Teaser Tuesday: Ali & Ivy

In When Ivy Met Adam, music plays a subtle but meaningful role, weaving through Ivy’s memories and connecting her to past loves. While the novel doesn’t feature music heavily, there is one notable exception: Ivy and her college girlfriend’s shared obsession with The Beastie Boys.

“I remember we cried like babies when MCA died,” I say. We lay side-by-side on my dorm room bed and played Paul’s Boutique on repeat for days.

Their grief in this scene is a quiet tribute to Adam Yauch, a.k.a. MCA, the legendary Beastie Boys rapper and bassist. Yauch’s passing in 2012 left a profound mark on fans worldwide. I remember it vividly—my neighbor in North Hollywood opened his windows and blasted every Beastie Boys track. I listened from my living room, grieving with him and alone, the music echoing through our small apartment complex.

To bring a taste of Ivy’s world to readers, I created a Spotify playlist with songs that fit the vibe of When Ivy Met Adam—a mix of introspective love songs and upbeat queer anthems that complement Ivy’s journey. From singer-songwriter gems to the essential Beastie Boys, it’s a soundtrack crafted to enhance your reading experience and connect you to Ivy’s story.

When Ivy Met Adam is a heartfelt, character-driven story about love, memory, and self-discovery. I hope the playlist adds a musical dimension to the book, bringing Ivy’s world to life with every song. So, if you’re ready to dive into Ivy’s journey, put on the playlist and let the music guide you through the pages of my second novel.

Happy reading—and listening! 🎧