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
Shelf To Table
The perfect food pairing for this novel is a Pink Lemonade Margarita. This novel feels like the perfect embodiment of summer, and one of the standout places Joni visits is The Marge—a bar on a boat that serves the most creative twists on classic margaritas. And let’s be honest, margaritas are basically the unofficial drink of summer. One fun variation I love comes from Brenda Score at A Farmgirl’s Dabble: a pink lemonade margarita. It’s refreshing, playful, and just the kind of drink you’d want in hand while watching the sun set over the water.
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.
Book Club Bite
Bar food bites would make the perfect snacks for a book club discussion—easy to share, fun to eat, and full of flavor. Think sliders, fried pickles, pretzel bites, or loaded nachos—casual, comforting foods that pair perfectly with lively conversation and a good drink.
“How do I forgive my past self for all the futures I didn’t become? I don’t know.”
Ashley Poston