ARC Review: “When the Music Hits” by Amber Oliver

“When the Music Hits” by Amber Oliver

Publishing Date: June 17, 2025

Genre: Fiction, Contemporary

Page Length: 288 pages (electronic review edition)

Synopsis:

Growing up, Billie Grand sought solace in music, finding herself in the pulsing beats, striking lyrics, and mesmerizing voices that saved her when money issues and familial strife proved deafening. When she finally lands a coveted A&R assistant role at Lit Music Productions, one of the largest music labels in the country, it initially seems like everything she’s dreamed of—sleek offices, exclusive industry parties, flashy dealmaking—and she can’t wait until it’s her turn to find the next breakout headliner.

But as she continues to work at Lit, she discovers a dark side to all the glamor. The hours are long, the demands are insane, and Billie can’t shake the sense Lit’s higher ups are hiding something about their dealings As Billie tries to sign her first artist, a shake-up threatens to change everything and endangers Billie’s already precarious place in the pecking order. Her love life, family, and friendships have all taken a hit, but Billie has her sights set on the stars. As a reckoning brews at the office and the costs of her dreams get ever higher, she will have to decide—is finding success worth losing herself?

Review:

When the Music Hits gives readers a glimpse into the music industry through the lens of aspiring producer named Billie. Music is her deepest passion so when a job opportunity for Lit Music pops up the offer is too good to resist. But once the ugly threads of the music industry threaten to destroy everything Billie believes in will she be able to make a change or leave her career as a whole.

I love how this novel speaks to the heart of music and artistry that goes into creating the notable songs we know and love. Reading this novel I was excited to find nods to some of my favorite tracks and artists that I listen to on a daily basis. Oliver definitely speaks to the power of music and how it shapes and influences the soundtrack of our lives. The novel also heavily discusses the grittiness of the industry underneath the glamour as Billie experiences firsthand shorthand music deals, industry plants, and much more. She highlights the disproportionate ways the music industry often pulls one over on Black and Brown artists as well which I appreciated. This juxtaposition of both sides of the industry make for a interesting read that continues the discussion surrounding the evolution of music.

I think this is a solid debut novel from Oliver who’s lyrical writing is engaging and fresh. The novel tells a coming of age story that makes it easy to connect with Billie as she struggles to navigate her way through a new chapter in life. While the ending is left a bit open, and the latter half of the novel feels a bit rushed in pacing, it was a very enjoyable read. I feel like the subplots could be explored more (especially when it comes to the Romance factor) if the novel had been just a bit longer.

I would recommend this novel to those who like stories surrounding music or self-discovery journeys. I look forward to reading more of Oliver’s works!

Final Verdict:

FTC Disclaimer: I received this novel via Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.