Ashley Poston has carved out a distinctive niche in contemporary romance with her signature blend of whimsical magical realism and deeply emotional storytelling. With Sounds Like Love, her latest offering, Poston orchestrates a symphony of second chances, creative burnout, and the inexplicable connections that bind us together—sometimes quite literally.
The novel follows Joni Lark, a successful Los Angeles songwriter whose creative well has run dry, forcing her to return to her coastal North Carolina hometown of Vienna Shores. What begins as a reluctant homecoming becomes something far more complex when Joni starts hearing a mysterious melody in her head, complete with a disembodied voice belonging to a musician she’s never met. Enter Sebastian “Sasha” Fell, son of rock legend Roman Fell, who shares this inexplicable telepathic connection through their shared song.
The Magic in the Music
Poston’s greatest strength lies in her ability to ground fantastical elements in authentic human emotion. The telepathic connection between Joni and Sebastian could easily veer into gimmicky territory, but instead becomes a profound exploration of creative partnership and intimate understanding. The author skillfully uses this supernatural element to examine how two people can truly “hear” each other, both literally and metaphorically.
The magical realism here serves a deeper purpose than mere plot device. As Joni and Sebastian work together to complete their mysterious song, their mental connection gradually fades—a bittersweet metaphor for how true intimacy requires conscious choice rather than supernatural compulsion. This central conceit allows Poston to explore themes of artistic collaboration, the vulnerability required for genuine connection, and the difference between being bound together and choosing to stay together.
A Symphony of Setting and Character
Vienna Shores emerges as more than mere backdrop; it becomes a character unto itself. Poston’s vivid descriptions of the coastal town, with its wild horses galloping through streets during storms and the beloved music venue The Revelry, create an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and immediate. The author clearly draws from her Southern roots, infusing the setting with authentic details that make Vienna Shores feel lived-in and real.
The Revelry itself serves as the novel’s emotional anchor—a struggling family venue that represents both Joni’s musical heritage and the inevitable march of time. Through this music hall, Poston explores themes of legacy, family responsibility, and the tension between honoring the past and embracing change.
Character Development: Harmonious Yet Discordant
Joni emerges as a compelling protagonist whose creative burnout feels startlingly authentic. Poston captures the paralysis that comes with success—how achieving your dreams can sometimes reveal their inadequacy. Joni’s struggle with feeling empty despite professional accomplishment resonates with anyone who has questioned whether their achievements truly fulfill them.
Sebastian proves more complex than the typical brooding love interest. His relationship with his famous father and his own failed musical career create layers of insecurity and ambition that drive his character beyond surface attraction. However, some readers might find his transformation from cynical musician to devoted partner somewhat rushed, particularly given the relatively short timeframe of the novel.
The supporting cast shines particularly bright. Gigi, Joni’s best friend turned aspiring performer, provides both comic relief and poignant moments of friendship evolution. Joni’s parents, especially her mother Wynona’s early-stage dementia storyline, add emotional weight that prevents the novel from becoming too light or fantastical.
The Crescendo of Romance
The romantic development between Joni and Sebastian benefits from their unique connection while avoiding the trap of insta-love. Their telepathic bond forces them into immediate intimacy, but Poston wisely requires them to build a relationship in the physical world as well. The tension between their mental connection and real-world interaction creates compelling romantic moments.
However, the pacing occasionally stumbles. Some readers may find the middle section drags as the characters work through their creative and personal issues, while the resolution feels slightly rushed. The romantic climax, while emotionally satisfying, might leave some wanting more exploration of how their relationship functions without their supernatural connection.
Weaving Contemporary Issues
Beyond romance, Poston tackles several contemporary concerns with sensitivity and insight:
- Creative Burnout: The novel’s exploration of artistic exhaustion feels particularly relevant in our productivity-obsessed culture. Joni’s struggle to create while feeling empty inside speaks to creators across all mediums.
- Family Caregiving: The subplot involving Joni’s mother’s dementia adds emotional depth and explores the “long goodbye” of progressive diseases with careful authenticity.
- Small Town Economics: The Revelry’s financial struggles reflect the challenges facing small businesses and cultural institutions in changing economies.
- Legacy and Identity: Both main characters grapple with stepping out of family shadows while honoring their heritage.
The Author’s Musical Style
Poston’s prose maintains her characteristic warmth and accessibility while incorporating musical metaphors that never feel forced. Her dialogue sparkles with wit and authenticity, particularly in the banter between Joni and Sebastian. The author demonstrates growth in handling serious themes while maintaining the hopeful tone her readers expect.
The integration of actual song lyrics and musical theory shows impressive research, though music industry insiders might notice some simplifications. The telepathic elements are handled with just enough explanation to satisfy without over-rationalizing the magic.
Where the Music Hits a Minor Key
Despite its many strengths, Sounds Like Love has some discordant notes:
- Pacing Issues: The novel’s middle section occasionally loses momentum as characters work through internal conflicts.
- Secondary Plot Resolution: Some subplots, particularly involving family dynamics, feel incompletely explored.
- Supernatural Mechanics: While the telepathic connection works emotionally, readers seeking logical explanations may feel unsatisfied.
- Geographical Details: Occasional inconsistencies in the North Carolina setting might jar readers familiar with the region.
Similar Harmonies: Books to Read Next
Readers who enjoy Sounds Like Love will likely appreciate:
- Beach Read by Emily Henry – for similar themes of creative block and small-town romance
- The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston – the author’s previous work exploring magical realism in romance
- The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston – another supernatural romance with emotional depth
- The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren – for witty banter and forced proximity romance
- The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas – for slow-burn romance with creative professionals
- People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry – for friendship dynamics and second chances
- In Five Years by Rebecca Serle – for magical realism exploring destiny and choice
The Final Note
Sounds Like Love succeeds as both a satisfying romance and a meditation on creativity, connection, and the courage required to build something beautiful with another person. While it may not achieve the perfect pitch of Poston’s strongest work, it offers enough emotional resonance and genuine charm to satisfy her established readership while attracting new fans.
The novel works best when readers approach it as a fairy tale for adults—accepting the magical elements while focusing on the very real emotions and relationships at its heart. Poston continues to demonstrate her ability to blend whimsy with wisdom, creating stories that feel both escapist and emotionally authentic.
For readers seeking romance with magical elements, small-town charm, and characters who feel genuinely worth rooting for, Sounds Like Love delivers a melody worth humming long after the final page. While it may not be Poston’s masterpiece, it’s certainly a tune that will stick with you—and sometimes, that’s exactly what a good love story should do.
- Final Thoughts: This is Ashley Poston’s fourth published romance novel, and while it doesn’t quite reach the heights of The Seven Year Slip or Beach Read-level perfection, it offers enough heart, humor, and musical magic to satisfy fans of contemporary romance with fantastical elements. The book serves as both comfort reading and thoughtful exploration of artistic identity, making it a worthwhile addition to any romance lover’s library.