Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston
4.5 Stars
The Book At A Glance
Joni Lark is one of LA’s most sought-after songwriters—but she’s lost her spark. Hoping to find inspiration, she returns to her hometown of Vienna Shores, only to discover her best friend is hiding secrets, her mother’s memory is fading, and her family’s music venue is closing. Then she hears it: a half-formed melody and a voice in her head that belongs to a stranger. When that very real, very guarded musician shows up in town, the two must finish the song that binds them together—without losing their hearts in the process.
Bookish Thoughts
I was instantly drawn to the concept of being able to communicate with your soulmate through your mind—it felt so unique and intriguing, and I couldn’t wait to see how the author would bring it to life on the page. As a fan of stories centered around musicians, that element made the book even more appealing to me. This heartfelt, summertime read strikes the perfect chord for those who love stories filled with good music vibes, a tender romance between a brooding musician and a hopeful songwriter, and the emotional depth that comes with navigating family illness.
Book Review
Joni Lark is stuck in a creative slump—an impossible place to be for a songwriter who can’t seem to write another song. One night, she crosses paths with Sebastian, a struggling musician who’s battling his own creative drought. Their brief but passionate connection sparks something unexpected: suddenly, they can hear each other’s thoughts, along with a haunting melody that belongs to neither of them. The only way to break free from this strange bond is to give the melody a voice and write the song together. But as they work toward an ending, Joni and Sebastian discover that the real harmony might just be the love growing between them.
What I loved most about this novel were two things: the romance and the family dynamic. Joni and Sebastian’s relationship was absolutely adorable—I was captivated by the idea of connecting with someone through the mind, getting to know them on such an intimate level, and even feeling what they feel. It took the concept of soulmates to a whole new depth. Just imagine a world where you’re instantly tied to your soulmate—falling in love would be effortless, without all the heartbreak.
The family aspect also moved me deeply. Joni’s parents were incredible, always supporting her dreams and encouraging her to chase what she felt was her true purpose. Their relationship with each other was bittersweet—so tender, yet heartbreaking to see Joni’s mom battling illness and her dad caring for her with unwavering love until the very end. The balance of laughter, love, and tears in these family moments added so much heart to the story and made it unforgettable.
“Mom was right—grief was a love song in reverse. The notes were still there, but they sounded a little different.”
Ashley Poston
If You Loved This, Try
A literary pairing similar to this novel is A Not So Fictional Fall by Savannah Scott, a cozy marriage-of-convenience romance about a famous author who unexpectedly ends up married to one of his fans. As they navigate public scrutiny and private struggles, the two must work together to untangle both personal and professional complications. The story delivers warm, comforting vibes, centering on deeply connected characters who learn to trust one another and move forward as a team.
Ashley Poston is a New York Times bestselling author known for writing heartfelt, cozy, and emotionally resonant stories that blend romance with magical realism. Her novels often explore themes of love, grief, second chances, and finding yourself at the right moment, all wrapped in charming settings and warm, hopeful storytelling that feels both comforting and deeply moving. Her other books written by this author include The Dead Romantics, A Novel Love Story, The Seven-Year Slip, and many more.
Shelf To Table
Pink Lemonade Margarita: A pink lemonade margarita blends the refreshing sweetness of pink lemonade with the tangy, citrusy punch of a classic margarita for a perfectly balanced, vibrant cocktail.
If you loved the music-infused romance in this novel, The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez is a perfect pairing. The story follows Sloan, who is slowly rebuilding her life after loss when an unexpected connection begins through texts and late-night calls with a touring musician. Blending grief, healing, and the pull of music, this heartfelt romance explores whether love can find its rhythm again when timing, distance, and fear of heartbreak stand in the way.
“How do I forgive my past self for all the futures I didn’t become? I don’t know.”
Ashley Poston