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Hazel Fine Sings Along
When your voice is all that matters—sing loud.
As Hazel Fine steps out of her crummy hotel room into the bright LA sunshine, she knows she’s got one, and only one, chance.. Her audition for the massive talent show, The Sing Along, could change her life forever. She has the skills, what she needs now is a bit of luck.
Soon Hazel finds herself alongside fifteen other contestants who all have the same superstardom. There’s the beautiful Hollywood golden child, Bella. The bright, bubbly country singer, Zoey. The extraordinarily handsome surfer/influencer, Benji. And Hazel, who has more to hide than her past. She’s got the chops, but can she handle the pressure without self-combusting?
Add in an undeniable attraction to the show’s talented yet brooding musical director, Nick, and the lecherous tactics of one of the judges, Hazel soon finds herself in over her head. But with her guitar strapped to her shoulder, she’s going to sing her heart out—and maybe open herself up to love at the same time. Who says you can’t have it all . . .
As Hazel Fine steps out of her crummy hotel room into the bright LA sunshine, she knows she’s got one, and only one, chance.. Her audition for the massive talent show, The Sing Along, could change her life forever. She has the skills, what she needs now is a bit of luck.
Soon Hazel finds herself alongside fifteen other contestants who all have the same superstardom. There’s the beautiful Hollywood golden child, Bella. The bright, bubbly country singer, Zoey. The extraordinarily handsome surfer/influencer, Benji. And Hazel, who has more to hide than her past. She’s got the chops, but can she handle the pressure without self-combusting?
Add in an undeniable attraction to the show’s talented yet brooding musical director, Nick, and the lecherous tactics of one of the judges, Hazel soon finds herself in over her head. But with her guitar strapped to her shoulder, she’s going to sing her heart out—and maybe open herself up to love at the same time. Who says you can’t have it all . . .
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2023
8 people are currently reading
7561 people want to read
About the author
Katie Wicks
2 books97 followersKatie Wicks was born and raised in Montreal, Canada, where she now lives and writes full-time. An amateur guitar and tennis player, Katie has been obsessed with reality TV singing competitions since American Idol debuted twenty-years ago but has never worked up the courage to audition herself. HAZEL FINE SINGS ALONG is Katie’s debut novel.
Katie Wicks is also the pen name for USA TODAY bestselling novelist Catherine McKenzie.
Katie Wicks is also the pen name for USA TODAY bestselling novelist Catherine McKenzie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
July 31, 2023
Despite my love for music there was a lot that didn’t work for me in this book.
Hazel Fine loves music and wants to go pro. She was lucky enough to have been spotted by a scout from a popular talent show, and she is determined to make the best out of it.
Reading this felt like watching reality tv. It’s a poorly written story about shallow, aspiring celebrities, so there are fake tears, lies and creeps who proposition to young girls.
I couldn’t take all the drama; the characters were supposed to be adults but they were acting like teenagers. The constant talk about who tweeted what and who hates whom… There’s a reason why I don’t watch reality shows!
I struggled with rooting for Hazel, she was a liar and not a very likable person. Her love life was confusing; maybe it was supposed to be a fake dating trope with a twist? I’m not sure, but there was flirting and a date and some kissing, drama aaaand … she ended up with a different guy? Wha- whaaat??
I didn’t feel any chemistry between Hazel and Nick (even during the supposedly steamy scene) and their story was underdeveloped. I would have liked some more buildup, more scenes of them together; I can’t root for a guy I don’t even know.
If you like reality shows, go for it, if not, I would stay away…
Thank you NetGalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Hazel Fine loves music and wants to go pro. She was lucky enough to have been spotted by a scout from a popular talent show, and she is determined to make the best out of it.
Reading this felt like watching reality tv. It’s a poorly written story about shallow, aspiring celebrities, so there are fake tears, lies and creeps who proposition to young girls.
I couldn’t take all the drama; the characters were supposed to be adults but they were acting like teenagers. The constant talk about who tweeted what and who hates whom… There’s a reason why I don’t watch reality shows!
I struggled with rooting for Hazel, she was a liar and not a very likable person. Her love life was confusing; maybe it was supposed to be a fake dating trope with a twist? I’m not sure, but there was flirting and a date and some kissing, drama aaaand … she ended up with a different guy? Wha- whaaat??
I didn’t feel any chemistry between Hazel and Nick (even during the supposedly steamy scene) and their story was underdeveloped. I would have liked some more buildup, more scenes of them together; I can’t root for a guy I don’t even know.
If you like reality shows, go for it, if not, I would stay away…
Thank you NetGalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2022
I am so excited for you to read my debut rom-com under my pseudonym, KATIE WICKS! Please add it to your to-read list! Coming May 2, 2023!
When your voice is all that matters—sing loud.
As Hazel Fine steps out of her crummy hotel room into the bright LA sunshine, she knows she’s got one, and only one, chance.. Her audition for the massive talent show, The Sing Along, could change her life forever. She has the skills, what she needs now is a bit of luck.
Soon Hazel finds herself alongside fifteen other contestants who all have the same dream: superstardom. There’s the beautiful Hollywood golden child, Bella. The bright, bubbly country singer, Zoey. The extraordinarily handsome surfer/influencer, Benji. And Hazel, who has more to hide than her past. She’s got the chops, but can she handle the pressure without self-combusting?
Add in an undeniable attraction to the show’s talented yet brooding musical director, Nick, and the lecherous tactics of one of the judges, Hazel soon finds herself in over her head. But with her guitar strapped to her shoulder, she’s going to sing her heart out—and maybe open herself up to love at the same time. Who says you can’t have it all . . .
When your voice is all that matters—sing loud.
As Hazel Fine steps out of her crummy hotel room into the bright LA sunshine, she knows she’s got one, and only one, chance.. Her audition for the massive talent show, The Sing Along, could change her life forever. She has the skills, what she needs now is a bit of luck.
Soon Hazel finds herself alongside fifteen other contestants who all have the same dream: superstardom. There’s the beautiful Hollywood golden child, Bella. The bright, bubbly country singer, Zoey. The extraordinarily handsome surfer/influencer, Benji. And Hazel, who has more to hide than her past. She’s got the chops, but can she handle the pressure without self-combusting?
Add in an undeniable attraction to the show’s talented yet brooding musical director, Nick, and the lecherous tactics of one of the judges, Hazel soon finds herself in over her head. But with her guitar strapped to her shoulder, she’s going to sing her heart out—and maybe open herself up to love at the same time. Who says you can’t have it all . . .
August 5, 2025
A great romance debut from Canadian thriller writer Catherine McKenzie! I really enjoyed this reality singing competition love story that sees Hazel Fine trying to win while hiding a contraband pet rabbit, fake dating a costar and falling in real love all at the same time.
Heartfelt with a heavy emotional/toxic parent storyline and a #metoo plot between Hazel, some other female contestants and the competition producer. This was an above average story and I look forward to more romance offerings from 'Katie Wicks."
Good on audio narrated by Cicely Meadows and perfect for fans of books like All I want for Christmas by Maggie Knox. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
Steam level: a couple open door scenes, mild details
Heartfelt with a heavy emotional/toxic parent storyline and a #metoo plot between Hazel, some other female contestants and the competition producer. This was an above average story and I look forward to more romance offerings from 'Katie Wicks."
Good on audio narrated by Cicely Meadows and perfect for fans of books like All I want for Christmas by Maggie Knox. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
Steam level: a couple open door scenes, mild details
May 10, 2023
I had my eye on Hazel Fine Sings Along ever since Catherine McKenzie announced she would be writing this one as Katie Wicks. Catherine writes thrillers, but she did start out with a couple rom-coms and it was nice to see that side of her again. Her debut as Katie Wicks hits it out of the park! It is such a fun and interesting story. I even got teary-eyed a couple of times. I really liked getting to know Hazel and seeing what it was like behind the scenes of a reality music competition. (I watched American Idol for a few years in the late 2000s.)
Originally posted at Chick Lit Central.
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TW: Sexual harassment
If you're looking for drama, you've come to the right place. There is a lot of stress in Hazel's life and it starts to affect her relationships with the others in the competition. She has a secret that could hurt her career if it surfaces, so she is doing a lot to guard that, along with fending off advances from the show's host and hiding contraband (in this case, a quirky pet) in her hotel room.
I just really liked this story overall. It kept me going from beginning to end, wanting to know what secret Hazel was keeping and wondering who would win the competition. The supporting characters were great (except the ones we weren't supposed to like) and the plot moved along smoothly. I also felt like I was right there because of the great use of detail. However, I felt like it was overkill to always describe everything each of the supporting characters was wearing. That part could have been simplified a bit.
The only concern I had was that I felt some characters didn't receive consequences that were due to them. And when one of them did, it felt minor in comparison to what they deserved.
Hazel Fine Sings Along is available now, so pick up a copy right away! I hope Katie will write more novels like this one, perhaps featuring some of the other characters (i.e. Bella, Zoey, etc.).
(Trigger warning at the bottom of this post.)
Movie casting suggestions:
Hazel: Kaitlyn Dever
Benji: Darren Barnet
Nick: Theo James
Bella: Sofia Carson
Zoey: Amandla Stenberg (It can be a Dear Evan Hansen movie reunion with Kaitlyn too!)
Georgia: Gwyneth Paltrow
Kate: Julianne Hough
Martin: Jack Davenport
Benji: Darren Barnet
Nick: Theo James
Bella: Sofia Carson
Zoey: Amandla Stenberg (It can be a Dear Evan Hansen movie reunion with Kaitlyn too!)
Georgia: Gwyneth Paltrow
Kate: Julianne Hough
Martin: Jack Davenport
Keshawn: Tituss Burgess
Originally posted at Chick Lit Central.
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TW: Sexual harassment
April 18, 2023
An adorable and fun romance. It's worth all the hype! This book was a quick and light-hearted read. Although it's refreshing to see a novel not focusing primarily on the romance aspect, it takes a while to get to it--which surprised me as the cover alludes to a love interest. The storyline is chaotic at times but well-written. If you enjoy reading about Reality TV or behind the scenes in Hollywood, definitely pick this one up!
Thank you to NetGalley and Katie Wicks for an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Katie Wicks for an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 29, 2022
Thank you so so much to the author and the publisher, Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group, for sharing an e-ARC of this book with me on NetGalley!!
“And then she sang as if her life depended on it. Because it did”
“Don’t worry … I won’t let anything happen to you”
I so liked this book. Honestly if you missed American Idol or you’ve never watched The Voice or X-Factor, then read this book and you will have an idea of what happens in the emerging music industry!!!
This book was about singers, musicians who create art through their texts and their songs.
I’m in love with a certain music director that has his own way with words!!!
Hazel’s story has been wonderful to go through and I loved experiencing with her the struggles, joys, doubts and quarrels of her competition !!
I liked getting to know her friends, her enemies and Nick (iykyk) and I so liked the vibes this book has been given me, repeatedly throughout the entire plot: respect women and stop men who are trying to take advantage of their position to gain sexual favours.
I loved this message most of all!!!
I’m so glad I had the chance to read this book.
“That was me, claiming my crown as the queen of self-sabotage”
“And then she sang as if her life depended on it. Because it did”
“Don’t worry … I won’t let anything happen to you”
I so liked this book. Honestly if you missed American Idol or you’ve never watched The Voice or X-Factor, then read this book and you will have an idea of what happens in the emerging music industry!!!
This book was about singers, musicians who create art through their texts and their songs.
I’m in love with a certain music director that has his own way with words!!!
Hazel’s story has been wonderful to go through and I loved experiencing with her the struggles, joys, doubts and quarrels of her competition !!
I liked getting to know her friends, her enemies and Nick (iykyk) and I so liked the vibes this book has been given me, repeatedly throughout the entire plot: respect women and stop men who are trying to take advantage of their position to gain sexual favours.
I loved this message most of all!!!
I’m so glad I had the chance to read this book.
“That was me, claiming my crown as the queen of self-sabotage”
December 8, 2022
Thanks for letting me read this one I loved it so much it was by far one of my favorite books and I couldn't put it down I just had to see what the secret was ahh...and who she ended up with cause I mean iykyk
September 28, 2022
I am so excited for you to read my DEBUT rom-com, HAZEL FINE SINGS ALONG!!! Can't wait for you to meet Hazel, Benji, Nick and Checkers!
May 19, 2023
I always strive to give debut authors the benefit of the doubt. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to produce a book and letting it out into the world can be anxiety-inducing. The idea behind Hazel Fine Sings Along is brilliant. It was the way the author went about writing it that lost me.
Before we start, I want to preface that while this is marketed as a rom-com…it’s not.
It was very difficult for me to empathize with Hazel as a character. She was unbearable and wasn’t sure what ground she stood on…as an almost thirty-year-old adult. She didn’t appear to be as passionate about music, or anything, the way the author wants us to believe. She was very much self-involved and immature. She lies to anyone and everyone when truthfully, there’s no reason to. Even she admits she takes it too far. That, my friends, is called a pathological liar. She didn’t think about anyone else but herself when making decisions. I also cannot believe after creating this entirely different identity to separate herself from her childhood trauma, she forgives and mends her relationship with her parents without a second thought. Hazel’s parents came across as narcissistic and manipulative and yet I’m supposed to believe, that after all the damage they caused her, they deserve to be back in her life. Okay…
Her bunny, Checkers, also just annoyed me. What was the point? She has this deep emotional connection to it…but we’re not sure why because it was never explored.
Hazel and her love interest, Nick, had absolutely zero chemistry, either platonic or romantic. I don’t see this partnership lasting very long. At all. He gave off the vibes of every mediocre, misogynistic white man I’ve ever had the displeasure of coming in contact with.
There was no one I rooted for in this story. Not the main characters and most definitely not the supporting characters. There are certain morals that you just cannot compromise when it comes to being friends with someone. The way Zoey blatantly invalidated Hazel’s experience with sexual harassment was astounding. Not only that, but she compares it to the way she feels when her girlfriend brings her to rallies and marches. The red flag is working overtime at the speed it's waving. Point blank, her character was ignorant and tone-deaf.
The character growth as it pertains to everyone was stagnant. I wish there was a more stable sense of camaraderie between the contestants, especially the girls. After the accusations against Martin came out, they should’ve banded together. Or at least some of them. But yet, it drove a bigger wedge between them than anything. While I understand this may be within the realm of believability for some, it wasn’t for me.
The plot was just…chaotic. There was too much going on all at once, yet nothing at all. Every conflict was met with a surface-level introduction and solution. The story lacked direction. Not to mention the constant TikTok references. Now, that may just be a stylistic preference on my end, but a lot of times, readers are using reading as an escape from that aspect of their life. I could look past it if it wasn’t being brought up every other chapter. It dates the book rather than making it timeless. After that, I’m also supposed to pretend the names Bella and Benji weren’t intentional?
The last straw? Hazel choosing to sing Fight Song. I draw the line there. Absolutely not. I could bear the constant pop culture references, but I will not let this slide. It wasn’t the slay she thought it was. I took off at least two stars for that alone. Atrocious.
The story had so much untapped potential and overall just felt very underdeveloped, earning it only two stars for me.
Thank you to Wattpad Books and Katie Wicks for providing me with a finished copy for PR purposes. As always, all opinions are my own and are not influenced by gifted access to this title.
Before we start, I want to preface that while this is marketed as a rom-com…it’s not.
It was very difficult for me to empathize with Hazel as a character. She was unbearable and wasn’t sure what ground she stood on…as an almost thirty-year-old adult. She didn’t appear to be as passionate about music, or anything, the way the author wants us to believe. She was very much self-involved and immature. She lies to anyone and everyone when truthfully, there’s no reason to. Even she admits she takes it too far. That, my friends, is called a pathological liar. She didn’t think about anyone else but herself when making decisions. I also cannot believe after creating this entirely different identity to separate herself from her childhood trauma, she forgives and mends her relationship with her parents without a second thought. Hazel’s parents came across as narcissistic and manipulative and yet I’m supposed to believe, that after all the damage they caused her, they deserve to be back in her life. Okay…
Her bunny, Checkers, also just annoyed me. What was the point? She has this deep emotional connection to it…but we’re not sure why because it was never explored.
Hazel and her love interest, Nick, had absolutely zero chemistry, either platonic or romantic. I don’t see this partnership lasting very long. At all. He gave off the vibes of every mediocre, misogynistic white man I’ve ever had the displeasure of coming in contact with.
There was no one I rooted for in this story. Not the main characters and most definitely not the supporting characters. There are certain morals that you just cannot compromise when it comes to being friends with someone. The way Zoey blatantly invalidated Hazel’s experience with sexual harassment was astounding. Not only that, but she compares it to the way she feels when her girlfriend brings her to rallies and marches. The red flag is working overtime at the speed it's waving. Point blank, her character was ignorant and tone-deaf.
The character growth as it pertains to everyone was stagnant. I wish there was a more stable sense of camaraderie between the contestants, especially the girls. After the accusations against Martin came out, they should’ve banded together. Or at least some of them. But yet, it drove a bigger wedge between them than anything. While I understand this may be within the realm of believability for some, it wasn’t for me.
The plot was just…chaotic. There was too much going on all at once, yet nothing at all. Every conflict was met with a surface-level introduction and solution. The story lacked direction. Not to mention the constant TikTok references. Now, that may just be a stylistic preference on my end, but a lot of times, readers are using reading as an escape from that aspect of their life. I could look past it if it wasn’t being brought up every other chapter. It dates the book rather than making it timeless. After that, I’m also supposed to pretend the names Bella and Benji weren’t intentional?
The last straw? Hazel choosing to sing Fight Song. I draw the line there. Absolutely not. I could bear the constant pop culture references, but I will not let this slide. It wasn’t the slay she thought it was. I took off at least two stars for that alone. Atrocious.
The story had so much untapped potential and overall just felt very underdeveloped, earning it only two stars for me.
Thank you to Wattpad Books and Katie Wicks for providing me with a finished copy for PR purposes. As always, all opinions are my own and are not influenced by gifted access to this title.
dnf
April 16, 2023DNF % 34%
I was so excited about the premise of this book--I love a story about an up-and-coming singer/songwriter, and normally, a singing competition show would've made that even better for me.
Unfortunately, this book couldn't keep me invested.
The characters are written strangely. They're supposed to be in their twenties--our main character is supposed to be 28 but is pretending to be 22--but they all sound like they're a bunch of vapid teenagers. It's difficult to root for any of them when they're all so self-involved. They were all very one-dimensional as well; it felt like the author picked one distinguishable characteristic for each of them and stuck to only that, which was unfortunate.
There isn't much of a conflict either. Even when I stopped reading, the only thing going on was Hazel progressing, rather quickly, through this singing competition. There was a fellow competitor that she had some drama with, but that's not enough to keep the entire story moving.
The writing wasn't particularly strong either. Not a lot of descriptions, and as I mentioned earlier, the dialogue made the characters sound more juvenile than they were meant to be.
And, I'm sorry, but I can't get over the bunny, Checkers, that was randomly implanted into this story. What was the point of that rabbit? It was just a distraction to the plot and felt more self-indulgent than anything else.
Unfortunately, there are plenty of other aspiring singer/songwriter books that I would recommend before this one. In particular, It Goes Like This by Miel Moreland.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was so excited about the premise of this book--I love a story about an up-and-coming singer/songwriter, and normally, a singing competition show would've made that even better for me.
Unfortunately, this book couldn't keep me invested.
The characters are written strangely. They're supposed to be in their twenties--our main character is supposed to be 28 but is pretending to be 22--but they all sound like they're a bunch of vapid teenagers. It's difficult to root for any of them when they're all so self-involved. They were all very one-dimensional as well; it felt like the author picked one distinguishable characteristic for each of them and stuck to only that, which was unfortunate.
There isn't much of a conflict either. Even when I stopped reading, the only thing going on was Hazel progressing, rather quickly, through this singing competition. There was a fellow competitor that she had some drama with, but that's not enough to keep the entire story moving.
The writing wasn't particularly strong either. Not a lot of descriptions, and as I mentioned earlier, the dialogue made the characters sound more juvenile than they were meant to be.
And, I'm sorry, but I can't get over the bunny, Checkers, that was randomly implanted into this story. What was the point of that rabbit? It was just a distraction to the plot and felt more self-indulgent than anything else.
Unfortunately, there are plenty of other aspiring singer/songwriter books that I would recommend before this one. In particular, It Goes Like This by Miel Moreland.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc copy of this book.
Another book that I was originally looking forward to but was ultimately disappointed by. First off, this is marketed as a romance or rom-com, but it is not what I would classify it as. While there is a romance in the book, it is not the focus at all and is more like a background thing.
The characters were all incredibly shallow and one-dimensional. Hazel is not a likable main character, and it was hard to root for her at any point. Also, her lies and secret keeping made no sense. They were supposed to be in their 20s from early to late, but they all read and acted like there were in high school. And to make it worse, the author didn’t spend enough time developing any of the friendships or the dynamics in this book.
The romance was lackluster at best. There was no chemistry between the character, and it was underdeveloped.
The book as a whole just did not read well. For an adult book and the topics that were discussed, it read very young. In addition, the author did not address sexual assault well, in my opinion. Making light of men who use their power to manipulate women just did not sit right with me, and it either needed to be handled better or taken out of the book as a whole.
Overall this book was a disappointment at every turn, and I just think that all the potential was squandered
Another book that I was originally looking forward to but was ultimately disappointed by. First off, this is marketed as a romance or rom-com, but it is not what I would classify it as. While there is a romance in the book, it is not the focus at all and is more like a background thing.
The characters were all incredibly shallow and one-dimensional. Hazel is not a likable main character, and it was hard to root for her at any point. Also, her lies and secret keeping made no sense. They were supposed to be in their 20s from early to late, but they all read and acted like there were in high school. And to make it worse, the author didn’t spend enough time developing any of the friendships or the dynamics in this book.
The romance was lackluster at best. There was no chemistry between the character, and it was underdeveloped.
The book as a whole just did not read well. For an adult book and the topics that were discussed, it read very young. In addition, the author did not address sexual assault well, in my opinion. Making light of men who use their power to manipulate women just did not sit right with me, and it either needed to be handled better or taken out of the book as a whole.
Overall this book was a disappointment at every turn, and I just think that all the potential was squandered
June 15, 2023
**I received this book as an ARC through netgalley!**
So I got to about 75% of this book absolutely loving it, thinking it was definitely going to be at least a 4 star read for me. Then I got to the end and just felt like it fell a bit flat. I don't know if it's just because I have been reading a lot of dark romances and fantasies lately, but I felt like the ending was so unrealistic. I feel like the author tried to tie everything up at the end with a pretty bow and call it a day.
The book started so well, and I felt like the characters had very deep back stories, and instead of seeing a lot of growth, it was more like, and then everyone lived happily ever after.
I absolutely hated Zoey and Brooke's relationship. Zoey constantly talked about how she lied to her girlfriend about her opinions on tough topics, but then held Hazel to these super high standards. Hazel and her parents' relationship was so cringey to read. I felt horrible for her and what she went through and when they try to apologize it seems so forced and fake, and why did you have to do it right before one of the biggest moments of her life?
Look, I really wanted to like this book. And for the most part, I did, but there were a lot of inconsistencies, weird and awkward banter, and horrible characters.
I would still give it a chance, just be wary!
So I got to about 75% of this book absolutely loving it, thinking it was definitely going to be at least a 4 star read for me. Then I got to the end and just felt like it fell a bit flat. I don't know if it's just because I have been reading a lot of dark romances and fantasies lately, but I felt like the ending was so unrealistic. I feel like the author tried to tie everything up at the end with a pretty bow and call it a day.
The book started so well, and I felt like the characters had very deep back stories, and instead of seeing a lot of growth, it was more like, and then everyone lived happily ever after.
I absolutely hated Zoey and Brooke's relationship. Zoey constantly talked about how she lied to her girlfriend about her opinions on tough topics, but then held Hazel to these super high standards. Hazel and her parents' relationship was so cringey to read. I felt horrible for her and what she went through and when they try to apologize it seems so forced and fake, and why did you have to do it right before one of the biggest moments of her life?
Look, I really wanted to like this book. And for the most part, I did, but there were a lot of inconsistencies, weird and awkward banter, and horrible characters.
I would still give it a chance, just be wary!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2023
2.5 ⭐️ Oof! This was a tough one. Right from page one, I was thinking “What’s the point of this?”
There was quite a lot I struggled with here — the plot lines around sexual assault/harassment felt insensitive, especially in the conversation Zoey and Hazel had about the situation at hand. And Checkers, as sweet as bunnies are, was a totally pointless addition to the book and seemed to hop in and totally random times. He didn’t really move the plot forward, and didn’t make me love any of the characters any more.
I also thought this was a romance, and the “romance” totally fell flat. At first I couldn’t tell if the romance was going to happen between Hazel/Benji or Hazel/Nick, and ultimately couldn’t really form an attachment to either of them. Nick especially felt distant, didn’t think I got much from him at all, and couldn’t really feel myself rooting for them.
Everyone in this book seemed to be a total train wreck and I couldn’t get behind any of them. Maybe my hopes were a little too high heading into it! Still, I got through it and was entertained enough to finish. Definitely not the best and not a fave though.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
There was quite a lot I struggled with here — the plot lines around sexual assault/harassment felt insensitive, especially in the conversation Zoey and Hazel had about the situation at hand. And Checkers, as sweet as bunnies are, was a totally pointless addition to the book and seemed to hop in and totally random times. He didn’t really move the plot forward, and didn’t make me love any of the characters any more.
I also thought this was a romance, and the “romance” totally fell flat. At first I couldn’t tell if the romance was going to happen between Hazel/Benji or Hazel/Nick, and ultimately couldn’t really form an attachment to either of them. Nick especially felt distant, didn’t think I got much from him at all, and couldn’t really feel myself rooting for them.
Everyone in this book seemed to be a total train wreck and I couldn’t get behind any of them. Maybe my hopes were a little too high heading into it! Still, I got through it and was entertained enough to finish. Definitely not the best and not a fave though.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
January 20, 2023
I want to preface this review for saying thank you to Netgalley and Wattpad WEBTOON for sending me an advanced reader copy of this book. Now let's jump in.
Hazel Fine is a struggling singer with a secret past. When she auditions for The Sing Along and lands a spot, he world gets even more complicated. Along the way, Hazel meets her handsome voice coach who she develops a slight crush on. Can Hazel pull off her new life without revealing her secrets or will it blow up in her face?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book but I feel like it read like a young adult book almost. If you took out the spicy scene in this book it could easily be marketed as young adult. I thought the show concept was cute and all the characters were likable except for Martin, no one likes Martin. There was some slight immaturity to the book I felt like with all the tiktok references. I don't like to read about modern day social media in my books. But, overall I did enjoy the story. I'm glad there was a happy ending to it and I'm glad Hazel was able to grow into the person she was meant to be in the end. This book would be good for fans of singing competitions and musicals!
Hazel Fine is a struggling singer with a secret past. When she auditions for The Sing Along and lands a spot, he world gets even more complicated. Along the way, Hazel meets her handsome voice coach who she develops a slight crush on. Can Hazel pull off her new life without revealing her secrets or will it blow up in her face?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book but I feel like it read like a young adult book almost. If you took out the spicy scene in this book it could easily be marketed as young adult. I thought the show concept was cute and all the characters were likable except for Martin, no one likes Martin. There was some slight immaturity to the book I felt like with all the tiktok references. I don't like to read about modern day social media in my books. But, overall I did enjoy the story. I'm glad there was a happy ending to it and I'm glad Hazel was able to grow into the person she was meant to be in the end. This book would be good for fans of singing competitions and musicals!
March 21, 2023
*****Publishing May 2, 2023*****
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Do you need a page turner that is fun, light and entertaining?
Hazel needs a change in her life. Living in a run-down hotel and working at a coffee shop wasn’t the life she envisioned. Hazel is approached by a scout at an open mic night to audition for a TV singing competition, The Sing Along. Hazel agrees and ultimately makes it to the live round in the competition. Little did she know that she would be getting pressure from one of the judges that would break the rules, having to play along with a fake boyfriend, and that there would be drama from other contestants. Will these pressures get her eliminated or can Hazel stay on track to win?
A fun and entertaining ROM-COM that will have you turning the pages to cheer on Hazel. I loved how this author included Hazel owning a rescued bunny as a pet, because it just added to the chaos and humor!
If you are a fan of American Idol or The Voice, then this is a must read!
Thanks to Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group (W by Wattpad Books), I was provided an ARC of Hazel Fine Sings Along by Katie Wicks via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. #Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Do you need a page turner that is fun, light and entertaining?
Hazel needs a change in her life. Living in a run-down hotel and working at a coffee shop wasn’t the life she envisioned. Hazel is approached by a scout at an open mic night to audition for a TV singing competition, The Sing Along. Hazel agrees and ultimately makes it to the live round in the competition. Little did she know that she would be getting pressure from one of the judges that would break the rules, having to play along with a fake boyfriend, and that there would be drama from other contestants. Will these pressures get her eliminated or can Hazel stay on track to win?
A fun and entertaining ROM-COM that will have you turning the pages to cheer on Hazel. I loved how this author included Hazel owning a rescued bunny as a pet, because it just added to the chaos and humor!
If you are a fan of American Idol or The Voice, then this is a must read!
Thanks to Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group (W by Wattpad Books), I was provided an ARC of Hazel Fine Sings Along by Katie Wicks via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. #Netgalley
April 24, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️
After being approached by a talent account, Hazel Fine auditions for The Sing Along, a reality tv competition. All she’s ever wanted to do with her life is sing, and she sees this as her last chance opportunity.
We meet a bunch of fun side characters - Zoey, her bestie & roommate in the competition; Bella, her biggest rival; Benji, the cute surfer TikTok star; Nick, the broody musical director - and of course, Checkers the bunny!
I wouldn’t fully classify this book as a romance - it was definitely part of it, but I felt this book was more about the signing competition, and Hazel’s journey to figure out her life.
It was cute, but kind of lost me along the way - it could have been shorter.
There was a lot of talk related to the #MeToo movement, some of which was uncomfortable and surprising (her chats with Zoey).
Read if you enjoy:
⭐️ Singing competition (reality tv)
⭐️ Troubled past
⭐️ Hidden identity
⭐️ Forced proximity
⭐️ Slow burn
⭐️ Canadian author
⭐️ Single POV/3rd person
Thank you to NetGalley and Wattled Books for an advanced copy to review. All opinions are my own.
🌶️
After being approached by a talent account, Hazel Fine auditions for The Sing Along, a reality tv competition. All she’s ever wanted to do with her life is sing, and she sees this as her last chance opportunity.
We meet a bunch of fun side characters - Zoey, her bestie & roommate in the competition; Bella, her biggest rival; Benji, the cute surfer TikTok star; Nick, the broody musical director - and of course, Checkers the bunny!
I wouldn’t fully classify this book as a romance - it was definitely part of it, but I felt this book was more about the signing competition, and Hazel’s journey to figure out her life.
It was cute, but kind of lost me along the way - it could have been shorter.
There was a lot of talk related to the #MeToo movement, some of which was uncomfortable and surprising (her chats with Zoey).
Read if you enjoy:
⭐️ Singing competition (reality tv)
⭐️ Troubled past
⭐️ Hidden identity
⭐️ Forced proximity
⭐️ Slow burn
⭐️ Canadian author
⭐️ Single POV/3rd person
Thank you to NetGalley and Wattled Books for an advanced copy to review. All opinions are my own.
May 2, 2023
Oh gosh! This was such a fun story! Who doesn't love watching singing competition shows? And then to have a story filled with such a delightful cast of characters. I totally devoured this book.
Hazel has so much talent but she also seems to bring a bit of drama along with her. And maybe a few secrets? But then, all of the other cast members bring their own drama and quirks to the table. That's what makes this story so great, the rivalry and conflict between them. They all want to be the winner!
Katie Wicks has created an entertaining and amusing tale for her debut novel. Catherine McKenzie, writing as Katie Wicks, has definitely penned a winner! I love this side of Catherine/Katie and look forward to more stories by Katie. I highly recommend Hazel Fine Sings Along!
Hazel has so much talent but she also seems to bring a bit of drama along with her. And maybe a few secrets? But then, all of the other cast members bring their own drama and quirks to the table. That's what makes this story so great, the rivalry and conflict between them. They all want to be the winner!
Katie Wicks has created an entertaining and amusing tale for her debut novel. Catherine McKenzie, writing as Katie Wicks, has definitely penned a winner! I love this side of Catherine/Katie and look forward to more stories by Katie. I highly recommend Hazel Fine Sings Along!
April 20, 2023
I was grateful to receive an ARC copy of this book through Goodreads from Wattpad Books. Thank you!
This was such a cute and fast paced story! The story follows Hazel Fine and her journey on a reality singing competition similar to American Idol. Throughout the story, you will learn more about Hazel and her past that she is trying to hide as well as her developing feels for her stage manager Nick. Overall I recommend this if you are a fan of singing competitions! It was such a fun and cute read.
This was such a cute and fast paced story! The story follows Hazel Fine and her journey on a reality singing competition similar to American Idol. Throughout the story, you will learn more about Hazel and her past that she is trying to hide as well as her developing feels for her stage manager Nick. Overall I recommend this if you are a fan of singing competitions! It was such a fun and cute read.
November 30, 2022
Hazel enters a talent show hoping she will achieve superstardom. But there are more drama than she expects... She also falls for the show's musical director....
I like Hazel and Nick a lot. They are fun together. The story also has many LOL moments. Really enjoy it. I like the hollywood fame storyline too.
Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
I like Hazel and Nick a lot. They are fun together. The story also has many LOL moments. Really enjoy it. I like the hollywood fame storyline too.
Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
April 21, 2023
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy. I felt this dragged a bit in parts, probably didn’t need to be as long as it was. It was a cute story, I feel the rabbit in it was more of a main character than others, which was weird to me. It was alright.
June 1, 2023
I read this for a tandem read along and so glad this was the book I got! It’s not a book I would usually pick out for myself and I absolutely loved it! Reminds me of a few shows all mixed in to one. Definitely a competition meets romance and I definitely enjoyed reading it.
June 26, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this book.
The plot of this book was chef’s kiss. I loved Hazel and Nick and will ship them forever. I feel that this book was perfect for the times and I would love to reread it again.
The plot of this book was chef’s kiss. I loved Hazel and Nick and will ship them forever. I feel that this book was perfect for the times and I would love to reread it again.
September 3, 2023
This was a slow read for me, but it was cute! I really liked the singing competition trope and how fun it was. I loved Hazel’s character and how she was by the end. Also, really enjoyed the TS references!
July 27, 2023
AR 3.5
Finally some actual chick lit. Benji is awful.
Finally some actual chick lit. Benji is awful.
June 2, 2023
I enjoyed this book and the singing competition story about Hazel, who is hitting rock bottom and doing her best to jump start her career and love life. I enjoyed reading about the characters in the competition and the weekly round up that culminates to the final winner.
I really saw firsthand how it’s like to be privy to the goings-on behind the scenes. Overall, I really enjoyed the story the surprising mystery behind Hazel‘s past.
I read this book with Tandem collective with other booklovers, which made this read so much more fun and immersive.
I really saw firsthand how it’s like to be privy to the goings-on behind the scenes. Overall, I really enjoyed the story the surprising mystery behind Hazel‘s past.
I read this book with Tandem collective with other booklovers, which made this read so much more fun and immersive.
April 29, 2024
This is a cute simple read. I enjoyed parts but it wasn't one I was dying to get back into each day. Very cute love story with low level spice rating.
January 2, 2023
This is a really interesting and entertaining story. Hazel is a struggling singer with a murky past. She’s been barely surviving in a run-down motel and working as a waitress, while dreaming of a career as a singer and songwriter. She was even homeless and lived in her car for a while. Hazel lies about her age and background and makes it onto a singing competition show called “The Sing Along.” The author provides a lot of intriguing information about the show’s production, the stresses of the competition and more. This story contains multiple interesting characters, including the other competitors and the judges. As Hazel survives the rounds of the competition, she encounters both fake and genuine showmances, makes friends and eventually has to deal with her past. I really enjoyed this story. I’ll be following this author and look forward to reading more from her. I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 1, 2023
*big thanks to NetGalley for providing me an arc of this book*
I’m giving this book 4 stars - honestly it was cute! The only reason why it’s not 5 stars is because I had some iffy feelings with the writing and certain spots of the book but that’s literally just personal preference so pls take it with a grain of salt LOL.
I loved how there was drama in this book and the romance wasn’t too “in your face” - it felt very light and fluffy, had me smiling like an absolute fool at the end. I’m glad hazel got her happy ending :’)
There’s also not a lot of spice (the one scene was very short lived) which is exactly what I needed recently so if you’re looking for something super spicy, this is definitely not the one but I still recommend it regardless <3
I’m giving this book 4 stars - honestly it was cute! The only reason why it’s not 5 stars is because I had some iffy feelings with the writing and certain spots of the book but that’s literally just personal preference so pls take it with a grain of salt LOL.
I loved how there was drama in this book and the romance wasn’t too “in your face” - it felt very light and fluffy, had me smiling like an absolute fool at the end. I’m glad hazel got her happy ending :’)
There’s also not a lot of spice (the one scene was very short lived) which is exactly what I needed recently so if you’re looking for something super spicy, this is definitely not the one but I still recommend it regardless <3
December 14, 2022
Hazel lives in a seedy part of LA is best friends with a sex worker and has a bunny named Chester. She believes her one shot to make it in the world is to go on a reality singing tv show on Fox called, "Sing Along". Basically, the story is set up as she goes through the audition process and through the course of the show. We get to meet other contestants and production of the show.
I went into this hoping for a fun, cute romcom set on a reality tv singing competition and to enjoy myself, because I love all of those things, but what I got instead was a book full of so much problematic things that I left it with a sour taste in my mouth.
TW:
Implied sexaul assault/rape
Sexual Harassment
Making fun of the MeToo Movement by multiple characters
Gaslighting
Alcoholism (made fun of and weaponized)
This novel is asking too much of its readers to "forgive" or suspend belief on. There is an entire fake relationship that has no bearing on the story and just makes the people in it look ridiculous. Then there's the romance that is supposed to be the main focus, but it gets bogged down in the politics the author tries to shoehorn in that it doesn't really land and just makes all the romance and spice weird and flat. I will say, seeing multiple characters treat the Me Too Movement as a joke and having Hazel laughing about it and basically trying to walk it back because people were mad at her was really gross and offputting. If there was supposed to be a lesson or moral to this story, I truly have no idea what it is or even what it's supposed to be. In the end, none of the things shoved into the story have any real resolution, other than a brief mention of what happened to the villain in the story and even that felt like such a cheap and lazy way to end the story.
I think the thing that made me dislike this the most was the entire reason why Hazel needed to go on the show in the first place. There is a major secret/twist that is dropped like 2/3 of the way through and it's dumb and didn't even need to be a secret but basically the entire storyline and her relationship with her parents hinges on it and after all the things shoved into this story that should've had trigger warnings, I was completely over this mess of a novel.
Lastly, I am so tired of authors writing their heroines as some sort of Mary Sue, wherein ALL the single men are in love with her and fight for her. Hazel was annoying and whiny, there's very little chance any of them in real life would ever want to get with her, let alone all three.
And a sidenote, the formatting in the ARC I received is abysmal and also led to me disliking the reading experience.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC for a review.
I went into this hoping for a fun, cute romcom set on a reality tv singing competition and to enjoy myself, because I love all of those things, but what I got instead was a book full of so much problematic things that I left it with a sour taste in my mouth.
TW:
Implied sexaul assault/rape
Sexual Harassment
Making fun of the MeToo Movement by multiple characters
Gaslighting
Alcoholism (made fun of and weaponized)
This novel is asking too much of its readers to "forgive" or suspend belief on. There is an entire fake relationship that has no bearing on the story and just makes the people in it look ridiculous. Then there's the romance that is supposed to be the main focus, but it gets bogged down in the politics the author tries to shoehorn in that it doesn't really land and just makes all the romance and spice weird and flat. I will say, seeing multiple characters treat the Me Too Movement as a joke and having Hazel laughing about it and basically trying to walk it back because people were mad at her was really gross and offputting. If there was supposed to be a lesson or moral to this story, I truly have no idea what it is or even what it's supposed to be. In the end, none of the things shoved into the story have any real resolution, other than a brief mention of what happened to the villain in the story and even that felt like such a cheap and lazy way to end the story.
I think the thing that made me dislike this the most was the entire reason why Hazel needed to go on the show in the first place. There is a major secret/twist that is dropped like 2/3 of the way through and it's dumb and didn't even need to be a secret but basically the entire storyline and her relationship with her parents hinges on it and after all the things shoved into this story that should've had trigger warnings, I was completely over this mess of a novel.
Lastly, I am so tired of authors writing their heroines as some sort of Mary Sue, wherein ALL the single men are in love with her and fight for her. Hazel was annoying and whiny, there's very little chance any of them in real life would ever want to get with her, let alone all three.
And a sidenote, the formatting in the ARC I received is abysmal and also led to me disliking the reading experience.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC for a review.
April 7, 2023
Adorable and Fun Romance. I started reading it on Wattpad where it racked up rave reviews and it's worth all the hype! We want more Katie Hicks!
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