WHEN YOU THINK TAYLOR SWIFT I HOPE YOU THINK OF KATE

When I’m in the early stages of writing a novel, I collect pictures of people that fit the image I have of my characters.

For Kate O’Donnell in Thicker Than Water, it was difficult to find that role model. I knew that Kate was a talented singer/songwriter living in Nashville and trying to break into the music business. She was young, tall and lanky, athletic (but sometimes a little awkward), red-haired, fair-skinned and very attractive. She was independent, sometimes fiery, intelligent and driven.

I looked at my favorite female performers –Shania Twain, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Nora Jones–and though they had many of Kate’s characteristics, none were exactly right.

Then, Taylor Swift burst onto the scene and there was a real ah-hah moment. Here was the model for Kate. The talent, the personality and the appearance were all spot on. Okay, Taylor’s hair is curly and  blonde instead of  red and straight. I can live with that.

Taylor’s first single is titled “Tim McGraw” and is basically a letter to an ex-boyfriend. As she remininisces about their time together, she talks about their favorite songs (obviously sung by Tim McGraw). One line of the lyrics is “when you think Tim McGraw, I hope you think of me”.

Taking the liberty to modify those lyrics I’d like to say “When you think Taylor Swift, I hope you think of Kate.”

So, anyone who likes Taylor Swift and would like to read about another young woman trying to make her mark in the music industry, you might want to read about Kate O’Donnell’s adventures in “Thicker Than Water”.  There’s also a mystery involved and a secret admirer who stalks both Kate and her computer game avatar.

Oh, and Taylor, if you’re listening, I’d love to send you a copy and hear what you think of it.