Book Review: ‘The Dead Romantics’ by Ashley Poston

Looking for a romance that combines heartfelt emotion with a supernatural twist? The Dead Romantics offers a fresh take on grief, love, and finding hope even when life feels as good as dead.

‘The Dead Romantics’ by Ashley Poston

‘The Dead Romantics’ by Ashley Poston is a heartfelt rom-com with paranormal elements that explores grief, healing, and second chances through the story of Florence Day, a ghostwriter who returns to her hometown to confront loss and unexpected love with a ghostly editor by her side.

Discovering the Story Through BookTok Buzz

When Julianne tweeted about The Seven Year Slip, it reminded me to finally read Ashley Poston’s The Dead Romantics, a book that had lingered on my TBR for what felt like forever. I was craving a romance that wouldn’t disappoint, and I ended up devouring this story in one sitting. The feel-good, rom-com vibe combined with paranormal elements drew me in immediately. Florence Day, a ghostwriter for a popular romance author, returns to her hometown after her father’s death, only to encounter her new editor, Benji—handsome, broad, and now a ghost. Still reeling from a breakup, Florence believes love is dead, but Benji’s presence challenges everything she thought she knew. A Romantic Reunion to Heal the Dead comes alive as Florence faces the emotional turmoil of returning to a town that never fully accepted her, the story unfolds with charming Southern nights, family warmth, and unexpected romance. The plot carries hints of Just Like Heaven, blending the magic of NYC-to-small-town shifts with deep themes of loss, healing, and rediscovery. Whether you love or hate BookTok hype, this book is a fresh take on grief, love, and second chances, perfectly suited for anyone seeking more than typical romance fluff.

A Deep Look at Florence’s Journey

Florence Day’s story in The Dead Romantics is as complex as it is heartfelt. Working as a ghostwriter for Ann Nichols, she faces pressure from her editor Benji Andor to meet a tight deadline or risk losing her career. Fresh from a painful breakup, Florence struggles not only with writing but also with her unique ability to see ghosts—including her father and now Benji. Returning to her family-run funeral home in her hometown, she confronts unfinished business, loss, and her own skepticism about love.

Ashley Poston’s writing effortlessly balances lyrical prose with conversational ease, capturing Gen Z and millennial sensibilities in a modern setting. This story is part beach read, part emotional journey, weaving familiar tropes with fresh twists and deep reflections on family, romance, and healing. Florence’s path is one of leaving pain behind and embracing hope, even when life feels as good as dead.

Unique Struggles and Emotional Growth

Florence’s journey is raw and relatable, especially as she battles writer’s block and heartbreak. From the beginning, she confronts ghosts of the past—both literal and figurative—including childhood bullies who once rejected her. Tension escalates when Lee, her ex, turns her life into a book, adding feelings of betrayal. Though some moments and interactions, especially with her editor, feel forced or cringeworthy, the way Florence learns to communicate with Benji’s ghost brings a unique emotional depth to the story. The novel blends romance and paranormal elements with honesty, from touching scenes at the funeral home to intimate partnerships. Benji’s physical description, reminiscent of Adam Driver, may divide some readers, but it fits perfectly into current genre trends. Ultimately, Florence’s growth, supported by family and friends, is a tender reminder that healing and self-discovery often arise from the darkest times.

Final Thoughts on the Story’s Charm

What made The Dead Romantics stand out for me was the genuine chemistry and playful banter between Florence and Benji. Their connection felt real and sweet without falling into insta-love clichés. The mix of ghostly elements with romance gave the story a refreshing twist, while themes of identity and belonging kept it emotionally grounded. Ashley Poston balances moments of joy, wit, and occasional cringe to create a warm, fun, and recommendable read. Small plot twists and inclusivity, like Florence’s brother and the nonbinary innkeeper—enrich the narrative beautifully. From start to finish, this book offers comfort and reflection, making it easy to root for. If you enjoy dynamic relationships with a dash of CW teen drama and heartfelt grief, The Dead Romantics hits every mark with charm and depth.

FAQ

1. What is The Dead Romantics book about?

The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston is a heartwarming paranormal romance that follows Florence Day, a ghostwriter who can see and communicate with ghosts. After returning to her hometown following her father’s death, she encounters Benji, her new editor, who is also a ghost. The story explores themes of grief, healing, love, and second chances, blending supernatural elements with a charming romance set against a small-town backdrop.

2. Is The Dead Romantics a happy ending?

Yes, The Dead Romantics has a hopeful and satisfying ending. While the story deals with heavy themes like loss and heartbreak, it ultimately delivers a feel-good resolution where Florence finds peace, personal growth, and love. The novel balances emotional depth with uplifting moments, making it a comforting read.

3. Do Ben and Florence end up together?

Yes, Ben and Florence do end up together. Their relationship grows throughout the story, starting with tension and uncertainty and evolving into a genuine, heartfelt connection. Despite the supernatural challenges and personal struggles they face, their bond strengthens, leading to a meaningful romantic conclusion.

4. Is The Dead Romantics clean?

The Dead Romantics is generally considered clean to moderately clean in terms of content. The novel contains some romantic scenes and mild language, but it is not explicit or overly graphic. It’s suitable for readers who enjoy romance with a paranormal twist without heavy adult content.

5. Is The Dead Romantics a standalone?

Yes, The Dead Romantics is a standalone novel. The story is complete on its own, with no sequels or series continuation. Readers can enjoy the full emotional and narrative arc without needing to read other books.