Piper Lawson Discusses Her New Formula 1 Romance Novel 'Crash Course'

Shay's father has worked for the Ashford family for years, and after an accident leaves him unable to work, she steps in to manage his duties, hopeful to stay below the radar. However, Theo’s charisma and Jameson's determination push her into the spotlight as the brothers each vie for her attention. The rivalry between the siblings adds to the drama, bringing both charm and tension to the narrative.

Scheduled for release on October 20, *Crash Course* is positioned as the inaugural title from Berkley XO, blending themes of grief, ambition, and romance against the backdrop of motorsport. Lawson promises an engaging read filled with lively interactions and insights into the world of racing.

In an interview, Lawson reflected on her journey into writing an F1 romance, revealing that her passion for the sport ignited during the pandemic after watching *Drive to Survive* on Netflix. She appreciates the multifaceted nature of Formula 1, where teamwork intersects with fierce individual competition.

Research played a significant role in her writing, as she relied on both reference materials and industry contacts to depict the sport accurately. Lawson emphasizes that, while she aims for authenticity, she prioritizes storytelling over strict reality.

The characters Shay and Jameson represent contrasting approaches to their passion for cars, embodying different perspectives in the storyline. Lawson designs their individual arcs to reflect their personal journeys, which connect deeply with their ambitions and emotional struggles.

Looking ahead in the Ashford Academy series, Lawson is eager to explore more character dynamics beyond Shay and the Ashford brothers. She finds value in showcasing the diverse roles within the racing community.

A highlight for Lawson while writing *Crash Course* was crafting a slow-burn romance, culminating in a pivotal scene featuring pyrotechnics—a moment that symbolizes the characters’ internal conflicts.

As a new author with Berkley XO, Lawson values the opportunity to contribute to the new adult genre, which focuses on personal growth and self-discovery alongside romance. She believes these narratives resonate particularly well in today's climate.

Previously an indie author, Lawson chose to partner with Berkley XO to elevate the potential of the Ashford Academy series, ensuring it reached its full narrative and emotional scope.

Lawson cherishes the personal connections she’s made through her work, recalling significant reader interactions that illustrate the impact of her stories. She expresses gratitude to her readers and hopes they enjoy the thrilling and dramatic journey of *Crash Course*.