As I wrote this book, I wanted to give each of my main characters a face—one that felt real, vivid, and relatable. I didn’t want them to be just words on a page, but living, breathing individuals whose stories would resonate with readers long after they finished the book. To bring this vision to life, I drew inspiration from talented Black actors and actresses, imagining how their unique presence, and energy would shape and define the characters. It was important to me that the characters weren't just defined by their roles in the story. By connecting each character with a familiar face, I hoped to create a deeper bond between them and the reader, allowing the story to unfold in a way that feels personal and authentic. I wanted my readers to be able to see these characters clearly, feel their emotions, and walk beside them through every page of the book.
