Book Review: Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston
From the moment I spotted Sounds Like Love on social media, I knew I was in for something special. Ashley Poston has a gift for weaving emotional narratives that tug at the heartstrings, and this one promised to be no exception. As a self-proclaimed fan of her work, I eagerly awaited the chance to dive into this lyrical love story. Let me just say, it absolutely knocked my socks off.
At its core, Sounds Like Love is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities that come with them. The protagonist, Joni Lark, is a thirty-something songwriter who’s grappling with her mother’s dementia while feeling creatively stifled. This juxtaposition of heartache and aspiration set a breathtaking scene. Joni’s internal struggles and emotions were crafted so beautifully that each word felt like a warm embrace. I often found myself nodding along, resonating with her feelings of being bone dry in a world that once overflowed with inspiration.
Poston’s writing style shines with a lyrical quality that mirrors the music Joni yearns to create. The pacing was perfect, capturing both the lighter moments of Joni’s friendship with Gigi and the heavy weight of her familial challenges. I loved the way their laughter echoed through the chapters, lightening the air even as tears streamed down my face. Honestly, my kindle and blanket were drenched by the end, and my mascara? Let’s just say it didn’t stand a chance.
One of the standout characters was Sasha, the bad boy musician who enters Joni’s world with warmth and understanding. Their dynamic is nothing short of magical. As they co-create their song—aptly named "Sounds Like Love"—you can practically feel the chemistry leaping off the page. The lines shared between them had a delightful dichotomy of tenderness and vulnerability. I particularly loved when Joni hears Sasha for the first time, exclaiming, “She tastes like cherries.” It was such a whimsical and vulnerable moment, encapsulating their budding romance beautifully.
Poston masterfully intertwines quotes and moments that resonate deeply. For example, the sentiment that "grief is just a love song in reverse" stuck with me long after I turned the last page. It perfectly encapsulates how the characters’ experiences are shaped by their reflections on love and loss. The warm, beachy backdrop of Vienna Shores, with its wild horses and sun-kissed sands, served as a brilliant stage for their story, making it feel even more alive.
If you’re looking for a read that marries heartfelt emotion with a lightness that makes you smile, Sounds Like Love is for you. Whether you’re a fan of poignant romances or simply someone searching for a book that will evoke all the feels, this tale delivers. Poston has created a world where love, music, and the messiness of life intertwine beautifully. This book has left me in a warm, reflective haze, and I’m convinced the characters will linger in my heart for years to come.
So do yourself a favor and grab a copy of Sounds Like Love. Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking. And maybe have some tissues handy—you’re going to need them! Thank you, Ashley Poston, for yet another captivating story that reaffirms the healing power of love and music.