The Idea of you by Robinne Lee
Rating: 5 Stars
‘Are you happy?’ - Hayes
‘Hi.’ - Hayes
The hype is real, but (sadly) Hayes Campbell is not.
When asked what my all time favorite book is, I will now be responding with, ‘The Idea of You.’
synopsis
Solène is a smart and sophisticated 39 year old single mother and art gallery owner who escorts her daughter, Isabelle, to Las Vegas to see world famous English pop boy band, August Moon, in concert.
During a VIP meet and greet, Solène becomes acquainted with the devilishly handsome and 20 years her junior band member Hayes Campbell. Though it begins as innocent flirting, Solène finds herself grappling between her own happiness and her daughter’s the closer she gets to Hayes or should I say, the closer Hayes gets to her.
What I Liked
Y’all, the writing was nothing short of exquisite and it completely draws you in one word at a time. The steamy trysts were in abundance, but their descriptions read more attentive and eloquent.
Solène’s internal dialogue and expressed trepidations about leaning into these uncharted waters felt so human and honest. I wanted her to stop questioning what was happening and just fall, but as I read and became more familiar with who she was as a person and as a mother, I could see why it was a battle.
What I Didn’t Like
There were a couple of moments where it seemed Solène was feeling herself a bit, but I need to make it clear that I was more envious of her ability to do so as opposed to being annoyed by it. So, to Solène I say, get it, girl.
Overall
I was very skeptical about this one being worth the read because of its boy band premise, but to say I was wrong for ever housing such a thought would be quite the understatement. There was absolutely nothing about this story I didn’t like. It was an unexpected heartfelt and witty page turner. I enjoyed its exploration into motherhood, age, privacy, consent, and fame.
It seemed like the moment I started reading it, I knew I wouldn’t want it to end. Speaking of the end, I’d like to introduce you to the first book that has ever made me cry. And I mean (ugly) cry. I was so book hungover, I couldn’t read anything for a week. Who am I kidding — I’m forever wrecked by this one. I’ve heard rumors that suggest a sequel is in the works and if this is true, I need you to know I will be the first in line to get it.
Song Selection
I remember driving around and the song ‘Girls Like You’ by Maroon 5 came on my shuffle. As I listened while knee deep in my ‘The Idea Of You’ feelings, I couldn’t help but think how the song closely depicted Hayes and Solène’s courtship.
Hayes seem to go above and beyond to be with Solène while also assuring her that she was exactly the woman he wanted regardless of how coveted he was by his loyal following and despite her own difficultly in believing him. I’m sure you’ve heard the song a thousands time, but be sure to give it a listen while reading this. Trust me, it’ll hit different.
This book is also a lesson in that truly great writing can withstand the test of time and will get its much deserved day in a sea of new releases. Now, where might my whipper snapper boy band member be?
Have you read this wonderful book yet?
