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Necessary Detour
After a stalker's attack, rock star Goldy Crossland flees L.A. for her secluded lake house in Northern Washington. Retired from the music business, she hopes to avoid both the press and her psychotic fan. But obscurity leaves her restless, and when a mysterious--and disturbingly handsome--new neighbor moves in, she can't resist spying.
Pete Bayer is undeniably attractive, but Goldy quickly realizes there's something strange going on in the log house across the bay. Is he a member of the paparazzi? Or a much more sinister threat? Despite her suspicions, Goldy can't deny her fascination with him.
When the press discovers her hideout, it's Pete who offers an escape route, but it comes with a price. Unwillingly drawn into his dangerous world, Goldy soon learns the reason behind Pete's secrecy--and her crush on her charming neighbor takes a deadly turn.
Pete Bayer is undeniably attractive, but Goldy quickly realizes there's something strange going on in the log house across the bay. Is he a member of the paparazzi? Or a much more sinister threat? Despite her suspicions, Goldy can't deny her fascination with him.
When the press discovers her hideout, it's Pete who offers an escape route, but it comes with a price. Unwillingly drawn into his dangerous world, Goldy soon learns the reason behind Pete's secrecy--and her crush on her charming neighbor takes a deadly turn.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2012
124 people are currently reading
499 people want to read
About the author
Kim Hornsby
52 books157 followersUSA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR and AMAZON #1 Bestselling Author, Kim writes Suspense and Christmas Romances, not mixing the two. Her Suspense books have many different elements including Romance, Supernatural and Thriller aspects. Her Christmas Romances are feel-good contemporary love stories set at Christmas to delight her reader base. As a Suspense novelist, she's shared top 5 space with Stephen King, Dean Koontz and Nicolas Sparks. With The Dream Jumper Series optioned for film, Kim hopes to see The Dream Jumper's Promise on the big screen one day. Also an awarded screenwriter Kim adapts her books to script and has several Christmas Romances heading into movie production in 2020.
In her former life, Kim performed on Maui with Jamie Foxx at the haunted Iao Theater. Those were the days she rubbed shoulders with George Harrison and Alice Cooper at parties. She now lives in the Seattle area where she pens stories in the rainy months and edits in the sunshiny months. A wife, mother, dog owner and adventurer, Kim loves to hike, travel, water ski and avoid housework.
The Dream Jumper's Promise and Necessary Detour are award-winning Mystery/Thrillers and Amazon #1 Bestsellers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
February 19, 2013
This read was a fun, action filled romance that left me hanging onto the edge of my seat in suspense and mystery!
The book is about Goldy, after an attack from a stalker she takes off for a secluded lake house, where she hopes she will be safe.
Soon the arrival of her mysterious and sexy as sin in neighbour Pete sets off a series of events that leaves her in doubt as to if she will ever make it out alive.
Sounds like a movie, well I can tell you if it was then it would be a box office hit!
The characterization of both main and secondary characters were brilliantly written by the author, there was mysterious ones, fun ones, scary ones, and the kick ass kind!
The backdrop settings were exquisite, mirroring the emotions of the characters to the point where I could taste the fear of Goldy and feel the pure desperation she goes through.
The author has a unique style of taking mystery to new heights not to mention the romance, whilst reading I could not for one moment say I was bored or not intrigued.
The author's writing in truly unpredictable, your still thinking that you finally have this mystery and romance all figured out and it will come to a wrap, and the next moment the author throws you a curve ball sending you straight back to edge-of-your-seat reading.
A compelling, truly awesome read for all lovers of action mystery combined with heartfelt romance.
5/5 star review
" Enemy of death or hero of her heart"
The book is about Goldy, after an attack from a stalker she takes off for a secluded lake house, where she hopes she will be safe.
Soon the arrival of her mysterious and sexy as sin in neighbour Pete sets off a series of events that leaves her in doubt as to if she will ever make it out alive.
Sounds like a movie, well I can tell you if it was then it would be a box office hit!
The characterization of both main and secondary characters were brilliantly written by the author, there was mysterious ones, fun ones, scary ones, and the kick ass kind!
The backdrop settings were exquisite, mirroring the emotions of the characters to the point where I could taste the fear of Goldy and feel the pure desperation she goes through.
The author has a unique style of taking mystery to new heights not to mention the romance, whilst reading I could not for one moment say I was bored or not intrigued.
The author's writing in truly unpredictable, your still thinking that you finally have this mystery and romance all figured out and it will come to a wrap, and the next moment the author throws you a curve ball sending you straight back to edge-of-your-seat reading.
A compelling, truly awesome read for all lovers of action mystery combined with heartfelt romance.
5/5 star review
" Enemy of death or hero of her heart"
January 8, 2013
Fun romantic suspense, with solid writing and fun roller coaster ride. Diff between this book and others is that I actually CARE about the heroine and hero as worthy people, despite their foibles. I love rock-star Goldy's (aka Nikki) story about heartbreak, changing expectations of your life and loves, and the need to be alone to figure life out. Of course, just when she thinks things are quiet on her private lake house, the home across the water is full of intrigue and potential danger. Worse, the man of the house is a top-ten hunk, though Goldy doens't trust him. This was a book with mysteries for both the hero and heroine, which kept the storyline most interesting. Also, this created a "who's saving whom" dynamic that I enjoyed, because I like strong heroines as much as alpha heroes. The story is tender at times, funny others, and sexy when these 2 chemistries combust. And then there's Elvis, and we all know having a dog in your story always makes it better!
February 9, 2013
You think this book is going to be about a woman running from a stalker that won't leave her alone but it's the transformation of a career woman to a stay at home mother. Sure it's tense and suspenseful but the underlying women's journey (and the hot neighbor who lives next door!) is the real show here. Hornsby effectively took us from a woman who knew nothing but diva rockstardom to a person you'd like to have a glass of wine with and talk about life. I liked this book alot. Highly recommendable.
July 7, 2018
Wow
From the first few paragraphs it had me. I was in love with the main character from the get go and that's not usually how it works so from there on I couldn't stop. I had anxiety wondering who the bad guy was. I only used to get this feeling while reading Stephen King novels. I think this is the best Kim Hornesby yet and I do love her other books. I've been reading so many book series that it was nice to read a stand alone for a change.
From the first few paragraphs it had me. I was in love with the main character from the get go and that's not usually how it works so from there on I couldn't stop. I had anxiety wondering who the bad guy was. I only used to get this feeling while reading Stephen King novels. I think this is the best Kim Hornesby yet and I do love her other books. I've been reading so many book series that it was nice to read a stand alone for a change.
June 23, 2021
After being stalked by a relentless fan, Goldy Crossland steps out of the spotlight and seeks solace in her quiet lake house in Northern Washington. Trying to keep her presence on the down low, she goes by Nikki and finds herself befriending her neighbor Pete. Pete though has secrets and as Pete and Nikki gets closer, the danger in her life reappears.
This was a fun read, new to me author. I thought the chemistry was great between the characters and really liked Goldy. Would definitely check out more from this author.
This was a fun read, new to me author. I thought the chemistry was great between the characters and really liked Goldy. Would definitely check out more from this author.
May 25, 2015
Generally speaking, this was an interesting story. Yet another story that makes me feel sorry for celebrities' lack of privacy. I was glad that Nikki was able to find happiness as Nikki, not just Goldy, especially after her post-divorce experience with that douchebag actor. I liked that Pete didn't fall over himself about Goldy even though he knew Nikki was Goldy. I kinda wish he could have told her what was going on, rather than kissing her and then making her feel like he was a married schmuck. And her feeling like a schmuck herself, because she wanted him to do it again, even thinking that he was married.
There were a few issues with the copy editing that would often yank me out of the story. And several times I had to reread a passage, because the punctuation implied one thing, but the gist was something different.
But it was a story that kept me reading to see how things would end.
There were a few issues with the copy editing that would often yank me out of the story. And several times I had to reread a passage, because the punctuation implied one thing, but the gist was something different.
But it was a story that kept me reading to see how things would end.
February 6, 2013
Necessary Detour started out with a rock star concert scene/murder attempt and kept the tension going throughout the book. The suspense was subtle, layered in with romance, humor, romance, tension, gorgeous descriptions and sexy dialogue, like a seven layered dip. Yes, I repeated romance because it was so beautifully written, leaving us holding our breath until the end. And what a lovely end it was.
Highly recommended if you understand what romantic suspense is, leaning heavily on the great writing and compelling story that borders on Women's Fiction.
Highly recommended if you understand what romantic suspense is, leaning heavily on the great writing and compelling story that borders on Women's Fiction.
February 9, 2013
Rock Star gone retired. YOu'd think she might be boring offstage but Goldy isn't. SHe;s human and gentle and a great mom, deep down even though her guilt eats her up. I picked up this book because I liked the cover and was really happy at what I found inside. I liked the Lake, Goldy and her funny attempt to get the hunk guy next door to notice her. I laughed out loud many times. This book should be a movie!
June 13, 2013
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was rooting for Goldy/Nikki. I don't enjoy being scared but I really wanted to know what would become of Goldy's stalker and was curious about just who was Pete Bayer the good looking neighbour Nikki tried so hard not to think about but couldn't resist snopping on. Just goes to prove there is usually more to the story then what meets the eye. This author kept me guessing right to the end and I hope to read more of her work in the future.
February 1, 2013
Funny intelligent and thoroughly entertaining! I finished it in two days fascinated by Goldy and her moth to flame attraction to Pete. Bad boys are fun to read and when combined with a savvy rock star this book made for some late night couldn't put it down reading! Loved the suspense and such a fun ending! You'll finish this book with a smile. This book had a lot of heart.
February 26, 2013
Hot mysterious guy, mystery, suspense and a beautiful romance - a lovely mix!
However, I do have one gripe. This is my first read from author Kim Hornsby and she failed to wrap up an exciting climax to her stalker storyline. All the way through Shakespeare is a big part of the story and then in one page the person is caught and its like 'poof' over.
However, I do have one gripe. This is my first read from author Kim Hornsby and she failed to wrap up an exciting climax to her stalker storyline. All the way through Shakespeare is a big part of the story and then in one page the person is caught and its like 'poof' over.
March 5, 2016
Good beach or summer read. Goes pretty quickly, more light hearted than I generally read and a little predictable. Characters were ok, not outstanding but not poorly written. The story line could have been wrapped up quicker and nothing remarkable would have been lost. Overall for me a little better than meh...
September 26, 2016
Great book. Love the concept of a sexy man next door and the mystery that surrounds his being there. Love the depth of the main character Goldy. She's smart and sexy but her curiosity about what's going on next door only gets her into trouble. Both the good kind and not. This is a book I'll be keeping on my bookshelf to read again because it's that enjoyable.
April 11, 2013
A fun and exciting read. It pulled me in from the first few pages and had some great twists to make it hard to put down. The main character is very relatable. A great mix of romance and suspense, this would make a great summer read (or any time you want an escape).
March 2, 2013
I'll admit that this was a total potato chip book, and it was free on my kindle. I didn't have high hopes, but it was a fun story and gives me hope for those other free books on the kindle for when I need a quick, fun read.
July 26, 2016
This is a very real story full of thrills, love , and excitement. No matter what your life is like, how glamour, etc. life is full of choices and detours. Life then becomes what you make of it based on your choices. Could not put this book down
May 28, 2017
I Just Wanted More...
Even though the volume of this book was okay, the story read unfinished for me. Nikki and Pete just glided through and into each other's lives. There was no depth to the story as far as I am concerned.
Even though the volume of this book was okay, the story read unfinished for me. Nikki and Pete just glided through and into each other's lives. There was no depth to the story as far as I am concerned.
August 13, 2016
3,9 stars
I really enjoyed this book! A good story with mystery, romance and suspense. Well written, great characters!
I really enjoyed this book! A good story with mystery, romance and suspense. Well written, great characters!
February 20, 2013
A good thriller and romance in one book. Has enough twists and turns to keep you guessing.
February 22, 2013
I really enjoyed this book! Very well written. Good storyline and solid characters. Highly recommend!
March 20, 2015
Review below from Desere might as well be my own. (added comment 3/20/15) eBook ©2012
Recommended.
Recommended.
May 27, 2017
Necessary Detour is a nice little romantic suspense. Nikki "Goldy" Crossland has just retired from a 20 year career as a world famous rock star. She's post divorce and hiding from both the press and a stalker, Shakespeare, in a small, reclusive lakeside town, when she meets her strange new neighbor, Pete Bayer. She's not sure what to think of him, except to notice he's hot and built. But, he gives off weird vibes. And then there's his wife and son, who look scared and won't talk to her, no matter how many friendly overtures she attempts.
As Nikki languishes in the small town, she's really drawn to what's going on across the street from her. She can't help but be attracted to Pete, but he's married, and she has a feeling something bad is going on with him and his family. She's also dealing with more letters from her stalker, the press going crazy about her retirement, worrying about her daughter, Quinn, who lives and goes to college in Seattle, and then her newly discovered secret that she hasn't told anyone about. What's a woman to do when she is simultaneously attracted to and repelled by a married man? Well, if you're Nikki, you don't do much but worry about everything, and keep trying to figure out what's going on with your neighbors. That and think of yourself as a bad person when your neighbor kisses you, and then think of yourself as an even worse person when you want him to do it again.
As the suspense escalates, and the feelings between Nikki and Pete intensify, I was kind of on the edge, wondering how everything was going to go down. I like how Kim wrapped everything up, and really had no idea who the bad guy would eventually turn out to be. Pete and Nikki are a great couple, with nice chemistry. I wish there had been a bit more steam between the two, but I suppose in this story there wasn't really time or the place for lots of sex. Nikki especially is an interesting character and I like how strong and sacrificing she is.
If you're looking for super steamy romantic suspense, Necessary Detour isn't for you. However, if you're looking for a well written mystery with some romance thrown in that has interesting, fleshed out characters, then I recommend you 1 click Necessary Detour now.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
As Nikki languishes in the small town, she's really drawn to what's going on across the street from her. She can't help but be attracted to Pete, but he's married, and she has a feeling something bad is going on with him and his family. She's also dealing with more letters from her stalker, the press going crazy about her retirement, worrying about her daughter, Quinn, who lives and goes to college in Seattle, and then her newly discovered secret that she hasn't told anyone about. What's a woman to do when she is simultaneously attracted to and repelled by a married man? Well, if you're Nikki, you don't do much but worry about everything, and keep trying to figure out what's going on with your neighbors. That and think of yourself as a bad person when your neighbor kisses you, and then think of yourself as an even worse person when you want him to do it again.
As the suspense escalates, and the feelings between Nikki and Pete intensify, I was kind of on the edge, wondering how everything was going to go down. I like how Kim wrapped everything up, and really had no idea who the bad guy would eventually turn out to be. Pete and Nikki are a great couple, with nice chemistry. I wish there had been a bit more steam between the two, but I suppose in this story there wasn't really time or the place for lots of sex. Nikki especially is an interesting character and I like how strong and sacrificing she is.
If you're looking for super steamy romantic suspense, Necessary Detour isn't for you. However, if you're looking for a well written mystery with some romance thrown in that has interesting, fleshed out characters, then I recommend you 1 click Necessary Detour now.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
May 12, 2019
I just took a whirlwind ride in a book that had me guessing what was going to happen next and just WHO is to be trusted. Nikki is a famous and popular rock star staged named Goldy and she's at the place in her career that she wants to live a normal and out of the spotlight life. But.....that's not what happens when she decides to fade out of the limelight and return to a remote cabin she and her former bandmate/husband own. It's the perfect place to "disappear" from the over zealous press and fans....until it isn't.
When Nikki is safely in her secluded cabin, she notices some new neighbors living nearby. These neighbors come across as "weird" and strangely different. What is it about them? What is their story? Why is she so drawn to them....especially the hunky husband, Pete?
This book has so many twists and turns that it kept me turning the pages. Who is after Goldy? Why? What is the story of the neighbors? I thought Ms. Hornsby paced this book very well. It wasn't rushed for the most part. The drama and suspense had me trying to figure out who was to be trusted and who was Shakespeare....the threatening stalker in Goldy's life. I would think I had the stalker figured out and then the story would take a different twist. It is a good mystery with lots of suspense, romance, loyalty and disloyalty. The characters are relatable and believable.
This is a book that kept me reading to find out if Goldy/Nikki finds her peace, contentment and happiness.
Thank you, Ms. Hornsby, for the opportunity to read your book!
When Nikki is safely in her secluded cabin, she notices some new neighbors living nearby. These neighbors come across as "weird" and strangely different. What is it about them? What is their story? Why is she so drawn to them....especially the hunky husband, Pete?
This book has so many twists and turns that it kept me turning the pages. Who is after Goldy? Why? What is the story of the neighbors? I thought Ms. Hornsby paced this book very well. It wasn't rushed for the most part. The drama and suspense had me trying to figure out who was to be trusted and who was Shakespeare....the threatening stalker in Goldy's life. I would think I had the stalker figured out and then the story would take a different twist. It is a good mystery with lots of suspense, romance, loyalty and disloyalty. The characters are relatable and believable.
This is a book that kept me reading to find out if Goldy/Nikki finds her peace, contentment and happiness.
Thank you, Ms. Hornsby, for the opportunity to read your book!
June 24, 2019
Goldy is ready to retire from being a big star. She has a lot going on in her life and she wants it to be private. She goes to her secluded lake home to escape and decompress. Unfortunately, there is a mysterious man renting a neighbor's house. When his family shows up, Goldy is uncomfortable with their family situation. She cannot steer clear of inserting herself into their lives. Meanwhile, Goldy also has a stalker.
Who is the stalker? Who is the mysterious man? What is the family doing in this isolated area?
The press is also stalking her. Can she ever get the peace and quiet that she craves?
This story has unplanned, unwanted and life changing events for Goldy. I enjoyed it, as I have all of the other Hornsby books that I've read. Kim Hornsby has a very captivating writing style. I recommend this book.
Who is the stalker? Who is the mysterious man? What is the family doing in this isolated area?
The press is also stalking her. Can she ever get the peace and quiet that she craves?
This story has unplanned, unwanted and life changing events for Goldy. I enjoyed it, as I have all of the other Hornsby books that I've read. Kim Hornsby has a very captivating writing style. I recommend this book.
June 10, 2019
Retiring and hiding rock star meets mysterious neighbor. The rock star jumps to many conclusions about neighbor and events that follow. Typical of many of us. We assume we know what is going on without all the facts. Did not want to stop listening when it was time to get out of the car. Surprising stalker and frustrating daughter added to the problems. Not a fan of intimate details, so wished I could have been able to easily skip that. I look forward to reading or listening to more of Kim Hornsby's books.
August 6, 2019
OMG, I don't even know where to start. The hardest part is no spoilers! Captivating! Intriguing! This is completely a story within a story within a story, that all ties together so neatly and entirely! Chock full of suspense, humor and just what you need when you are yearning for 'just that read.' Descriptives that put you in the setting, Goldy embraces you and takes you with her on her Necessary Detour! Don't wait, get this book now. You won't be sorry. I read a complimentary copy and am providing my honest, unsolicited review.
December 15, 2021
Good book!
Goldy famous rock star decides to call it quits and live a private life. She’s finished her last tour and just wants some time alone. She’s recognized at the grocery store by the man who is renting the house next to hers. Pete is either a controlling monster of a husband and father or Nikki aka Goldie doesn’t know anything. Turns out Nikki knows less than nothing!
Goldy famous rock star decides to call it quits and live a private life. She’s finished her last tour and just wants some time alone. She’s recognized at the grocery store by the man who is renting the house next to hers. Pete is either a controlling monster of a husband and father or Nikki aka Goldie doesn’t know anything. Turns out Nikki knows less than nothing!
June 9, 2017
Lost one star for sex scene and language
Excellent, interest -keeping read. But has one sex scene and it's "memory" which both could have been left out. And a few uses of profanity. And there were a couple medical inaccuracies which distracted my nurse-mind. But for those who don't mind those things, I would recommend this easy to read, entertaining book.
Excellent, interest -keeping read. But has one sex scene and it's "memory" which both could have been left out. And a few uses of profanity. And there were a couple medical inaccuracies which distracted my nurse-mind. But for those who don't mind those things, I would recommend this easy to read, entertaining book.
February 7, 2018
Prepare for a week of not being able to put this book down. I loved the main character, Nikki and felt like she was my own daughter as I rooted for her. The romance in this story is very good, Pete being a wonderful hunk of a manly man who can't stay away from the woman next door.
I loved the friendship formed with the wife, the child, the neighbors and was sorry when I finished the book.
I loved the friendship formed with the wife, the child, the neighbors and was sorry when I finished the book.
May 28, 2019
Outstanding thriller with deep storylines. I was guessing wrong at every clue, too many options for her stalker. And that neighbor Pete, romantic lead or crazy? He was very mysterious and manly, just what Nikki needed in her life. I was intrigued the entire time and never wanted to put it down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews