MY BOOK'S PLAYLIST

My mother says that despite the outcome, it is my duty to celebrate this accomplishment.

So, you know what? That’s what I’m going to do! I mean, moms are always right, are they not?

I have equally loved and hated every aspect of the writing process. The beloved first draft that can do no wrong. The second draft, where absolutely everything is wrong. Even the stomach-dropping moment when the email has been sent, forcing your precious baby into the spotlight and scrutiny of various publishers. That breath of relief where it is no longer in your hands is a feeling that cannot be replicated.

What a glorious half a second that was.

However, one of the portions of my flirtation with madness that I was most excited to share with my readers (insert laughing emoji here) was the playlist.

Oh yes, there’s a playlist. What do I look like, an amateur?

I think like most humans on earth, I tend to live my life by song lyrics. Real connection comes when just one phrase can capture exactly the emotions we hold claim to, ones that often feel so indescribable.

It was no different for me and my characters. Certain songs, a verse or two, or even just a chorus somehow managed to gather everything I was trying to articulate into a two-minute synopsis with a catchy beat.

Searching out these miracle workers was so much fun, and though I Prefer Spinster may never see the light of day, that in no way means the playlist shouldn’t.

So, for those of you who have had the privilege to read my masterpiece, (thanks mom and little bro) listed below is the soundtrack, along with some accompanying explanations for my choices. For those of you who have not, the songs are still really good.

Warning: My music taste has often been described as “eclectic”.

I Prefer Spinster

“Annie”- SafetySuit

Upon discovery of this song, I knew my book was going to be published 😂 It just perfectly encapsulates my main character, Annie Nelson.

“Pressure”- Muse

With the thoughts of others, best friends, parents, and herself, “pressure“ doesn’t begin to describe how Annie feels.

“Stupid Cupid”- Connie Francis

An apt summary of Annie‘s love life. And perhaps my own.

“Angeleyes”- ABBA

Logan Hamilton’s eyes. That’s it.

“Where The River Flows”- Collective Soul

One of the many songs featured on Annie’s Running Mix.

“Every Breath You Take”- The Police

Barry Stone outside the Nelson’s home, completing a perimeter check for possible intruders. With or without permission is still up for debate.

“Impossible”- Anberlin

If asked one word to describe the other, the selection both Annie and Logan would make.

“Electric Love”- BØRNS

The first kiss.

“Kiss Me”- Sixpence None The Richer

One of my favorite love songs of all time, but not applicable for the first kiss song, because as my mother said, “They’re to snarky for that”. Think of this as Annie’s post kiss song.

“As Lovers Go”- Dashboard Confessional

Though I spent most of my time in Annie’s head, I was gifted some time in Logan’s as well. The first part of this song is basically word for word what Logan is thinking as he listens to Annie ramble.

“Why Do Fools Fall In Love?”- Frankie Lymon, The Teenagers

I feel like this one doesn’t really need an explanation.

“Franklin”- Paramore

Barry and Annie’s falling out.

“Carve Your Heart Out Yourself”- Dashboard Confessional

Again inside Logan’s head, the breakup.

“Your Song”- Kate Walsh

Post breakup, Annie’s perspective. Clearly.

“Needs”- Collective Soul

I like to call this selection “denial”. If we’re being honest, that nickname most likely applies to both Annie and myself.

“Rainbow”- Kacey Musgrave

Revelation. Epiphany. Thoughts finally on par with God’s love. Any and all apply.

“Heaven’s Already Here”- Collective Soul

Logan’s favorite Collective Soul song. I also like to think of this as the ”roll credits” soundtrack.