There’s also been a lot of talk on Bookstagram (the book community on Instagram) about the LGBTQIA community because several Bookstagrammers posted their anti-LGBTQIA sentiments in their posts and their profiles.
My books are inclusive because I want them to reflect the world we live in, which includes people of color and people in the LGBTQIA community. I also want my books to be an escape for everyone.
I received an email from a reader who downloaded my free cozy mystery, A Shoulder to Die On. Here’s what they said:
“I started [A Shoulder to Die On] today, but I won’t recommend it to my friends nor will I leave a review. I am a straight-laced Christian and I believe in one man and one woman for marriage. I cannot go against my own conscience and beliefs. I doubt that I will finish the book. I’m sorry to disappoint you.”
Now, this reader didn’t disappoint me. And they are perfectly within their rights to feel this way, to stop reading this book, and to not read any of my books.
I’m not upset with this person at all, because I wouldn’t want someone telling me what to read or write. I’m certainly not going to force any opinions on someone.
Do I think they’re wrong? Yes. But that is my opinion, my belief.
If you’re reading this, you must like my books, and I sincerely appreciate you. But, please, don’t ever feel that your honest opinion isn’t welcome.