Why I Decided Not to Use an Avatar in My Newsletter

Sometimes in the creative process, we try things that feel brilliant in the moment. Sometimes they are brilliant. And sometimes… they’re just a little goofy.
Recently, while building my author newsletter, I had the idea to create an avatar, an imaginary “assistant” who would open each issue in a fun, whimsical voice. Her name was Dottie Grimble, and she was meant to bring a lighthearted tone to the updates readers receive from me each month.
At first, I loved the idea. But after a lot of thought, I realized something important:
My readers connect with me, not an imaginary character speaking for me.
You’ll be following my writing journey, cheering on my stories, and waiting patiently as I edit and refine worlds that live in my head and heart. I hope you’ll encourage my voice. So why would I dilute that by having someone else—fictional or not—do the talking?
The truth is:
I want this newsletter to feel real. Genuine. Like a message from one person who loves storytelling to another who understands why it matters. Not every idea we explore has to make it to the finish line. Some simply help us clarify what feels right.
And what feels right… is simply me.
So, while Dottie Grimble had her moment and made me smile during development, she won’t be appearing in the newsletter. I’ll be writing each issue in my own voice.
Who knows. Maybe she’ll make a cameo someday when the moment calls for a touch of mischief. But for now, I think the best introduction each month is simply:
“Hi, it’s me.”
Thank you for being here,
—B.F. Scott