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Detour #1
Detour
A space shuttle flight crew discovers that the Earth they’ve returned to is not the home they left behind in this emotional, mind-bending thriller from the creator of the hit Netflix series Manifest and the bestselling author of The Warehouse.
“If The Martian and The Twilight Zone had a baby, it would be Detour—a thriller that messes with your head as you scramble to piece together what’s really going on.”—Steve Netter, Best Thriller Books
Ryan Crane wasn’t looking for trouble—just a cup of coffee. But when this cop spots a gunman emerging from an unmarked van, he leaps into action and unknowingly saves John Ward, a billionaire with presidential aspirations, from an assassination attempt.
As thanks for Ryan’s quick thinking, Ward offers him the chance of a lifetime: to join a group of lucky civilians chosen to accompany three veteran astronauts on the first manned mission to Saturn’s moon Titan.
A devoted family man, Ryan is reluctant to leave on this two-year expedition, yet with the encouragement of his loving wife—and an exorbitant paycheck guaranteeing lifetime care for their disabled son—he crews up and ventures into a new frontier.
But as the ship is circling Titan, it is rocked by an unexplained series of explosions. The crew works together to get back on course, and they return to Earth as heroes.
When the fanfare dies down, Ryan and his fellow astronauts notice that things are different. Some changes are good, such as lavish upgrades to their homes, but others are more disconcerting. Before the group can connect, mysterious figures start tailing them, and their communications are scrambled.
Separated and suspicious, the crew must uncover the truth and decide how far they’re willing to go to return to their normal lives. Just when their space adventure seemingly ends, it shockingly begins.
“If The Martian and The Twilight Zone had a baby, it would be Detour—a thriller that messes with your head as you scramble to piece together what’s really going on.”—Steve Netter, Best Thriller Books
Ryan Crane wasn’t looking for trouble—just a cup of coffee. But when this cop spots a gunman emerging from an unmarked van, he leaps into action and unknowingly saves John Ward, a billionaire with presidential aspirations, from an assassination attempt.
As thanks for Ryan’s quick thinking, Ward offers him the chance of a lifetime: to join a group of lucky civilians chosen to accompany three veteran astronauts on the first manned mission to Saturn’s moon Titan.
A devoted family man, Ryan is reluctant to leave on this two-year expedition, yet with the encouragement of his loving wife—and an exorbitant paycheck guaranteeing lifetime care for their disabled son—he crews up and ventures into a new frontier.
But as the ship is circling Titan, it is rocked by an unexplained series of explosions. The crew works together to get back on course, and they return to Earth as heroes.
When the fanfare dies down, Ryan and his fellow astronauts notice that things are different. Some changes are good, such as lavish upgrades to their homes, but others are more disconcerting. Before the group can connect, mysterious figures start tailing them, and their communications are scrambled.
Separated and suspicious, the crew must uncover the truth and decide how far they’re willing to go to return to their normal lives. Just when their space adventure seemingly ends, it shockingly begins.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 13, 2026
120 people are currently reading
13288 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Rake
1 book41 followersTV producer, writer, and showrunner of "Manifest" for Warner Bros. Television and NBC; graduated from Columbia University in 1990; born and lives in Los Angeles, California. -- Library of Congress Authorities
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 401 reviews
January 12, 2026
Oh. My. God! Seamlessly mixing a realistic feel with a sci-fi/speculative thriller storyline, Detour had me riveted from the very first page. Taking place in a near-future world, the plot was an addictive combo of a smooth setup and a twisty mind-bending climax that led to a truly breathtaking last chapter. Granted, it was an open-ended, cliffhanger conclusion, but all that meant was that I knew I needed a copy of the second book in this brand-spanking-new series ASAP. You see, thanks to perfect pacing, unguessable twists, and a Manifest-like vibe, my jaw was on the floor even before the s*** hit the fan. Don’t get me wrong, the bulk of this novel was more about developing the small motley crew of characters, but, by the time my adrenaline was flowing, I was as hooked on them as much as I was on the novel. Clever, original, and beyond hypnotic, there wasn’t a single part to this book that didn’t have me yearning for the sequel by the end.
All said and done, despite a plot line that didn’t spend much time in space or on another planet like I was expecting, I was utterly spellbound by the Blake Crouch-esque feel and the handful of twists. Was it a conspiracy? A multiverse? Something else that I couldn’t even begin to fathom? I, for one, didn’t have a clue and I wouldn’t change a thing in spite of the lack of answers. Well, I take that back. I’d have a copy of book two waiting for me already. After all, the found family vibe was readily apparent as were the powerful character arcs and multiple well-written POVs. Interwoven into a mixed media format, I felt as if I was a fly on the wall of this intriguing humanity-saving mission. Given all that I’ve already said, it was still the cinematic writing that won me over completely. So if you’re reading my review, know that you need to get your hands on this book ASAP. A brilliant debut by this writing duo, it made me utterly swoon. Rating of 5+ stars.
BRIEF BLURB:
Please oh please, go into this one as blind as possible. Even the publisher provided synopsis gives too much away in my humble opinion. After all, it wasn’t exactly an action-packed plot until the end. All you need to know is the following:
After a quick-thinking cop stops the potential assassination of a billionaire who’s running for president, he’s offered one of six spots on the first manned mission to Saturn’s moon, Titan. He’s hesitant given that he’d have to be away from his family for two very long years, but the $20 million paycheck has him saying yes to the idea. From there, it’s a bit of mission prep, a bit of space, a bit of their homecoming, and a bit of something more. Any additional information, though, and it very well might ruin the ride. Just know that things do go awry at some point and there’s a very Twilight Zone-like feel from about the halfway point on. As long as you’re not looking for a fast-paced space thriller, you’re in for one heck of a time!
Thank you Jeff Rake, Rob Hart, and Random House Worlds for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 13, 2026
Content warning: alcohol abuse/alcoholism, mention of: infidelity
All said and done, despite a plot line that didn’t spend much time in space or on another planet like I was expecting, I was utterly spellbound by the Blake Crouch-esque feel and the handful of twists. Was it a conspiracy? A multiverse? Something else that I couldn’t even begin to fathom? I, for one, didn’t have a clue and I wouldn’t change a thing in spite of the lack of answers. Well, I take that back. I’d have a copy of book two waiting for me already. After all, the found family vibe was readily apparent as were the powerful character arcs and multiple well-written POVs. Interwoven into a mixed media format, I felt as if I was a fly on the wall of this intriguing humanity-saving mission. Given all that I’ve already said, it was still the cinematic writing that won me over completely. So if you’re reading my review, know that you need to get your hands on this book ASAP. A brilliant debut by this writing duo, it made me utterly swoon. Rating of 5+ stars.
BRIEF BLURB:
Please oh please, go into this one as blind as possible. Even the publisher provided synopsis gives too much away in my humble opinion. After all, it wasn’t exactly an action-packed plot until the end. All you need to know is the following:
After a quick-thinking cop stops the potential assassination of a billionaire who’s running for president, he’s offered one of six spots on the first manned mission to Saturn’s moon, Titan. He’s hesitant given that he’d have to be away from his family for two very long years, but the $20 million paycheck has him saying yes to the idea. From there, it’s a bit of mission prep, a bit of space, a bit of their homecoming, and a bit of something more. Any additional information, though, and it very well might ruin the ride. Just know that things do go awry at some point and there’s a very Twilight Zone-like feel from about the halfway point on. As long as you’re not looking for a fast-paced space thriller, you’re in for one heck of a time!
Thank you Jeff Rake, Rob Hart, and Random House Worlds for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 13, 2026
Content warning: alcohol abuse/alcoholism, mention of: infidelity
October 2, 2025
Detour
by Rob Hart and Jeff Rake
This book grabbed me right away and held me to the end. Unfortunately, it is a cliffhanger which I hate. I usually deduct a star for cliffhangers but this is such a solid 5-star book, I just couldn't.
The characters are fleshed out excellently, and amazing plot with twists I didn't see coming. Suspenseful, excitement, and intrigue mixed with a dash of romance make this sci-fi thriller stand out!
A team is selected to go around Titan to drop off a satellite. The team consists of half civilians and half trained astronauts. It's a two-year trip. Something happens along the way. No real harm was noticed. When they return, they find out what that something was!
Really great sci-fi! Loved this book so much, except for the cliffhanger. I will definitely buy book 2!
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this awesome book!
by Rob Hart and Jeff Rake
This book grabbed me right away and held me to the end. Unfortunately, it is a cliffhanger which I hate. I usually deduct a star for cliffhangers but this is such a solid 5-star book, I just couldn't.
The characters are fleshed out excellently, and amazing plot with twists I didn't see coming. Suspenseful, excitement, and intrigue mixed with a dash of romance make this sci-fi thriller stand out!
A team is selected to go around Titan to drop off a satellite. The team consists of half civilians and half trained astronauts. It's a two-year trip. Something happens along the way. No real harm was noticed. When they return, they find out what that something was!
Really great sci-fi! Loved this book so much, except for the cliffhanger. I will definitely buy book 2!
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this awesome book!
July 21, 2025
ARC for review. To be published January 13, 2026.
2 stars, and I wanted to love this!
Billionaire/Presidential candidate John Ward (number six on the most forgettable names of all time (male)) is bankrolling, through NASA, a manned, exploratory rocket to Titan, one of Saturn’s moons, to determine its feasibility for an eventual colony (because we’ve screwed up everything so badly here.) Selected for the mission are three NASA astronauts and three civilians, Stitch Smith, a graffiti artist and winner of a lottery to get a place on the ship, Padma Singh, a researcher for Ward and Ryan Crane, a police officer who saved Ward’s life.
HAhahahahahahahahahahaha!
Because this is exactly how one would outfit an unheralded space mission. Boy, I’m feeling GREAT about not only their chance for survival, but the world’s.
I was really bummed. I was interested in reading this because I LUUUURRRVVEEE stories about astronauts, astronaut training, astronauts in space, all that. And I even got a tiny bit of that, albeit with the worst crew even assembled, BUT….
Is the rest of this supposed to be the type of thriller that is marketed to men to read? The espionage type stuff that might have words like “Delta Force” and silhouettes of guns on the cover? I haven’t read those books, but, if this is an example of those, I might feel one microiota bad for you guys (despite you ruling the world, phew, I’m over it now. Back to my senses.) Because this is sad, sad foolishness. Of course, I don’t like romance, either, so what do I know about popular?
2 stars, and I wanted to love this!
Billionaire/Presidential candidate John Ward (number six on the most forgettable names of all time (male)) is bankrolling, through NASA, a manned, exploratory rocket to Titan, one of Saturn’s moons, to determine its feasibility for an eventual colony (because we’ve screwed up everything so badly here.) Selected for the mission are three NASA astronauts and three civilians, Stitch Smith, a graffiti artist and winner of a lottery to get a place on the ship, Padma Singh, a researcher for Ward and Ryan Crane, a police officer who saved Ward’s life.
HAhahahahahahahahahahaha!
Because this is exactly how one would outfit an unheralded space mission. Boy, I’m feeling GREAT about not only their chance for survival, but the world’s.
I was really bummed. I was interested in reading this because I LUUUURRRVVEEE stories about astronauts, astronaut training, astronauts in space, all that. And I even got a tiny bit of that, albeit with the worst crew even assembled, BUT….
Is the rest of this supposed to be the type of thriller that is marketed to men to read? The espionage type stuff that might have words like “Delta Force” and silhouettes of guns on the cover? I haven’t read those books, but, if this is an example of those, I might feel one microiota bad for you guys (despite you ruling the world, phew, I’m over it now. Back to my senses.) Because this is sad, sad foolishness. Of course, I don’t like romance, either, so what do I know about popular?
October 10, 2025
Rate 3.5 Stars Rounded Up to 4
Got an email from the publisher offering up an early digital copy of this book they described as A mind-bending sci-fi thriller for fans of Andy Weir and Blake Crouch so of course I downloaded it immediately being a huge fan of these authors. The first thing other readers should know is this is intended as the first book in a series and literally ended with "TO BE CONTINUED...".
This was not clear when I started reading the 239 page book, there is nothing on the cover indicating this is not a standalone novel. About halfway through I thought, how on earth are they going to wrap this up in 100 pages? So off I trundled to Goodreads for some sleuthing and this is where I found this is Book 1. Now I am not opposed to reading serial fiction, I am actually a devoted fan of many series but I do like knowing this info ahead of time.
With this book, the ending isn't a cliffhanger per se, but nothing that has transpired is resolved and we readers are left wondering WTF? I hope that the book does well enough that Book 2 is published.
Now that we have gotten this out of the way, the story is a good and compelling one told from multiple points of views. The format and short length made it a pretty quick read. One of the authors writes for TV and intended for this to be a programme but was told to write the book first. As I read along I could totally envision the story translating to a series I would watch on a streaming service. There is the world-is-becoming-uninhabitable-so-off-to-space-we-go-to-save -humanity trope (like in Project Hail Mary and Seveneves) and there are other sci-fi-ish elements but I won't say more as that would totally spoil things for other readers.
So, the description from the publisher was actually on target. If you are also a fan of Andy Weir and Blake Crouch and don't mind having to wait for a second book to find out how the story will end, then certainly check out this book when it is released.
Got an email from the publisher offering up an early digital copy of this book they described as A mind-bending sci-fi thriller for fans of Andy Weir and Blake Crouch so of course I downloaded it immediately being a huge fan of these authors. The first thing other readers should know is this is intended as the first book in a series and literally ended with "TO BE CONTINUED...".
This was not clear when I started reading the 239 page book, there is nothing on the cover indicating this is not a standalone novel. About halfway through I thought, how on earth are they going to wrap this up in 100 pages? So off I trundled to Goodreads for some sleuthing and this is where I found this is Book 1. Now I am not opposed to reading serial fiction, I am actually a devoted fan of many series but I do like knowing this info ahead of time.
With this book, the ending isn't a cliffhanger per se, but nothing that has transpired is resolved and we readers are left wondering WTF? I hope that the book does well enough that Book 2 is published.
Now that we have gotten this out of the way, the story is a good and compelling one told from multiple points of views. The format and short length made it a pretty quick read. One of the authors writes for TV and intended for this to be a programme but was told to write the book first. As I read along I could totally envision the story translating to a series I would watch on a streaming service. There is the world-is-becoming-uninhabitable-so-off-to-space-we-go-to-save -humanity trope (like in Project Hail Mary and Seveneves) and there are other sci-fi-ish elements but I won't say more as that would totally spoil things for other readers.
So, the description from the publisher was actually on target. If you are also a fan of Andy Weir and Blake Crouch and don't mind having to wait for a second book to find out how the story will end, then certainly check out this book when it is released.
January 20, 2026
Detour
by Jeff Rake/Rob Hart
Detour #1
Science Fiction Thriller Conspiracy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Jan 13, 2026
Del Ray Random House Worlds Inklore
Ages: 16+
On his way to get a cup of coffee, police officer Ryan Crane saw a man coming out of a van with a gun. Training taking over, he subdues the man, thus saving John Ward, a billionaire who wants to be president.
Ward offers Ryan a trip of a lifetime, and the money to go with it. A two-year trip into space to fly by Titan, one of Saturn's moons. With his family's support, he agrees. The trip there is boring, with only minor issues, as one would expect, but as they are flying behind the moon, preparing to drop a satellite, there are two explosions.
With only minor injuries and damage, they head home, only to find that things are different. Ryan's wife never had an appendectomy, and his son isn't paralyzed. And he isn't the only one; the other crew members' lives are not the same. Forbidden to contact their fellow astronauts, they do it anyway, trying to figure out what happened and if it can be fixed.
But when each of them receives millions of dollars from a foreign bank, they know someone doesn't want them to figure it out.
I was excited to read this because I love the idea of space travel to explore planets/moons, but sadly, the space travel and visit to Titan was hurried, leaving out descriptions and 'awe', all because this story turned into a political conspiracy, and it slowed way down and became a chore to push through.
It wasn't bad, but I wanted the conspiracy in space. I did like the idea of where the story was going with how their lives were different upon their return.
At first, there was some difficulty following because the characters each had their own chapters, and while it was necessary because each of them had a different experience, it did get a little confusing when the chapters started.
As for the characters themselves, they had their differences, but also blended together. A few of them weren't very well developed at the beginning of the story, and I repeatedly mixed them up. The only one who stood out was Ward, only because he reminded me of the rat that's been gnawing around the government IRL this year, so I didn't like him.
My 1980's childhood was spent watching the Doctor, so I had a few guesses to where this story was going, but upon thinking that one hundred more pages would finish.... To Be Continued....
Will I read the next? A big, huge maybe, but probably not.
2 Stars
by Jeff Rake/Rob Hart
Detour #1
Science Fiction Thriller Conspiracy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Jan 13, 2026
Del Ray Random House Worlds Inklore
Ages: 16+
On his way to get a cup of coffee, police officer Ryan Crane saw a man coming out of a van with a gun. Training taking over, he subdues the man, thus saving John Ward, a billionaire who wants to be president.
Ward offers Ryan a trip of a lifetime, and the money to go with it. A two-year trip into space to fly by Titan, one of Saturn's moons. With his family's support, he agrees. The trip there is boring, with only minor issues, as one would expect, but as they are flying behind the moon, preparing to drop a satellite, there are two explosions.
With only minor injuries and damage, they head home, only to find that things are different. Ryan's wife never had an appendectomy, and his son isn't paralyzed. And he isn't the only one; the other crew members' lives are not the same. Forbidden to contact their fellow astronauts, they do it anyway, trying to figure out what happened and if it can be fixed.
But when each of them receives millions of dollars from a foreign bank, they know someone doesn't want them to figure it out.
I was excited to read this because I love the idea of space travel to explore planets/moons, but sadly, the space travel and visit to Titan was hurried, leaving out descriptions and 'awe', all because this story turned into a political conspiracy, and it slowed way down and became a chore to push through.
It wasn't bad, but I wanted the conspiracy in space. I did like the idea of where the story was going with how their lives were different upon their return.
At first, there was some difficulty following because the characters each had their own chapters, and while it was necessary because each of them had a different experience, it did get a little confusing when the chapters started.
As for the characters themselves, they had their differences, but also blended together. A few of them weren't very well developed at the beginning of the story, and I repeatedly mixed them up. The only one who stood out was Ward, only because he reminded me of the rat that's been gnawing around the government IRL this year, so I didn't like him.
My 1980's childhood was spent watching the Doctor, so I had a few guesses to where this story was going, but upon thinking that one hundred more pages would finish.... To Be Continued....
Will I read the next? A big, huge maybe, but probably not.
2 Stars
December 22, 2025
A crew of six people, comprised of three astronauts and three civilians, embark on an exploratory trip to Titan, Saturn’s moon. Their hope is that Titan will provide a livable atmosphere for people to go to, supposedly much more hospitable than Mars. Right before they are to begin their trip home disaster strikes, and they are hit by something. Luckily they are able to continue home, however things just don’t seem the same as when they left them.
As others have said, this definitely read as a TV show, and after reading the author’s notes, it appears that this was pitched first as a TV series. I personally prefer the books over the TV adaptations, but could see how this one would be a good fit. There’s a little bit of everything from science fiction all the way to conspiracy theories and political motives. The science fiction itself is very light enough so that I was able to grasp the concept. This is a series so it does end on a cliffhanger. As far as cliffhanger’s go, I feel like it did end at an appropriate spot. Now it’s just a matter of how long we wait for the next book. There is no doubt that I certainly will be picking up the next in the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review .
As others have said, this definitely read as a TV show, and after reading the author’s notes, it appears that this was pitched first as a TV series. I personally prefer the books over the TV adaptations, but could see how this one would be a good fit. There’s a little bit of everything from science fiction all the way to conspiracy theories and political motives. The science fiction itself is very light enough so that I was able to grasp the concept. This is a series so it does end on a cliffhanger. As far as cliffhanger’s go, I feel like it did end at an appropriate spot. Now it’s just a matter of how long we wait for the next book. There is no doubt that I certainly will be picking up the next in the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review .
January 19, 2026
Detour by Jeff Rake, Rob Hart
Detour series #1. Science fiction thriller. Cliffhanger.
Science shows that Titan, a moon of Jupiter might be more feasible for the future of humanity than colonization of Mars. Six individuals are chosen for the two year mission including three astronauts, an astrophysicist, a random lottery winner, and a cop that saved the life of John Ward, a candidate for president and billionaire.
They learn to work as a team before leaving, important since communication will be limited on the trip. The unexpected does happen but the team is able to correct their path and make it back home.
They are heroes. But when they are kept apart after getting home, and prohibited from talking to each other, suspicions are raised. Something is not quite right.
Large cast of characters that we get to know before the mission. Short segments in each of their lives including family and friends or work. The reader is invested in them all getting home so it’s a relief when they do. Why the secret envelope from Ward? Why are they being watched? What do the changes mean at home?
Engrossing and chilling. Can’t wait to see where this goes.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Random House Worlds.
Detour series #1. Science fiction thriller. Cliffhanger.
Science shows that Titan, a moon of Jupiter might be more feasible for the future of humanity than colonization of Mars. Six individuals are chosen for the two year mission including three astronauts, an astrophysicist, a random lottery winner, and a cop that saved the life of John Ward, a candidate for president and billionaire.
They learn to work as a team before leaving, important since communication will be limited on the trip. The unexpected does happen but the team is able to correct their path and make it back home.
They are heroes. But when they are kept apart after getting home, and prohibited from talking to each other, suspicions are raised. Something is not quite right.
Large cast of characters that we get to know before the mission. Short segments in each of their lives including family and friends or work. The reader is invested in them all getting home so it’s a relief when they do. Why the secret envelope from Ward? Why are they being watched? What do the changes mean at home?
Engrossing and chilling. Can’t wait to see where this goes.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Random House Worlds.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.0 Stars
This is a straightforward sci fi thriller. I have previously read similar plots which made it hard not to compare. This narrative was generally find but it felt like a lackluster story. I wish this author wrote more hard science because this plot would have benefited from a more technical writing. I feel like this author best shines when he writes plots that better lend themselves to soft science fiction plots.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This is a straightforward sci fi thriller. I have previously read similar plots which made it hard not to compare. This narrative was generally find but it felt like a lackluster story. I wish this author wrote more hard science because this plot would have benefited from a more technical writing. I feel like this author best shines when he writes plots that better lend themselves to soft science fiction plots.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
August 24, 2025
This could have been so good, but it's like a bunch of TV network executives in suits churned this out for the masses.
It's bland and filled one after the other with cliched, stereotypical characters. The network executives have their Diversity Checklist™️ and by golly were they determined to fit everyone in.
We've got the evil male billionaire and his smirking female assistant, a righteous All American cop with a disabled son, a single mother with a difficult ex-boyfriend, The Neurodivergent One, the ne'er do well who's smarter than he looks, The Bisexual One, and a barely functioning alcoholic.
We spent an excruciating amount of time learning about these people. They're not interesting. Their designated persona type is the extent of their whole personality.
We finally get into outer space and... it just skips all that? It skips all of outer space. They're in outer space for two years and I think we get about 20 pages. Something Bad happens on the ship but it's never really explained. They come back to Earth (the journey home is again skipped) and that's when something happens that is actually very interesting and exciting (no spoilers) but ummm no, nobody seems to really CARE? Nobody seems terribly concerned about finding out what's going on???
Some of them do, eventually, start asking questions but nothing is answered or resolved or hell even explained very clearly. Ends on a cliffhanger. Cue voice-over, "don't miss season two of Detour, coming soon!"
Thanks to the publisher Del Rey and Netgalley for the ARC. I really, really wanted to like this. Truly. I'm sorry.
It's bland and filled one after the other with cliched, stereotypical characters. The network executives have their Diversity Checklist™️ and by golly were they determined to fit everyone in.
We've got the evil male billionaire and his smirking female assistant, a righteous All American cop with a disabled son, a single mother with a difficult ex-boyfriend, The Neurodivergent One, the ne'er do well who's smarter than he looks, The Bisexual One, and a barely functioning alcoholic.
We spent an excruciating amount of time learning about these people. They're not interesting. Their designated persona type is the extent of their whole personality.
We finally get into outer space and... it just skips all that? It skips all of outer space. They're in outer space for two years and I think we get about 20 pages. Something Bad happens on the ship but it's never really explained. They come back to Earth (the journey home is again skipped) and that's when something happens that is actually very interesting and exciting (no spoilers) but ummm no, nobody seems to really CARE? Nobody seems terribly concerned about finding out what's going on???
Some of them do, eventually, start asking questions but nothing is answered or resolved or hell even explained very clearly. Ends on a cliffhanger. Cue voice-over, "don't miss season two of Detour, coming soon!"
Thanks to the publisher Del Rey and Netgalley for the ARC. I really, really wanted to like this. Truly. I'm sorry.
November 11, 2025
I received a free copy of, Detour, by Jeff Rake: Rob Hart, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. For doing a good deed, Ryan gets to go on a space mission for two years. This was an interesting read, getting to have a great adventure in space, and coming back home to see how much the world has changed.
January 18, 2026
Being the scifi nerd I am, Detour was one of my anticipated reads and I read it as soon as I got my hands on it a couple of months before it published. This book definitely needs to be made into a TV series!
Jeff Rake, creator of the NetFlix hit show Manifest, and Rob Hart, author of The Warehouse and the Assassin Anonymous books teamed up to write a sci-fi speculative fiction/thriller. So fun!
Detour is being tauted as The Martian meets Twilight Zone and I really enjoyed this one! Can’t wait for book 2!!
A group of astronauts and civilians are sent to Saturn’s moon Titan by a billionaire to scope out a possible new viable world for humans. And then everything goes bonkers. I don’t want to say any more because…. Spoilers! The tag line does read as “Earth is not the world they left behind.” so I’ll leave it at that.
*Thanks SO much to Random House Worlds for the ARC and the wonderful PR box with a finished copy and goodies!*
Jeff Rake, creator of the NetFlix hit show Manifest, and Rob Hart, author of The Warehouse and the Assassin Anonymous books teamed up to write a sci-fi speculative fiction/thriller. So fun!
Detour is being tauted as The Martian meets Twilight Zone and I really enjoyed this one! Can’t wait for book 2!!
A group of astronauts and civilians are sent to Saturn’s moon Titan by a billionaire to scope out a possible new viable world for humans. And then everything goes bonkers. I don’t want to say any more because…. Spoilers! The tag line does read as “Earth is not the world they left behind.” so I’ll leave it at that.
*Thanks SO much to Random House Worlds for the ARC and the wonderful PR box with a finished copy and goodies!*
January 22, 2026
Detour truly reads like a 21st century edition of Rod Serling’s, Twilight Zone; whereby, six astronauts travel into space for a two year period, only to return to a world that is slightly off kilter from the one they originally left. Along with baseball now having 10 innings and McDonald’s selling pizza as part of their regular fare, the six space travelers find that everything about their daily lives has been tweaked…some things significantly changed and others only slightly noticeable.
After being warned by the President not to contact one another, the astronauts find a way to communicate among themselves. While this first book in the series doesn’t provide a definitive answer, it does seem that they have arrived in a different dimension from that of their previous world. However, in trying to understand what’s happened in their lives, one of protagonists finds himself questioning aloud whether they are suffering from Capgras Syndrome, a condition where someone feels that people close to them have been replaced by imposters. As much as I enjoyed the novel, I do wish that I had the entire series in front of me…but that is definitely something worth waiting for later this year.
After being warned by the President not to contact one another, the astronauts find a way to communicate among themselves. While this first book in the series doesn’t provide a definitive answer, it does seem that they have arrived in a different dimension from that of their previous world. However, in trying to understand what’s happened in their lives, one of protagonists finds himself questioning aloud whether they are suffering from Capgras Syndrome, a condition where someone feels that people close to them have been replaced by imposters. As much as I enjoyed the novel, I do wish that I had the entire series in front of me…but that is definitely something worth waiting for later this year.
August 15, 2025
3.5
It makes perfect sense that this book was originally conceived as a TV show. Honestly, the ending played in my head like: End of a season one. And it’s not surprising, considering one of the authors is the creator of Manifest from Netflix.
Everything starts with something we all know: Earth is slowly being destroyed (because of us, obviously). A super-rich man decides to launch a project to travel into space in search of a “lifeboat,” and the chosen destination is Saturn’s moon, Titan. But beyond all the logistics and science involved in this mission, the real heart of the story lies in the human side: who gets to go? The crew is diverse and interesting (and yes, they gave me Manifest's character vibes). Each of them has a background that becomes more and more important as the story progresses. And let me tell you, there’s a lot of drama. The intense kind. So if you combine that with the fact of traveling to another planet’s moon… you know things are going to get MESSY.
One of the things I enjoyed the most is how the story is told through multiple POVs, giving us more insight (and secrets ofc) from different angles. Plus, some chapters are written as emails, guides, or news, which makes the reading experience more dynamic. And even though I don’t usually read much sci-fi (with Saga being the big and wonderful exception), I didn’t get lost in overwhelming technical details here. The scientific aspects are explained in a way that’s understandable and easy to follow (at least like 90%).
While reading Detour, I kept asking myself: Is one of my theories correct? Is it a mix of them? Or is it something completely different? And more importantly, how will the characters make it out of this mess? if there’s even a way out? I’m definitely waiting for book two, and I really hope this becomes a TV show because the potential is definitely there.
Anyway, thanks to Netgally and the publisher for the e-arc.
It makes perfect sense that this book was originally conceived as a TV show. Honestly, the ending played in my head like: End of a season one. And it’s not surprising, considering one of the authors is the creator of Manifest from Netflix.
Everything starts with something we all know: Earth is slowly being destroyed (because of us, obviously). A super-rich man decides to launch a project to travel into space in search of a “lifeboat,” and the chosen destination is Saturn’s moon, Titan. But beyond all the logistics and science involved in this mission, the real heart of the story lies in the human side: who gets to go? The crew is diverse and interesting (and yes, they gave me Manifest's character vibes). Each of them has a background that becomes more and more important as the story progresses. And let me tell you, there’s a lot of drama. The intense kind. So if you combine that with the fact of traveling to another planet’s moon… you know things are going to get MESSY.
One of the things I enjoyed the most is how the story is told through multiple POVs, giving us more insight (and secrets ofc) from different angles. Plus, some chapters are written as emails, guides, or news, which makes the reading experience more dynamic. And even though I don’t usually read much sci-fi (with Saga being the big and wonderful exception), I didn’t get lost in overwhelming technical details here. The scientific aspects are explained in a way that’s understandable and easy to follow (at least like 90%).
While reading Detour, I kept asking myself: Is one of my theories correct? Is it a mix of them? Or is it something completely different? And more importantly, how will the characters make it out of this mess? if there’s even a way out? I’m definitely waiting for book two, and I really hope this becomes a TV show because the potential is definitely there.
Anyway, thanks to Netgally and the publisher for the e-arc.
November 4, 2025
I've been reading science fiction since I was young and I'm in my early 50's now so I've read a ton of sf. Given that personal history I have to say that I'm a little biased in my rating and review because I unconsciously compare this book to all the other sf books I've read over the years. Personally I don't consider this book to be science fiction but more like science fiction "lite", or "My First Science Fiction novel", something for readers who have never read a sf book before. I say that because there's very little science in the book. Mostly it's about the emotions of the 6 major characters and how they feel about their families or about some issue in their life. I have to admit I skimmed a lot of that. And they don't even get into space until halfway through the book plus they are only in space for about 20 pages, or so it felt.
The premise is sending a manned ship out to Titan, a moon of Saturn, and to release a satellite once they go around the moon, then head back. A 2 year trip all told (the book doesn't even say anything about subjective time and that time goes faster on Earth than for those on the ship, but whatever. Oh, and someone must be in the early stages of inventing the ansible because communications between the ship and Earth only take something like 9 minutes back and forth instead of a year). The trip is being financed by an eccentric billionaire who is also running for President. Three experienced astronauts and three non-astronauts, one the winner of a lottery, will be going on the trip. A big part of the book is those people dealing with their every day life experiences: an alcoholic man struggles to keep it together and to stay in touch with his estranged family, a man with a loving family but also living with a son in a wheelchair and the husband a pariah at work, a woman with ADHD who works for the billionaire and wants to please him with her work at all costs, etc. Oh and an 18 or 19 year old man who has some mad skillz but just wants to make a name for himself through tagging (using spray paint to decorate abandoned buildings). Plus he's shown vaping before the trip, they tell him to quit because there's no vaping in spaceships, but then the book shows nothing of his agonies of withdrawl! Quitting nicotine has been equated with quitting heroin as far as how difficult it is to do. And he's shown as just his normal self on the ship. Wut?!
There is a neat twist in the book that does not get resolved by the end of it because this is only the first book in a series. I will not be reading the sequels. I'm old and have only so much reading time left in my life and I don't want to waste it.
The writing is fine. Not outstanding but not bad. This book has two authors, one who has written books before and one who hasn't but has worked on TV series such as Manifest. I assume the latter came up with the idea and the former did most of the writing work.
I received an advanced reader copy through NetGalley and that has no impact on my rating and review.
The premise is sending a manned ship out to Titan, a moon of Saturn, and to release a satellite once they go around the moon, then head back. A 2 year trip all told (the book doesn't even say anything about subjective time and that time goes faster on Earth than for those on the ship, but whatever. Oh, and someone must be in the early stages of inventing the ansible because communications between the ship and Earth only take something like 9 minutes back and forth instead of a year). The trip is being financed by an eccentric billionaire who is also running for President. Three experienced astronauts and three non-astronauts, one the winner of a lottery, will be going on the trip. A big part of the book is those people dealing with their every day life experiences: an alcoholic man struggles to keep it together and to stay in touch with his estranged family, a man with a loving family but also living with a son in a wheelchair and the husband a pariah at work, a woman with ADHD who works for the billionaire and wants to please him with her work at all costs, etc. Oh and an 18 or 19 year old man who has some mad skillz but just wants to make a name for himself through tagging (using spray paint to decorate abandoned buildings). Plus he's shown vaping before the trip, they tell him to quit because there's no vaping in spaceships, but then the book shows nothing of his agonies of withdrawl! Quitting nicotine has been equated with quitting heroin as far as how difficult it is to do. And he's shown as just his normal self on the ship. Wut?!
There is a neat twist in the book that does not get resolved by the end of it because this is only the first book in a series. I will not be reading the sequels. I'm old and have only so much reading time left in my life and I don't want to waste it.
The writing is fine. Not outstanding but not bad. This book has two authors, one who has written books before and one who hasn't but has worked on TV series such as Manifest. I assume the latter came up with the idea and the former did most of the writing work.
I received an advanced reader copy through NetGalley and that has no impact on my rating and review.
September 4, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Worlds for an ARC of Detour.
I love a good sci-fi space adventure so I expected to really enjoy this one but it just didn't quite hit the mark for me. Firstly, I was shocked that only 14% of the book was actually set in space. Although the storyline that started when they returned from space was very interesting, it was not at all what I expected from the initial blurb about the book. My other main complaint is that the "motly crew" of astronauts plot felt a bit gimmicky. In place of any depth of character was just a constant reiteration of their stereotypes (morally righteous cop, neurodivergent brainiac, confused bisexual, separated working mom, grumpy alcoholic, underachieving misfit) which kept me from being very invested in their stories. I'm undecided if I'll pick up the next book in the series.
3 stars
I love a good sci-fi space adventure so I expected to really enjoy this one but it just didn't quite hit the mark for me. Firstly, I was shocked that only 14% of the book was actually set in space. Although the storyline that started when they returned from space was very interesting, it was not at all what I expected from the initial blurb about the book. My other main complaint is that the "motly crew" of astronauts plot felt a bit gimmicky. In place of any depth of character was just a constant reiteration of their stereotypes (morally righteous cop, neurodivergent brainiac, confused bisexual, separated working mom, grumpy alcoholic, underachieving misfit) which kept me from being very invested in their stories. I'm undecided if I'll pick up the next book in the series.
3 stars
January 11, 2026
Want a book that’s going to grab a hold of you from page one? Buckle up, because Detour is a super thrilling sci-fi, thriller adventure that was a fun time from beginning to end. This reminds me of a Blake Crouch novel mixed with Interstellar—think an exciting space adventure with political intrigue that also touches on the humanity of space travel with interesting characters and a lovely found family. I found myself wanting to keep picking this book up over and over and wanting more once I read the final page. Good thing this is first in a series!
Ryan Crane is a cop who is always trying to do the right thing, making ends meet to support his family. He ends up being in the right place at the right time and saves the life of eccentric billionaire John Ward. His reward? A coveted position on the first manned mission to Saturn’s moon, Titan. But after two years in space and some mysterious activity during their mission the crew returns to an Earth that seems familiar on the surface, but is not quite what they left behind. One adventure ends and another begins as the crew works together to find their way home.
This book reads like a TV show, which is fitting as one of the authors has experience producing TV. But not in a bad way—the pacing is perfect and this story never dragged once. The characters were developed at a nice pace as well: they have interesting arcs that feel wrapped-up by the end of this book but leaves plenty of interest for book 2. And just when things start to feel like a trope, the story takes an unexpected twist.
I really enjoyed the narrative style of multiple character POV’s within each “chapter”. Interspersed throughout these POVs are news articles, emails, and chat threads that enhance the story as well and kept the plot moving along at a great pace. The prose is not overly complicated, especially helpful when quantum physics is being discussed!
Bottom line: don’t miss out on this exciting sci-fi thriller! An entertaining read that feels like your favorite summer blockbuster movie. 4⭐️ for a strong start to what promises to be a great series!
Immense gratitude and thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Del Rey, for the wonderful opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ryan Crane is a cop who is always trying to do the right thing, making ends meet to support his family. He ends up being in the right place at the right time and saves the life of eccentric billionaire John Ward. His reward? A coveted position on the first manned mission to Saturn’s moon, Titan. But after two years in space and some mysterious activity during their mission the crew returns to an Earth that seems familiar on the surface, but is not quite what they left behind. One adventure ends and another begins as the crew works together to find their way home.
This book reads like a TV show, which is fitting as one of the authors has experience producing TV. But not in a bad way—the pacing is perfect and this story never dragged once. The characters were developed at a nice pace as well: they have interesting arcs that feel wrapped-up by the end of this book but leaves plenty of interest for book 2. And just when things start to feel like a trope, the story takes an unexpected twist.
I really enjoyed the narrative style of multiple character POV’s within each “chapter”. Interspersed throughout these POVs are news articles, emails, and chat threads that enhance the story as well and kept the plot moving along at a great pace. The prose is not overly complicated, especially helpful when quantum physics is being discussed!
Bottom line: don’t miss out on this exciting sci-fi thriller! An entertaining read that feels like your favorite summer blockbuster movie. 4⭐️ for a strong start to what promises to be a great series!
Immense gratitude and thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Del Rey, for the wonderful opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 19, 2026
This is a decent, if somewhat familiar, story. Everything about it is just ok though. It all felt a bit thin and insubstantial, lacking the real depth and meatiness that makes a good story a great one.
It ends on a cliffhanger (of a sort), and there is no real reason for that? It’s not really a cliffhanger, it’s more like, this is where we are taking a break, and we will pick up the story again next year. I mean, why not just tell the whole story in one book and just cut out the parts used to fluff it up?
Just my opinion though; I won’t be surprised if I’m on my own with it 😂
It ends on a cliffhanger (of a sort), and there is no real reason for that? It’s not really a cliffhanger, it’s more like, this is where we are taking a break, and we will pick up the story again next year. I mean, why not just tell the whole story in one book and just cut out the parts used to fluff it up?
Just my opinion though; I won’t be surprised if I’m on my own with it 😂
January 19, 2026
4.5 stars
The nitty-gritty: Detour takes standard sci-fi tropes and twists them into a unique and outrageously entertaining story, complete with well developed characters and surprising emotional moments.
The premise of Detour starts out in familiar territory: a rich billionaire is trying to fund the first trip to Saturn’s moon Titan, in hopes of finding a viable future home for humans. But the story takes a sharp left at about the 70% mark and ends up in a completely different place. For this reason I won’t be going into the plot too much, since the surprise is fantastic! Also, please avoid the story blurb, as it’s full of spoilers. Go into this as blind as possible, you won’t regret it.
The story takes place in Washington D.C. in 2031. John Ward is an Elon Musk-type entrepreneur whose latest venture is trying to get astronauts to Saturn, where their task will be to plant a satellite near the moon Titan so scientists back home can study it. He’s also hoping to run for president, and if the Titan project is a success, he’s sure to win the election. Six people will make the two year trip—one year each way—including Padma Singh, the astrophysicist in charge of the Titan Colonization Project; NASA astronauts Mike Seaver, Alonso Cardona and Della Jameson; lottery winner Stitch, a young artist who is smarter than everyone realizes, and finally Ryan Crane, a D.C. cop who averts an assassination attempt on John Ward by accident (after which he’s personally recruited by Ward).
After weeks of training, the Starblazer crew leaves Earth, and everything goes smoothly—until they reach Titan’s orbit. A technical malfunction puts the crew in danger, and they wonder if they’ll even make it home to their loved ones.
Although Detour is penned by two different authors, the writing felt seamless and smooth, unlike other dual author books I’ve read. Kudos to Jeff Rake and Rob Hart for pulling it off! I mentioned that the “real” story doesn’t start until about 70% in, but that’s not to say the first 70% is lacking in tension or an interesting plot. The authors take their time setting up each of the main characters’ situations—who their significant others are, their backgrounds, etc.---so that when things kick into high gear and the story takes a surprising turn, you understand where they are coming from and why all those details are so important.
Each of the other characters is well drawn with interesting backstories and motivations. Ryan was probably my favorite character. He’s an upstanding cop who refused to get involved in a corrupt scheme, which resulted in him being shunned by his fellow cops. Padma is a brilliant scientist on the spectrum, and I liked the way her neuro divergence is portrayed. Her ex boyfriend plays a part later in the story as well. Stitch is a young Black man, a talented artist who has gained a negative reputation for tagging. He also had the chance to make money by selling an app he developed, but decided to give it away for free instead. Mike is an alcoholic, which becomes important later in the story. Della is also having relationship problems, and Alonso is a closeted bisexual who is cheating on his wife with a man named Ethan. There are some great villains in the story as well. I liked the way John Ward starts out as a sympathetic character—you really believe he is trying to save humanity—but soon the cracks begin to show, and I daresay any reader who is aware of our current political situation will (unfortunately) recognize what a sleazeball he really is. It all sounds very dramatic and soapy, but you’ll understand why once you read the book.
The authors set up several intriguing side plots in the first part of the story, all of which come into play in interesting ways later on. Really, there was never a dull moment. And yes, we do get to see the characters on the Starblazer, working together in space to solve problems that come up. Surprisingly, these scenes were my least favorite, until something happens on their trip to change things. This is where the story takes a weird turn and when I really became invested in the characters. Rake and Hart add some environmental issues to their story as well, emphasizing that global warming is a real thing and humanity is in grave danger.
You will need to suspend your disbelief in places, however. Some of the situations are sort of ridiculous—why would a known alcoholic astronaut be allowed to go on a two year space mission, for example—but I mostly brushed these aside because I was having so much fun. The climax is a fast-paced nail biter, and the authors do a great job of mixing sci-fi and thriller elements. The story ends on a cliffhanger, which makes me wonder how soon the next book will be published—clearly, not soon enough! Detour was a blast from start to finish, don’t miss it.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
The nitty-gritty: Detour takes standard sci-fi tropes and twists them into a unique and outrageously entertaining story, complete with well developed characters and surprising emotional moments.
The premise of Detour starts out in familiar territory: a rich billionaire is trying to fund the first trip to Saturn’s moon Titan, in hopes of finding a viable future home for humans. But the story takes a sharp left at about the 70% mark and ends up in a completely different place. For this reason I won’t be going into the plot too much, since the surprise is fantastic! Also, please avoid the story blurb, as it’s full of spoilers. Go into this as blind as possible, you won’t regret it.
The story takes place in Washington D.C. in 2031. John Ward is an Elon Musk-type entrepreneur whose latest venture is trying to get astronauts to Saturn, where their task will be to plant a satellite near the moon Titan so scientists back home can study it. He’s also hoping to run for president, and if the Titan project is a success, he’s sure to win the election. Six people will make the two year trip—one year each way—including Padma Singh, the astrophysicist in charge of the Titan Colonization Project; NASA astronauts Mike Seaver, Alonso Cardona and Della Jameson; lottery winner Stitch, a young artist who is smarter than everyone realizes, and finally Ryan Crane, a D.C. cop who averts an assassination attempt on John Ward by accident (after which he’s personally recruited by Ward).
After weeks of training, the Starblazer crew leaves Earth, and everything goes smoothly—until they reach Titan’s orbit. A technical malfunction puts the crew in danger, and they wonder if they’ll even make it home to their loved ones.
Although Detour is penned by two different authors, the writing felt seamless and smooth, unlike other dual author books I’ve read. Kudos to Jeff Rake and Rob Hart for pulling it off! I mentioned that the “real” story doesn’t start until about 70% in, but that’s not to say the first 70% is lacking in tension or an interesting plot. The authors take their time setting up each of the main characters’ situations—who their significant others are, their backgrounds, etc.---so that when things kick into high gear and the story takes a surprising turn, you understand where they are coming from and why all those details are so important.
Each of the other characters is well drawn with interesting backstories and motivations. Ryan was probably my favorite character. He’s an upstanding cop who refused to get involved in a corrupt scheme, which resulted in him being shunned by his fellow cops. Padma is a brilliant scientist on the spectrum, and I liked the way her neuro divergence is portrayed. Her ex boyfriend plays a part later in the story as well. Stitch is a young Black man, a talented artist who has gained a negative reputation for tagging. He also had the chance to make money by selling an app he developed, but decided to give it away for free instead. Mike is an alcoholic, which becomes important later in the story. Della is also having relationship problems, and Alonso is a closeted bisexual who is cheating on his wife with a man named Ethan. There are some great villains in the story as well. I liked the way John Ward starts out as a sympathetic character—you really believe he is trying to save humanity—but soon the cracks begin to show, and I daresay any reader who is aware of our current political situation will (unfortunately) recognize what a sleazeball he really is. It all sounds very dramatic and soapy, but you’ll understand why once you read the book.
The authors set up several intriguing side plots in the first part of the story, all of which come into play in interesting ways later on. Really, there was never a dull moment. And yes, we do get to see the characters on the Starblazer, working together in space to solve problems that come up. Surprisingly, these scenes were my least favorite, until something happens on their trip to change things. This is where the story takes a weird turn and when I really became invested in the characters. Rake and Hart add some environmental issues to their story as well, emphasizing that global warming is a real thing and humanity is in grave danger.
You will need to suspend your disbelief in places, however. Some of the situations are sort of ridiculous—why would a known alcoholic astronaut be allowed to go on a two year space mission, for example—but I mostly brushed these aside because I was having so much fun. The climax is a fast-paced nail biter, and the authors do a great job of mixing sci-fi and thriller elements. The story ends on a cliffhanger, which makes me wonder how soon the next book will be published—clearly, not soon enough! Detour was a blast from start to finish, don’t miss it.
Big thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy.
December 13, 2025
Thanks, NetGalley, for providing me with a copy of this book.
This is a book I got caught in between. I liked its pace, and the plot was not bad at all, but I felt that the characters seemed a bit too shallow. Presidential candidate Ward seemed like a caricature of a kid born to Trump and Musk. But by the end, it redeemed itself better; these astronauts achieved more maturity and became ready for the challenges that are about to come in the next books of the series.
This is a book I got caught in between. I liked its pace, and the plot was not bad at all, but I felt that the characters seemed a bit too shallow. Presidential candidate Ward seemed like a caricature of a kid born to Trump and Musk. But by the end, it redeemed itself better; these astronauts achieved more maturity and became ready for the challenges that are about to come in the next books of the series.
November 11, 2025
This is the beginning of a series of unknown length at this point. It is a variation of a Twilight Zone theme of astronauts who are gone for a couple of years and return to an Earth that appears to be the same, but quickly begins to show differences. The book leaves a definite cliffhanger at the end as a hook to read the second book when it comes out. Overall a good read.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Goodreads, Net Galley, Amazon, and my fiction book review blog.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Goodreads, Net Galley, Amazon, and my fiction book review blog.
January 11, 2026
4.5*
Look, when you tell me that one of my favorite authors and the dude who created one of my favorite shows (Manifest!) are writing a book that sounds wholly up my alley, you best believe I am going to be all over it. And whew, I was sucked into this one! We are introduced to the astronauts who will be on the mission to Titan, one of Saturn's moons, in the hopes to see if it might be inhabitable. We also meet sketchy billionaire John Ward, who is the financial (and therefore boss, let's be real) backer to this trip. And he has political aspirations, because of course he is obsessed with power, too. During the first half of the book, we get really close looks into who the team members really are, their families, their lives. And I will say, this part did feel a little long at parts? Nothing terrible, but I did wonder a time or two when the action would start. This was not in any way a dealbreaker, and I think it really made sense given how it becomes rather important that we know these characters well.
But wow, when TSHTF, things take off, and it was at that point that I absolutely could not put this book down. I was already very invested in the characters, of course, but when things pick up, my jaw was on the floor (honestly if you haven't already, don't read the synopsis, it's more fun without knowing) and I was desperate to know all the things. The stakes become even higher, and you can see a ton of parallels to the absurd dystopian novel we're currently living in. (Sidenote: I have seen some reviews that say some of the decisions felt silly, but um... the shitty dude from RW Boston is in charge of NASA in our actual universe, so sorry, I didn't find anything any less believable than whatever nonsense timeline we're in here.) Also, I had not realized when I started reading that this was the start of a series! The Goodreads page is updated to indicate that it is now, thankfully, but I finished the book and was desperate for more- but not to fear, there is definitely more to come, and I for one cannot wait to find out all the things!
Bottom Line: So I'm gonna need book 2 immediately, thanks in advance!
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
Look, when you tell me that one of my favorite authors and the dude who created one of my favorite shows (Manifest!) are writing a book that sounds wholly up my alley, you best believe I am going to be all over it. And whew, I was sucked into this one! We are introduced to the astronauts who will be on the mission to Titan, one of Saturn's moons, in the hopes to see if it might be inhabitable. We also meet sketchy billionaire John Ward, who is the financial (and therefore boss, let's be real) backer to this trip. And he has political aspirations, because of course he is obsessed with power, too. During the first half of the book, we get really close looks into who the team members really are, their families, their lives. And I will say, this part did feel a little long at parts? Nothing terrible, but I did wonder a time or two when the action would start. This was not in any way a dealbreaker, and I think it really made sense given how it becomes rather important that we know these characters well.
But wow, when TSHTF, things take off, and it was at that point that I absolutely could not put this book down. I was already very invested in the characters, of course, but when things pick up, my jaw was on the floor (honestly if you haven't already, don't read the synopsis, it's more fun without knowing) and I was desperate to know all the things. The stakes become even higher, and you can see a ton of parallels to the absurd dystopian novel we're currently living in. (Sidenote: I have seen some reviews that say some of the decisions felt silly, but um... the shitty dude from RW Boston is in charge of NASA in our actual universe, so sorry, I didn't find anything any less believable than whatever nonsense timeline we're in here.) Also, I had not realized when I started reading that this was the start of a series! The Goodreads page is updated to indicate that it is now, thankfully, but I finished the book and was desperate for more- but not to fear, there is definitely more to come, and I for one cannot wait to find out all the things!
Bottom Line: So I'm gonna need book 2 immediately, thanks in advance!
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
January 26, 2026
At first this book read like Project Hail Mary to me with all the prep leading up to launch. I really found it funny how both authors were able to interject their last projects - Manifesto and Assassins Anonymous thought that was clever.
Can’t wait to find out what Ward and Camila know and if the crew gets to Dr Lerner. And what about this activist group with Padma? So many plot holes left for the next book. I’m definitely in!!
Can’t wait to find out what Ward and Camila know and if the crew gets to Dr Lerner. And what about this activist group with Padma? So many plot holes left for the next book. I’m definitely in!!
January 15, 2026
What a book! Can’t wait for the next one! Full review here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DTc3L4WDV...
January 18, 2026
Rounding up from 4.5 stars. Exciting, dramatic science fiction with a terrific cast of characters. As the first book in a series, Detour ends on a frustratingly unresolved note, but that's okay -- there's the promise of plenty more to come, whenever the next book is released.
November 17, 2025
I devoured this book! It wasn't what I was expecting, but I'm not sure why. I went back and reread the synopsis after finishing the book, and it delivered exactly what was promised, but for some reason I imagined the team would be landing boots-on-the-ground on Titan and that's where the story would take place, when that's not the case! They just do a fly-by to drop a satellite into orbit. So while I was disappointed not to explore a far-off moon, technically that wasn't what was promised, so that's on me.
This first of a series focused largely on character development and relationship building and I was here for it. I loved getting to know the characters and learning about their lives, though I was getting nervous when their mission didn't really begin until about the 60-percent mark of the book and then was over so quickly. I'm not sure if other people would find that off-putting but I enjoyed the slow burn of the story because I just liked the cast so much. After the mission, the reader realizes why the meticulous setup was so important so I really hope people give it a chance to fully unfold.
I found this story to be unpredictable and the characters realistic. I never knew what might happen next because this book felt so original. There were times when I agreed with the characters and times when they frustrated me, but through it all I found myself rooting for them because they felt like real people. The climax of the story was anxiety-inducing and the cliffhanger has me eager and impatient for more! I can't wait for the next book and hope we get a chance to see this story "manifest" on television in the future!
This first of a series focused largely on character development and relationship building and I was here for it. I loved getting to know the characters and learning about their lives, though I was getting nervous when their mission didn't really begin until about the 60-percent mark of the book and then was over so quickly. I'm not sure if other people would find that off-putting but I enjoyed the slow burn of the story because I just liked the cast so much. After the mission, the reader realizes why the meticulous setup was so important so I really hope people give it a chance to fully unfold.
I found this story to be unpredictable and the characters realistic. I never knew what might happen next because this book felt so original. There were times when I agreed with the characters and times when they frustrated me, but through it all I found myself rooting for them because they felt like real people. The climax of the story was anxiety-inducing and the cliffhanger has me eager and impatient for more! I can't wait for the next book and hope we get a chance to see this story "manifest" on television in the future!
January 20, 2026
Quick thoughts - throws you into the action immediately, for fans of Andy Weir & Blake Crouch, easily accessible sci-fi, fast paced, felt like I was reading a show you want to binge.
September 28, 2025
I totally just completed reading the ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of Detour by Jeff Rake and Rob Hart.
The story sets up a cool dynamic -
We follow a mixed crew of professional astronauts and lucky civilians—the main guy is Ryan Crane, who takes the trip to Titan to earn a ton of money for his family.
But as soon as they’re in deep space, everything goes wrong. Their mission isn't just delayed; it’s somehow completely and mysteriously thrown off-course.
This quickly turns the journey into a fight for survival as the crew realizes that some huge secret is lurking just under the surface, threatening their lives and their sanity.
I had a blast reading this, but I'll give you a quick breakdown of my likes and dislikes. What I loved was the breakneck pacing—I couldn't put it down because I was desperate to know what was real and what wasn't.
The characters, especially the civilians, all had great tension and hidden motives, which made the drama even better. What I didn't love was that the science got a little intense in a few spots, so I had to slow down to keep up. Also, be warned: the ending is a major cliffhanger!
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC
The story sets up a cool dynamic -
We follow a mixed crew of professional astronauts and lucky civilians—the main guy is Ryan Crane, who takes the trip to Titan to earn a ton of money for his family.
But as soon as they’re in deep space, everything goes wrong. Their mission isn't just delayed; it’s somehow completely and mysteriously thrown off-course.
This quickly turns the journey into a fight for survival as the crew realizes that some huge secret is lurking just under the surface, threatening their lives and their sanity.
I had a blast reading this, but I'll give you a quick breakdown of my likes and dislikes. What I loved was the breakneck pacing—I couldn't put it down because I was desperate to know what was real and what wasn't.
The characters, especially the civilians, all had great tension and hidden motives, which made the drama even better. What I didn't love was that the science got a little intense in a few spots, so I had to slow down to keep up. Also, be warned: the ending is a major cliffhanger!
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC
July 21, 2025
In 2031, global temperatures levels are 5 degrees higher than what they were in the preindustrial era. To help humans, billionaire John Ward, is financing, with the help of NASA, an expedition to Titan, Saturn’s moon to see if they can establish an settlement. In this near future, there is a new technology that make the trip to Titan very short, only 2 years. On this mission, there’s 6 people. 4 men and 2 women. 3 of them are civilians with no prior astronaut training. Ward is also running for president of the USA, so the mission has to be a success. What could go wrong, right ?
I LOVED this book. This is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year. The pace is so quick and you get immediately immersed in the story. The story is told from multiple POVs. I thought it really helped the plot to move forward. It has such high stakes and is packed with action. I couldn’t not put down the book! It was just so intriguing and captivating. And with the ending, I need the next book asap! There’s so many more themes that are explored, but I don’t want to spoil because it would take away from the tense feeling you get when reading. It’s better to go into this blind and just enjoy the ride !
If you love a sci-fi book with lots of action, a multiple POVs, tense atmosphere, conspiracies, and a Space setting, you need to read this book !
Thank you so much to Del Rey, Random House World, Inklore and NetGalley for the arc !
I LOVED this book. This is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year. The pace is so quick and you get immediately immersed in the story. The story is told from multiple POVs. I thought it really helped the plot to move forward. It has such high stakes and is packed with action. I couldn’t not put down the book! It was just so intriguing and captivating. And with the ending, I need the next book asap! There’s so many more themes that are explored, but I don’t want to spoil because it would take away from the tense feeling you get when reading. It’s better to go into this blind and just enjoy the ride !
If you love a sci-fi book with lots of action, a multiple POVs, tense atmosphere, conspiracies, and a Space setting, you need to read this book !
Thank you so much to Del Rey, Random House World, Inklore and NetGalley for the arc !
July 2, 2025
Going to need number two
January 17, 2026
Writer Jeff Rake has had a career as a screenwriter and showrunner for film and TV with his biggest success to date being the sci-fi series Manifest. He teams with best-selling author Rob Hart, who has written the Assassins Anonymous series along with stand-alone releases like THE WAREHOUSE and THE PARADOX HOTEL. Their first release in a new series is the sci-fi/thriller mind-bender, DETOUR, a novel you are sure not to forget easily.
If you were to create a mash-up of, say Rod Serling’s The Twilight Zone with the cult TV series Lost and a dash of the multi-verse sage from the MCU you might have some idea of what to expect from DETOUR. Things open with News coverage surrounding the fast erosion of a huge glacier in Antarctica known as Thwaites where a massive chunk roughly the size of Florida has broken off and sunk, causing a spiral effect that could raise the water levels on the planet to deadly degrees and supplant millions of people from their homes. This could just be the purported start of events on planet Earth that might lead to it one day sooner than later becoming uninhabitable.
The richest man in the world and potential U.S. Presidential candidate, John Ward, has funded and built a spaceship with the intent of sending six people on a two-year mission to Titan, one of the moons of Saturn, in an attempt to confirm whether or not it might be a potential answer for offshoring the human race at some point. The makeup of the six individuals selected for this unique and vital mission is indeed interesting. Three are well-known astronauts --- Mike Seaver, Della Jameson, and Alonzo Cardona. The other three are more suspect choices --- Padma Singh, an astrophysicist; Courtney “Stitch” Smith, a Brooklyn graffiti artist and computer whiz, and Ryan Crane, hero police officer that earned his seat by saving John Ward’s life in an assassination attempt.
Crane is the hardest to convince and it will take twenty million dollars and the promise of finding the right doctors to get his son Teddy walking again, things that Ward is very capable of doing. With Ward’s connections at NASA, he is able to accelerate training in Houston to make the six individuals into a team in a matter of weeks before they launch on his Starblazer ship toward their two-year round-trip journey to Titan. Unbeknownst to the other five members of the team, Ward hands Crane an envelope that he is to not open but take with him on the trip to Titan and then return it to Ward upon returning to earth. Hmm…
Each of the six have their reasons to leave, despite some leaving families and loved ones behind. Padma recently broke up with her boyfriend, Della has parted ways with her ex-husband, Mike is a barely functioning alcoholic, and Alonzo is keeping his bisexuality closeted from all. Just prior to launching a post hits a Dark Web forum featuring a heavily redacted report from a Dr. Stephen Lerner claiming that the public is not being told the full story and the hidden parts may be deadly to everyone on the planet and especially the six manning the Titan mission.
At the midway point of the mission just as the crew is preparing to launch the satellite they were sent to deliver, they lose all communication with earth and are then rocked by two separate blasts. The end result appears to be positive, as no damage is suffered to their ship and the satellite is successfully delivered. It will not be for another year when they land back on earth that the six of them will realize something is terribly wrong. I will not provide details here, as they would indeed spoil the fun and will clearly continue to be dealt with in the next installment of this series. Let me just say that the earth that each of the six individuals return to is not the one they each left. The changes range from being barely noticeable to vastly different and the now President John Ward seems very aware that this was going to happen.
DETOUR had me transfixed from the opening page and when I was left at the cliffhanger which completes this first novel in the series I was hoping that Rake and Hart would devote all their spare time to working towards getting the next installment out pronto. Trippy and twisty in all the best ways!
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
If you were to create a mash-up of, say Rod Serling’s The Twilight Zone with the cult TV series Lost and a dash of the multi-verse sage from the MCU you might have some idea of what to expect from DETOUR. Things open with News coverage surrounding the fast erosion of a huge glacier in Antarctica known as Thwaites where a massive chunk roughly the size of Florida has broken off and sunk, causing a spiral effect that could raise the water levels on the planet to deadly degrees and supplant millions of people from their homes. This could just be the purported start of events on planet Earth that might lead to it one day sooner than later becoming uninhabitable.
The richest man in the world and potential U.S. Presidential candidate, John Ward, has funded and built a spaceship with the intent of sending six people on a two-year mission to Titan, one of the moons of Saturn, in an attempt to confirm whether or not it might be a potential answer for offshoring the human race at some point. The makeup of the six individuals selected for this unique and vital mission is indeed interesting. Three are well-known astronauts --- Mike Seaver, Della Jameson, and Alonzo Cardona. The other three are more suspect choices --- Padma Singh, an astrophysicist; Courtney “Stitch” Smith, a Brooklyn graffiti artist and computer whiz, and Ryan Crane, hero police officer that earned his seat by saving John Ward’s life in an assassination attempt.
Crane is the hardest to convince and it will take twenty million dollars and the promise of finding the right doctors to get his son Teddy walking again, things that Ward is very capable of doing. With Ward’s connections at NASA, he is able to accelerate training in Houston to make the six individuals into a team in a matter of weeks before they launch on his Starblazer ship toward their two-year round-trip journey to Titan. Unbeknownst to the other five members of the team, Ward hands Crane an envelope that he is to not open but take with him on the trip to Titan and then return it to Ward upon returning to earth. Hmm…
Each of the six have their reasons to leave, despite some leaving families and loved ones behind. Padma recently broke up with her boyfriend, Della has parted ways with her ex-husband, Mike is a barely functioning alcoholic, and Alonzo is keeping his bisexuality closeted from all. Just prior to launching a post hits a Dark Web forum featuring a heavily redacted report from a Dr. Stephen Lerner claiming that the public is not being told the full story and the hidden parts may be deadly to everyone on the planet and especially the six manning the Titan mission.
At the midway point of the mission just as the crew is preparing to launch the satellite they were sent to deliver, they lose all communication with earth and are then rocked by two separate blasts. The end result appears to be positive, as no damage is suffered to their ship and the satellite is successfully delivered. It will not be for another year when they land back on earth that the six of them will realize something is terribly wrong. I will not provide details here, as they would indeed spoil the fun and will clearly continue to be dealt with in the next installment of this series. Let me just say that the earth that each of the six individuals return to is not the one they each left. The changes range from being barely noticeable to vastly different and the now President John Ward seems very aware that this was going to happen.
DETOUR had me transfixed from the opening page and when I was left at the cliffhanger which completes this first novel in the series I was hoping that Rake and Hart would devote all their spare time to working towards getting the next installment out pronto. Trippy and twisty in all the best ways!
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
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