Just a Kiss
Susanne McCallum is a world-class gymnast. But when she comes home from Rio with a broken leg instead of the medal she wanted, she’s forced to put gymnastics on hold until it heals.
Unable to train, she has time to date for the first time in her life. But she has no idea what she’s doing when it comes to finding love.
Abbott Meadows is her best friend’s older brother. His life was also once devoted to the same sport. He hasn’t dated much either.
Watching Susanne stumble and make mistakes awakens his feelings for her. But he is uncomfortable with the 8-year age difference between them.
They might be perfect for each other, if one of them is willing to make a move … even if it’s Just a Kiss.
I’ve often said that music inspires me. In addition to the songs listed below, I listened to a lot of Pentatonix, and The Princess and the Frog soundtrack, while writing Just a Kiss.
SPOILER ALERT: If you haven’t read the book and don’t want to know how it ends, read at your own caution.
One Moment in Time - by Whitney Houston
This song was the theme song for the 1988 Summer Olympics. I used this song on the playlist because Susanne’s mom was a gymnast at the time.
You’re the Inspiration - by Chicago
This song was Susanne’s parents’ first dance at their wedding.
Home - by Phillip Phillips
This song was a theme song used during the 2012 Summer Olympics for the Women’s Gymnastics team. I used this song because Susanne was on the team (in my “gagengirl” universe.)
Girls Chase Boys - by Ingrid Michaelsen
When I heard this song on the radio, I always thought of this story. It is one of Susanne’s theme songs
Sugar - by Maroon 5
This is the theme song for Susanne’s first real boyfriend Cory Michaels.
Hide Away - by Daya
This is Susanne’s 2nd theme song.
Cake by the Ocean - by DNCE
This is the theme song for Susanne’s second, and brief, boyfriend Jacob Laughlin.
The Lady in Red - by Chris DeBurgh
This song is again used to represent Susanne’s parents.
Rise - by Katy Perry
This song was the theme song for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio.
Can’t Sleep Love - by Pentatonix
This song describes what Susanne is searching for. (Aren’t we all, really?)
On My Mind - by Ellie Goulding
This song represents Susanne’s growing crush on Abbott.
One Call Away - by Charlie Puth
This is Abbott’s theme song.
Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not - by Thompson Square
This song represents the growing feelings Susanne and Abbott have for each other.
(Kissed You) Good Night - by Gloriana
This song also represents the growing feelings Susanne and Abbott have for each other.
Just a Kiss - by Lady Antebellum
This song gave me the title. But it also represents Susanne’s innocence in dating, and her inability to take a relationship to that next step.
You Are In Love - by Taylor Swift
This song represents Susanne and Abbott finally realizing the depths of their feelings for each other.
Love Me Like You Do - by Ellie Goulding
This song represents Susanne and Abbott finally together.
Lava - by Kuana Torres Kahele, Napua Greig, & James Ford Murphy
If you’ve read the story, you know how this song ends up becoming their first dance.
