Dear reader,

Thank you for picking up this book and stepping into the world I’ve created. Before diving in, I want to share something important—this is not a sanitized fantasy. Life is messy, shaped by intolerance and the complexities of othering.

Throughout history, those who looked, spoke, or lived differently were cast aside. Sadly, this still holds true today. While progress continues, issues like homophobia, sexism, and racism persist.

This series isn’t written from a Western lens. Though parts take place in familiar cities like London and Paris, much unfolds in Beirut, Cairo, southern India, sub-Saharan Africa, and Pakistan. The characters reflect their environments—flawed but real. Portraying them otherwise would feel dishonest.

In Western media, stories like Heartstopper celebrate acceptance. I love those stories, but reality isn’t always as kind. Even the most pro-LGBTQ characters might say offensive things shaped by their upbringing. My role as a writer is to be authentic, not cater to Western comfort.

Cultural nuances matter. In the U.S., asking about weight might offend. On the other hand, in Beirut a standard greeting would be to criticize someone's weight.

My characters' actions don’t reflect my own. Robin Jacobs, a misogynist shaped by a thousand years of history, cannot be expected to champion modern values—but he grows. People are complex. A homophobe might dedicate their life to charity. This doesn’t excuse bigotry but acknowledges the contradictions within us all.

This story stands against discrimination and exclusion. Robin, for example, honors a friend by adopting the Middle Eastern name Badr.

I believe in tolerance and love, but my characters aren’t perfect mirrors of those values. Some grow; others don’t. I ask you to read with an open heart and embrace the journey.

Much love,
JAD