Hazel Says No is a book written from four points of view. Hazel is a high school senior who has her world turned upside down. Wolf, Hazel's brother, who is entering middle school. Gus a college professor who has always dreamed of writing a book and Claire, the mother who is lost and is trying to find her way. The family has moved from NYC to a sleepy small town in Maine. Little did the family know that this move would radically change their lives.

Jessica Berger Gross has written an outstanding debut novel. This is a relevant story for our world today, sadly.

I received an ARC of the book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

(4.5 stars)
I loved Hazel Says No! The Blum family moves from Brooklyn, New York to a small town in central Maine, so that Gus, the dad, can take up a tenured professorship at the local liberal arts college. Mom Clare designs clothes but is creatively stymied at the moment, brother Wolf is 11, wants to act and is going into sixth grade, and sister Hazel is 18, going into her senior year in high school. As anyone with children knows (or can remember their own youth), senior year in high school is a really tough time to move to a completely different part of the country. Add in the culture shock from big city life to small town/rural life and you have a recipe for either comedy or tragedy. This book shows you both.

They all spend the summer getting acclimated to their new surroundings, spending lots of time at the town pool, where the high school principal befriends Hazel because of the books she’s always reading. All Hazel wants to do is survive the year, get good grades and get into a hard-to-get-into college like Vassar. She wants to be a writer. Fast forward to the first day of school, and Hazel gets summoned from class to the principal’s office.

What happens in that office sets up the rest of the book. Given the title, you can probably imagine a bit of what transpires in that office (but I was still a bit stunned by the frankness of a particular sentence spoken by Principal White). #MeToo Trauma! Hazel reluctantly tells her parents (and her brother overhears) and things go from there. There is backlash to Hazel’s allegations, including some antisemitism, as well as some support for her. At the same time, Gus makes a serious misstep in his first lecture and he’s being subjected to a “Cancel Gus Blum” campaign on campus, which devastates him.

The author writes beautifully in the voices of all the main characters. I found Wolf to be particularly fun to read. Even though the subject matter is basically quite serious, there were a ton of amusing moments throughout the book. I loved the portrayal of the Blum family as Jewish fish-out-of-water in Maine, although there does seem to be a small Jewish community in the town since there’s a local rabbi.

I had access to three different versions of this book: paperback, ebook and audiobook, and I actually used all three formats! Emma Galvin did a great job on all the different voices. I believe this is my first audiobook with her as the narrator and I will look for more in the future. This is Jessica Berger Gross’ first novel, although she has written a lot, including a memoir. I loved the conversation between Gross and Galvin that was included with the audiobook.

Thank you to HTP Books (Hanover Square Press and Harlequin Audio) for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book and to listen to an advance copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.

Hazel says no to a proposition at the outset of this wildly bighearted novel about the ripple effect her decision has on not only her life but the lives of her family, her community, and the world at large.

When Gus and Claire Blum move their family from an expensive, cramped brownstone in Brooklyn to a beautiful house with room to spare in a small Maine town, their lives are immediately upended.

Accepting a tenured position at a prestigious college, Gus and Claire believe this change will be good for their family. High school senior, Hazel, and her preteen brother, Wolf, aren’t convinced. They’ve left behind a community and friends they loved for something foreign to them.

And Hazel’s “no” sends a shockwave through the idyllic town of Riverburg.

As her parents work to navigate personal struggles with their own careers, they quickly find themselves embroiled in a bigger battle between their new community and their children.

This is vague because to say more, to include details, would ruin the set up of a warm, funny, bighearted, and timely novel about love and empathy and how adversity unites people in ways both big and small.

I listened to this one, courtesy of @netgalley and @harlequinaudio and Emma Galvin does a terrific job emoting the complicated feelings shared - in third person - a feat to be admired.

There are comparisons to other books and TV shows, but I think this lovely, complicated debut stands firmly on its own, without need for comparison.

Feminist contemporary LitFic? Sign me up!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc and alc.

Unfortunately this book was not for me. I really wanted to like it given the high praises it has received, but unfortunately, I did not. I did think the audiobook narrator had a nice voice though.

Thank you to Harlequin Books and Harlequin Audio for the review copies of Hazel Says No. In some ways, this story reminded me of Exit, Pursued by a Bear by E.K. Johnston—a powerful exploration of trauma, recovery, and the rediscovery of voice and agency after assault. Stories like these, while still far too rare in both real life and fiction, offer something essential: a voice for survivors, and a call for others to recognize the importance of listening, supporting, and empowering young people to speak up.

I absolutely loved the audiobook production—Emma Galvin’s narration was excellent, and the multi-POV approach brought a fresh, layered perspective to a sensitive subject. Including different family members’ voices was especially effective. While some may find the younger brother’s voice less compelling, I found both the writing and performance surprisingly strong. The ripple effects of trauma—how one person’s assault reshapes an entire family’s dynamic and emotional balance—are thoughtfully and honestly portrayed.

I also appreciated the narrative arc that begins with Hazel’s risky behavior and mental health struggles and builds toward her reclaiming her voice and power. It's an honest depiction of adolescent pain and resilience. Teen protagonists can sometimes be self-focused—but that’s developmentally appropriate, and here it adds realism rather than detracting from the story. Readers looking for broader justice or institutional reckoning (e.g., consequences for the principal or recognition of other survivors) may not find that fully explored here, but for me, that didn’t lessen the impact. This is a focused, intentional, and well-crafted story about Hazel and her family—and that, in itself, feels meaningful and important.

I received a copy for review. All opinions are my own. Wow, new favorite book for me. This was an amazing novel about how a simple “No” played out through the lives of the members of one family. I really adored Hazel and her brother. There were a lot of great characters in this book and the plot was great. I found myself eager to turn the page to see what happens bext. Amazing book and fantastic read for summer!

When I first started reading Hazel Says No, I thought it was going to be a humorous novel. I think this writing style was really good for this book as it got really dark really fast The premise of the book is a serious one, but instead of examining what an affair between a student and principal looks like and feels like, Ms. Gross's Hazel said NO--and what the ramifications of that might look like. But the story is not just Hazel's, it is also how it affects her parents, Gus and Claire and especially her brother Wolf. I think all the characters of this book were really interesting--even the secondary characters like Noah, Luna, Ramona, and especially Gracie and Agatha. Interestingly enough Mr. White, the principal is a very flat character, maybe so the reader never gets a chance to see him as anything but evil (until the end of the book when he has one word for Hazel). I liked the book and the message it had, however I think the elevation of Hazel was probably a little unrealistic and the ending(s) of the book seemed to go on forever. I will look forward to see how Jessica Berger Gross writes next.

I love that this book was written. Hazel navigating a tough experience she didn't deserve gives hope to others that have to be adults when adults make terrible choices. I love Hazel's family too. I feel like some of the challenges and humor could be many families throughout the United States. This is a fantastic family drama and I always love seeing how characters navigate situations in books. This author did a fantastic job and I can't believe this was a debut novel. I will be watching for more books from this author! Thank you HTP books for the opportunity to read this important book!

Hazel Says No tackles important, powerful topics that deserve to be discussed and thrust into the spotlight.
This is the story of what happens when high school senior, Hazel Blum, is propositioned by her new principal and says NO! The events that follow, not only for Hazel, but the rest of her family, small community, and later the county, are the perfect example of how powerful the act of saying “No” can be. Although Hazel is able to reclaim power, she certainly experiences ALL the emotions along the way as she figures out how to put the pieces of her life back together.
I was pleasantly surprised this was Jessica Berger Gross’ debut novel. I enjoyed that her writing was engaging, clear & effective, and yet easy to follow. All four member of the Blum family had their voice heard, that had such an impact in the telling of this story.

I did go in with expectations of humor based on the blurb, especially with comparisons to a popular television show. It could just be me, but I didn’t find any humor in the novel. There may have been some situations and dialogue with Wolf (Hazel’s brother) that were supposed to provide comedic relief…but I feel like that’s a stretch. Maybe I’m missing something!
Overall, I enjoyed this novel and would absolutely recommend it as a more serious read. With many topics of discussion, I feel Hazel Says No would be a great addition to any book club.

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Thank you Jessica Berger Gross, HTP, Hanover Square Press, and NetGalley for allowing me access to this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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I picked up this book because an author/book influencer said it was in the running for “book of the summer” for 2025. I’m not 100% sure it could beat out books like Fredrick Backman or Taylor Jenkins Reid’s newest books, but I was intrigued regardless.

This is a debut novel follows a family who move from New York City to Maine. We get everyone in the family’s point of view- Claire (mom) who is a clothing designer struggling to figure out what’s next in her career, Gus (dad) who makes an unfortunate misstep in his role as a professor at a new college and Wolf (brother) trying to fit in during his first year of middle school. But probably the most important storyline is of Hazel’s (sister) whose encounter with her predatory high school principal that really drives the story as everyone in the family deals with the fall out.

I was most impressed by how the author was able to tell a story about a very serious topic and balance joy with light and funny moments. The characters had such strong voices- the audiobook narrator did an excellent job that I looked into what else she has narrated.

So 2025 book of the summer? Probably not. But I really enjoyed it and will be looking out for the authors future books!

fun, timely, and interesting story with some very strong writing, good style, and interesting ideas. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.

When Gus Blum gets a great opportunity to be a professor and department head at a prestigious college in Maine, the father of two is anxious to take it. Wife Claire is ready to design her own clothing line, and a change could give her that chance. Daughter Hazel is a senior in high school, so she only has a year left before she heads off to college (hopefully Vassar). Eleven-year-old Wolf, who struggles with ADHD, is starting junior high school with dreams of performing in a school play and yearns to fit in and make new friends. The family leaves the hustle and bustle of Brooklyn and moves into their new home in Riverburg, Maine. After a fun summer, things seem to be going well for the Blum family. However, on Hazel's first day of school, something unthinkable happens to her. The impact of a # MeToo event sends the family into a tailspin, leaving the small town shocked and divided.

Author Jessica Berger Gross presents a thought-provoking story in her beautifully written, impressive debut, Hazel Says No. While the crisis revolves around Hazel, each member of the Blum family is a well-developed, interesting, and authentic character. I especially loved Wolf. The novel deals with the consequences of speaking the truth when something bad happens. It sensitively addresses some serious topics yet includes lighter moments as well. I enjoyed this fish-out-of-water family story, especially having grown up in Brooklyn.

4.25 stars.

HAZEL SAYS NO has lots of potential. Unfortunately, I wasn’t among those who were wowed.

I really liked what the author was going for. I appreciated that we saw the fallout for each family member.

But I felt things worked out too easily, leaving missed opportunities for depth and an honest examination of the situation.

The audiobook didn’t work for me. Each of the four family members have POV parts. The narrator didn’t distinguish vocal tone or speech style for any of them, so they all blended into one another. The style worked well for Hazel, and her younger brother wasn’t a big issue, but I struggled with the parents’ POV parts because they sounded exactly like teenage Hazel.

*Thanks to @HTP_Hive, @HTPBooks, and @HTPBooks_Audio (#HiveInfluencer) for the free ebook and audiobook download!*

the blum family is truly going through it, all trying to navigate their new, slow-paced life in maine. in the midst of grasping this new lifestyle, the family finds themselves notoriously in the center of the small town’s spotlight. this book was a delight! i enjoyed the plot, the characters, the setting, and the writing. the author tackles tough situations, showing raw and real emotions, while simultaneously supporting such situations with humor. the characterization of each member of the blum family was written so well, it was easy to understand their thought process and the actions that followed.

one of the main takeaways i loved about this book was how strong and inspiring hazel was. although she seemingly took her situation with a grain of salt in the beginning, she turned it around in a manner that paved the way for others. i enjoyed the perspectives of all the characters. i especially loved the tone and approach for each of their stories. despite the magnitude of such events, their stories are told with light humor that kept me engaged without feeling too heavy.

i thoroughly enjoyed every bit of this book! i still think back on some parts and giggle. i will always recommend this one!

thank you to the publisher Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press, and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for my honest review!

I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I picked up Hazel Says No, but now I'm glad I went into it with curiosity and uncertainty as to what to expect. This is such a perfect book of the moment. Jessica Berger Gross does such an outstanding job of making each narrator in the Blum family distinct, empathetic, and relatable. I couldn't get enough of Hazel, Wolf, Claire, or Gus. I was hooked on this book from the opening pages.

I would be shocked to hear of any woman reading this book without being able to relate to Hazel's experience. This book has so much heart and humor packed into its #MeToo, fish out of water, coming of age, messy family story. I has relatable and hilarious awkward teenage angst, hilarious family dynamics, and contemporary feminist energy.

I finished this book nearly in one sitting. I had such a book hangover when I finished Hazel Says No, it took me a few days to pick up anything else.

I love this book, y'all, and I think it will appeal to a lot of contemporary fiction readers.

Thank you so much to HTP/the Hive, Harlequin Books, for the gifted copy of this beautiful book. It is a book I will gift and recommend to a lot of my reader friends.

Hazel Says No is a fantastic debut novel about Hazel, a focused high school student on track to go to get into a good college, when her family is relocated. She meets with the principal of her new school, who promptly ( and NOT subtly) propositions her. Hazel, however, is not the shrinking violet he was counting on. Hazel says no.
The story then focuses on the ensuing consequences for Hazel, her family, the school, and the principal, as told from the perspectives of the four members of her family. It’s a powerful, moving, and timely story, and it’s impossible not to root for Hazel along the way.

Emma Galvin does an excellent job narrating the audiobook.

Thank you Jessica Berger Gross, Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press, Harlequin Audio, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

I really enjoyed this! The title, for whatever reason, had me expecting a light or quirky read but it certainly wasn’t. I enjoyed the POV from each of the family members as they navigated life after the high school daughter goes public with a report of her principal sexually propositioning her.

A gripping tale of a family in conflict, and the beautiful, chaotic, messiness of trying to stick together when it all falls apart. I loved how real and poignant this story was. We got to see the inner thoughts of each family member as they navigated this situation. And I thought the author did a great job of handling the tension of making the right choice even when it’s not the easy or choice. When doing the right thing might make things more difficult, at least for a while. And in the end, we might learn that we are all more connected than we realized - even when we feel all alone.

My rating: 4.5⭐️

A family's journey of moving to a new town and how each family member deals with the consequences of when Hazel says no...to her principal. This felt like a made for TV series in which we become invested in each character and what they are struggling with, wanting for themselves but also wanting for each other. There was a part in the middle of the story in which I jumped up and screamed "yes" and was so excited for where Jessica Berger Gross took us as readers. It's not just a coming of age story but a coming of family story because ultimately we are all growing and finding our way no matter what age we are.

This is a well-crafted multi-person contemporary novel that jumps off from the question of what if Hazel said no - specifically to the lecherous small town principal who propositions her. And not just no, but no and then telling her community about it rather than sinking into shame for something wholly not her fault and likely happening to others. The catch though - this happens on Hazel's first day of high school in her senior town in a small depressed town in Maine to which her Jewish Brooklyn based family has just moved so that her father can take a better paid and tenured teaching position at the local small liberal arts college. What unspools from Hazel's decision affects her, her younger brother, and her parents in ways foreseen and unforeseen. Jessica Berger Gross is a talented writer and I am eager to see what she writes next. Highly recommend. Thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing | Hanover Square Press and NetGalley for the DRC.