The Sound of Us

Havencrest U #1

by Sarah Castille

A Star is Born meets Good Girl Complex in this angsty, deeply emotional, heated romance perfect for fans of Colleen Hoover.They say music is a universal language…Skye Jordan thought she had it all figured out. Eighteen months ago, she was in college and dreaming of a basketball career. But in a split second her world fell apart. Now she’s back at Westfield U, broke and desperate. She has no use for sexy, bad boy musicians who kiss her senseless. . . until she lands an internship at the radio station where he works.DJ Dante Romano has lost every person close to his heart. All he has is his music. Consumed by guilt and driven by vengeance, he has no time for love, and yet the fiery new intern who shares his passion and feels his pain tempts him like no other. For Dante, Skye is off limits. And yet from the moment he meets her, he can’t turn away.Soon their scorching attraction develops into something deeper. Together they could make beautiful music, but will their untold secrets force them apart?

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary Romance, College Romance, Contemporary, Emotional, College

320 pages, Paperback

First published November 26, 2024

About the author

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, Sarah Castille, writes contemporary erotic romance and romantic suspense featuring blazingly hot alpha heroes and the women who tame them. A recovering lawyer and caffeine addict, she worked and traveled abroad before trading her briefcase and stilettos for a handful of magic beans and a home near the Canadian Rockies.

Reviews

[Sandy (Sandy.Reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Sound of Us by Sarah Castille is a heartfelt story about two college students who have hit rock bottom and find solace in each other. Both characters are dealing with significant personal struggles, and their journey toward healing is filled with ups and downs, making for an emotional read. The central theme of music as a means of connection and self-expression adds depth to the narrative and will resonate strongly with readers who love stories that incorporate this art form.

While I appreciated the themes and the characters’ growth, this book didn’t fully click for me. The pacing felt uneven at times, and some of the emotional beats didn’t land as powerfully as I’d hoped. That said, I know friends who would absolutely adore this book, especially those who enjoy stories centered on music and finding strength in relationships.

If you’re looking for an angsty, music-infused romance about rebuilding after loss, this might be just what you’re after. For me, it’s 3.25 stars.

[amarachireads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an angsty new adult romance like chile these characters go through it lol. The mmc has gone through a lot of loss in life and uses his music to cope as that's all he has while the fmc world falls apart and she also has nothing and gets an internship at the radio station where the mmc works. They make music together and are also attracted to each other but there are lots of past secrets and things that they are keeping for each other. The main characters have a very emotional and spicy romance, at times I wanted them to move past miscommunication and was glad when they did. I liked the little mystery element and how everything wrapped together. Thanks to Bramble for the arc!

[QuinnReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mustang Skye

4.5 stars - This was fantastic! It's been too long since I've read a book from Sarah. While I love her MMA and other books, she pulled off this good girl / lonely and broken man college romance with flying colors. All the feels come out to play as their insecurities are unraveled, past hurts to them and others revealed, and mysteries are solved.

Skye Jordan and Dante (Rossi) Romano have an instant connection. Their love language is music. I love how they get lost in their banter on multiple occasions as they debate artists and songs. I also love how their passion for music and each other spilled over in a variety of places, private and semi-public. So hot! 🔥🔥

I was a down-to-earth, practical person who preferred facts to fiction, reality to fantasy. Never in my life had I met a man who so utterly and completely overwhelmed all my senses.
-- Skye Jordan

I truly didn't know what to expect from this book. As I mentioned, it's been many years since I've read Sarah's work, but I'm so glad I took a chance on it. The relationships are all terrific. The praise kink and good girl / bad boy trope play out fabulously.

In between all of Skye and Dante's angsty journey lies another relationship that is struggling to bud. I absolutely love Nick's patience, protectiveness, and perseverance as he plays the long game in his attempts to win over Isla. I can understand what drives each of them and love seeing how that develops.

Now, to go beg Sarah to give us the book's playlist. I didn't think to build it as I went and am regretting that. Fingers crossed that she's already got it queued and ready to go. If not, I'll put on my Rusted Root (When I Woke is a *chef's kiss* album but perhaps too engaging for this task; we shall see) and see what I can come up with.

H = 23; h = 20

[Judi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent an advanced reader copy after winning it in the Goodreads Giveaway. I started the book on a Friday night, and finished it Saturday morning. It made me smile, cry, rage, and celebrate.
I really enjoyed the use of the secondary roles and how they played into the story and how their characters developed along the way. Would love to read a book about Izla and her experiences during the same time period.
I would 100% recommend this book. The only caution would be that there are quite steamy sections in it for those who don’t want to read that kind of literature. 😉
Thank you @SarahCastille for a wonderful read that took me on a roller coaster of emotions. Tell me this will be made into a movie!!

[Monique · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Dana Eisinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ won this ARC through a Goodreads giveaway a couple months ago. Wish I would have started it earlier. I was a fan of this book; good characters, good story, a bit of spice and bit of mystery but all wrapped together very well. I would recommend and I will try more of her books.

[Anas Attic Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sound of Us by Sarah Castille
Narrated by Lila Winters and Thomas Oakley
Standalone New Adult College Romance
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy for review purposes. Ana’s Attic accepts no compensation for reviews, and all reviews contain my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate links.

“You are the best song in the playlist of my life.”

I have a soft spot for books with a musical theme, and I can never resist picking one up when it’s centered around music or music history. When I saw The Sound of Us by Sarah Castille on NetGalley, I grabbed it immediately. However, it didn’t quite register with me at first that this was a college romance, something I realized only after my request.

Skye Jordan is a college basketball player with a deep love and knowledge of music. After a recent tragedy leaves her injured and at risk of losing her scholarship, she’s at a crossroads. Enter Dante: a law student with the same intense passion for music, a bassist in a band, a bad boy, and the sultry late-night DJ at the college indie radio station.

The moment they meet, their shared love of music creates sparks. It’s rare to find someone who matches your passion so completely. Add in their tragic family backstories, and it’s easy to see why these two are drawn to each other.

When Skye gets an internship opportunity at the radio station, it complicates things—Dante becomes off-limits. They try to resist their connection, but let’s be honest, it doesn’t really work. And that’s where the angst kicks in. Oh, the angst! I forgot how much New Adult romance leans into that.

While there are plenty of steamy moments (in some pretty interesting places), their immaturity and lack of communication grated on my nerves. Surprisingly, my favorite character wasn’t Skye or Dante—it was the station owner. In fact, I really enjoyed the side characters overall.

The Sound of Us was a very full story, and it stands out as different from most of the books I’ve read. Even weeks later, I still remember it, which doesn’t happen often. That said, I’m not the target audience. Readers in their 20s might connect with this story more than I did. For me, the immaturity of the main characters was a barrier I couldn’t quite overcome.

Likes:

•I loved all the musical references.
•The chapter titles were all songs that tied in well.
•The staff at the radio station.
•The storyline involving the radio station.
•There were plenty of steamy scenes, but they didn’t overpower the story.
•The story was unique, full, and memorable.

Dislikes:

•The characters’ immaturity and lack of communication.
•Dante’s hot-and-cold behavior—pulling her close, then pushing her away.
•Both characters carried too much emotional baggage.

The Narration:

Lila Winters and Thomas Oakley were both new to me, and they were fantastic. I hope to hear more from both of them. Their performances definitely enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

The Down & Dirty:

I enjoyed The Sound of Us, but I’m not its intended audience. If I were younger and more into New Adult romances, I might have connected with it more. I loved the obscure musical references and the characters’ appreciation for both classic and contemporary music. If you enjoy music-centric books, this is worth picking up. The lack of communication and immaturity held me back from fully loving it, but that might be an age thing on my part. But if you are looking for a music-centric angsty college romance, this may be perfect for you.

Rating: 3.5 Stars, 3.5 Heat, 4 Narration

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[Shelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel like with a bit of editing and expanding some of the scenes and taking away some of the elements this would be such an amazing read but to be honest there was a lot for a 300 page book

[Amanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.

I don't mind there being a romance aspect to a book, but when the entire first half of it is nothing but fawning over each other and failing to communicate like... ever, at all, I can't handle it. I liked the individual characters and was invested in their separate backgrounds, but so much of the book was just "I refuse to tell anyone anything about how I feel how dare they not know everything" that I couldn't make it past halfway through. Maybe it's just a matter of personal taste, but I couldn't do it. DNF.

[Readingwithdesi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve received this as a ALC FROM NETGALLEY Thank you to the publisher and author for this early access!

Narrated by Lila Winters; Thomas Oakley

This was a sweet, beautiful and spicy. This is a new to me author and I’m definitely going to be reading more from her in the future!

They say music is a universal language…

Skye Jordan thought she had it all figured out. Eighteen months ago, she was in college and dreaming of a basketball career. But in a split second her world fell apart. Now she’s back at Havencrest U, broke and desperate. She has no use for sexy, bad boy musicians who kiss her senseless. . . until she lands an internship at the radio station where he works.

DJ Dante Romano has lost every person close to his heart. All he has is his music. Consumed by guilt and driven by vengeance, he has no time for love, and yet the fiery new intern who shares his passion and feels his pain tempts him like no other. For Dante, Skye is off limits. And yet from the moment he meets her, he can’t turn away.

Soon their scorching attraction develops into something deeper. Together they could make beautiful music, but will their untold secrets force them apart?

[Marie Girulat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to @macmillan.audio #MacAudio2024 and @sarahcastilleauthor for the #gifted audiobook.

This captivating book explores love, healing, and the transformative power of music. The musical references at the beginning of each chapter truly set the tone, allowing the melodies to evoke emotions that resonate throughout the narrative. The connection between the characters is forged through their shared passion for music and an intense attraction that draws them together, all while they navigate significant traumas from their pasts.

Prepare to have your heart pulled in every direction! Dante and Skye are two beautifully flawed individuals who grapple with feelings of inadequacy, and while their journeys may bring moments of heartache, they will make you fervently cheer for their happiness!

The narrators deliver outstanding performances that breathe life into these characters. Their expressive voices and raw emotions enhance the story, making it an unforgettable experience.

If you enjoy romance paired with strong, resilient female characters and themes of redemption, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars—it's set to be released on November 26!

[Mags · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐

The Sound of Us is a beautifully written, angsty, passionate college romance.

That sees music aficionado Skye Jordan return to college battered, bruised and scarred. After a car accident left her dad dead and his dream of her becoming a basketball star in tatters.

But after rehab and intense training Skye is back ready to try again. Even though her hearts not really in it.

What she really wants is to be a journalist and forget what it feels like to be that little girl unwanted and unloved.

But that's not as easy as it sounds. Until she meets Dante. A musician, radio DJ and loner.

Who doesn't do relationships, and whose ultimate goal is to destroy his father. After a childhood steeped in horror.

But everything changes after meeting Skye and even though they try to stay away from each other they can't.

Yet, each has baggage and secrets. Which could destroy everything.

And with great characters and the perfect mix of spice, found family and emotion. This was a beautiful read. That I'd happily recommend to all.

My thanks to Sarah Castille and The Author Agency for my copy of The Sound of Us. ☺️

[Nadja]

DNF

God, did I try to like this, but I couldn’t get past the 30% mark. My breaking point? When Skye says she overheard her father say they should've returned her because she can’t throw a ball and he wanted a boy??!! Excuse me?! That’s a child, not a toy. You don’t “return” a kid because they don’t fit your gender preference! How did this guy even get approved by the adoption agency in the first place? Honestly, after reading that, I’m glad he died—he was clearly a terrible person.

The first half of the book was nothing but endless fawning over each other and a complete inability to communicate. Like… ever. At all. I couldn’t handle it. Honestly, I couldn’t even care less about the characters. Their separate backstories might’ve been interesting, but the way they interacted—constantly refusing to talk or make any progress—was exhausting.

Maybe it’s just me, but this book leaned way too hard into characters mooning over each other without giving me any reason to root for them. And the constant music references? Completely over my head. There were far too many of them, and they should’ve been toned down because I couldn’t bring myself to care.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just want to wrap my arms around Skye and Dante, two college age students who have been through so much, and find themselves connected by music. This book will get you in the feels have tissues near. This is not a light read, yet I could not put it down. Skye is strong, she has been through a lot, but never backs down, but she does need to be pushed, that is what best friends do best. Even as circumstances derail her path, one her father wanted, she discovers her happiness with a pivot.

Skye and Dante struggle in the beginning with miscommunication and perception. Their love of music will bring them back, as that is how they communicate best.

Song titles cleverly lead us in every chapter, communication, and job interview. The spice level is high, the topics included can be troubling to some, do your research. The story is deeply emotional but worth the read. I finished this book a few days ago, and the characters and story are still with me.

My first time reading this author, and I plan to read more.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Lacey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Got this as one of those "blind date" books and ended up with an advance reading copy so there are likely some differences between what I read and what everyone else read.

I am not faulting anyone who enjoyed this book, but it was absolutely not my thing.

I really struggled to get through this. Dante constantly using his trauma as an excuse to be possessive and cruel to Skye and any man she dared to breathe around was infuriating...to the point where I wanted to skip his chapters.

This book did NOT pass the bechdel test. Skye and her friends couldn't go three seconds without bringing up a man. Any time Dante decided to be a prick, Skye was blaming herself while her friends were encouraging her to run back to him. Any time she somewhat faltered at something, it was the same lines from her dad over and over.

Now this could absolutely just be me...but I really stugged to get passed the playlists and song references. I don't need some MCR song to know that Dante is sad again.

[Shelley C · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sound of Us🎶

I absolutely loved Dante and Skye’s story❣️

A musical aide to a college education and finding your soul mate who speaks your language is just a quick glimpse into this poignant masterpiece.

Skye is on a scholarship for basketball🏀 But after a car accident leaves her injured, she’s struggling to ensure she gets back on the team while trying to figure out what her future might hold. Her bestie, Isla, takes her to a bar to drink away her worries - where she meets Dante by accident outside the bar.

Dante had had a rough life and isn’t looking for any type of relationship. The minute he meets Skye, he knows she’s special and there’s something different about her that speaks to his soul❤️‍🩹 Loved it and I’m excited to read about Skye’s other bestie, Haley🙌

I received an advanced copy from the author and Netgalley and voluntarily leave my honest review🤩

[Hattie B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

this book has made me so depressed but in the best way 😭😭 oh my heart… this was so cute, but also so hot and heart wrenching at the same time. i really loved the plot, but also the romance so much! dante & skye are beautifully flawed characters, who healed each other with their love in the end. i liked it a lot. and i will always have a soft spot for MMCs named dante. <3

[Annie Banannie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sound of Us follows Skye and Dante two students at a prestigious Chicago University who find a common connection through music. On the outside, Skye is the perfect daughter following her father’s dream of becoming a basketball player but she harbors a passion for journalism. Dante is the resident rockstar playboy who is also the most popular RJ of their college radio station. Both of their lives change when their paths cross one fateful night.

Skye & Dante share an instant connection and mutual attraction. As they spend more time together, Skye breaks through Dante’s carefully crafted walls. Even though Skye is attracted to Dante, his reputation makes her keep him at arms length. As Skye deals with disappointment when he loses her place on the basketball team, she grapples with her sinking self-worth. Dante’s support and quiet encouragement allow her to rediscover her passion and in turn acknowledge his importance in her life.

Dante’s life hasn’t been the easiest. He’s lost everyone he’s ever loved and figured out that closing himself off was the best way to survive. He had one goal and he was determined to achieve his goal. Everything was going as planned until he ran into Skye. Since meeting Skye, she’s taken over his life. She makes him feel things that he didn’t want to. When he finally realizes how much he needs her, he does the unthinkable and lets her see him scars and all.

I am so thankful to have received the ARC for this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Skye and Dante. They both had deep insecurities that resonated with me. Along with their steamy romance, the book also touched on several relevant important topics without sounding preachy. I am glad that I got the opportunity to read this book and discover Sarah Castile.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars rounded up.

The Sound of Us by Sarah Castille was a wonderful, heartfelt romance read that I highly enjoyed.

I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrators did a great job of conveying the emotions and feelings of the story. This is a book that definitely tugged on my heartstrings with the romance between Skyr and Dante.

This story takes place on a college campus in Chicago. Skye is a student athlete working to keep her basketball scholarship after recovering from a car accident. Dante is the heartthrob in a band, but also helps run the student radio station on campus. When Skye and Dante meet at one of his shows, they both feel an immediate connection. However, they both try to brush it off. Skye is convinced she’s just another girl to Dante. But to Dante that couldn’t be further from the truth; he believes he isn’t good enough for Skye.

Eventually, the college radio station (and Dante’s desire to keep Skye at school), bring the two together and as much as they try to fight it, they can’t resist their chemistry and feelings for each other. And when the radio station is in danger of closing, they team up to do everything they can to save it.

All in all this was an enjoyable read. I loved the Chicago setting and the plot to save the radio station in addition to the romance. There was just enough spice, but it wasn’t the sole focus of this novel. I liked the characters, but was saddened by Dante’s opinion of himself. I was glad he wasn’t a narcissist, but he also doesn’t need to beat himself up so much.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: The Sound of Us
Series: n/a
Author(S): Sarah Castille
Genre: Romance- College
Narrator(s): Lila Winters; Thomas Oakley
Publication Date: November 26, 2024
Publishing Co.: Macmillan Audio
Length: 320 pages/ 43 chapters
Rating: 4.25 ⭐️ / 3-3.5

[Franjessca · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sound of Us is an emotionally impactful book that connects two characters through music, so prepare yourself before reading it. You’ll need tissues at times. Any author who can evoke strong emotions in me about the characters’ experiences is definitely someone I want to read more of, and that is what Sarah Castille did while I read Skye and Dante’s story. I loved how Sarah included a different song at the beginning of each chapter and incorporated music throughout the book because it’s important for Skye and Dante’s journey.

In the beginning, these two characters faced significant struggles, largely stemming from their past traumas. Skye’s life changed dramatically after a car accident while Dante was still grieving the loss of family members. Additionally, Dante had a father who was pressuring him to join the family business despite Dante’s desire to distance himself from that life. I couldn’t blame him; his father was a terrible person, and Dante deserved to live free from his father’s control, especially given the damage his father had caused to their family.

I really enjoyed the way Dante and Skye first met in the story, even though they struggled with their relationship at first due to complications, mostly with Dante. Dante, who has a reputation as a player, unexpectedly falls for Skye, something he has never experienced before. Although he frustrated me at times because he struggled to navigate his feelings, I understood his hesitation. Their situation was complicated since he had helped her secure an internship at the radio station where he worked, making their connection somewhat forbidden. If there’s one trope I love in romance novels, it’s the forbidden romance, and Sarah did it well.

I absolutely adored Skye because she was such a strong female lead, and I really rooted for her to find her own path after everything she endured. She deserved to discover her own happiness rather than simply fulfilling her father’s wishes. It took her some time to figure that out. I empathized with her feelings for Dante, especially since he seemed to lead her on at first. She just wanted to feel wanted for once. Skye went through so much in her life, and if anyone deserved love, it was her. Her story definitely impacted me, and I’m glad she had friends who were there to support her along the way.

While reading, I found moments of miscommunication between the characters frustrating, but they ultimately resolved these issues. It simply took some time for them to make amends. Aside from that, this book is one I will never forget, and I hope Sarah Castille writes more stories set in this world, particularly featuring the secondary characters she introduced.

Please be aware that this book contains content that may be unsettling for some readers, so it’s important to check for any triggers you may have. There is a mention of sexual assault in the book, but it does not involve the main characters.

Overall, I give this book four stars, and I’m excited to read more from Sarah Castille. Before I conclude my review, I want to highlight that this book does include spicy scenes (very spicy scenes in random places on campus). The connection between Dante and Skye is intense when they finally give in to their feelings for each other.

Single/Dual POV: Dual POV

Standalone or Part of Series: Standalone.

Would I recommend this book? Yes. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy deep, emotional romance stories about two characters who have endured trauma in their lives but find love with each other through their shared passion for music. You may want to add all the songs from this book to your playlist after reading it.

What to Expect:
🩵Contemporary College Romance
🩵Workplace
🩵He Falls First
🩵Bad Boy Musician
🩵Sports
🩵Forbidden

I received a complimentary copy of the book from The Author Agency/NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Check out all my book reviews at A Book Lovin' Mama's Blog

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE SOUND OF US by Sarah Castille is a contemporary, new adult, erotic, romance story line focusing on journalism student Skye Jordan, and twenty-three year old, law student/ DJ Dante Romano.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Skye and Dante) THE SOUND OF US follows the building relationship between on journalism student Skye Jordan, and twenty-three year old, law student/ DJ Dante Romano. Approximately eighteen months ago, in an instant, Skye Jordan’s life spiralled out of control. Fast forward to present day, after a leave of absence, in the hopes of making the women’s basketball team, Skye returns to Havencrest U, where she will meet bad boy and DJ Dante Romano but all does not go according to plan, and Skye finds herself on the precipice of change, including the possibility of starting over somewhere else. At the proverbial eleventh hour, Skye is offered a journalism scholarship, an internship at the campus radio station where she will fall for a man whose own demons are dangerous and dark. As Skye begins to research a series of questionable events for her journalism assignments, our couple find themselves struggling to move on from the past.

The world building focuses on several pathways including the revelation of Dante’s demons, and Skye’s past but as Skye begins to dig deeper into a couple of stories, everything becomes personal and dangerous for the people she loves. Meanwhile, Dante is battling his father for control, a man who doesn’t like to be told no.

The relationship between Dante and Skye is one of immediate attraction based on a love of music. Their back and forth communication using song lyrics, titles and playlists was complex; their lack of communication and misunderstandings were the catalysts for many arguments and withdrawals. The $ex scenes are intimate and impassioned.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including co-workers, friends, family, athletes, and mentors, all who play a significant role in our couple’s lives. I hope the author has plans for some of the other characters.

THE SOUND OF US is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and obsession, power and control, family and friendships, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic, haunting, emotional and thought-provoking; the romance is spicy and seductive; the characters are animated, sassy and determined.

copy supplied for review

[Hollie Wright-Currier · Rating 2 out of 5]

Book Review: The Sound of Us by Sarah Castille
Narrated by: Lila Winters & Thomas Oakley
Publisher: Macmillan Audio

First, I'd like to thank Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in advance.

The Sound of Us by Sarah Castille has the hallmarks of a gripping romance, but it ultimately falls short for me due to its overreliance on character immaturity and a frustrating lack of meaningful communication between the leads. While I typically don’t mind romance in novels, this book leaned heavily into characters fawning over each other without ever making real progress in their relationship.

The story centers around Dante and Sky, both with complicated backgrounds rooted in familial trauma. While I found their individual histories intriguing—particularly the exploration of their difficult childhoods and issues stemming from parental neglect—these emotional scars often played out in repetitive and unconvincing ways. Daddy issues dominated the plot, and while this could have lent the book some depth, it instead made the characters seem stuck in emotional immaturity, struggling to communicate in even the most basic ways.

Dante, in particular, was an exhausting character. His constant vacillation between pushing Sky away and then pulling her back in became tedious. Sky, on the other hand, spends much of the book craving approval from men, particularly due to her past rejection by a father figure. These dynamics made me roll my eyes more often than not, and their interactions lacked the emotional resonance needed to truly engage me.

On the plus side, there are some well-done spicy scenes for those who enjoy heat in their romance novels. The narrators, Lila Winters and Thomas Oakley, did a wonderful job embodying the characters, which added a bit more life to the story. Their performances felt well-suited to Dante and Sky, and they brought a much-needed energy and dimension to the narrative.

Overall, while The Sound of Us had potential, I found it frustratingly bogged down by underdeveloped emotional dynamics and characters who rarely moved past their baggage. If you're looking for a romance filled with angst and drama, this might appeal to you, but for me, the immaturity of the characters was hard to overlook.

[Eryka · Rating 3 out of 5]

In “The Sound of Us,” Sarah Castille delivers a captivating story of two tormented souls drawn together by fate and a shared passion for music.

Synopsis:

Skye Jordan once envisioned a bright future in college basketball, hoping to follow in her father’s footsteps as a professional player. A devastating car accident, however, shatters her dreams and forces her to reassess her life’s direction. Returning to Havencrest University, she secures a promising internship at the campus radio station, reigniting her interest in journalism. But when she uncovers a major story that could spark significant upheaval, Skye faces a tough choice: pursue the truth or protect herself.

Dante Romano is a talented bass guitarist whose life is overshadowed by the tragic loss of his mother and sister. Consumed by guilt and a thirst for vengeance, he immerses himself in his music and earning his law degree, which leaves little room for much else. But their undeniable attraction threatens to disrupt the carefully constructed walls around his heart.

Their attraction is intense and magnetic, but both carry deep scars that make trust a daunting hurdle. Skye and Dante must decide if they can overcome their pasts and build a future together.

My Review:

I enjoyed this story of love, healing, and the unifying power of music. Skye and Dante’s shared enthusiasm for music—whether recorded, live, or through their collaborative work at their college radio station—is the foundation for their burgeoning relationship. While exploring each other’s worlds, they learn more about themselves.

Castille handles sensitive topics with care, and I appreciated the strong sense of community depicted in the book. The chemistry between Skye and Dante is rivaled only by their struggles with trust.

This was my first time reading Sarah Castille’s work, and I’m interested in exploring more of her novels.

Thanks to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for providing an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Joycelyn McCorkle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book in a giveaway, and I’m honestly thrilled I was given the opportunity to read this before the rest of the world.

Technically speaking, I would not say this book is written in an adult format. It reads like a YA in pacing and in syntax. A lot of really critical moments and conversations in this book were fade-to-black and then the aftermath was revealed without the context. While it is an interesting way to go about some of the moments, to have it happen for all of them was a bit redundant and left the plot feeling a little flat. Some of the dialogue and phrasing was a little more on the juvenile side, and some phrases made me genuinely cringe. Normally, this is not a book I’d find myself gravitating toward.

HOWEVER

I absolutely demolished this book. It was fun, it was entertaining, and though the characters liked to contradict themselves a lot, I still enjoyed them. It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to read a book in a matter of days, and I was definitely able to do that with this book. I liked the idea of unveiling the BTS of working in indie radio, which is a niche that I feel hasn’t been explored a whole lot. I do wish it had more of what it was like there, what the process was like, etc.

I’m not as familiar with the romance genre, as I’m more of a fantasy/sci fi kind of gal, so some of my critique may be coming from a bias for those genres, but overall, I can say that. In my opinion, if this story was more centered around the outside forces that bring our love interests together, while their story was interwoven with it, it may have checked more boxes for me. But I can say that I was entertained and looked forward to the next time I could read this book. The premise is beautiful, the potential is there, and with some final brushing up this could really be a stunning and painful story of pain and adversity all while finding not only romantic love, but self worth.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

“I had always imagined meeting someone who wanted to hear the soundtrack of my life—the roadmap of the major milestones that got me to where I was at that moment in time—because it meant they truly wanted to know me. There was no point denying it existed, and I was sure he had one, too."

The Sound of Music is a New Adult/College Romance about two young adults who are learning how to navigate life on their own after shattered dreams and horrific childhoods. It’s also about found family, hope, healing, and the power of music. Told through dual POV, the physically and emotionally broken characters learn how to live with the scars from their past and how to rewrite the lyrics for the soundtracks of their lives.

I am a huge music lover, so I really enjoyed the representation of the power of music and the passion for music that the MCs shared. I also loved how each chapter was titled the name of a song. There were music/song references galore, which I loved.

The first half of the story was heavy and mostly character development which felt a little longer than necessary. However, once the plot picked up it had me hooked. I was interested in both of the characters' backstories, but honestly wasn’t too invested in their relationship story together. Their lack of communication, angst, bickering, immature jealousy and the on again/off again roller coaster relationship was just too much for me. Lack of communication is definitely one of my least favorite tropes, plus the spice was over the top, eye rolling, cringe. I am sure these were more ‘me problems’ and that the story will appeal more to young adults, but the story as a whole just wasn’t for this older adult.

The narrators did a great job bringing the story to life. They portrayed the characters exactly how I had envisioned them.

Thank you to @netgalley, @macmillanaudio, and @torpublishing for the #gifted ARC/ALC in exchange for an honest review.

[Paula Phillips · Rating 3 out of 5]

For Skye, this is her life of second chances, and this time she is determined not to let anyone stand in her way, especially not a sexy musician named Dante. During the summer, Skye was on her way to becoming an amazing basketballer and had a scholarship for Havencrest. That was until a car crash happened and caused Skye to become an invalid and her dad to die. Now Skye after months of PT has come back to Havencrest as a last resort to get her spot back on the Basketball team and continue her journalism major. However, what will happen when she misses her shot now, she is scrambling to try and find a way to stay at Havencrest. Enter Dante, he has inherited a chunk of money from his grandmother and he sees it as blood money. When he hears that the radio station he loves might be going under, he offers the station owner some money to keep it afloat and creates an extra scholarship spot for a journalism intern - this is exactly what Skye needs to stay in school - but can she do radio journalism as her specialty is print journalism? With her love of music and journalism, this might just be the perfect spot for her and who knows can she fall in love and vice versa with a sexy musician named Dante? Like most New Adult romances, this one talks about trauma, abuse, estranged family ties, and suicide. Reading this book, I felt this quote summed up The Sound of Us by Sarah Castille perfectly "Music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind and gives it rest: heals the heart and makes it whole, flows from heaven to the soul". If you love edgy New Adult Romance and creating the perfect music playlist for all situations then you will love Sarah Castille's The Sound of Us - Book #1 in the Havencrest Series.

[Carmen M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the ALC of The Sound of Us in exchange for an honest review.

Skye Jordan's life takes an unexpected turn after a tragedy, leading her back to college and into the path of Dante Romano, a charismatic DJ. Their connection is not just about music; it runs much deeper. As Skye navigates her career ambitions and her emotional journey, Dante and his campus radio station become not only a source of guidance but also a means of healing.

The beauty of 'The Sound of Us' lies in its portrayal of the transformative power of music. Sarah Castille weaves together a rich story of musical references that will leave your heart singing. From the melodies that set the mood to the emotions that resonate through the lyrics, music becomes the heartbeat of the story.

Although the pace of the story may seem slow at first, it allows for a gradual unfolding of Skye's personal growth and the evolution of her relationship with Dante. It is a testament to the author's skill that the gradual build-up only intensifies the emotional impact. Told through the first-person perspectives of both Skye and Dante in dual point-of-view, readers are treated to a deeply intimate and introspective exploration of their thoughts and feelings.

'The Sound of Us' is not just a love story; it is a mix of emotions, a celebration of resilience, and a reminder that through music, we can heal and find ourselves. Whether you're a music lover or simply seeking a heartfelt tale of self-discovery, this audiobook is sure to strike a chord."

[TheLisaD · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarah Castille’s The Sound of Us is a beautifully layered and emotionally charged novel that captures the healing power of love, the solace of finding your community, and the profound role music can play in overcoming life’s darkest moments. Dark yet undeniably hopeful, this story is as much about survival and self-discovery as it is about connection and passion.

At the heart of the novel is the journey of two individuals navigating pain and isolation, finding solace in each other and the music that threads through their lives. Castille’s use of music as a narrative device is particularly compelling, as it serves not only to underscore the emotions of the characters but also to give readers an intimate glimpse into their souls. The soundtrack of their story adds a unique depth to the novel, making it resonate on a deeply personal level.

What sets The Sound of Us apart is its unflinching exploration of difficult issues—such as mental health, trauma, and the feeling of being unseen—and its ability to address these topics with sensitivity and grace. Castille doesn’t shy away from the darkness, but she balances it with moments of light, showing how love, friendship, and shared passion can pull someone out of despair.

This is more than a love story; it’s a celebration of finding your people when you feel lost and a testament to the healing power of art. With its rich emotional depth and memorable characters, The Sound of Us is a moving and unforgettable read. Highly recommended for anyone who has ever found comfort in a song or strength in love.

[Ginna Rohlman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarah Castille's The Sound of Us is a deeply emotional and riveting story that captures the journey of two people finding solace and healing through each other. As someone who loves stories of resilience and redemption, I found this book profoundly moving.

The connection and passion between the main characters are undeniable, and it’s beautiful to see how their shared experiences with trauma bring them closer together. Castille masterfully portrays their emotional vulnerabilities, making their bond feel authentic and heartwarming. Watching them help each other heal felt not only satisfying but also inspiring.

One of the most commendable aspects of the novel is its boldness in addressing a very real and pressing issue: the systemic problem of athletes being protected by institutions after committing sexual assault. By highlighting this injustice, Castille brings a sense of urgency and awareness to a topic that is often swept under the rug. It added a layer of depth and relevance to the story that resonated deeply with me.

Finally, the way everything came together at the end was deeply gratifying. It felt like all the emotional threads were tied up in a way that brought closure without feeling rushed or contrived.

Overall, The Sound of Us is a beautifully written and poignant story that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s not just a romance; it’s a story about healing, justice, and the transformative power of love and understanding. Highly recommended!