Sounds Like Fun

A warm and bittersweet novel about love, loneliness, coffee, and the pitfalls of an ill-advised selfie, perfect for fans of Monica Heisey, Nora Ephron, and Katherine Heiny.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

A captivating and poignant novel that delves into the depths of love, loneliness, coffee, and the consequences of an ill-advised selfie, appealing to fans of Monica Heisey, Nora Ephron, and Katherine Heiny. Moriarty's debut masterpiece shares many similarities with Ephron's iconic novel Heartburn, exploring enduring love, casual encounters, and the heartache that accompanies heartbreak.

The Irish Independent praises the book as "delightful," "entertaining," and "often funny," while also prompting thoughtful contemplation on relationships, loneliness, and self-discovery. The Irish Examiner lauds it as a "perfect literary romcom" that captures the complexities of Grindr, drunken nights out, and the isolation of London. Kate Sawyer applauds the novel for its insightful and relatable portrayal of the emotional and practical challenges of opening up a relationship, describing it as a "beautiful, understated novel about connection, self-discovery, and trying to get by." Attitude magazine declares it a "super-fun must-read," noting that it was completed in a single sitting. BBC Sounds praises the book as "so refreshing and compelling," expressing a desire to purchase copies for friends. Lucy Vine praises the author's "warm writing" that imbues every word with a luminous glow. Hannah Tovey expresses her enjoyment of spending time with the diverse cast of characters, describing the book as a witty, warm, and contemporary read. Niamh Hargan hails it as an "absolute delight," praising its humor and heartache in equal measure. Kirsty Eyre describes the book as an "absolute treat," expressing her deep affection for it. Hannah Doyle concludes with a resounding endorsement, stating that the book is a "*****" and introducing the character of Eoin.

Eoin is a 27-year-old man who is doing well in his life. He has a stable job and is in a long-term relationship with his boyfriend, Rich. However, Eoin's best friend, Jax, is embarking on yet another disastrously bad relationship, and Eoin finds himself caught in the middle. As Jax's problems escalate, Eoin realizes that he needs to step in and help his friend.

Eoin's journey to assist Jax takes him on a humorous and emotional rollercoaster. He navigates through the complexities of modern dating, encounters various characters along the way, and learns valuable lessons about friendship, love, and self-discovery. Through his experiences, Eoin realizes that sometimes the best way to help someone is to let them figure things out for themselves.

Moriarty's debut novel is a captivating blend of humor, heartache, and self-reflection. It explores the complexities of human relationships and offers a poignant portrayal of the challenges we face in navigating the world of love and friendship. With its engaging characters, witty dialogue, and relatable themes, the book has won the hearts of readers worldwide. Whether you're a fan of romantic comedies or seeking a thought-provoking read, "The Heart of the Matter" is a must-read that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

Weight: 196g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529393484