Thomas McFadden

Thomas McFadden is the book's central character. A black Englishman who speaks with an accent that could be mistaken for Jamaican, he is a charming and persuasive individual who thrives on dangerous and illegal situations. Nothing is divulged of his childhood or family, almost as if his life begins with his trafficking in drugs. Thomas admits to no remorse over being a drug smuggler, and even while he is imprisoned throughout most of the book, he becomes involved in many illegal activities over which he never reveals a troubled bad conscience. Even so, he is capable of close and loving friendships, no only with the woman he meets, Yasheeda, but also with various male friends, including Rusty. In part, Thomas's affection for these people, and to the many backpackers he meets as the prison's tour guide, is driven by his need for companionship and sympathy during his...