Detours

by Emma Gates

In 1972, a time of tumultuous political and social change, Clare and Lowell are idealists on opposite ends of the spectrum. Lowell is an ambitious grad student expecting an elite career in the Foreign Service and Clare is an earnest freshman antiwar activist. When they meet at Indiana University, an unlikely passion begins. Detours is a sensual and intelligent romance exploring politics, culture, and self-discovery in a story that spans more than a decade and travels from the States to Beirut, Mexico City, and Kuwait. The journey is spellbinding and unforgettable.

Genres: Fiction

350 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2014

Reviews

[Nenette · Rating 3 out of 5]

This political love story is set during the early 70s to the early 80s. It relates the story of Lowell and Clare, and it also tackles the political issues of the time. There were no boring moments as the story followed Lowell and Clare in their separate itineraries around the globe - from the time they met in university, to their bitter separation, to their not so chance meeting after a decade.

The story was paced just right- neither slow nor fast. The setting and the characters were in harmony. Though it held my interest just so, probably because anything politics is in the bottom of my list of favorite topics. Still, it captured me; the love factor always does.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm really more of a 3 3/4 stars than 4 stars, but that's not a choice. I did get wrapped up in the story and liked the characters. But, there was something missing and some parts felt rushed.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. Emma Gates eloquently tells the love story between Clare and Lowell intertwined with interesting perspective of the 70s and 80s in the Middle East. I am glad Emma was able to publish so we could all enjoy.

[Lana Geselbracht · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved having the author at our book club meeting (who is from Oak Park. She shed more light on her characters and their formation. Good book for those who lived through demonstration times in college and through that idealistic period.

[linda zeller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read! thorough character development. hoping for a sequel to hear what happens with these characters next. in addition to a fun read, the reader gets a history lesson on the unrest in the middle east in the early 80's.