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The Truth Is in the Detours
In this sharp-witted and poignant novel, two former friends with a complicated history are thrown together on an unexpected road trip, where old lies unravel and new truths emerge with every mile marker.
Ophelia Dahl has just buried her beloved father when she finds among his personal effects a blindsiding document. The mother Ophelia thought died thirty years ago isn’t dead after all—she abandoned her. But how could she, and where is she now? With some neighborly help, Ophelia’s going to find out.
Beau Augustin is an acclaimed author and Ophelia’s childhood bestie turned teenage nemesis, still chafing after all these years. As luck would have it, Beau’s current project—family deceptions—is set to take him across the West Coast. Ophelia has a brilliant Beau’s book. Her life. Win-win. In a Subaru filled with baggage, they hit the road.
Despite detours, dead ends, and old grudges, Ophelia is desperate to unravel a lifetime of lies. And Beau’s research is a little more personal than he’s letting on. Mile by mile, they’re getting closer to their truths—and to each other—than they ever thought possible.
Ophelia Dahl has just buried her beloved father when she finds among his personal effects a blindsiding document. The mother Ophelia thought died thirty years ago isn’t dead after all—she abandoned her. But how could she, and where is she now? With some neighborly help, Ophelia’s going to find out.
Beau Augustin is an acclaimed author and Ophelia’s childhood bestie turned teenage nemesis, still chafing after all these years. As luck would have it, Beau’s current project—family deceptions—is set to take him across the West Coast. Ophelia has a brilliant Beau’s book. Her life. Win-win. In a Subaru filled with baggage, they hit the road.
Despite detours, dead ends, and old grudges, Ophelia is desperate to unravel a lifetime of lies. And Beau’s research is a little more personal than he’s letting on. Mile by mile, they’re getting closer to their truths—and to each other—than they ever thought possible.
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Published August 12, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews
Did not finish
October 25, 2025DNF at 60%
This book has such high ratings I really tried to push through. Unfortunately, both the main characters are not for me, I decided to call it a day.
Unfortunately, I found both main characters difficult to connect with. The male lead struck me as consistently uptight and grumpy, lacking the engaging banter I usually enjoy. Similarly, I found the female lead to be flighty, negative, and grating.
The idea behind the story is there; two childhood best friends who reacquaint after the death of the main character's father. While cleaning out her father's hoarder-like home, she discovers shocking information about her mother, revealing that her entire upbringing was based on a lie. The two main characters then embark on an epic road trip. She assists him with his field research, and he helps her find her long-lost mother whom she never truly knew. There should be witty ex -friends to friends to lovers banter, however this doesn't happen (at least not for me). I appreciate the idea, not the execution.
Given these character dynamics, I wasn't motivated to continue to see how their friendship was rekindled, and to add... their initial falling out was partly due to his dislike of her friends-no thanks.
This book is available on kindle unlimited with audio.
This book has such high ratings I really tried to push through. Unfortunately, both the main characters are not for me, I decided to call it a day.
Unfortunately, I found both main characters difficult to connect with. The male lead struck me as consistently uptight and grumpy, lacking the engaging banter I usually enjoy. Similarly, I found the female lead to be flighty, negative, and grating.
The idea behind the story is there; two childhood best friends who reacquaint after the death of the main character's father. While cleaning out her father's hoarder-like home, she discovers shocking information about her mother, revealing that her entire upbringing was based on a lie. The two main characters then embark on an epic road trip. She assists him with his field research, and he helps her find her long-lost mother whom she never truly knew. There should be witty ex -friends to friends to lovers banter, however this doesn't happen (at least not for me). I appreciate the idea, not the execution.
Given these character dynamics, I wasn't motivated to continue to see how their friendship was rekindled, and to add... their initial falling out was partly due to his dislike of her friends-no thanks.
This book is available on kindle unlimited with audio.
June 18, 2025
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the arc. All opinions and statements are my own.
✨ Blurb ✨
“Ophelia Dahl has just buried her beloved father when she finds among his personal effects a blindsiding document. The mother Ophelia thought died thirty years ago isn’t dead after all—she abandoned her. But how could she, and where is she now? With some neighborly help, Ophelia’s going to find out.
Beau Augustin is an acclaimed author and Ophelia’s childhood bestie turned teenage nemesis, still chafing after all these years. As luck would have it, Beau’s current project—family deceptions—is set to take him across the West Coast. Ophelia has a brilliant idea: Beau’s book. Her life. Win-win. In a Subaru filled with baggage, they hit the road.
Despite detours, dead ends, and old grudges, Ophelia is desperate to unravel a lifetime of lies. And Beau’s research is a little more personal than he’s letting on. Mile by mile, they’re getting closer to their truths—and to each other—than they ever thought possible.”
🌺 My Thoughts 🌺
What a fun yet interesting book! I love a romance book that has sad and challenging moments/plot points that the main character has to face in order to grow. It adds so much more depth and feeling into novels, in my opinion.
I related to Ophelia a lot. She was insecure, self-deprecating, and holding onto a lot of hurt and pain from the past. I still need to work on myself, but it was nice to see a character work through that and come through stronger and bolder. 💪🏼
The story was entertaining, the romance was pretty cute, and Ophelia’s journey to finding herself was probably my favorite part of the book. I will say, though, that Beau growls too much (I get it, he’s a grumpy guy, but he’s not a dog 😅) and Ophelia was always trying not to “project.” And I agree with what another reviewer said about the writing: there was more telling than showing. But not too much to where you feel like your ear is being talked off by someone who is dying to share their life story in one sitting. And the miscommunication drove me crazy! I honestly cannot stand miscommunication in books, especially the kind where it is obvious the characters need to flipping talk in order to resolve their problems and not have internal monologues about the awkward situation they can pull themselves out of. Oh, and this book has some spice in it, fyi. 😉
But I will say, I did love the banter and the rekindled friendship between Ophelia and Beau that somewhat quickly turned into a romance. They were cute together. 🥰 Beau’s parents and friends were also the best, but I cannot say the same about Ophelia’s friends. 😅 And the ending was great! I loved it and wanted to cry at the happy ending I was hoping for. This book was just so fun and easy to read, so I highly recommend it if you need a good, summer book with the friends-to-enemies-to-lovers and grumpy and sunshine trope, roadtrips, healing, and forgiveness.
❗ Content Warnings ❗
Loss of a parent, grief, mental illness, death, miscarriage
#TheTruthisintheDetours #Netgalley
✨ Blurb ✨
“Ophelia Dahl has just buried her beloved father when she finds among his personal effects a blindsiding document. The mother Ophelia thought died thirty years ago isn’t dead after all—she abandoned her. But how could she, and where is she now? With some neighborly help, Ophelia’s going to find out.
Beau Augustin is an acclaimed author and Ophelia’s childhood bestie turned teenage nemesis, still chafing after all these years. As luck would have it, Beau’s current project—family deceptions—is set to take him across the West Coast. Ophelia has a brilliant idea: Beau’s book. Her life. Win-win. In a Subaru filled with baggage, they hit the road.
Despite detours, dead ends, and old grudges, Ophelia is desperate to unravel a lifetime of lies. And Beau’s research is a little more personal than he’s letting on. Mile by mile, they’re getting closer to their truths—and to each other—than they ever thought possible.”
🌺 My Thoughts 🌺
What a fun yet interesting book! I love a romance book that has sad and challenging moments/plot points that the main character has to face in order to grow. It adds so much more depth and feeling into novels, in my opinion.
I related to Ophelia a lot. She was insecure, self-deprecating, and holding onto a lot of hurt and pain from the past. I still need to work on myself, but it was nice to see a character work through that and come through stronger and bolder. 💪🏼
The story was entertaining, the romance was pretty cute, and Ophelia’s journey to finding herself was probably my favorite part of the book. I will say, though, that Beau growls too much (I get it, he’s a grumpy guy, but he’s not a dog 😅) and Ophelia was always trying not to “project.” And I agree with what another reviewer said about the writing: there was more telling than showing. But not too much to where you feel like your ear is being talked off by someone who is dying to share their life story in one sitting. And the miscommunication drove me crazy! I honestly cannot stand miscommunication in books, especially the kind where it is obvious the characters need to flipping talk in order to resolve their problems and not have internal monologues about the awkward situation they can pull themselves out of. Oh, and this book has some spice in it, fyi. 😉
But I will say, I did love the banter and the rekindled friendship between Ophelia and Beau that somewhat quickly turned into a romance. They were cute together. 🥰 Beau’s parents and friends were also the best, but I cannot say the same about Ophelia’s friends. 😅 And the ending was great! I loved it and wanted to cry at the happy ending I was hoping for. This book was just so fun and easy to read, so I highly recommend it if you need a good, summer book with the friends-to-enemies-to-lovers and grumpy and sunshine trope, roadtrips, healing, and forgiveness.
❗ Content Warnings ❗
Loss of a parent, grief, mental illness, death, miscarriage
#TheTruthisintheDetours #Netgalley
July 14, 2025
TITLE: “The Truth Is In The Detours”
AUTHOR: Mara Williams
PUB DATE: 08.12.2025
Wow.
The Truth Is In The Detours is one of those books that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go—both in terms of the mystery and the emotional journey. Mara Williams has absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one.
The story follows Ophelia Dahl, who, just after burying her father, discovers a bombshell: her mother—whom she’s believed to be dead for thirty years—is actually alive.
She’s been abandoned. And Ophelia has no idea why.
That revelation alone is enough to send anyone spiraling, but the way Williams weaves it into a compelling road trip story is brilliant. Ophelia teams up with Beau Augustin, her childhood best friend turned nemesis, to track down the truth about her mother, and let me tell you, this duo makes for some electric chemistry.
What I loved most about this book is how real and relatable the characters feel. Ophelia’s not just grieving; she’s questioning everything she thought she knew about her life. Her journey isn’t just about finding her mom—it’s about confronting old hurts, exploring long-buried truths, and figuring out how to move forward when everything feels broken. Beau, on the other hand, is not the typical love interest. He’s messy, guarded, and has his own ghosts to wrestle with. Watching their relationship evolve—especially as they navigate old grudges—is so satisfying. The back-and-forth between them had me laughing one minute and tearing up the next.
And can we talk about the writing?
Mara Williams has this way of making everything feel alive. The road trip itself feels like a character—every new stop, every detour, every motel room they crash in, is described with such vivid detail. You’re in the car with them, feeling the tension, the warmth, and the sense of discovery with every mile. The dialogue is sharp and real, and the moments of vulnerability between Ophelia and Beau are just... gut-wrenching in the best way.
But beyond the banter and the road trip adventure, the emotional core of the story really hit me. The book deals with themes of family secrets, betrayal, and self-acceptance, and it does it with such depth and honesty. Ophelia’s unraveling of her past—and her eventual acceptance of what that means—is powerful, and honestly, I think anyone who’s ever had to confront their own family’s truths will connect with it on some level.
There’s something beautifully hopeful about this book too. Even when the characters are facing the toughest revelations, there’s always this undercurrent of possibility. The idea that we can rewrite our stories, even when the road ahead is uncertain, is really what stuck with me.
If you’re into books that make you laugh, cry, and reflect on your own relationships and family dynamics, The Truth Is In The Detours is an absolute must-read. It’s not just a road trip story—it’s a journey of the heart.
5 ⭐️ and will be recommending this to everyone I know.
AUTHOR: Mara Williams
PUB DATE: 08.12.2025
Wow.
The Truth Is In The Detours is one of those books that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go—both in terms of the mystery and the emotional journey. Mara Williams has absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one.
The story follows Ophelia Dahl, who, just after burying her father, discovers a bombshell: her mother—whom she’s believed to be dead for thirty years—is actually alive.
She’s been abandoned. And Ophelia has no idea why.
That revelation alone is enough to send anyone spiraling, but the way Williams weaves it into a compelling road trip story is brilliant. Ophelia teams up with Beau Augustin, her childhood best friend turned nemesis, to track down the truth about her mother, and let me tell you, this duo makes for some electric chemistry.
What I loved most about this book is how real and relatable the characters feel. Ophelia’s not just grieving; she’s questioning everything she thought she knew about her life. Her journey isn’t just about finding her mom—it’s about confronting old hurts, exploring long-buried truths, and figuring out how to move forward when everything feels broken. Beau, on the other hand, is not the typical love interest. He’s messy, guarded, and has his own ghosts to wrestle with. Watching their relationship evolve—especially as they navigate old grudges—is so satisfying. The back-and-forth between them had me laughing one minute and tearing up the next.
And can we talk about the writing?
Mara Williams has this way of making everything feel alive. The road trip itself feels like a character—every new stop, every detour, every motel room they crash in, is described with such vivid detail. You’re in the car with them, feeling the tension, the warmth, and the sense of discovery with every mile. The dialogue is sharp and real, and the moments of vulnerability between Ophelia and Beau are just... gut-wrenching in the best way.
But beyond the banter and the road trip adventure, the emotional core of the story really hit me. The book deals with themes of family secrets, betrayal, and self-acceptance, and it does it with such depth and honesty. Ophelia’s unraveling of her past—and her eventual acceptance of what that means—is powerful, and honestly, I think anyone who’s ever had to confront their own family’s truths will connect with it on some level.
There’s something beautifully hopeful about this book too. Even when the characters are facing the toughest revelations, there’s always this undercurrent of possibility. The idea that we can rewrite our stories, even when the road ahead is uncertain, is really what stuck with me.
If you’re into books that make you laugh, cry, and reflect on your own relationships and family dynamics, The Truth Is In The Detours is an absolute must-read. It’s not just a road trip story—it’s a journey of the heart.
5 ⭐️ and will be recommending this to everyone I know.
September 1, 2025
I have read and enjoyed quite a few road trip books recently and have been loving them. This one is another winner. A romance that takes us on a road trip across the West Coast with Ophelia and Beau. Ophelia just buried her father and finds out that her mother she thought was dead, actually isn't. But where is she? She wants to find out. Beau is Ophelia's childhood friend, and an author. She’s got an idea to have his new book be about her life, and that is when they head out on their roadtrip.
These two friends rekindle their friendship (and more) as they converse about their past and create a strong bond throughout the trip. I loved the characters and the banter between them, and there is some spice in here too. This is a great summer read that just pulled me in and didn't let go.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
These two friends rekindle their friendship (and more) as they converse about their past and create a strong bond throughout the trip. I loved the characters and the banter between them, and there is some spice in here too. This is a great summer read that just pulled me in and didn't let go.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
July 15, 2025
I love the road trip scenario in this book!!! so unique!
full review to come
full review to come
August 18, 2025
I listened to this book on audio with Kindle Unlimited while I was on a 12 hour road trip last weekend.
This book had a really nice mix of romance, self discovery, and family drama.
I enjoyed the relationship between Beau and Ophelia that went from childhood best friends to no contact to reconnection.
I liked the layered plots which include Beau’s research on lies that change family history as well as Ophelia looking for a mother she thought was dead. There are complicated relationships that include Beau and his wife, Beau and Ophelia, and Ophelia and her parents which aren’t even around any longer.
I think this would make a very good book club read. There would be lots a great discussions.
This book had a really nice mix of romance, self discovery, and family drama.
I enjoyed the relationship between Beau and Ophelia that went from childhood best friends to no contact to reconnection.
I liked the layered plots which include Beau’s research on lies that change family history as well as Ophelia looking for a mother she thought was dead. There are complicated relationships that include Beau and his wife, Beau and Ophelia, and Ophelia and her parents which aren’t even around any longer.
I think this would make a very good book club read. There would be lots a great discussions.
September 18, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Mara Williams, and Brilliance Publishing for the advance copy of The Truth is in the Detours. As always, these are my honest opinions.
This one was a miss for me, though I can see why some readers might click with it. It does touch on grief in a thoughtful way, and the food descriptions will probably appeal to people who enjoy books in that Elin Hilderbrand lane (Five Star Weekend comes to mind). But overall, it felt a little too surface-level to keep me invested.
First, can we officially retire the whole “Taylor Swift writes songs about her exes” line? Like babe, it’s 2025. Taylor is running an empire and you’re still reducing her to “melodic barbs at her former flames”? Please.
Then there’s the line: “I’ve never been the girl who needs a pep talk when a relationship ends or a girls’ night in with ice cream and movies after a career disappointment…” which gave heavy “I’m not like other girls” vibes, and that energy grinds my gears.
The childhood friends–to–enemies, which to be fair has never worked for me, left me irritated. The conflict boiled down mostly to insecurities left over from childhood without being explored in a deeper way. It skimmed where I wanted it to dig.
Sidenote: one particular phrasing—“having s3x so good”—was so clunky it completely yanked me out of the moment.
In the end, this felt like a detour I didn’t need to take. 2 stars.
This one was a miss for me, though I can see why some readers might click with it. It does touch on grief in a thoughtful way, and the food descriptions will probably appeal to people who enjoy books in that Elin Hilderbrand lane (Five Star Weekend comes to mind). But overall, it felt a little too surface-level to keep me invested.
First, can we officially retire the whole “Taylor Swift writes songs about her exes” line? Like babe, it’s 2025. Taylor is running an empire and you’re still reducing her to “melodic barbs at her former flames”? Please.
Then there’s the line: “I’ve never been the girl who needs a pep talk when a relationship ends or a girls’ night in with ice cream and movies after a career disappointment…” which gave heavy “I’m not like other girls” vibes, and that energy grinds my gears.
The childhood friends–to–enemies, which to be fair has never worked for me, left me irritated. The conflict boiled down mostly to insecurities left over from childhood without being explored in a deeper way. It skimmed where I wanted it to dig.
Sidenote: one particular phrasing—“having s3x so good”—was so clunky it completely yanked me out of the moment.
In the end, this felt like a detour I didn’t need to take. 2 stars.
August 27, 2025
I can never turn down a road trip romance! After discovering that the mother she believed to be dead is actually alive, Ophelia sets out to uncover the truth about her family. Reluctantly teaming up with Beau Augustin—her childhood friend turned estranged almost-enemy—the two hit the road on a trip full of detours, secrets, and unresolved feelings!
With years of resentment between Ophelia and Beau finally boiling over, harsh words are definitely said. But the tension! Their inside jokes, playful banter, and the slow realization of what they still mean to each other gave me all the feels! Nothing like being trapped in a car together to force everything out.
I thought the road trip itself was really unique, too. One of those situations where there’s more than meets the eye. As a history professor with his own agenda, Beau is researching how people become trapped in lies, and in turn how those lies ripple back in painful ways. I loved the way the interview segments broke up the mystery of Ophelia’s mother. And the heartbreaking reveal did not disappoint!
(heat level: 2 open-door scenes, moderate details)
With years of resentment between Ophelia and Beau finally boiling over, harsh words are definitely said. But the tension! Their inside jokes, playful banter, and the slow realization of what they still mean to each other gave me all the feels! Nothing like being trapped in a car together to force everything out.
I thought the road trip itself was really unique, too. One of those situations where there’s more than meets the eye. As a history professor with his own agenda, Beau is researching how people become trapped in lies, and in turn how those lies ripple back in painful ways. I loved the way the interview segments broke up the mystery of Ophelia’s mother. And the heartbreaking reveal did not disappoint!
(heat level: 2 open-door scenes, moderate details)
September 27, 2025
I would like to thank NetGalley, Mara Williams and Lake Union Publishing for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
3,5 ⭐ - I was rooting for these main characters throughout the whole read, it follows old best friends Ophelia and Beau - who grew apart after high school.
After each of them dealing with their own issues, Beau with his internal struggles and Ophelia's found out her deceased mother isn't actually deceased?
This was such a nice story with likeable characters, however the constant lack of communication in the storyline was a little annoying at some point.
3,5 ⭐ - I was rooting for these main characters throughout the whole read, it follows old best friends Ophelia and Beau - who grew apart after high school.
After each of them dealing with their own issues, Beau with his internal struggles and Ophelia's found out her deceased mother isn't actually deceased?
This was such a nice story with likeable characters, however the constant lack of communication in the storyline was a little annoying at some point.
August 24, 2025
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Lake Union Publishing and Mara Williams for giving me the opportunity to read this as an arc in exchange for an honest review!
The truth is in the detours is the story of childhood bestfriends Ophelia, who recently lost her father and uncovered an important truth about her life, and Beau, an acclaimed author in the middle of a completely new and different project. The two of them set off on an adventure in search for the truth, and along the way they discover each other again.
This book is the perfect mix between an emotional read and a rom-com, there's funny moments but there's a lot of growth and reflection. I really enjoyed both characters, but I have to say that I did find them a little irritating at times. But I guess that's the point, we, as readers, are in this journey with them and the whole point of it is to see them grow and overcome the obstacles life threw at them.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and I will definitely check out her other works, her style made the story even more enjoyable. I liked how she captured the characters but I really really liked how she wrote the road trip, her descriptions made me feel like I was there with them.
The truth is in the detours is the story of childhood bestfriends Ophelia, who recently lost her father and uncovered an important truth about her life, and Beau, an acclaimed author in the middle of a completely new and different project. The two of them set off on an adventure in search for the truth, and along the way they discover each other again.
This book is the perfect mix between an emotional read and a rom-com, there's funny moments but there's a lot of growth and reflection. I really enjoyed both characters, but I have to say that I did find them a little irritating at times. But I guess that's the point, we, as readers, are in this journey with them and the whole point of it is to see them grow and overcome the obstacles life threw at them.
I enjoyed the author's writing style and I will definitely check out her other works, her style made the story even more enjoyable. I liked how she captured the characters but I really really liked how she wrote the road trip, her descriptions made me feel like I was there with them.
June 28, 2025
I love a good love story where childhood friends who fell apart reunite and have to delve into the past and address their issues. The book started off really strong. I was immediately hooked. The tension between the characters was palpable, and I felt a deep need to know what happened.
What I absolutely loved about the book is that it didn’t rely on dual timelines and flashback chapters like many stories with a similar concept do. And more importantly, there was no need for them. Everything that went down in the past was explained through the main character’s inner monologue as well as her conversations with other characters. At no point did I feel like the book was dragging- in fact, I felt like it was cut short. I needed more closure, the ending felt quite abrupt, and even though the main couple spent so much time together, I felt like they needed to talk more and I wish we got to witness those conversations on page.
As for the romance, I was really intrigued at first. But the more time they spent together, the less I liked them as a couple. Towards the end, I felt like perhaps they are better off as just friends. Some of their conversations gave me a huge ick and I did not really find myself rooting for them to be together. I felt indifferent and didn’t really care much.
The mystery and the quest to find Ophelia’s mom is what kept me invested in the book. I was genuinely curious and wanted to find out what exactly happened, and I was pretty satisfied with the way that storyline went.
Overall, it’s a great debut, and I would consider picking up another book by this author
3.5 stars rounded up!
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
What I absolutely loved about the book is that it didn’t rely on dual timelines and flashback chapters like many stories with a similar concept do. And more importantly, there was no need for them. Everything that went down in the past was explained through the main character’s inner monologue as well as her conversations with other characters. At no point did I feel like the book was dragging- in fact, I felt like it was cut short. I needed more closure, the ending felt quite abrupt, and even though the main couple spent so much time together, I felt like they needed to talk more and I wish we got to witness those conversations on page.
As for the romance, I was really intrigued at first. But the more time they spent together, the less I liked them as a couple. Towards the end, I felt like perhaps they are better off as just friends. Some of their conversations gave me a huge ick and I did not really find myself rooting for them to be together. I felt indifferent and didn’t really care much.
The mystery and the quest to find Ophelia’s mom is what kept me invested in the book. I was genuinely curious and wanted to find out what exactly happened, and I was pretty satisfied with the way that storyline went.
Overall, it’s a great debut, and I would consider picking up another book by this author
3.5 stars rounded up!
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 11, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel that’s half romance, half coming into one’s own, with a big dash of roadtrip to uncover secrets and lies. And also, a love letter to California. I loved how fully fleshed out both characters were even though we only get Ophelia’s POV. The second chance romance hits its stride with friends to frenemies to lovers and a good bit of steam. I enjoyed the writing - beautiful, clever, and romantic. Queer rep: lesbian friend.
Short summary: Ophelia’s dad is dead and to make matters worse, she’s just discovered her mother is alive. With few clues, she tags along on a roadtrip with her former best friend who’s researching lies for his latest book. But they’ve packed more baggage than luggage and only the truth can set them free.
Thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Short summary: Ophelia’s dad is dead and to make matters worse, she’s just discovered her mother is alive. With few clues, she tags along on a roadtrip with her former best friend who’s researching lies for his latest book. But they’ve packed more baggage than luggage and only the truth can set them free.
Thanks to Netgalley and Lake Union. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2026
I've loved roadtrips romcoms since Amy and Roger's (fifteen???? years ago). I think that with a bit less of the miscommunication trope this could have been a perfect book in my heart. I still loved it, even if I didn't love all the frustration that could have been avoided if THEY JUST TALKED but ok, I get it, they had to work it out. And at the end everything was fine with Phe and Beau, and isn't that the most important part of a romance?
July 15, 2025
Thank you to Brilliance Audio for the gifted audiobook!
The Truth is in the Detours is a heartfelt, character-driven roadtrip romance with amazing banter and A+ chemistry. I’d recommend it without reservation to fans of Emily Henry and Clare Gilmore — if you love their work, don’t miss this one. It’s out 8/12 and I’ve already preordered a shelf trophy because I just love it so much!
Read for:
Childhood best friends to lovers
Road trip romance
Healing journeys
Divorced hero
A+ banter
Beau and Ophelia grew up as best friends, living next door to each other, until a falling out just before college. Years later, Beau is a nerdy academic planning a Pacific Coast road trip to conduct interviews for his new book about the deep secrets and lies people tell and why. Ophelia, back home packing up her childhood house after her father’s death, discovers a devastating secret he kept from her. Desperate to get AWAY, she offers to join Beau as his research assistant.
I couldn’t put this book down. The roadtrip is filled with the chaotic misadventures and LOL shenanigans you’d expect from a romcom, but it turns into a deeply personal journey for both of them. Beau and Ophelia feel so real — they’re just flawed humans figuring out how to handle what life’s thrown at them. Plus, there’s banter for dayssss, and their chemistry is OFF. THE. CHARTS.
One last thing — this book had the perfect mix of emotion and angst. I'm not in the right headspace these days for high-angst drama, but I still want to feel emotionally moved. TTIITD checked both boxes!
Audio: The audiobook is narrated by Barrie Kealoha and I’m going to be straight with you, I can’t remember a single thing about the performance. It held my attention so fiercely that I was fully engrossed in the story and not the performance… which is very high praise! Definitely check it out!
The Truth is in the Detours is a heartfelt, character-driven roadtrip romance with amazing banter and A+ chemistry. I’d recommend it without reservation to fans of Emily Henry and Clare Gilmore — if you love their work, don’t miss this one. It’s out 8/12 and I’ve already preordered a shelf trophy because I just love it so much!
Read for:
Childhood best friends to lovers
Road trip romance
Healing journeys
Divorced hero
A+ banter
Beau and Ophelia grew up as best friends, living next door to each other, until a falling out just before college. Years later, Beau is a nerdy academic planning a Pacific Coast road trip to conduct interviews for his new book about the deep secrets and lies people tell and why. Ophelia, back home packing up her childhood house after her father’s death, discovers a devastating secret he kept from her. Desperate to get AWAY, she offers to join Beau as his research assistant.
I couldn’t put this book down. The roadtrip is filled with the chaotic misadventures and LOL shenanigans you’d expect from a romcom, but it turns into a deeply personal journey for both of them. Beau and Ophelia feel so real — they’re just flawed humans figuring out how to handle what life’s thrown at them. Plus, there’s banter for dayssss, and their chemistry is OFF. THE. CHARTS.
One last thing — this book had the perfect mix of emotion and angst. I'm not in the right headspace these days for high-angst drama, but I still want to feel emotionally moved. TTIITD checked both boxes!
Audio: The audiobook is narrated by Barrie Kealoha and I’m going to be straight with you, I can’t remember a single thing about the performance. It held my attention so fiercely that I was fully engrossed in the story and not the performance… which is very high praise! Definitely check it out!
July 24, 2025
This book is ROMANCE. Honestly, I just kind of want to leave that as my full review because that's what it really comes down to.
Beau and Ophelia got married under his treehouse when they were six years old. Best childhood friends that drifted apart and reconnected as adults after Ophelia loses her dad. More things come to light and they find themselves chasing after truths to help them navigate their grief.
What transpires is a story of reconnection, of shedding grief and anger, honest and hard conversations, and some of the most romantic moments between two hurt and lonely people. There's a moment in a cabin that had me SWEATING and they didn't even KISS. His declarations? Beau, please.
There wasn't a single thing I disliked about this story and Mara Williams is here on our a forever auto-buy author for me. What a triumph of a story!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Beau and Ophelia got married under his treehouse when they were six years old. Best childhood friends that drifted apart and reconnected as adults after Ophelia loses her dad. More things come to light and they find themselves chasing after truths to help them navigate their grief.
What transpires is a story of reconnection, of shedding grief and anger, honest and hard conversations, and some of the most romantic moments between two hurt and lonely people. There's a moment in a cabin that had me SWEATING and they didn't even KISS. His declarations? Beau, please.
There wasn't a single thing I disliked about this story and Mara Williams is here on our a forever auto-buy author for me. What a triumph of a story!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
August 27, 2025
This book is a delightful exploration of emotional healing wrapped in a friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance. Williams blends humor and heartfelt moments as Phe and Beau navigate their complicated relationship. The chemistry between them is palpable, making their journey not just about miles traveled but also about emotional distance. The California settings are beautifully described, adding a picturesque backdrop to their transformative experience.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Truth Is In Detours. Phe and Beau are relatable characters, each carrying their own baggage while trying to understand one another. Watching their relationship evolve was a treat. This debut is both reflective and entertaining, making it a perfect summer read. The conclusion left me feeling warm and satisfied, encapsulating the essence of second chances and personal growth.
I received a free copy of this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Truth Is In Detours. Phe and Beau are relatable characters, each carrying their own baggage while trying to understand one another. Watching their relationship evolve was a treat. This debut is both reflective and entertaining, making it a perfect summer read. The conclusion left me feeling warm and satisfied, encapsulating the essence of second chances and personal growth.
I received a free copy of this book.
March 10, 2025
Clever, funny, and wonderfully romantic, The Truth is in the Detours tells the story of a woman who finally gets to know herself. It delivers all the best story elements: delicious banter, tension, a road trip, gorgeous California settings, and hot romance. I devoured this sharp story. Mara Williams is a talent.
August 20, 2025
I have a new favorite author and her name is Mara Williams. I can’t help gushing over THE TRUTH IS IN THE DETOURS and I encourage everyone to read it, especially for fans of Emily Henry and Yulin Kuang. This is one you don’t want to miss.
Ophelia Dahl is grieving the death of her father, but while going through his things she discovers a secret he’s kept from her all these years: the mother she thought had died had actually left and may still be alive.
She and her childhood best friend, Beau Augustin, have drifted apart since high school, but find themselves supporting each other amidst this difficult time. Beau is a professor and author who is about to drive across the West Coast interviewing people about deception, giving Ophelia a chance to join him and find her mother. The road trip brings them closer, thawing the rift that ended their friendship, but also begins to uncover more truths along with the ones they’re searching for.
This is one of my new favorite books this year. I knew going in that I was going to love it, yet it still snuck up on me surpassing my expectations with a few tears shed. The idea of the truth is a heavy topic when you really think about it, but searching and finding meaning behind it and why it's often withheld carries a different kind of weight. It’s this idea that drew me in and how well Mara Williams explores it while seamlessly tying it with Ophelia and Beau’s story.
Their journey is not just literal, but personal. They both have their reasons for this trip, but as they meet and listen to various people sharing their hidden truths, it also helps them reflect on their own. There’s a deeper love within their history of friendship and I enjoyed every minute of their banter and simmering tension as they gradually unraveled it.
Mara William’s writing is the best part of this novel that makes it what it is. It’s one thing to have a good story, but it’s another when it’s written sincerely. Before I even finished this book, I immediately ran to NetGalley as soon as I saw her next book, The Epicenter of Forever, available to read now because I’m so eager to read more from her.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the eARC!
Ophelia Dahl is grieving the death of her father, but while going through his things she discovers a secret he’s kept from her all these years: the mother she thought had died had actually left and may still be alive.
She and her childhood best friend, Beau Augustin, have drifted apart since high school, but find themselves supporting each other amidst this difficult time. Beau is a professor and author who is about to drive across the West Coast interviewing people about deception, giving Ophelia a chance to join him and find her mother. The road trip brings them closer, thawing the rift that ended their friendship, but also begins to uncover more truths along with the ones they’re searching for.
This is one of my new favorite books this year. I knew going in that I was going to love it, yet it still snuck up on me surpassing my expectations with a few tears shed. The idea of the truth is a heavy topic when you really think about it, but searching and finding meaning behind it and why it's often withheld carries a different kind of weight. It’s this idea that drew me in and how well Mara Williams explores it while seamlessly tying it with Ophelia and Beau’s story.
Their journey is not just literal, but personal. They both have their reasons for this trip, but as they meet and listen to various people sharing their hidden truths, it also helps them reflect on their own. There’s a deeper love within their history of friendship and I enjoyed every minute of their banter and simmering tension as they gradually unraveled it.
Mara William’s writing is the best part of this novel that makes it what it is. It’s one thing to have a good story, but it’s another when it’s written sincerely. Before I even finished this book, I immediately ran to NetGalley as soon as I saw her next book, The Epicenter of Forever, available to read now because I’m so eager to read more from her.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the eARC!
August 2, 2025
The Truth is in the Detours is a phenomenal debut novel, and I absolutely loved it - it is easily one of my favorite books of the year so far!
It had such an interesting and unique plot, and the action kicked off right from the first sentence. It’s an excellent romance - (excruciating slow burn, friends to enemies to friends to lovers, second chance, grumpy sunshine, roadtrip, great banter, forced proximity, one bed, etc) but also a riveting mystery and a heart-wrenching examination of deceit and grief. I thought the concept of Beau’s book, the jaw dropping confessions of the interviewees, and the way it connected to Ophelia’s discovery of her parents’ deceptions was fascinating. It was beautifully written and highly emotional, but it was also balanced so well with the romantic comedy elements of the story. I had a big goofy smile or tears in my eyes the whole way through the book, no in between.
I strongly encourage everyone to check out this beautiful book when it’s released on August 12th. I absolutely loved it, and can’t wait to read more by Mara Williams!
It had such an interesting and unique plot, and the action kicked off right from the first sentence. It’s an excellent romance - (excruciating slow burn, friends to enemies to friends to lovers, second chance, grumpy sunshine, roadtrip, great banter, forced proximity, one bed, etc) but also a riveting mystery and a heart-wrenching examination of deceit and grief. I thought the concept of Beau’s book, the jaw dropping confessions of the interviewees, and the way it connected to Ophelia’s discovery of her parents’ deceptions was fascinating. It was beautifully written and highly emotional, but it was also balanced so well with the romantic comedy elements of the story. I had a big goofy smile or tears in my eyes the whole way through the book, no in between.
I strongly encourage everyone to check out this beautiful book when it’s released on August 12th. I absolutely loved it, and can’t wait to read more by Mara Williams!
August 7, 2025
Not sure how I feel about this one, it was emotional and full of family drama but I was also here for the forced proximity, road trip vibes and the he fell first and hardest, high school romance, friends to lovers, second chance vibes. It was great on audio narrated by Barrie Keahola (a new to me narrator). Highly recommended for fans of authors like Kate Clayborn. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio and digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
TW: parent with bipolar disorder, death of a parent, family secrets, infidelity
TW: parent with bipolar disorder, death of a parent, family secrets, infidelity
September 9, 2025
I loved this book, the depth between the characters, their banter, and their chemistry pulled me right in. The writing was so well done, and there were so many layers to the plot with self-discovery, family dynamics, and friendship woven throughout. There were a few moments where I had a total Sue Sylvester moment of ‘I get to decide who you are’ with some of the character traits. Such a cute story!!!!
February 19, 2026
2.75 - The miscommunication trope makes my eye twitch.
Did not finish
February 26, 2026You know it’s bad when i read each line of dialogue and think “no one in human history has ever uttered that sentence.”
July 17, 2025
Wow. Wow. Wow.
This book was something truly special. It felt like it was filled with pure magic. ✨
After Ophelia’s father suddenly passes away, she discovers a life-shattering secret: her mother didn’t die when she was four…she gave up her parental rights. This lie sends Ophelia spiraling, feeding into old (and not so old) insecurities and making her question everything; her grief, her relationships, her entire identity.
Enter Beau: Ophelia’s childhood best friend turned stranger, who is also reeling from a deep betrayal of his own. What follows is a road trip wrapped in heartbreak, healing, and hard truths. A journey of two people trying to make sense of their betrayals, and find answers about why people lie.
The dynamic between Ophelia and Beau? Perfection.
They had me laughing out loud, giggling, kicking my feet, and tearing up. Their chemistry is palpable, and Ophelia’s yearning, paired with her uncertainty, felt so raw and real. Neither of them is perfect. Ophelia’s insecurities hit home, and Beau’s reserved and grump sometimes cuts a little too deep… but that’s what made me fall in love with them all the more.
There’s so much heart packed into this story. It’s a beautiful childhood bestfriends-to-strangers-to-lovers romance, full of reconnection, healing, and the kind of love that shows up right when you need it most. ❤️
Mara’s writing is tender, honest, and brimming with emotion. It pulled me in from the very first page.
And what’s life without a few detours.
This book was something truly special. It felt like it was filled with pure magic. ✨
After Ophelia’s father suddenly passes away, she discovers a life-shattering secret: her mother didn’t die when she was four…she gave up her parental rights. This lie sends Ophelia spiraling, feeding into old (and not so old) insecurities and making her question everything; her grief, her relationships, her entire identity.
Enter Beau: Ophelia’s childhood best friend turned stranger, who is also reeling from a deep betrayal of his own. What follows is a road trip wrapped in heartbreak, healing, and hard truths. A journey of two people trying to make sense of their betrayals, and find answers about why people lie.
The dynamic between Ophelia and Beau? Perfection.
They had me laughing out loud, giggling, kicking my feet, and tearing up. Their chemistry is palpable, and Ophelia’s yearning, paired with her uncertainty, felt so raw and real. Neither of them is perfect. Ophelia’s insecurities hit home, and Beau’s reserved and grump sometimes cuts a little too deep… but that’s what made me fall in love with them all the more.
There’s so much heart packed into this story. It’s a beautiful childhood bestfriends-to-strangers-to-lovers romance, full of reconnection, healing, and the kind of love that shows up right when you need it most. ❤️
Mara’s writing is tender, honest, and brimming with emotion. It pulled me in from the very first page.
And what’s life without a few detours.
December 14, 2025
3.5 stars! I have never read a road trip focused romance book before and I actually really enjoyed it! While being a really fun romance to read there were also themes of grief, loss, empathy, forgiveness, and healing. It had me giggling and kicking my feet at some points and then crying at others. I’m going to be thinking about this one for a while!
July 3, 2025
I adored Mara Williams’s debut novel “The Truth Is in the Detours.” Ophelia (Phe) Dahl and Beauregard (Beau) Augustin were childhood best friends who drifted apart in high school. They grew up living next door to each other after Ophelia and her dad moved to San Diego when Ophelia was about four years old.
Ophelia’s dad unexpectedly passed away and she discovered the first page of a court document while cleaning out her childhood home to sell. Ophelia was told her mother died in a car accident, but the court document is dated a year after the accident supposedly occurred. Beau was back in town, visiting his parents, and checks on Ophelia right after she discovered the document.
Beau is a professor and has written a couple books. The latest book he’s working on is about secrets and deceptions. He has in-person interviews lined up that will take a few weeks to complete. Ophelia comes up with the idea to tag along. She tells Beau she can help take notes during his interviews and maybe they can search for her mother. She wants to know why her parental rights were terminated and understand why her dad lied to her for decades.
I devoured the first third of the book. I loved the banter between Ophelia and Beau. The author’s writing style reminded me of Carley Fortune, Katherine Center, and Emily Henry when it came to the dialogue. The last two thirds of the book were a little more low-key, but still strong. There was the road trip while Beau interviewed the liars (as Ophelia called them). Ophelia also worked on herself and figure out a path forward.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC.
Ophelia’s dad unexpectedly passed away and she discovered the first page of a court document while cleaning out her childhood home to sell. Ophelia was told her mother died in a car accident, but the court document is dated a year after the accident supposedly occurred. Beau was back in town, visiting his parents, and checks on Ophelia right after she discovered the document.
Beau is a professor and has written a couple books. The latest book he’s working on is about secrets and deceptions. He has in-person interviews lined up that will take a few weeks to complete. Ophelia comes up with the idea to tag along. She tells Beau she can help take notes during his interviews and maybe they can search for her mother. She wants to know why her parental rights were terminated and understand why her dad lied to her for decades.
I devoured the first third of the book. I loved the banter between Ophelia and Beau. The author’s writing style reminded me of Carley Fortune, Katherine Center, and Emily Henry when it came to the dialogue. The last two thirds of the book were a little more low-key, but still strong. There was the road trip while Beau interviewed the liars (as Ophelia called them). Ophelia also worked on herself and figure out a path forward.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC.
August 3, 2025
I read this in under two days—I was completely consumed from the very first page. Mara Williams’ writing style is so captivating, and the characters she’s created? Unforgettable.
This is a romance, yes, but it also has many layers. It’s about grief, growth, and the choices we make when we stop letting life just happen to us. It’s about the messy middle—the detours we take that ultimately help us find who we really are.
Ophelia was a standout character for me. She’s flawed and complicated, and so relatable. Her childhood best friend, Beau, is her perfect opposite—strong, steady, and a presence that brings balance. The friends-to-lovers / second-chance dynamic between them was filled with tension, history, and love. Their dynamic captured me from the very beginning and I found myself cheering for them both.
The road trip element added so much depth and momentum to the story, and the pacing never once lagged. I was fully invested in every moment and every truth they uncovered together. I enjoyed watching them take this journey and watching them grow and work through their own lies.
I came into this book blind, but I am officially a fan! I’ll absolutely read anything Mara Williams writes next. Do yourself a favor and READ THIS BOOK!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
This is a romance, yes, but it also has many layers. It’s about grief, growth, and the choices we make when we stop letting life just happen to us. It’s about the messy middle—the detours we take that ultimately help us find who we really are.
Ophelia was a standout character for me. She’s flawed and complicated, and so relatable. Her childhood best friend, Beau, is her perfect opposite—strong, steady, and a presence that brings balance. The friends-to-lovers / second-chance dynamic between them was filled with tension, history, and love. Their dynamic captured me from the very beginning and I found myself cheering for them both.
The road trip element added so much depth and momentum to the story, and the pacing never once lagged. I was fully invested in every moment and every truth they uncovered together. I enjoyed watching them take this journey and watching them grow and work through their own lies.
I came into this book blind, but I am officially a fan! I’ll absolutely read anything Mara Williams writes next. Do yourself a favor and READ THIS BOOK!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
February 28, 2026
A lovely, layered romance about two people searching for truth after personal betrayals left them reeling, her with a shocking secret her recently deceased father kept from her since childhood, and him with his ex-wife’s infidelity and its painful repercussions. Both betrayals are layered with complications, providing opportunities for the characters to examine the nature of truth and deception, and their journeys toward acceptance are nuanced and complex. Those inner journeys are beautifully paralleled with a physical journey as the two take a road trip up the West Coast, interviewing subjects for his book about the impact of keeping secrets, and hunting for information about the mother who abandoned her as a child. I loved that all of this was going on while the two leads fell in love, balancing the more idyllic side of the narrative with realistic conflicts and deeper themes to chew on. Sexy, swoony, and scenic, with plenty of fun with romance tropes, lots of lusty gazes and forced proximity, and an I’ve-been-in-love-with-you-forever hero sure to delight lovers of silent pining and grand gestures. Joyful, thoughtful, and a fun celebration of the U.S. West Coast that brought back fond memories of my own road trips up and down this coast, adding another reason to close this one with a smile.
March 22, 2026
5🌟 3🌶
Friends to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Beau and Ophelia grew up together and were inseparable—until high school. Then everything changed. Ophelia became popular and left Beau behind, only reaching out when she needed help. By the end of high school, Beau had had enough and decided to cut ties with her.
Now, in her mid-30s, Ophelia hasn’t seen or spoken to Beau since college. After her father passes away suddenly, she returns home to settle his affairs. Alone and emotional, she uncovers a family secret that changes how she sees her father. In the middle of it all, her childhood best friend—now enemy—Beau walks in and finds her a complete mess.
Beau is going through a difficult time as well. He’s on a journey to understand why people do terrible things and keep secrets. While writing a book about family secrets, he has interviews scheduled across the Pacific Northwest. Needing an escape, Ophelia offers to join him, take notes, and keep him company—hoping to rekindle their friendship.
As they navigate their grief, pain, and loneliness, they find their way back to each other—this time in a way Beau had always dreamed of.
But when they return from their road trip and Beau’s ex-wife is waiting outside his house, Ophelia begins to believe she’s standing in the way of his true happiness.
Friends to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Beau and Ophelia grew up together and were inseparable—until high school. Then everything changed. Ophelia became popular and left Beau behind, only reaching out when she needed help. By the end of high school, Beau had had enough and decided to cut ties with her.
Now, in her mid-30s, Ophelia hasn’t seen or spoken to Beau since college. After her father passes away suddenly, she returns home to settle his affairs. Alone and emotional, she uncovers a family secret that changes how she sees her father. In the middle of it all, her childhood best friend—now enemy—Beau walks in and finds her a complete mess.
Beau is going through a difficult time as well. He’s on a journey to understand why people do terrible things and keep secrets. While writing a book about family secrets, he has interviews scheduled across the Pacific Northwest. Needing an escape, Ophelia offers to join him, take notes, and keep him company—hoping to rekindle their friendship.
As they navigate their grief, pain, and loneliness, they find their way back to each other—this time in a way Beau had always dreamed of.
But when they return from their road trip and Beau’s ex-wife is waiting outside his house, Ophelia begins to believe she’s standing in the way of his true happiness.
July 13, 2025
I honestly loved this one from the first page to the last. It was the kind of story that made me feel a lot, and I didn’t want to stop reading. The writing was beautiful but not too complicated, and the author made everything feel real and full of emotion. Ophelia and Beau were both amazing characters, and I really liked how they were written. Their connection felt strong, natural, and sometimes full of tension in the best way. The banter between them made me smile a lot, and I could feel the history they shared. Even though the book was only in Ophelia’s point of view, Beau still felt like a fully developed character too. I also enjoyed the road trip part. It added a lot of fun and made the story move in a nice way. And the setting was super well done. What I liked most was how the story mixed romance with real life struggles. This was Mara Williams’s first book, but it didn’t feel like a debut at all. I can’t wait to read what she writes next. Thank you so much to the author, Lake Union Publishing and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review
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