I recently ran across a forum where people were discussing one author’s concerns about her latest book’s protagonist. Her main character is gay. This author has never written about homosexuality before, and she was asking if she should warn readers in advance. She worried about offending an unsuspecting fan or scaring off new readers of her work.
Almost unanimously, those responding to her post voted a resounding “no.” She did not, they insisted, need to “warn” anyone. A few people asked if the character’s sexual persuasion was simply a trait or if it was a thematic element in the book. A comparison was made to religion when someone suggested that designating a character as Catholic or Jewish was of little concern unless their faith is paramount to the story.
I was particularly interested in this conversation. In my upcoming release, Unmasking Paulie Bingham, the heroine falls in love with an openly gay man. Paulie loves Kate, too, but finds his new life doesn’t quite fit. A number of challenges plague the couple, including a high profile murder investigation in which Paulie is implicated. And yes, his sexuality is thematic as he struggles to make a life for himself in a straight world.
Like the author on the forum, I worried about my book. After all, Paulie & Kate’s story is a broad departure from my usual work. How would my regular readers respond? I considered releasing this book under another pseudonym, but was talked out of that by an author friend whose confidence in me and my book exceeds my own.
The bottom line is that the book’s blurb makes clear that the story line involves sexuality issues. Readers should be able to determine for themselves whether or not this kind of story will interest or offend them, and I will be okay with that. Still, I need to target a specific audience. Women who have ever loved a gay man will identify with Kate. Men who’ve ever found themselves straddling two worlds, neither of which fit perfectly, will commiserate with Paulie. Romance readers who love sensitive, sentimental characters will get caught up in Unmasking Paulie Bingham and its follow up, For the Love of Katrina Bingham (Winter, 2013).
And by the way, for those who feel Paulie Bingham might not be their cuppa tea, no worries, friends. Angel’s Gate, the third Beacon Street Mystery, is on the horizon for spring!