I will not dignify the accusations and histrionics with an emotional response. Here are my views:
1. I’d acknowledged the inspiration of the original story series in part 1. I’d also written a message prior to embarking on the writing of the sequel informing the writer of my plan to write a sequel. After the series was uploaded, I wrote another message to the author of the original series informing her of the sequels. Anyone seeking to conceal or take advantage of another’s absence would not take on such communication.
2. I urge everyone to examine current copyright legislation carefully, particularly sections dealing with ideas and characters.
3. As much as I would like to empathise with a fellow author’s feelings, I did not do anything wrong and do not feel creative licence is anything to be apologetic about. Hence I did not remove the story. If the story website decides to remove the series, that is their decision. Readers who wish to will be able to access the series on a different platform.
While I am not confrontational, I do not back down in instances where I have done nothing wrong. I have sought legal advice in relation to this matter and will defend my position where necessary.
It is a pity that a fellow author has chosen to react in this manner, but no one can please everyone. So however regrettable the matter has been, the negativity will hopefully recede, that is the main reason why I’m refraining from reacting in an equally vitriolic manner.
Update since post was written on 15 March:
Part 1 of the series has been removed. I understand Literotica’s stand since they need to act on complaints.
Nevertheless, I am actually finding some humour in this. I’m not sure if anyone realised what has just happened – if anything, increased street cred and a tagline for a marketing campaign have been handed to me: Controversial series removed from Literotica!
Guess in twitterverse, it'll go something like this #lemonade #franchise #launched LOL
