The Return · Character

Alicia

A young woman connected to the Lawford family, possibly a relative.

minor

Also known as Alice, Miss Alice, dear good Alicia, Poor Alice

First appearance: iii

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With Arthur Lawford (romantic): Alicia and Arthur have a romantic relationship, marked by affection and emotional entanglement. With Sheila (rivalry): Alicia and Sheila are rivals, competing for Arthur's affection or…

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See Alicia in iii

Character Web

15 connections

A slice of how Alicia sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

Relationship types

Romantic
Rivalry
Other

Character groups

Lawford household and associates
Family and past connections
Protagonist

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Arthur’s hope for reco…

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Relationships

Arthur Lawford
romantic · positive
Sheila
rivalry · negative
Sheila
rivalry · negative
Arthur Lawford
romantic · positive
Arthur Lawford
romantic · positive

Arthur Lawford
Alicia and Arthur have a romantic relationship, marked by affection and emotional entanglement.
Sheila
Alicia and Sheila are rivals, competing for Arthur's affection or social standing.
Sheila
Alicia and Sheila are rivals, competing for Arthur's affection or social standing.
Arthur Lawford
Alicia and Arthur have a romantic relationship, marked by affection and emotional entanglement.
Arthur Lawford
Alicia and Arthur have a romantic relationship, marked by affection and emotional entanglement.

Relationship notes

How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.

See Alicia in iii

In the story

Alicia appears across 8 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

VI
Alice returns home with Jimmie Fortescue, her laughter heard from the garden.
VII
Lawford visits her at night; she is frightened by his changed face and a dream.
Chapter VIII
Mentioned as pale and miserable; goes to church with Sheila; sends a message for Lawford to eat.
XI
Mopes due to being kept from her father, fails to recognize Lawford in the nursery, realizes the truth, and faints in distress.
XIII
Waits for Lawford in his room, falls asleep, and reassures him of her trust despite the changes.
XVI
Her bed is used by Lawford to sleep in; her room is described as 'narrow sweetness'.
XIX
Visits Lawford against Sheila's wishes; Lawford speaks with her briefly before she leaves.
XXIII
Mentioned as Lawford's daughter Alice, nearly sixteen, who enjoys walks on Bewley Heath.

Chapter companion notes

Spoil-light check-ins for Alicia unlock in the free preview.

See Alicia in iii