Estimated read time: 13 min read
Table of Contents
List of Characters in "If Tomorrow Comes"
| Character Name | Role/Title | Key Traits | Background Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracy Whitney | Protagonist | Intelligent, resilient, resourceful | Bank employee, framed for a crime |
| Jeff Stevens | Antagonist/Love Interest | Charming, clever, skilled thief | Professional con artist |
| Daniel Cooper | Antagonist/Detective | Obsessive, methodical, cold | Insurance investigator with a troubled past |
| Gunther Hartog | Mentor/Ally | Sophisticated, supportive, wise | Art dealer and former thief |
| Ernestine Littlechap | Ally/Cellmate | Loyal, street-smart, tough | Prison inmate, later Tracy’s friend |
| Sam Winters | Tracy’s fiancé | Honest, loving, conventional | Bank employee |
| Amy Brannigan | Ally | Caring, supportive, friendly | Tracy’s lawyer |
| Joe Romano | Antagonist | Brutal, manipulative, vengeful | Mobster, responsible for framing Tracy |
| Perry Pope | Ally | Compassionate, principled, helpful | Reporter |
| Mrs. Whitney | Tracy’s mother | Loving, vulnerable, tragic | Victim of blackmail |
Role Identification
| Character Name | Main Role in Story | Function in Plot |
|---|---|---|
| Tracy Whitney | Heroine | Central figure whose journey drives the narrative |
| Jeff Stevens | Love interest/foil | Partner and rival, complicates Tracy’s plans |
| Daniel Cooper | Primary antagonist | Pursues Tracy, adding suspense and conflict |
| Gunther Hartog | Mentor | Guides Tracy in her new criminal life |
| Ernestine Littlechap | Ally/friend | Supports Tracy in prison and beyond |
| Sam Winters | Romantic interest | Provides emotional stakes and motivation |
| Amy Brannigan | Ally | Legal advisor and emotional support |
| Joe Romano | Villain | Catalyst for Tracy’s downfall and revenge |
| Perry Pope | Ally | Aids Tracy’s quest for justice |
| Mrs. Whitney | Tragic figure | Her fate motivates Tracy’s actions |
Character Descriptions
Tracy Whitney
Tracy Whitney is the intelligent, determined protagonist of "If Tomorrow Comes." Initially, she is an honest bank employee planning to marry Sam Winters. After being wrongfully imprisoned due to Joe Romano’s schemes, Tracy transforms into a cunning, resourceful con artist. Her journey from innocence to calculated criminal is central to the novel.
Jeff Stevens
Jeff Stevens is a charming, witty professional thief who becomes both Tracy's rival and romantic interest. He is highly intelligent and skilled at deception, often matching Tracy’s abilities. Their cat-and-mouse dynamic forms a significant part of the story, culminating in a complex partnership.
Daniel Cooper
Daniel Cooper is a cold, obsessive insurance investigator. Haunted by a dark past, Cooper becomes fixated on catching Tracy. His relentless pursuit adds tension and danger, making him a formidable adversary.
Gunther Hartog
Gunther Hartog, a former thief and current art dealer, serves as a mentor to Tracy. He recognizes her potential and teaches her the skills needed to survive and excel in the criminal underworld.
Ernestine Littlechap
Ernestine Littlechap is Tracy’s tough, loyal cellmate in prison. She protects Tracy and helps her adapt to the harsh realities of incarceration. Ernestine becomes a close friend and ally, assisting Tracy beyond prison walls.
Sam Winters
Sam Winters is Tracy’s fiancé before her arrest. He is supportive and loving but ultimately cannot withstand the pressures of Tracy’s scandal and withdraws from her life, highlighting the personal costs of Tracy’s ordeal.
Amy Brannigan
Amy Brannigan is Tracy’s lawyer and friend, offering legal guidance and emotional support. She represents the few people who believe in Tracy's innocence from the beginning.
Joe Romano
Joe Romano is a ruthless mobster who orchestrates the scheme to frame Tracy. His actions set the events of the novel in motion, making him a central antagonist in Tracy’s quest for vengeance.
Perry Pope
Perry Pope is a compassionate reporter who aids Tracy in exposing the corruption that led to her downfall. His investigative work is instrumental in clearing her name.
Mrs. Whitney
Mrs. Whitney is Tracy’s beloved mother. She becomes a victim of blackmail and ultimately commits suicide, which propels Tracy’s quest for justice and revenge.
Character Traits
| Character Name | Key Traits | Evidence from Text |
|---|---|---|
| Tracy Whitney | Intelligent, resilient, resourceful, vengeful | Outwits adversaries, survives prison, orchestrates cons |
| Jeff Stevens | Charming, clever, competitive, romantic | Outmaneuvers security, rivals Tracy, falls for her |
| Daniel Cooper | Obsessive, methodical, cold, repressed | Fixates on Tracy, lacks empathy, meticulous investigator |
| Gunther Hartog | Wise, sophisticated, supportive, discreet | Guides Tracy, helps her plan thefts |
| Ernestine Littlechap | Loyal, street-smart, tough, protective | Defends Tracy in prison, assists her escape |
| Sam Winters | Honest, loving, conventional, weak-willed | Supports Tracy initially, then abandons her |
| Amy Brannigan | Caring, principled, persistent | Defends Tracy in court, remains loyal |
| Joe Romano | Brutal, manipulative, vengeful, cruel | Frames Tracy, threatens her family |
| Perry Pope | Compassionate, principled, investigative | Helps expose injustice, supports Tracy |
| Mrs. Whitney | Loving, vulnerable, tragic, fragile | Victim of blackmail, suicide triggers Tracy’s revenge |
Character Background
Tracy Whitney
Tracy grew up in New Orleans, the daughter of a loving mother. She works at a bank and is engaged to Sam Winters. Her life unravels when she becomes the victim of a conspiracy led by Joe Romano. Wrongly convicted of attempted murder and imprisoned, Tracy endures hardship, betrayal, and trauma. She emerges from prison transformed, seeking revenge and justice.
Jeff Stevens
Jeff comes from a background of crime and deception. He has honed his skills as a master thief, traveling the world in pursuit of high-stakes cons. His encounters with Tracy challenge his worldview and ultimately change his life trajectory.
Daniel Cooper
Daniel Cooper’s childhood was marred by abuse and trauma, leading to a personality marked by repression and obsession. His career as an insurance investigator is driven by a need for control. He becomes fixated on capturing Tracy, seeing her as a symbol of chaos he must contain.
Gunther Hartog
Hartog’s early life involved criminal activity, but he now operates within the art world as a reputable dealer. His experience and wisdom make him an invaluable mentor to Tracy, teaching her the nuances of high-society cons and thefts.
Ernestine Littlechap
Raised in a tough environment, Ernestine developed a hard exterior to survive. She is respected in prison for her strength and loyalty. Meeting Tracy gives Ernestine a purpose beyond survival, fostering a deep friendship.
Sam Winters
Sam is Tracy's fiancé and a bank employee. His conventional values and inability to withstand scandal cause him to leave Tracy when her life falls apart, despite his initial love and support.
Amy Brannigan
Amy comes from a legal background and is known for her integrity. She is one of the few who believes in Tracy’s innocence and works tirelessly on her behalf, even when the odds are against them.
Joe Romano
Romano’s background is rooted in organized crime. He is feared for his ruthlessness and cunning. His vendetta against Tracy’s family is motivated by greed and a desire for power.
Perry Pope
Perry is a seasoned reporter who values truth and justice. His investigative instincts lead him to assist Tracy, using his skills and connections to help expose the corruption that destroyed her life.
Mrs. Whitney
A gentle, loving mother, Mrs. Whitney’s vulnerability is exploited by Joe Romano. Her suicide is a pivotal moment, galvanizing Tracy’s transformation and quest for justice.
Character Arcs
| Character Name | Starting Point | Key Transformations | Ending Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracy Whitney | Innocent, trusting, law-abiding | Betrayed, learns to survive, becomes cunning | Empowered master con artist, seeks justice |
| Jeff Stevens | Detached, self-serving thief | Drawn to Tracy, learns to trust | Tracy’s partner and romantic interest |
| Daniel Cooper | Methodical, cold investigator | Obsession grows, loses perspective | Defeated and broken |
| Gunther Hartog | World-weary mentor | Finds purpose in guiding Tracy | Retires, satisfied with Tracy’s success |
| Ernestine Littlechap | Hardened inmate | Finds friendship and purpose | Free, loyal friend to Tracy |
| Sam Winters | Supportive fiancé | Overwhelmed by scandal, withdraws | Out of Tracy’s life |
| Amy Brannigan | Determined lawyer | Faces setbacks, remains steadfast | Vindicated, Tracy’s loyal friend |
| Joe Romano | Powerful mobster | Overreaches, underestimates Tracy | Defeated, exposed |
| Perry Pope | Cynical reporter | Inspired by Tracy’s resilience | Friend and supporter |
| Mrs. Whitney | Loving mother | Victimized, loses hope | Suicide, catalyst for Tracy’s revenge |
Relationships
| Character 1 | Character 2 | Nature of Relationship | Key Dynamics/Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracy Whitney | Jeff Stevens | Rivals, partners, lovers | Start as competitors, become lovers, eventual trust |
| Tracy Whitney | Daniel Cooper | Cat-and-mouse adversaries | Cooper relentlessly pursues Tracy |
| Tracy Whitney | Gunther Hartog | Mentor/mentee | Hartog trains Tracy in the art of the con |
| Tracy Whitney | Ernestine | Allies, friends | Ernestine protects Tracy in prison |
| Tracy Whitney | Sam Winters | Romantic partners (initially) | Relationship ends under pressure |
| Tracy Whitney | Amy Brannigan | Client-lawyer, friends | Amy supports Tracy legally and emotionally |
| Tracy Whitney | Joe Romano | Victim-villain | Romano frames Tracy, she seeks revenge |
| Tracy Whitney | Perry Pope | Allies | Pope helps Tracy expose corruption |
| Tracy Whitney | Mrs. Whitney | Daughter-mother | Deep love, tragedy motivates Tracy |
| Jeff Stevens | Gunther Hartog | Professional acquaintances | Mutual respect in the criminal world |
| Jeff Stevens | Daniel Cooper | Opposing sides | Cooper investigates Jeff’s crimes |
| Gunther Hartog | Ernestine | Mutual friends via Tracy | Limited direct interaction |
In-Depth Character Analysis
Tracy Whitney
Internal Struggles
Tracy’s internal conflict centers on her transformation from innocence to criminality. Initially, she believes in justice and the system. Betrayed by those she trusted, Tracy must reconcile her desire for revenge with her inherent morality. Her journey is about reclaiming agency and dignity.
Motivation
Tracy’s primary motivation is justice for her mother’s death and her own wrongful conviction. Love, betrayal, and a sense of survival drive her actions. As she masters the art of the con, she is motivated by a desire to outwit those who destroyed her life.
Growth and Change
Tracy evolves from a sheltered, law-abiding citizen to a sophisticated, independent woman. She develops cunning, learns to manipulate situations, and grows confident in her abilities. Her arc is a testament to resilience and adaptability.
Jeff Stevens
Internal Struggles
Jeff is initially a carefree thief, detached from emotional ties. Meeting Tracy challenges his worldview, forcing him to confront feelings of love and loyalty.
Motivation
Jeff is driven by thrill and competition. Tracy’s intelligence and skill make her both a rival and an object of affection. His pursuit of her evolves from rivalry to genuine partnership.
Growth and Change
Jeff’s arc mirrors Tracy’s. He learns to trust and love, becoming a more complete individual. Their relationship is one of equals, built on mutual respect.
Daniel Cooper
Internal Struggles
Cooper’s obsession with order and control stems from a traumatic childhood. He is incapable of empathy, viewing Tracy as a puzzle to solve rather than a person.
Motivation
Cooper is driven by an obsessive need to catch Tracy, seeing her as a threat to his worldview. His pursuit becomes personal, blinding him to reason.
Growth and Change
Cooper’s arc is one of unraveling. His obsession leads to his downfall, highlighting the dangers of unchecked fixation.
Gunther Hartog
Internal Struggles
Hartog is a man who has left a life of crime but misses the excitement. He finds purpose in mentoring Tracy, seeing in her a worthy successor.
Motivation
Hartog wants to see Tracy succeed where he could not. His guidance is both practical and emotional.
Growth and Change
Hartog’s arc is about legacy. He retires satisfied, knowing he has passed on his wisdom.
Ernestine Littlechap
Internal Struggles
Ernestine is hardened by prison life but yearns for connection.
Motivation
Her loyalty to Tracy is born out of mutual respect. She wants to see Tracy survive and thrive.
Growth and Change
Ernestine’s arc is about redemption. She helps Tracy and finds friendship, leaving prison with hope for the future.
Sam Winters
Internal Struggles
Sam is torn between love for Tracy and fear of scandal.
Motivation
He wants a normal life, free of controversy.
Growth and Change
Sam’s arc ends in retreat. Unable to cope, he serves as a contrast to Tracy’s strength.
Amy Brannigan
Internal Struggles
Amy faces professional and personal challenges defending Tracy.
Motivation
She is motivated by justice and belief in Tracy’s innocence.
Growth and Change
Amy’s arc is one of perseverance. Her faith is rewarded when Tracy is vindicated.
Joe Romano
Internal Struggles
Romano is driven by greed and power. He feels no remorse.
Motivation
He seeks to destroy Tracy’s family for personal gain.
Growth and Change
Romano’s arc ends in defeat, a victim of his own hubris.
Perry Pope
Internal Struggles
Perry is initially cynical but inspired by Tracy.
Motivation
He seeks the truth and justice for Tracy.
Growth and Change
Pope’s arc is about renewed faith in justice.
Mrs. Whitney
Internal Struggles
Mrs. Whitney is overwhelmed by blackmail and despair.
Motivation
She wants to protect Tracy but feels helpless.
Growth and Change
Her tragic end is the catalyst for the entire novel.
Relationships and Their Evolution
| Relationship | Initial Status | Key Turning Points | Final Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracy & Jeff | Rivals | Mutual respect, partnership | Romantic partners and allies |
| Tracy & Cooper | Target and pursuer | Escalating obsession | Cooper’s defeat, Tracy’s escape |
| Tracy & Hartog | Mentor/mentee | Hartog’s guidance | Gratitude and independence |
| Tracy & Ernestine | Protector/protected | Prison escape | Enduring friendship |
| Tracy & Sam | Engaged | Tracy’s imprisonment | Relationship ends |
| Tracy & Amy | Lawyer/client | Legal battles | Lasting friendship |
| Tracy & Romano | Victim/villain | Framing and revenge | Romano’s exposure and downfall |
| Tracy & Pope | Reporter/subject | Investigation | Mutual respect |
| Tracy & Mrs. Whitney | Mother/daughter | Blackmail and suicide | Tracy’s motivation for revenge |
Conclusion
"If Tomorrow Comes" by Sidney Sheldon is a masterful exploration of resilience, justice, and transformation. The characters, especially Tracy Whitney, embody the struggle between vulnerability and empowerment. The relationships are dynamic, evolving with each twist of the plot. The character arcs are compelling, offering readers a deep, analytical look at the motivations and transformations that define the narrative. This comprehensive character analysis provides insight into the complex personalities and interactions that drive the story forward.
