I remember the day vividly. I had sent out beta links about two weeks prior. Only 3 people, because beta reading is a closed-door, sacred space for me.
Out of 3 beta readers: 1 DNFed the book for personal reasons. 1 absolutely adored it. And number 3?
She sent me a scathing email about how "f-ing stupid" my main character was and how she would have written it differently.
First of all, this wasn't her book to write and I did say that (nicely).
Secondly, I had warned all my beta readers about my naive and sheltered main lead BEFORE I approved their requests to read the unpolished book.
Lastly, the response she gave was from a triggered place, and I recognized that immediately.
We've been conditioned (especially in the US) to want our female characters to be "Boss Babes". We want them to be warriors. To save themselves instead of allowing someone else to save them. We want them to be "strong" and "independent".
And it's left 0% tolerance for girl characters who are simply... good.
We've been fed "strong independent, can save herself" woman for so long, when we meet a character who believes the best in everyone and ignores all red flags... a character who forgives easily... who loves fully... who is kind and naive and a bit dense... most people rear back in anger.
Because that's "not how it should be". It's "different". It's "weak".
But in my book (literally and figuratively), naivety and forgiveness and seeing the good aren't weaknesses. In some ways, they're a girl's greatest strength.
If you think so, too, A Tale of Blood and Blossoms is YOUR book:
3 readers. 1 book. 3 different reactions.
Proving my point that everyone's favorite story is a subjective experience. Everyone loves something different in their books.
I'm writing for the soft girls. The girls who want their men protective and their love true.
Megan
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I'm the author!
Hey, I'm Megan, and I'm here to supply you with epic little stories and unconditional support for your writing. You're family now, so don't hesitate to reach out or reply!
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