They Called Them ‘Merch’

Why I Cut This Scene from Jackson

As an author, I try to balance storytelling with sensitivity. Jackson is a romance, a book meant to offer escape and connection. But one of Paula’s undercover scenes touched too closely on real-world issues, especially involving ICE and immigration.

I chose to cut it during edits. Not because the scene wasn’t powerful or important, but because the reality behind it is too painful for some readers looking to unwind with fiction.

Still, for those who want to know what really happened during Paula’s off-page assignment, I’m sharing the full, unabridged chapter here. It’s dark and messy, and Paula is right in the middle of it.

Read when you’re ready.