Soundtrack: Discovering Grace

10/22/2019

I listen to all sorts of music when I first start writing a book. I try to build a playlist before I even begin, thinking of the sort of story I want to tell. I add and delete songs as I go, depending on scenes and how the characters transform in a story. By the time I'm finished writing, I've usually whittled down the playlist to just a few songs that I've come to associate very strongly with the characters.

Discovering Grace was an interesting story to write. I understand Grace on such a deep level. She's quiet, but that doesn't mean she isn't strong. She is the true definition of meek: having power, yet using it with wisdom and gentleness. Jacob, her love interest, is strong in his own way. He's committed his life to becoming a vicar, to being kind and understanding, but when he's put to the test he doesn't react the way he thought he would. Their relationship is so interesting, from friends to something more. I hope you enjoy the music the way I did. Here it is:

Discovering Grace: A Playlist
(Listen Along on Spotify)

Time of Our Lives, Tyrone Wells:
Traditionally a graduation song, it really suited the moment at the beginning of the novel when Grace and Hope, her sister, say goodbye to one another. It's about relationships changing, cherished memories, and it's bitter-sweet.

Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head, B.J. Thomas:
This is Grace AND Jacob at different moments in the novel. Nothing is going the way either of them want it to go, but they just keep pushing through and trying to be positive!

Never Say Never, The Fray:
This is Jacob's song. I think he is really confused as to how he feels about Hope and Grace. He likes the idea of Hope. She's bright, like a firework, but she's not what he needs. Not who he really loves. So this is the song in his heart for the woman he loves, even though he doesn't know it yet.

The Aviators, Helen Jane Long:
Instrumental only. But I loved listening to this when I was writing about Grace's feelings, her longing to be seen for who she is and loved for it. It's a quiet song, almost tentative at first, but then there is a lift and it grows stronger and faster, more confident. If my book were a movie, I would want this playing in the background as Grace takes control of her fate.

And Then There Was You, Norah Jones:
The surprise of Love. More from Jacob's perspective than Grace's.

I Got You, Jack Johnson:
Jacob thinks he understands what's going on. He's happy to help Grace. To grow closer to her. He's evaluating his place as a future vicar, thinking of what Grace's friendship means to him, and feeling like his world is a good place, even if the unexpected happens.

Brighter Than Sunshine, Aqualung:
Again, this is very Jacob. "Tied up" in his memories and taken by surprise when he FINALLY realizes he's in love with Grace. The moment dawns bright, likely in that scene in the woods. He "never saw it happening" and didn't think he "could take the hurt again" of loving an Everly lady. This is his elation, just before another crash...

Give Me One Reason, Jason Reeves:
Everything comes crashing down. Jacob loves Grace. Until he uncovers more about her that makes him ache. Another lie. Another falsehood. He's so conflicted. But you know, it's Grace, too. "I don't need you to be me, I'll be just fine being free." She loves him so much, but if he can't try to understand her, if he can't accept what she's done and why, then she will have to do without him. Do they stay, or leave?

Fight Song, by Rachel Platten:
Grace's song when she keeps her chin up and does what she must to ensure her happiness. She's not going to apologize for who she is anymore.

I Believe in You, Michael Buble:
Jacob comes back, apologizes, and tells Grace how wonderful she is, and how he's failed her, and then their relationship finally starts to take off!

True Colors, Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake:
A perfect duet for my lovely couple who fought through so much.

Love Me Tender, Brandon Mills:
Instrumental. This one is part of the final credits, rolling at the end of their story, giving you the reassurance that they're going to love each other for a long time. Forever, in fact. A tender, long-abiding love.

Want to listen to the playlist? Check it out on Spotify!