Thanks! Well, I just started my sophomore year of college as a music major (and a “non-traditional student”—aka, “old” ;)), so that has pretty much consumed my life. At the same time, I am trying not to neglect my writing. The balance is tricky, but so far, God has helped it work.
Your latest book, Wedding Score, seems to be special to you. Tell us why that is.
Yes! So, I got the idea for “Wedding Score” in 2016. However, it sat by as a vague idea only. I wanted to write it several times, but it was just never the right time. From 2016 to 2019, I watched four of my siblings and several cousins get married. The whole transition of relationships with all of them had its rough patches, but when God finally allowed me to write “Wedding Score,” He so beautifully wove pieces of all the lessons I’d been learning into Steph’s story. I guess that’s why it’s so special to me. It really is a part of me.
Tell us about your main character. What frustrated you the most about her? What did you find most endearing?
Ah, Stephanie. She’s spunky and chooses to see life through glasses of humor—or, at least, she tries. There really wasn’t anything about her that frustrated me. She was pretty easy to work with. If I was going to be frustrated with anyone in the story, it was Livvy. As for what I found most endearing about Steph, it would be the way she tried so hard to be cheerful and laugh at things instead of mope and become depressed.
There is a musical aspect to the story which is inspired from your own love of music. How did you enjoying bringing that aspect into the story?
I absolutely loved bringing music into my story! Like… really more than I can say. There was a phrase or two that a beta reader mentioned as possibly being “unnecessary” to the plot, but I’ll admit, for once, I balked at it just because I wanted the musical flavor in the story.
Since we’re on the topic, why don’t you share a little bit about your music.
Music has always been a part of my life. Mom would sit us down and give me and my siblings “choir lessons.” I’ve played piano since age seven, violin since age eight, and cello since last year. I began teaching at age sixteen and absolutely love it. I often refer to my students as my “kids”—I’m sure I confuse some people. With a Joyful Noise is my music business where I have several of my piano and violin arrangements for sale. You can also find some of my recordings on Amazon, iTunes, or Spotify (albums “Reflections of the Cross,” “Christmas is,” and “The Solid Rock”).
What is your favorite quote from the story?
Ooh, this is a hard one… I’ll share two. A humorous one and serious one.
Wow. I have been completely overwhelmed and humbled by the response. I know I’m not the only single girl out there who has moments struggling to be content with where God has me—but to hear so many girls respond with how much it has encouraged them that they’re not the only ones and that Steph’s response and perspective encouraged them to work on their outlook… that has blessed me beyond words.
Where can people get the story?
On October 28, Lord willing, “Wedding Score” will be available on Amazon in eBook and paperback format.
Finally, what’s your current favorite thing to play on the piano?
My favorite is usually what I happen to be working on at the time. So, right now it’s Debussy’s “Jardins sous la Pluie.” At the same time, I also love breaking out into whatever hymn is on my heart (very much like Steph and “’Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus”).
Thanks so much for having me back at Homeschooled Authors!
I certainly enjoyed all of "Wedding Score"! And since music is a part of this discussion, I'll mention that I loved how Steph plays with "'Tis So Sweet." :) A beautiful part of the plot.
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