Amber Oliver’s When the Music Hits follows Billie Grand as she chases her dream job in NYC’s music industry—only to confront tough choices, identity struggles, and industry pressures. Bold, smart, and heartfelt, it’s a striking debut about ambition and staying true to yourself.

This one is for those music lovers. It’s modern day self discovery. Amber Oliver does a wonderful job of telling Billie’s story of finding for what right even when it could cost you your dream. Luckily Billie has a few people to hold her down like Lucas and Alicia. I enjoyed this read and would read it again.

Thank you Random House Publishing Group, Ballantine, for providing the copy of When The Music Hits by Amber Oliver. I love debuts and this one exceeded my expectations. I loved how Billie hustled to make her dreams come true and how focused she was on her job. Getting a look inside the music business was fun and eye-opening, and I loved hearing about all of the artists Billie listened to. This is a great book about how planning and taking chances can pay off. 4 stars for this amazing main character!

3.5⭐️s. I liked the culture and authenticity in the book, as Billie tries to follow her dream working in the music industry and navigating the intensity, dysfunction, and corruption, but also the joy and fulfillment of working with artists and making a difference with something you love.

The cultural and racial struggles she faced were really well presented and I liked seeing and learning of the world from Billie’s and other characters’ perspectives. I also enjoyed her friendships a lot in the book - I loved the support and honesty she and her friends invested in each other.

I did struggle with the very elaborate sections of the music industry mechanics - so many artist and band names, music theory and genre details. I am not really in that world so it felt like reading a technical document often and I ended up losing the plot a little. On the opposite end it kind of skimmed thru other parts of Billie’s story like starting her job or leading up to that part of the story that would help round it out instead.

Overall the writing was well done and I enjoyed the story, but I got kind of stuck on the minutiae. Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are mine.

Billie has long thought about a career as a music rep. When she lands a job as an assistant at Lit Music Productions, she immediately dreams about discovering and signing new artists. Her relationship begins to suffer as she works all hours of the day, often running across town at the last minute.

This seemed like a fun young adult novel. However, it wasn’t really my style. I found the constant name dropping of songs a bit off-putting. The use of songs to set the mood doesn’t really work unless the reader knows the artist and songs. Despite this criticism, I think many will enjoy this book. Overall, 4 out of 5 stars.

A pleasant read with a lot of insight into the world of big time music. And a bit nostalgic, remembering what it felt like to be young, artistic, ambitious and willing to focus on a single goal. But also quite unrealistic in that everything comes together with very, very few setbacks and sacrifice.

Adding Amber Oliver to my list of authors to watch in the coming years! This debut gave me so much to reflect on, and as someone fascinated by the music industry, this was such interesting commentary on what happens behind closed doors.

At its core, this book is a love letter to music and the memories it can create through generations. However, this book also highlights the idea of whether it’s possible to change a system from the inside. While Billie’s passion to support underrepresented artists makes her a character to root for, Oliver doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities: how record labels take advantage of young talent, how people in power go after virality over longevity, and how black artistry is co-opted when convenient and criticized when threatening the status quo. There were so many times when I paused reading this story from the anger I felt knowing that this happens to so many artists on a regular basis, but it was also cathartic to see it called out.

I also really enjoyed the conversations about the effects that choosing your career can have on yourself and your personal relationships. I think a lot of people of color can relate to the emotional toll of being in professional spaces full of people that don’t look like them, and the work you have to put in to make yourself seem “worthy” of the opportunity. The conversation about how women in relationships and families are often criticized for choosing their careers was also interesting. The tension that arose over time between her boyfriend Lucas and her mother felt real, as both parties had valid concerns about her “leaving behind” her old life for the sake of a company not treating her well. I think that subplot added a nice layer to Billie’s growth throughout the novel as she chose herself, but I think a scene or two more (especially with the mother) would’ve helped me feel more engaged with it in comparison to her time at Lit. Also, while the artist/song references scattered throughout helped enhance the musical tone, at times they felt a bit overly-descriptive and took me out of the story.

Overall though, I felt really seen by so many parts of this book, and there were so many quotes that I highlighted that spoke to me. I can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy and to see what else the author has in the works!

Such a well-written book! I loved the behind-the-scenes feeling of reading Billie's dreams coming true only to find out that not all that glitters is gold. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Ballantine Books for a copy of this book for an honest review.

Amber Oliver's When the Music Hits feels like a backstage pass to the New York music scene — the good, the bad, and the ugly. It's the kind of story that makes you lean in close, like someone's spilling industry secrets over drinks after hours.

The plot's simple enough: Black woman lands dream job at big record label, discovers dream might actually be a nightmare. But Oliver, who grew up between the Bronx and Harlem, turns this familiar setup into something electric. She writes like someone who's seen behind the curtain and lived to tell about it.

What makes this book sing is how real it feels. The dialogue crackles with authenticity — you can practically hear the studio sessions and boardroom battles. Oliver nails the little details: the passive-aggressive emails, the subtle power plays, the way success in the music industry often means leaving pieces of yourself at the door.

This isn't just another "making it in the big city" story. It's about what happens when you finally get that seat at the table, only to realize you're expected to play by rules you never agreed to. Oliver asks the hard questions: Can you change a system from the inside? What's the real cost of success? And at what point does compromise become surrender?

At 288 pages, the book moves like a well-produced track — no filler, all killer. Sure, some subplots could use more airtime, but the main story hits hard and stays with you.

For a debut novel, this one's got serious replay value. Oliver might play it safe occasionally, but her voice is fresh and her perspective is exactly what contemporary fiction needs. If you've ever wondered what really goes on behind those platinum records and glossy music videos, this book's got your answer — and it might make you think twice about what "making it" really means.

Breezy novel. A inside look at the sordid music business through the eyes of protagonist Billie Grand. Billie has always loved music and set her sights early on to become an A&R executive at a major record label. There are myriad references to music theory, styles, instruments, mixing, etc., all designed to infuse the book with authenticity. Those references sometimes feel forced which blunts the hoped for authenticity. But the emotional moments and the feelings we get along Billie’s journey are real and sits you inside the story like a comfortable recliner. The author’s obvious passion for music is contagious and Billie’s universal relatability makes this story compelling. An exciting debut. Thanks to Netgalley and Ballantine for an advanced DRC. Book hits June 17,2025

With The Other Black Girl meets The Devil Wears Prada vibes, author Amber Oliver gives readers an inside view into the music industry and the struggles of the protagonist, Billie Grand, as she attempts to make her mark.

Billie Grand works hard to establish herself and lands a job as an assistant at Lit Music Productions, a large music label. Ambitious and driven, she assimilates into the company’s culture to eventually represent emerging artists. Billie strives to balance her work demands with her mother’s need for support while keeping her boyfriend happy.

The novel is an engaging and immersive read, thanks to its lively descriptions of the New York music industry and relatable characters. I thank Random House and NetGalley for allowing me to write and review When the Music Hits.

This story upends the "must secure your dream job after higher education" pressure that a lot of people experience. Billie comes alive on the page as an achiever with a strong character background to empathize with her ambition. There is no such thing as a side character. Every character has a fulfilling arc. Lucas is a wonderfully and impactfully written male. The story also delves into the misguidance and greed of the music industry with purpose.

Hey, hey, my favorites 😀

Amber Oliver’s When the Music Hits is a compelling debut novel that explores the intersection of passion, identity, and the realities of the music industry. Set in New York City, the story follows Billie Grand, a young Black woman from the Bronx whose love for music becomes both her escape and her ambition. When she lands a coveted job as an A&R assistant at Lit Music Productions, Billie quickly realizes that the industry she idolized is not as glamorous as it seems.

Oliver does an excellent job of immersing readers in the highs and lows of the music business, from the thrill of discovering new talent to the racial and gender-based microaggressions Billie faces in a predominantly white workplace. The novel shines in its portrayal of Billie’s internal struggles—balancing personal ethics with career aspirations—and the relationships that shape her journey. Her discovery of an unsigned artist reignites her belief in authentic music but also forces her to confront the moral compromises required for success.

The writing is engaging, and Oliver’s experience in publishing adds a layer of authenticity to the behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry. However, some parts of the novel feel rushed, with certain character arcs and conflicts not fully explored. While the book offers a nostalgic nod to early 2000s music culture, some readers may find Billie’s development could have been deepened for a more satisfying emotional payoff.

Overall, When the Music Hits is a strong debut that will resonate with readers who appreciate coming-of-age stories set in fast-paced, high-stakes industries. It’s a thought-provoking read about staying true to oneself amid external pressures.

Rating: 4/5

Thank you, NetGalley, for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Great read! First read from this author. This book makes me want to read more from this author. Kept my attention and interest until the end.

This novel offers a compelling glimpse into the cutthroat world of the music industry. It follows Billie Grand as she navigates the highs and lows of her dream job at Lit Music Productions.

While Billie’s passion for music and her drive to uplift authentic voices is admirable, her character arc feels somewhat formulaic. The predictable workplace conflicts, including long hours and microaggressions, are handled with sincerity but lack the depth needed to make them feel truly impactful. The tension with her boyfriend and the pressure from her family add some stakes, though these relationships remain somewhat underdeveloped.

The novel shines most when exploring the music itself—the raw energy of the rising artist Billie discovers is palpable and provides a refreshing contrast to the corporate sheen of Lit. However, the story’s resolution feels rushed, and the office shake-up, while dramatic, is somewhat predictable.

Overall, this is an enjoyable but somewhat standard industry drama. While it offers fascinating insights into the music business and the personal costs of ambition, it ultimately doesn’t break new ground.

The publisher provided ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Amber Oliver’s *When the Music Hits* dives into the ups and downs of ambition, identity, and the not-so-glamorous side of the music industry. Set against the buzzing backdrop of New York’s music scene, it follows Billie Grand, a young woman from the Bronx whose love for music has always been her safe haven. She lands her dream job at Lit Music Productions, but quickly learns that the industry can be exploitative and full of gatekeeping.

Billie is an engaging character, juggling the cutthroat corporate world and the personal sacrifices that come with chasing her dreams. Oliver does an excellent job capturing the microaggressions and racial dynamics she deals with as she often feels like an outsider. The book sheds light on the contradictions in the music industry, where cultural appropriation thrives and real authenticity sometimes takes a backseat to profit. When Billie discovers an artist who truly represents her values, she faces a clash between her desire to support genuine talent and the harsh reality of corporate interests, leading to tough decisions.

What makes *When the Music Hits* so captivating is Oliver’s sharp and immersive writing. You really feel the tension between Billie’s dreams and the compromises she has to make. The relationships in her life—her skeptical boyfriend, her demanding mom, and colleagues who see her as both a valuable asset and a threat—add layers to her journey. This novel isn't just a peek behind the curtain of the music biz; it’s a commentary on who gets to shape culture and the costs involved. With a smart critique of power and privilege, *When the Music Hits* is both a cautionary tale and an inspiring piece for those trying to make their mark, solidifying Amber Oliver as a fresh voice in contemporary fiction that readers will want to follow.

This book gave me Brown Sugar meets The Devil Wears Prada vibes. Billie is a young recent graduate trying to get her foot in the within the music industry.

I loved the personal nostalgia of growing up in NY. The places she visited, the modes of transportation.

There could have been a bit more on Billie’s personal relationship with her boyfriend. That relationship could have been explored a bit more.

Thank you Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for this digital arc!

This novel is about the music industry and it takes place in New York City. Two of my peak interests from reading synopsis. I appreciate the authors build up of the characters and the complex relationship dynamics. I know this book is a work of fiction but there is a lot of real world stuff that takes place.

I will definitely read more from this author.

I love books that take place within the music industry and this one did not disappoint. We follow our main character, Billie as she navigates her personal life. Particularly her relationship with her mother that can be toxic at times. And also her career A&R rep as she discovers a new artist that has the potential to skyrocket to fame.

I loved the exploration of music and the struggle to make it in the industry while staying true to yourself. The writing captivated me immediately, and I loved getting lost in this story. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.