, seeing “everything” about anything and anyone. Though Jupiter often speaks of trust, he continually challenges Morrigan by being secretive.

Jupiter is a mentor to Morrigan, Hawthorne, and his nephew Jack. He helps Morrigan in particular adjust to Nevermoor and overcome her self-doubt as a potential Wundersmith. Overall, he is a flat character: Jupiter recognizes and apologizes for mistakes, but ultimately doesn’t treat Morrigan as an equal. This confidence leads to arrogance, with him often acting above the law.

Hawthorne Swift is Morrigan’s fellow Wundrous Society candidate and first true friend in Nevermoor. He hates bullies and loves pranks, putting him at odds with cruel candidate Noelle. His knack is dragon riding, which he demonstrates at the Show Trial, securing his spot in the Wundrous Society; however, he remains humble and uses his spare time to aid Morrigan’s preparation.

Hawthorne is somewhat of a sidekick to Morrigan, who challenges stereotypical traits. Though he attaches himself to her during the Wundrous Welcome, he is not dependent on her. As the Wundrous Trials progress, the pair rely on each other for companionship and security. Overall, Hawthorne acts as a foil to Jupiter. While Jupiter keeps his cards close, Hawthorne believes communication is crucial. He never makes Morrigan feel isolated or excluded for who she is.

Ezra Squall is introduced as his own “assistant” Mr. Jones, who offers Morrigan an apprenticeship at Squall Industries. Mr. Jones seems to appear and disappear on a whim. When Morrigan tries to prove she has a bidder on Bid Day, he leaves the room before anyone else can see him. By the end of the novel, she finally faces him as Squall, the Wundersmith. Physically, he looks the same as Mr. Jones because “Mr. Jones” is simply a pseudonym. Squall is the antagonist, pursuing Morrigan with the Hunt of Smoke and Shadow to make her his apprentice. He lacks empathy and sees others as expendable. 

Squall is a round character whose two identities both guide and seek to control Morrigan. He is both mentor and villain, who uses his power to create a semi-sustainable energy source—Wunder. While he acts selfishly, he is not wholly selfish and raises concerns about the nature of the Wundrous Society.