A review by jp_rex
Not Another Love Song by Julie Soto

emotional funny inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

To provide context to this review, I need to reveal something about myself: I know NOTHING about music. I cannot sing, I don't play any instrument, I can't read sheet music...I came into this story of two string instrument prodigies with a Grand Canyon sized hole where my understanding of orchestras, arrangements, composition...really any inkling of musical understanding should be.

It did not matter one iota. The quality of this story, the flow of the prose, the narration and inflection - it conveyed everything that you needed to have to understand the relationship and rivalry between Xander and Gwen. I was so glad that I decided to listen to the audiobook because Savannah Peachwood's characterization of Gwen was pitch perfect.
I'm not sure if it counts as a spoiler, but I was not expecting Oliver Clarke's portions of the narration since this isn't a traditional dual narration set-up, but his interludes were incredible.


I loved the characters, I loved their evolution, and I loved how believable their love story was. As I listened to the description of an unplanned duet, I was blown away at the emotion, passion, and chemistry that came through. 

I'm gushing about this because I have nothing negative to say. I have been recommending it to everyone I talk to, and I will feel envy as they begin their journey with this story anew. I wish I could experience it all over again.