After reading her debut novel, I had been anxiously awaiting Robinne Lee’s next book. Many readers, me included, fell in love with The Idea of You, however, if you are expecting the same type of story with Crash Into Me, you won’t get it. She already wrote that story. This time she is delving into even more complicated relationships mixed with societal issues and personal struggles.

I really enjoyed this novel. It had layers, it was complex, and it was relevant. Give me a messy set of relationships any day and I will be riveted, and Crash Into Me definitely had my full attention.

Cecilia is living in America again after residing in France for many years. Her two children are at pivotal ages in their lives and dealing with their own issues.  Her husband’s career in the film industry has gained success and recognition, hence their move to Los Angeles. But Cecilia is not convinced that LA is the best spot for her family. In the city of glitz, glamour, privilege, and the superficial, she feels as though she doesn’t fit it. Not only is she trying to adjust to her life in LA, but she still has plenty of demons and insecurities about herself and her marriage that she’s dealing with.

Cecilia is shocked when she bumps into a model that she worked with in 1996. It is a small world. Living in a new city and not knowing many people, it would be nice to have a friend, but Anouk’s reappearance in Cecilia’s life ends up being much more consuming than she could have anticipated. Mmhmm. And that’s all I’m going to say about that.

Crash Into Me is a thought-provoking novel that deals with race, class, identity, beauty, power, and influence. It is an intriguing, provocative, and timely novel.

*4 Stars