NELLIE (AINEE) – Black woman, strong, unflinching, and stern, with a hidden capacity to love deeply. The Madame of the Whorehouse.
NA ROSE – Black woman, beautiful yet awkward, soft, fragile, lyrical, and unsure of herself. An aspiring blueswoman.
MARLA – Black woman, saucy, sexy, voluptuous, troubled, and vulgar. One of the "gals."
REE ANN – Black woman, sensible, steady, dedicated and unyielding. One of the "gals."
SANDY – Black woman, sweet, stunning, spirited, fun-loving, optimistic, and extremely sexual. One of the "gals."
OSSIE – Black man, handsome, proud, charming, strong, and confident. A freedom fighter.
ROLLO – Black man, nervous energy, jittery, talkative, and lovable. Nellie’s oldest friend.
TOM JR. – White man, handsome, friendly, and eager. An aspiring do-gooder with a troubled heart. Son of the Sheriff.
Nellie Jackson's Whorehouse was a real and famous place in Natchez, Mississippi. This story is based in part on my beloved aunt, Ms. Nellie Jackson (called Ainee by her family), a well-loved woman in the community who was known more for her "heart of gold" and the way in which she would take care of people in the community than for the mere fact that she was a Madame.