Would the Timberlake clan sue me? Legality is one reason I hesitate publishing my novel. Fact–the Timberlake name is linked to the Feminist factions spawned in France and the powerful media manipulator, William Randolph Hearst, and has circus links through the Flying Silverlakes, but my true interest is how they crisscross Florida. The cult in my novel does not exist. so the Timberlake family can’t be involved with the cult and the only reason I use the name is for historical and fictional reasons, but unfortunately, that leaves me on shaky legal ground.
Slander is the issue of consequence. Do I say or imply anything worse about William Randolph Hearst than Wikipedia or a history book? I don’t think so, Hearst manipulated the news. Fake news isn’t anything new. The other dangerous ground upon which I tread is the link to my fictional cult and this cult may appear evil, but in reality, my cult just reflects society. Creation of a plausible conspiracy seemed interesting, but this plausibility leaves me mired in a legal quagmire.
I obviously allude to Hedy Lamarr, in the first chapter, but I do so because I respect her contribution to science. Placing her in the Dove faction of my cult is my way of steering away from slander. Does the act of placing her a fertility cult slander an actress who obviously capitalized on her sexuality? Personally, I believe not; but it wouldn’t surprise me if some screams slut-shaming. If you interpret my post, Tight G-strings don’t hurt Pink’s head, correctly, you will see I respect Pink’s attitude and I place Lamarr in this category which owns up to their use of sexuality and O don’t slut-shame Ariana Grande–I cast shame at her hypocrisy.
Even though I don’t consider my novel slanderous and my interest in trivia and history is plain to ee==I’m still not sure If I’m on the solid legal ground and this depresses me. I don’t see a legal disclaimer that addresses my use of trivia, so I’m probably screwed. If anyone has an idea on how to deal with a fictional conspiracy theory based reality.
Dissection of a Misanthrope 
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