When the Music Hits

A Novel

By: Amber Oliver

Length: 10 hrs

Publisher's summary

In this soulful debut novel set in the hypnotic music scene of New York City, a young woman lands her dream job at a major label—only to discover just how treacherous a place made to birth stars can be.

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—beautiful offices, access to exclusive industry parties, flashy dealmaking—and she can't wait until it's her turn to start finding new talent.

But as she continues to work at Lit, she's forced to face the reality of working in the industry. The hours are long, the demands are insane, and Billie's integrity is put to the test when she uncovers dirty dealings with music artists on Lit's roster. As Billie tries to sign her first artist, the stakes inch higher than ever as 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. Will achieving her dream be worth losing everything else she's ever loved, including herself?

When the Music Hits is a powerful and moving anthem for making space where there was none before, and introduces Amber Oliver as a blazing new talent to watch.

©2025 Amber Oliver (P)2025 Random House Audio