"The author allows the reader to feel the pain that death and divorce bring, the joys of finding acceptance with peers, determining one's own sexual identity, and learning to begin the healing process from physical and mental pain. Readers will be able to see themselves in the characters and may find ways to deal with the struggles they are going through in their own lives."

[Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea] is a moving story of grief and guilt. This novel deals with loss in a way that feels accessible but never condescending.

"Blake balances many plot elements, often serious ones, without overburdening the narrative, to create a character-based, atmospheric novel with a strong sense of place."

"At times heartwrenching but ultimately heartwarming, it's a story of resilience that readers will want to dive right into."--BCCB

Praise for Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea:

A 2022 Lamba Literary Award finalist

"Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea is simply magical. Hazel's story of grief swells into a transformative tale of healing that will steal any reader's heart. Yes, magic is absolutely real--Ashley has proven it with the beauty and power of her words alone."

"Packing an emotional punch, this delicately woven novel by Blake (The Mighty Heart of Sunny St. James) features clearly wrought characters who capture the heart."

"Blake's gorgeous prose will stir deep emotions within readers, and her descriptions of the seaside setting are full of lovely sensory details...This story of a girl navigating the choppy waters of grief toward a brighter shore is heart-rending but full of hope."--Bookpage

"An honest and moving exploration of loss that highlights the healing power of reclaiming oneself and allowing hope to thrive."
--School Library Journal