Music, Military and Me

When it comes to writing, one question I am always asked is what music do I listen to while I write? For the most part, I don't typically listen to music with words because lyrics will inspire me and give me other story ideas and talk about your shiney object overload. But in the case of What Part of Marine Don't You Understand? I actually broke this rule. I listened to song after song about the military--sometimes about the Marines, but in every single one of them, there was an element that took my breath away. This was vital considering Naomi Sparks, my heroine, is not only the sister and daughter of a Marine(s), but also because she is a songwriter.

So in no particular order, I share with you the playlist for What Part of Marine Don't You Understand?

Tim McGraw - If You're Reading This...




Sarah McLachlan - In the Arms of An Angel



Lonestar - I'm Already There (Messages from Home)




Toby Keith - Red, White and Blue



Lee Greenwood - God Bless the U.S.A.



Toby Keith - American Soldiers



Big & Rich - 8th of November



I can honestly say these songs humble me for the service our men and women and their families give this country and I hope I do it even a little bit of justice with my books.

What Part of Marine Don't You Understand? releases on May 24