A deep dive into the Ocean of Ink playlist
Please be aware that the following should only be read after finishing Ocean of Ink. Do not read this before then.
A lot of music inspired me as I wrote Ocean of Ink. You may notice the playlist name on Spotify is “obsidian academy”, instead of the book title. I did this because I feel as though many of the songs describe the journey of the duet in its entirety, instead of just book one or book two.
So, there may be some songs that will make more sense come book two! Also, I won’t be going over every song on the playlist, just the ones that heavily inspired the writing of this particular book.
Empires by Ruelle: The talk of storms, tides, and empires describes the feeling of the Seven Havens to me. If my book had a movie trailer, this is likely what would play in the background. You’ll find a lot of Ruelle songs on the playlist, because she really captures the fantastical vibes I was going for.
I Need You To Hate Me by JC Stewart: The idea of wishing the person you love hated you just SCREAMS Castien Valengard to me
Power Over Me by Dermot Kennedy: Speaking of sounds that sound like Castien wrote them, this is that.
i can’t breathe by Bea Miller: This song makes me ache on Wren’s behalf. I listened to it many times while trying to get her story right. The feeling of not knowing yourself anymore, not wanting to know yourself. Of being incapable of breathing because the pain is too much. It all is very applicable to Wren.
Dancing With Our Hands Tied by Taylor Swift: everything from the ball to the very end…need I say more?
Free by KPOP Demon Hunters: When I listened to this song for the first time I immediately thought of Wren and Castien. This is their duet! Secrets, burdens, and only feeling safe with one another. It’s perfect.
Rescue by Lauren Daigle: this song is in the epigraph for a reason. I wanted those who read this book to feel seen and cared for. There are many layers to the song and it’s one of my favorites that has made me cry on several occasions.
I hope you enjoyed this little deep dive into the playlist with me! Send me an email or DM with songs you think fit the book <3 I’d love to chat!