I’ve received messages from readers who loved the character Zion from Raven’s Seduction, but they are bothered by her use of the N-word, not to mention her overall flamboyant demeanor. Instead of replying to each message individually, I decided to drop a post. I was supposed to write this post last week, but I’ve been knee-deep in my other projects. My paranormal world needs me!
Nevertheless, here I go…
Like many of my characters, Zion was created from a person who is a real-life class act and a good friend of mine. I thought about toning her down for the sake of the faint-hearted. I’ve done it before. I admit that Zion was a bit much on the rough draft. But after mulling over it for a few days, I decided to let her be her true self and emerge from the pages as the bad, boss bitch that she is. Yes, she’s extremely outspoken, unfiltered, and vulgar at times. But she’s also compassionate and downright lovable. She was raised in an area where the n-word is often used as a term of endearment. Because of that, it became a word she uses in her everyday life. She uses it when she’s happy, sad, or pissed off. She even uses it when she’s confused. But that word does not define who she is.
Personally, I can’t stand the word. It has no place in my world. However, in her world, it’s just another way of saying “dude”.
Upon publishing Raven’s Seduction, I knew her character would cause a stir. That’s why I issued a warning on the buy page. I’m happy that so many readers related to her on a personal level, despite her verbiage. Many have asked for a story featuring her and Remi. *wicked grin* They are definitely spinning their own tale. We’ll see how it works out.
Thanks for reading!
