What a timely novel that is well written and descriptive of what is happening in present day around the US. I enjoyed the character development, the Maine setting, and pacing of this story. I was invested from the start. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

I strangled my pi.low through most of this book! Why? It is so on point, so real, and the attitudes in society toward the good Ole boys who dominate, manipulate, and abuse has never changed. Emotional and real, you are in touch with how the domino effect of one action affects so many and so strongly. Great storytelling, and important story to tell.

Hazel Says No is a heartfelt and sharply observed debut that beautifully explores family, identity, and the challenges of starting over. With its witty prose, emotionally rich storytelling, and small-town charm, this novel is perfect for fans of Now Is Not the Time to Panic and Pineapple Street.

When the Blum family uproots their lives from Brooklyn to a quiet college town in Maine, they expect some growing pains—but nothing could prepare them for the dramatic fallout that rocks their new community on Hazel’s first day of senior year. As Hazel, her younger brother Wolf, and their parents, Claire and Gus, each grapple with the changes in their own way, the novel deftly navigates the ups and downs of family dynamics, belonging, and the hidden complexities of small-town life.

Told through multiple perspectives, the book is equal parts humorous and deeply moving, capturing the struggles of being the new family in town while tackling bigger themes of privilege, reinvention, and resilience. The characters feel authentic, their relationships layered with warmth and tension, making the story both engaging and emotionally resonant.

With a mix of wit, heart, and a touch of chaos, Hazel Says No is a compelling, character-driven novel that lingers long after the final page. A fantastic debut! I really enjoyed this book!

Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC.
Hazel’s story is similar to many women's and needs to be told. #metoo The subject was handled well. It was interesting to see the point of view of the family members and how they had to deal with the fallout. I liked that the perpetrator’s family and fallout were included as well.
Unfortunately, I could not connect with the adult characters. These people came across as very entitled. I cringed at some of their actions and inner thoughts. That was my big turnoff for the novel.
I will recommend this to many patrons, specifically younger women.

Jessica Berger Gross has written a powerful as well as empowering story of how choices and actions can create a cascade of life-changing events. It is these situations that take the reader on a roller coaster of emotions and builds a connection between the reader and the characters.

Hazel Says No explores the challenges faced when the Blum family moves from the city to a small town in Maine. They experience the normal challenges of finding their place in the community, making friends, and settling into their new lives. However, these challenges become immensely complicated when Hazel is inappropriately approached by her high school principal and her father, Gus, makes a questionable choice in topic for a college course he is teaching as part of his new position. Hazel’s brother, Wolf, struggles with making friends and supporting his sister. Their mother is trying to figure out how to proceed with starting over in her professional life while balancing protecting and supporting Hazel, making sure Wolf is adjusting to his new school, offering encouragement to Gus, struggling with whether they made the right decisions to move, and wondering if they will ever settle into the community. As they navigate these challenges, will they ever be fully welcomed and find their place in the community? Will Hazel and Wolf become confident in their voices and talents?

Hazel Says No is an empowering read that handles sensitive subjects in a realistic manner and provides a powerful message on the importance of family unity and finding support within one’s community.

A special thank you to The Hive, HTP Books, Hanover Square Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of Hazel Says No.

This was very good. Very timely with a powerful message. Dragged a little in the middle which is the only reason I am not giving five stars