What do you think?
Rate this book
Detour to Love
Romance is in the air on this detour to love.
High-flying executive Celia Scott is on her way to Tokyo to accept a prestigious award heavy with emotional baggage. She’ll make the trip, but she doesn’t have to like it, and she certainly doesn’t have to make nice with a stranger on a plane.
Artist Lily Andersen is excited to finally meet her online crush, the only person in the world who truly gets her. She just needs to survive the eleven-hour flight from London to Japan with a testy seatmate who by turns annoys and fascinates her.
Fate, upgrades, and a troupe of travelling clowns bring them together for a journey memorable for all the wrong reasons. Not only do they have nothing in common, they really can’t stand each other. But people are not always as they seem, and Celia and Lily are about to realise, there’s more than one path to love.
High-flying executive Celia Scott is on her way to Tokyo to accept a prestigious award heavy with emotional baggage. She’ll make the trip, but she doesn’t have to like it, and she certainly doesn’t have to make nice with a stranger on a plane.
Artist Lily Andersen is excited to finally meet her online crush, the only person in the world who truly gets her. She just needs to survive the eleven-hour flight from London to Japan with a testy seatmate who by turns annoys and fascinates her.
Fate, upgrades, and a troupe of travelling clowns bring them together for a journey memorable for all the wrong reasons. Not only do they have nothing in common, they really can’t stand each other. But people are not always as they seem, and Celia and Lily are about to realise, there’s more than one path to love.
240 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2021
17 people are currently reading
554 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Radley
31 books155 followersSee main profile as A.E. Radley
Amanda Radley had no desire to be a writer but accidentally turned into an award-winning, best-selling author. Residing in the UK with her wife and pets, she loves to travel. She gave up her marketing career in order to make stuff up for a living instead. She claims the similarities are startling.
Amanda Radley had no desire to be a writer but accidentally turned into an award-winning, best-selling author. Residing in the UK with her wife and pets, she loves to travel. She gave up her marketing career in order to make stuff up for a living instead. She claims the similarities are startling.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
February 6, 2021
4.5 Stars
I should start this review off by saying I’m a huge Amanda Radley fan. It’s going to take work for her to write a book I don’t love. “Detour to Love” is classic Radley. It’s a slow burn, ice queen, age-gap, and low heat romance.
Celia and Lily meet while traveling to Tokyo. Celia, 51, is an executive going to accept an award she really doesn’t want. Lily, 25, is finally meeting her crush in person after years of talking online. Their journey is interrupted and they are forced together after some unusual circumstances.
Celia really starts off as the rude ice queen. Over time her story comes out and you can’t help but feel badly for her and see her in a different light. Lily, comes across as very sweet (and patient), if a little naïve. However, she doesn’t put up with Celia’s rudeness and calls her out on it time after time.
This is strangers to friends to romantic love. We don’t really see much of the romantic love until the epilogue. Watching them become friends and really get to know one another was a joy. They’re each dealing with some painful things going on at the time of their meeting and by chance are able to help each other. Neither has a close group of friends and because of their circumstances, they provide the support the other needs.
As I said above, this is very low heat. There aren’t any explicit scenes so if that’s a must have for you, you should look elsewhere. I didn’t find it lacking but I also wasn’t expecting it.
In the end, this a really well written romance about two people who come into each other’s lives at the right time. I recommend this to romance fans who enjoy fun and funny banter.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
I should start this review off by saying I’m a huge Amanda Radley fan. It’s going to take work for her to write a book I don’t love. “Detour to Love” is classic Radley. It’s a slow burn, ice queen, age-gap, and low heat romance.
Celia and Lily meet while traveling to Tokyo. Celia, 51, is an executive going to accept an award she really doesn’t want. Lily, 25, is finally meeting her crush in person after years of talking online. Their journey is interrupted and they are forced together after some unusual circumstances.
Celia really starts off as the rude ice queen. Over time her story comes out and you can’t help but feel badly for her and see her in a different light. Lily, comes across as very sweet (and patient), if a little naïve. However, she doesn’t put up with Celia’s rudeness and calls her out on it time after time.
This is strangers to friends to romantic love. We don’t really see much of the romantic love until the epilogue. Watching them become friends and really get to know one another was a joy. They’re each dealing with some painful things going on at the time of their meeting and by chance are able to help each other. Neither has a close group of friends and because of their circumstances, they provide the support the other needs.
As I said above, this is very low heat. There aren’t any explicit scenes so if that’s a must have for you, you should look elsewhere. I didn’t find it lacking but I also wasn’t expecting it.
In the end, this a really well written romance about two people who come into each other’s lives at the right time. I recommend this to romance fans who enjoy fun and funny banter.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2021
3.5 stars. What happens if two strangers, who most likely would never befriend each other, are forced together by a string of bizarre incidents. Read this book and find out!
Celia and Lily meet in an airport shop and immediately get off on the wrong foot, just to find out a little while later that they are sitting next to each other on the plane. Can things go more wrong? Yes, they can.
Both are on their way to Tokyo, Lily to meet her online friend, who she has never met but has a huge crush on, and Celia to collect an award that she doesn’t want to have. At some point they end up in Copenhagen and while it seems impossible, they become friends in Denmark. I really enjoyed their time there, especially in Tivoli. In fact, I once was held up for an afternoon in Copenhagen and also ended up in Tivoli, strolling around the gardens, theme park rides and restaurants. It’s a special place and it was good to enjoy that feeling again together with Lily and Celia.
This is an age-gap romance with Celia being 51 and Lily being 25. Besides their age being different also their personalities are quite different. Celia is a successful business woman, confident, used to getting what she wants, and well, rude. Lily on the other hand is caring and a bit naïve, but when necessary she stands up against the bossy Celia.
After their time in Denmark, their bad luck is still not over, and while their personalities clash the entire time some emotional topics are addressed as well and they unsuspectedly find support and strength in each other. The book is told in the third person with POVs of Celia and Lily, the non-stop witty dialogues keep things light and easy and I breezed through it.
As the title indicates, this is a romance. However, the romance is the thing that was somewhat disappointing to me. I already knew from other reviews that there were no explicit scenes in this book, in fact, there is even almost no physical contact between the two mains. That’s all fine, I don’t need that to enjoy a romance, but what I do need is attraction and chemistry and, to me, this was lacking. Yes, they are building a beautiful friendship, and they obviously care about each other, but I couldn’t help not feeling more then that. Lily is a large part of the book in love with someone else and seems to crush in no-time on Celia after that and Celia is oblivious to the possibility of any more happening between them than a friendship. Only at the very end of the book (I’m talking 90% here) did I get the feeling that feelings were involved and that the romance started and then the romance is sort of fast forwarded in the last chapter. It felt rushed. Apparently, I’m the odd one out here as others seem to really enjoy the romance, so perhaps you should go see for yourself. Anyway, 3 stars for the romance, 4 stars for the overall experience.
In summary, a funny story about several crazy experiences leading to an unexpected friendship, with a bit of a very slow-burn, age gap romance.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Celia and Lily meet in an airport shop and immediately get off on the wrong foot, just to find out a little while later that they are sitting next to each other on the plane. Can things go more wrong? Yes, they can.
Both are on their way to Tokyo, Lily to meet her online friend, who she has never met but has a huge crush on, and Celia to collect an award that she doesn’t want to have. At some point they end up in Copenhagen and while it seems impossible, they become friends in Denmark. I really enjoyed their time there, especially in Tivoli. In fact, I once was held up for an afternoon in Copenhagen and also ended up in Tivoli, strolling around the gardens, theme park rides and restaurants. It’s a special place and it was good to enjoy that feeling again together with Lily and Celia.
This is an age-gap romance with Celia being 51 and Lily being 25. Besides their age being different also their personalities are quite different. Celia is a successful business woman, confident, used to getting what she wants, and well, rude. Lily on the other hand is caring and a bit naïve, but when necessary she stands up against the bossy Celia.
After their time in Denmark, their bad luck is still not over, and while their personalities clash the entire time some emotional topics are addressed as well and they unsuspectedly find support and strength in each other. The book is told in the third person with POVs of Celia and Lily, the non-stop witty dialogues keep things light and easy and I breezed through it.
As the title indicates, this is a romance. However, the romance is the thing that was somewhat disappointing to me. I already knew from other reviews that there were no explicit scenes in this book, in fact, there is even almost no physical contact between the two mains. That’s all fine, I don’t need that to enjoy a romance, but what I do need is attraction and chemistry and, to me, this was lacking. Yes, they are building a beautiful friendship, and they obviously care about each other, but I couldn’t help not feeling more then that. Lily is a large part of the book in love with someone else and seems to crush in no-time on Celia after that and Celia is oblivious to the possibility of any more happening between them than a friendship. Only at the very end of the book (I’m talking 90% here) did I get the feeling that feelings were involved and that the romance started and then the romance is sort of fast forwarded in the last chapter. It felt rushed. Apparently, I’m the odd one out here as others seem to really enjoy the romance, so perhaps you should go see for yourself. Anyway, 3 stars for the romance, 4 stars for the overall experience.
In summary, a funny story about several crazy experiences leading to an unexpected friendship, with a bit of a very slow-burn, age gap romance.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2021
I’ve read a few books by Amanda Radley and particularly liked Huntress and Bring Holly Home. This author was previously known as A.E. Radley and most of her career has been as an independent writer. This is her first book published by Bold Strokes Books and under the name Amanda Radley.
Celia Scott is an upper-level executive in an insurance company on her way to Tokyo to receive an award she doesn’t want for personal reasons. Lily Andersen is a children’s book illustrator who’s travelling to Japan to meet her online crush. As they find themselves seating together on the plane, their personalities clash and they initially cannot stand each other but fate makes them cross their paths and realise that maybe they were meant for each other…
This is an opposites-attract, age-gap, enemies to lovers romance by this author who has previously used these tropes in her extensive career. The age gap is quite substantial (Celia is 51 and Lily 26) and even though the main characters are completely different, the author makes their attraction work. I wouldn’t say that the chemistry is explosive; the romance is slow-burn and there aren’t any explicit sex scenes, but the mains are good enough together more in an intense platonic friendship than anything else.
I was under the impression that this was a romantic comedy based on the cover and blurb. It starts like that, with a few funny moments. However, the tone of the novel suddenly changes to slightly somber and it never goes back to the initial lightness despite that there are some funny moments afterwards. I’m not going to explain why because it’s not stated in the blurb and I don’t want to spoil anything, but the circumstances around one of the characters made me change my reading mood substantially. It’s not that they behaved out of character, it’s absolutely understandable, things considered, but nevertheless, it changed the general tone of the book or at least my impression of it.
If you enjoy slow-burn romances with more emphasis on the emotional than the physical aspects and don’t mind an age gap of 25 years then this might be for you. 3.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Celia Scott is an upper-level executive in an insurance company on her way to Tokyo to receive an award she doesn’t want for personal reasons. Lily Andersen is a children’s book illustrator who’s travelling to Japan to meet her online crush. As they find themselves seating together on the plane, their personalities clash and they initially cannot stand each other but fate makes them cross their paths and realise that maybe they were meant for each other…
This is an opposites-attract, age-gap, enemies to lovers romance by this author who has previously used these tropes in her extensive career. The age gap is quite substantial (Celia is 51 and Lily 26) and even though the main characters are completely different, the author makes their attraction work. I wouldn’t say that the chemistry is explosive; the romance is slow-burn and there aren’t any explicit sex scenes, but the mains are good enough together more in an intense platonic friendship than anything else.
I was under the impression that this was a romantic comedy based on the cover and blurb. It starts like that, with a few funny moments. However, the tone of the novel suddenly changes to slightly somber and it never goes back to the initial lightness despite that there are some funny moments afterwards. I’m not going to explain why because it’s not stated in the blurb and I don’t want to spoil anything, but the circumstances around one of the characters made me change my reading mood substantially. It’s not that they behaved out of character, it’s absolutely understandable, things considered, but nevertheless, it changed the general tone of the book or at least my impression of it.
If you enjoy slow-burn romances with more emphasis on the emotional than the physical aspects and don’t mind an age gap of 25 years then this might be for you. 3.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2021
This was my first Radley and I’m happy to say it won’t be the last. This was a sweet easy-read romance, with an age-gap, an ice queen type character, and settings in more than one country, ensuring that things are kept interesting.
Lily is an artist traveling to Tokyo to meet the person she hopes will become her girlfriend for the first time. On the plane she meets Celia, an insurance executive on her way to Tokyo to accept an award. Lily is excited about her adventure, Celia would rather be anywhere but there.
I don’t want to give away too much about why Celia feels the way she does about herself and her career, but I really appreciated how Radley incorporated different sides to Celia, and how her friendship/relationship with Lily encourages her to see other sides to the situation.
Whilst it only forms a small part of the book I really enjoyed Celia’s time with her brother and the contrasts/similarities between the two.
I enjoyed how Radley played the conflict between Celia and Lily out throughout the book, rather than focussing on one big particular blow-up. The continued conflict and then points of understanding between the two makes the development of the trust between the two more natural and a nice read. The character development of both is strong, both individually and together.
The storyline has interesting plot points to keep you reading but is at its heart a romance between two people who on the surface are opposites and I think all romance fans would enjoy this one.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lily is an artist traveling to Tokyo to meet the person she hopes will become her girlfriend for the first time. On the plane she meets Celia, an insurance executive on her way to Tokyo to accept an award. Lily is excited about her adventure, Celia would rather be anywhere but there.
I don’t want to give away too much about why Celia feels the way she does about herself and her career, but I really appreciated how Radley incorporated different sides to Celia, and how her friendship/relationship with Lily encourages her to see other sides to the situation.
Whilst it only forms a small part of the book I really enjoyed Celia’s time with her brother and the contrasts/similarities between the two.
I enjoyed how Radley played the conflict between Celia and Lily out throughout the book, rather than focussing on one big particular blow-up. The continued conflict and then points of understanding between the two makes the development of the trust between the two more natural and a nice read. The character development of both is strong, both individually and together.
The storyline has interesting plot points to keep you reading but is at its heart a romance between two people who on the surface are opposites and I think all romance fans would enjoy this one.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2021
Amanda Radley has created a terrific romantic tale of an unlikely couple in her newest book, Detour to Love. This is an age-gap, slow-burn, ice queen, and witty love story; the kind that we have all come to expect from this author.
Celia Scott is an insurance company executive on her way to Tokyo to receive an award she really doesn’t want, when she finds herself flying next to Lily Andersen, a young artist of children’s books on her way to Tokyo to meet an online friend for the first time. Obviously these two are going to clash, and they do, from the first moment they lay eyes on each other, but they are stuck for many hours together as they both head for Tokyo.
Ms. Radley really puts this couple through the ringer with travel problems, life problems, and the push/pull of an unwanted connection between the two. The settings are grand, the characters are well developed, and the story is exactly what you expect from this accomplished author, but what kept me really entertained was the witty and sometimes hilarious conversation these two women had through the whole book. I almost rolled on the floor laughing at their discussion of the “dancing man” in Copenhagen (you’ll have to read the book to understand), and that’s only one example of many entertaining moments in this tale.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. If you love an easy to read, slow-burn romance with lots of witty conversation, you’ll like Detour to Love.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
Celia Scott is an insurance company executive on her way to Tokyo to receive an award she really doesn’t want, when she finds herself flying next to Lily Andersen, a young artist of children’s books on her way to Tokyo to meet an online friend for the first time. Obviously these two are going to clash, and they do, from the first moment they lay eyes on each other, but they are stuck for many hours together as they both head for Tokyo.
Ms. Radley really puts this couple through the ringer with travel problems, life problems, and the push/pull of an unwanted connection between the two. The settings are grand, the characters are well developed, and the story is exactly what you expect from this accomplished author, but what kept me really entertained was the witty and sometimes hilarious conversation these two women had through the whole book. I almost rolled on the floor laughing at their discussion of the “dancing man” in Copenhagen (you’ll have to read the book to understand), and that’s only one example of many entertaining moments in this tale.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. If you love an easy to read, slow-burn romance with lots of witty conversation, you’ll like Detour to Love.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
February 20, 2021
Sorry, but I'm not comfortable with a 26 years age gap. It's... too much. I think about 12-14 years is my limit. That said, this was a good story, as always with Amanda Riley. She's one of my favorite authors. I've read everything written by her and she never disappoint me.
January 31, 2021
3.5/5
I really enjoyed this one wow. This was my first time reading Amanda Radley's work but I'm definitely going to check out her other works cause I really had fun with this one.
The book is not very plot driven, if you're looking for a solid, overarching adventure or purpose, this isn't exactly that. We follow these two women who end up in different uncomfortable/unsafe situations, find each other and from there on, they start to bond and fall in love, and boy is this a slow burn. The book plays like a mini rom com series in my mind which works cause of the characters. This opens up for opportunities to insert really adorable and hilarious scenes with the two and that is my favorite part of the book, the humor. The
These two characters just click really well and it's not really an instant love trope, their banter was so fun and make them so likable as characters. The British humor is a bonus, love the sarcasm, dead panned jokes especially from Celia. Their chemistry just felt very natural and lovely, it didn't feel forced despite the short amount of time they spent getting to know each other.
It took me a while to start liking Celia at first because my first impression of her was 'wow, our main character is a Karen, I'm worried', but thankfully as we see more of her, through her other interactions with people and Lily, she really grew on me. Her determined, no bullshit attitude was great, I love how she carries this calm confidence that made her so attractive. And putting her next to Lily really makes her more endearing at times cause she can be so sweet. Lily's character didn't stand out as much to me, she was obviously the softer, more gentle one but she also sets very clear boundaries when needed which I liked about her. Also her attraction to older women, same girl.
The writing was good, nothing really stood out to me but the prose was really easy to get through. The highlight was definitely the dialogue, which can be so witty and adorable at times. The book explored heavier topics as well which I did not see coming, but appreciated, it talks about grief and family members not being accepting of one's sexuality, etc. Would recommend.
tw mentions of suicide, homophobia (not physical violence), drug usage mentioned, implied alcoholism
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an arc for an honest review
I really enjoyed this one wow. This was my first time reading Amanda Radley's work but I'm definitely going to check out her other works cause I really had fun with this one.
The book is not very plot driven, if you're looking for a solid, overarching adventure or purpose, this isn't exactly that. We follow these two women who end up in different uncomfortable/unsafe situations, find each other and from there on, they start to bond and fall in love, and boy is this a slow burn. The book plays like a mini rom com series in my mind which works cause of the characters. This opens up for opportunities to insert really adorable and hilarious scenes with the two and that is my favorite part of the book, the humor. The
These two characters just click really well and it's not really an instant love trope, their banter was so fun and make them so likable as characters. The British humor is a bonus, love the sarcasm, dead panned jokes especially from Celia. Their chemistry just felt very natural and lovely, it didn't feel forced despite the short amount of time they spent getting to know each other.
It took me a while to start liking Celia at first because my first impression of her was 'wow, our main character is a Karen, I'm worried', but thankfully as we see more of her, through her other interactions with people and Lily, she really grew on me. Her determined, no bullshit attitude was great, I love how she carries this calm confidence that made her so attractive. And putting her next to Lily really makes her more endearing at times cause she can be so sweet. Lily's character didn't stand out as much to me, she was obviously the softer, more gentle one but she also sets very clear boundaries when needed which I liked about her. Also her attraction to older women, same girl.
The writing was good, nothing really stood out to me but the prose was really easy to get through. The highlight was definitely the dialogue, which can be so witty and adorable at times. The book explored heavier topics as well which I did not see coming, but appreciated, it talks about grief and family members not being accepting of one's sexuality, etc. Would recommend.
tw mentions of suicide, homophobia (not physical violence), drug usage mentioned, implied alcoholism
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an arc for an honest review
March 9, 2022
This book has the perfect combination of humor and more serious moments, and the plot was engaging and at times unexpected. I hadn't read a book with this particular version of the "on my way to meet an online friend I think I'm in love with" before, and I really enjoyed how it played out for Lily and Celia.
January 22, 2021
content warnings: excessive drinking, homophobia/disapproving family, loss of a parent to cancer (off-page),
This book is lovely and touched my heart in so many ways. It’s a (sometimes frustrating) slow burn, it’s kind of a rom-com, it’s a bit angsty, and it involves many hard-hitting events. This couple’s age gap is the largest I’ve read in a romance – Lily is 25 and Celia is 51 – but that didn’t deter me in the slightest.
I love Lily’s storyline and find parts of her journey intensely relatable. She’s a talented children’s book illustrator who isn’t rich but doesn’t mind. She goes through some heart-wrenching experiences throughout the course of this book, but she only comes back stronger. She’s at once idealistic and levelheaded. She also has a penchant for older women.
Celia. Oh, Celia…where do I even begin? At the beginning of this novel, Celia’s behavior is downright atrocious and Lily, for some reason (because Celia’s hot?), is beyond patient with her. But once Celia’s backstory was revealed, I couldn’t help but ache for her. Celia maintains her caustic sense of humor throughout the book, which makes for an adorable opposites-attract romance with sweet, girl-next-door Lily.
I love that Celia and Lily end up traveling the world together – sometimes by choice, and sometimes not. (Tivoli Gardens is now on my “To-Visit” list <3). I also love that these two women find each other in their hours of need, which leads to a beautiful friendship-turned-romance.
This had so much potential to be a five-star read for me, but a few areas fell short. Basically, I wanted more from this book and thought it could have benefitted from as much as 100 extra pages. I wish we’d gotten a better sense of the places Celia and Lily visit and I wish we’d gotten more descriptions of the sensual attraction between the leads.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is lovely and touched my heart in so many ways. It’s a (sometimes frustrating) slow burn, it’s kind of a rom-com, it’s a bit angsty, and it involves many hard-hitting events. This couple’s age gap is the largest I’ve read in a romance – Lily is 25 and Celia is 51 – but that didn’t deter me in the slightest.
I love Lily’s storyline and find parts of her journey intensely relatable. She’s a talented children’s book illustrator who isn’t rich but doesn’t mind. She goes through some heart-wrenching experiences throughout the course of this book, but she only comes back stronger. She’s at once idealistic and levelheaded. She also has a penchant for older women.
Celia. Oh, Celia…where do I even begin? At the beginning of this novel, Celia’s behavior is downright atrocious and Lily, for some reason (because Celia’s hot?), is beyond patient with her. But once Celia’s backstory was revealed, I couldn’t help but ache for her. Celia maintains her caustic sense of humor throughout the book, which makes for an adorable opposites-attract romance with sweet, girl-next-door Lily.
I love that Celia and Lily end up traveling the world together – sometimes by choice, and sometimes not. (Tivoli Gardens is now on my “To-Visit” list <3). I also love that these two women find each other in their hours of need, which leads to a beautiful friendship-turned-romance.
This had so much potential to be a five-star read for me, but a few areas fell short. Basically, I wanted more from this book and thought it could have benefitted from as much as 100 extra pages. I wish we’d gotten a better sense of the places Celia and Lily visit and I wish we’d gotten more descriptions of the sensual attraction between the leads.
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2023
Kindle Unlimited.
A good romantic comedy, with the typical characterisations Amanda Radley is known for - an older ice queen type and younger more free spirited type. The two Brits constantly end up in each others orbit during whacky antics abroad.
A feel good, casual read.
A good romantic comedy, with the typical characterisations Amanda Radley is known for - an older ice queen type and younger more free spirited type. The two Brits constantly end up in each others orbit during whacky antics abroad.
A feel good, casual read.
February 9, 2023
Enjoyed this one - vanilla, age difference and journey to Japan all mixed together. Amanda (AE) writes well and is always honest. Thank you.
February 3, 2021
My first book by Amanda Radley and I am very pleasantly surprised by it. In general, the reviews for this book are great but you never know if you will click with it. There is a lot of quirky banter in this book and if that isn't your thing, or it misses its mark for you, you won't enjoy this.
Celia is in her fifties, has a very demanding career in the financial industry, and is now on her way to accept an award in Tokyo she doesn't even want. She blames herself, and the deal she closed to get this award, for the death of her son. Extremely grumpy she sets out to Heathrow in the early morning. Lily is treating herself to a trip of her lifetime, she is finally going to meet her internet friend, who she hopes will become more than a friend. While browsing food options Celia comes up behind her and makes a snide remark (something about poking all the sandwiches). As luck would have it they end up on the plane next to each other. Some serious unlucky events later has them spending the night at Lily's Mormor in Copenhagen before they continue their trip to Tokyo. Lilly pokes through the icy veneer Celia has in place and sees the caring person behind the facade.
They support each other when it's needed and their romance unfolds.
This is a romance, but there is very little to no physical contact between the main characters. I really didn't mind this, on paper they only share a couple of kisses, but the most important part of this book is the emotional bond they develop. The relationship from complete (annoying) strangers to friends to more is beautifully written and feels natural and real. Celia doesn't struggle with liking a woman, but she does struggle with liking a woman half her age. Lilly has a complicated relationship with her Danish Mormor (grandmother) and this feels real. Both of them not having real friends with whom they can share everything and find this with each other is nice and refreshing. The age gap, slow burn and melting ice queen have been done lots of times of course, but this feels different.
I for one love banter and quirky, sarcastic, edgy jokes, that is right up my alley and I enjoyed it all. I think I had a smile on my face the entire time I was reading this book. What more could you ask for these days?
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
Celia is in her fifties, has a very demanding career in the financial industry, and is now on her way to accept an award in Tokyo she doesn't even want. She blames herself, and the deal she closed to get this award, for the death of her son. Extremely grumpy she sets out to Heathrow in the early morning. Lily is treating herself to a trip of her lifetime, she is finally going to meet her internet friend, who she hopes will become more than a friend. While browsing food options Celia comes up behind her and makes a snide remark (something about poking all the sandwiches). As luck would have it they end up on the plane next to each other. Some serious unlucky events later has them spending the night at Lily's Mormor in Copenhagen before they continue their trip to Tokyo. Lilly pokes through the icy veneer Celia has in place and sees the caring person behind the facade.
They support each other when it's needed and their romance unfolds.
This is a romance, but there is very little to no physical contact between the main characters. I really didn't mind this, on paper they only share a couple of kisses, but the most important part of this book is the emotional bond they develop. The relationship from complete (annoying) strangers to friends to more is beautifully written and feels natural and real. Celia doesn't struggle with liking a woman, but she does struggle with liking a woman half her age. Lilly has a complicated relationship with her Danish Mormor (grandmother) and this feels real. Both of them not having real friends with whom they can share everything and find this with each other is nice and refreshing. The age gap, slow burn and melting ice queen have been done lots of times of course, but this feels different.
I for one love banter and quirky, sarcastic, edgy jokes, that is right up my alley and I enjoyed it all. I think I had a smile on my face the entire time I was reading this book. What more could you ask for these days?
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
January 28, 2021
What a snappy, witty read. The back-and-forth dialogue between Celia and Lily is fun and fast. Celia is all barbs and rudeness at the start, Lily seems sweet but she can hold her own. The two of them are thrown together a number of times and from there a relationship grows.
The romance is quite understated and drawn-out, but that’s not the main part of the story. I really like how the two of them support each other and help each other through some tough times.
Nothing really gets resolved until the very end, leaving little time to see them together as a couple, but I enjoyed the journey very much. The running jokes they have are hilarious, and the darker moments are handled thoughtfully.
My rating: five stars
I received this book by the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The romance is quite understated and drawn-out, but that’s not the main part of the story. I really like how the two of them support each other and help each other through some tough times.
Nothing really gets resolved until the very end, leaving little time to see them together as a couple, but I enjoyed the journey very much. The running jokes they have are hilarious, and the darker moments are handled thoughtfully.
My rating: five stars
I received this book by the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 30, 2021
Just a great story! I was surprised by some things wich is not an easy feat let me tell you. Very relatable characters and funny too! Lovely, 5 stars (:
February 10, 2021
Loved it!!!
Lily is on her way to Tokyo to meet the woman she has developed an online relationship with, and Celia is on her way to Tokyo to accept an award she doesn’t really want. Instantly clashing upon first meeting, both Celia and Lily are certain of one thing when they get seated next to one another on the flight, they don’t like one another. When fate plays a hand in forcing them to spend more time together than expected, both of them learn some very important lessons.
This was perfect! As usual, Amanda Radley has delivered an engaging, romantic, humourous, but important story and as is typical of her novels, and predicted, this one is now my new favourite (until the next!) I say this every time!!! There was something very special about Detour to Love, though that really gave me pause for thought subconsciously as I read but moved me. (There were also just some teeny tiny things mentioned that made me so happy!) When I was reading it, I could just imagine it as a rom-com and honestly if it was ever made into a film it would be so amazing!
Amanda has captured a bit of everything in this story, from emotional connection which left me feeling fully immersed in the story and feeling as if I was really a part of it. She lightly touches on darker subjects and misunderstandings that can affect mental health, self-esteem and wellbeing and does so sensitively, whilst balancing it against a touch of humour to lighten the mood. I was literally crying one minute then laughing the next, all whilst still feeling that emotion and sadness that surrounded them.
There is an important message in this story, and it’s not just about judging someone too quickly or getting the wrong impression; it was basically the truth about strangers. In this story Amanda has really captured that essence of being wary of some and yet carried away by others and asks that really important question of ‘do we really know who someone is’. It also highlighted the pros and cons of meeting, engaging with, and trusting strangers. The lessons to be learned from this were not just for Lily but also for Celia. You never really know how a stranger might just change your life and the experiences portrayed in Detour to Love were realistic and I could imagine the characters very much finding themselves in this situation.
The story was dramatic, exciting, fun and filled with wonderful moments and experiences but the best thing was the characters. Amanda is a pro when it comes to writing an age-gap and again she has captured it perfectly. A lot of the thoughts and feelings for both Lily and Celia were relatable, especially for me and just as I expect them to be in a potential relationship like this. I love Celia and Lily, and as soon as we met Celia I knew she was going to be my favourite, although Lily was quite infectious at times it was Celia who stole my heart!
A brilliant addition to the growing collection of Amanda Radley novels and a fantastic read that I couldn’t put down and can’t wait to read again!
Lily is on her way to Tokyo to meet the woman she has developed an online relationship with, and Celia is on her way to Tokyo to accept an award she doesn’t really want. Instantly clashing upon first meeting, both Celia and Lily are certain of one thing when they get seated next to one another on the flight, they don’t like one another. When fate plays a hand in forcing them to spend more time together than expected, both of them learn some very important lessons.
This was perfect! As usual, Amanda Radley has delivered an engaging, romantic, humourous, but important story and as is typical of her novels, and predicted, this one is now my new favourite (until the next!) I say this every time!!! There was something very special about Detour to Love, though that really gave me pause for thought subconsciously as I read but moved me. (There were also just some teeny tiny things mentioned that made me so happy!) When I was reading it, I could just imagine it as a rom-com and honestly if it was ever made into a film it would be so amazing!
Amanda has captured a bit of everything in this story, from emotional connection which left me feeling fully immersed in the story and feeling as if I was really a part of it. She lightly touches on darker subjects and misunderstandings that can affect mental health, self-esteem and wellbeing and does so sensitively, whilst balancing it against a touch of humour to lighten the mood. I was literally crying one minute then laughing the next, all whilst still feeling that emotion and sadness that surrounded them.
There is an important message in this story, and it’s not just about judging someone too quickly or getting the wrong impression; it was basically the truth about strangers. In this story Amanda has really captured that essence of being wary of some and yet carried away by others and asks that really important question of ‘do we really know who someone is’. It also highlighted the pros and cons of meeting, engaging with, and trusting strangers. The lessons to be learned from this were not just for Lily but also for Celia. You never really know how a stranger might just change your life and the experiences portrayed in Detour to Love were realistic and I could imagine the characters very much finding themselves in this situation.
The story was dramatic, exciting, fun and filled with wonderful moments and experiences but the best thing was the characters. Amanda is a pro when it comes to writing an age-gap and again she has captured it perfectly. A lot of the thoughts and feelings for both Lily and Celia were relatable, especially for me and just as I expect them to be in a potential relationship like this. I love Celia and Lily, and as soon as we met Celia I knew she was going to be my favourite, although Lily was quite infectious at times it was Celia who stole my heart!
A brilliant addition to the growing collection of Amanda Radley novels and a fantastic read that I couldn’t put down and can’t wait to read again!
February 21, 2021
This is the 11th book I've read by this author (I think, if I put books on correct shelves and stuff; it is harder since the author uses more than one name).
Right, so, two women end up flying together to Tokyo. They did not previously know each other, they just happened to end up next to each other. A very young woman, Lily Andersen, is off to Tokyo to meet her catfisher. I mean, online love interest. They've been communicating for a good long while, and they seem to "really get each other". And so, Lily is off to meet them for the first time, in person, billions of miles away in Tokyo (she lives in London). And, okay, it is only 5,938 miles between the two cities.
Lily is an artist of 25 (if I remember her age correctly). She normally flies economy but gets offered the opportunity to upgrade to business class. The other main character, on the other hand, ends up in business class from the other direction. Celia had booked (or had it done for her) a first class ticket, but there was a plane switch, and so now there are more first class passengers than seats. Plus most of the first class seats (all?) would be filled with clowns (literally, there was a circus traveling or something). So Celia got moved to business class.
Celia Scott, an insurance executive, is heading of to Tokyo to pick up an award. She wants nothing to do with the award, but she's being forced to get it. Celia is more than twice Lily's age, being 51. Celia is a rich entitled woman who feels the need to drink a lot to numb herself to flying. So, drunk, Celia and Lily's first meeting does not really go that well. Actually, the drinking part probably didn't play that big of a part in Celia and Lily's first interaction. Lily was poking every sandwich at an airport shop, and Celia asks her to let her know when she's done fondling the food so Celia can get something. The drunk part occurred later-ish.
Right, so, two women whose paths would likely never have crossed, end up sitting next to each other on a plane. They don't really "get to know each other" while sitting next to each other, but more later. When the plane unexpectedly lands in Denmark, the two end up staying at the same place (Lily's grandmother's place), and thereafter the two begin a friendship that leads to more.
Despite age gap stories not being my thing, I liked the story and both of the characters. I even liked the romance aspects, again, despite that massive age gap.
hmm. I somewhat expected that I had something more to write here. Apparently I don't. bah.
Rating: 4.22
February 20 2021
Right, so, two women end up flying together to Tokyo. They did not previously know each other, they just happened to end up next to each other. A very young woman, Lily Andersen, is off to Tokyo to meet her catfisher. I mean, online love interest. They've been communicating for a good long while, and they seem to "really get each other". And so, Lily is off to meet them for the first time, in person, billions of miles away in Tokyo (she lives in London). And, okay, it is only 5,938 miles between the two cities.
Lily is an artist of 25 (if I remember her age correctly). She normally flies economy but gets offered the opportunity to upgrade to business class. The other main character, on the other hand, ends up in business class from the other direction. Celia had booked (or had it done for her) a first class ticket, but there was a plane switch, and so now there are more first class passengers than seats. Plus most of the first class seats (all?) would be filled with clowns (literally, there was a circus traveling or something). So Celia got moved to business class.
Celia Scott, an insurance executive, is heading of to Tokyo to pick up an award. She wants nothing to do with the award, but she's being forced to get it. Celia is more than twice Lily's age, being 51. Celia is a rich entitled woman who feels the need to drink a lot to numb herself to flying. So, drunk, Celia and Lily's first meeting does not really go that well. Actually, the drinking part probably didn't play that big of a part in Celia and Lily's first interaction. Lily was poking every sandwich at an airport shop, and Celia asks her to let her know when she's done fondling the food so Celia can get something. The drunk part occurred later-ish.
Right, so, two women whose paths would likely never have crossed, end up sitting next to each other on a plane. They don't really "get to know each other" while sitting next to each other, but more later. When the plane unexpectedly lands in Denmark, the two end up staying at the same place (Lily's grandmother's place), and thereafter the two begin a friendship that leads to more.
Despite age gap stories not being my thing, I liked the story and both of the characters. I even liked the romance aspects, again, despite that massive age gap.
hmm. I somewhat expected that I had something more to write here. Apparently I don't. bah.
Rating: 4.22
February 20 2021
February 27, 2021
Celia is a middle-aged professional that is excellent at her job. So much so, she feels lost and hopeless in all other areas of her life. She has also suffered incredible losses in her life when she meets Lily on a plane to Tokyo. Lily is a young artist who illustrates children’s books for a living. She is heading to Tokyo to meet who she thinks is the love of her life, when Celia crosses her path.
The book starts off a little on the slow side. However, it was kind of needed to develop the story and characters. The book really started coming together for me about halfway through. When I first started reading this book, I was irritated at just how rude Celia was. It was almost like she went out her way to be a total jerk to everyone she encountered. However, as the story progressed, I learned more about why she acted the way she did. These two main characters are both so lost in their own ways and really needed to find each other. They became friends apprehensively and it developed from there.
If you are reading this novel for all the romance, you are in it for the wrong reason. This is more of a story of two broken people coming together to find common ground and help each other heal. This book addresses a lot of real issues and emotional turbulence. I really enjoyed the fact that that author, Amanda Radley, did not feel the need to resolve all at once or even by the end of the book. I like this in a way as I felt that it made it more real to life.
Although this did not hit all the marks for me, as a romance, it did leave me wanting to read more by Radley. It tugged on my heart strings for a different reason than a sweet romance novel. I feel like the story was well developed and realistic. Radley did not rush to conclusions so that the reader could get to the hot love affair. It developed organically and with an appropriate amount of time lapse.
I would recommend this book to others that are not looking for a true romance. I will check out other books by this author as it was well written and enjoyable.
I received an ARC by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
The book starts off a little on the slow side. However, it was kind of needed to develop the story and characters. The book really started coming together for me about halfway through. When I first started reading this book, I was irritated at just how rude Celia was. It was almost like she went out her way to be a total jerk to everyone she encountered. However, as the story progressed, I learned more about why she acted the way she did. These two main characters are both so lost in their own ways and really needed to find each other. They became friends apprehensively and it developed from there.
If you are reading this novel for all the romance, you are in it for the wrong reason. This is more of a story of two broken people coming together to find common ground and help each other heal. This book addresses a lot of real issues and emotional turbulence. I really enjoyed the fact that that author, Amanda Radley, did not feel the need to resolve all at once or even by the end of the book. I like this in a way as I felt that it made it more real to life.
Although this did not hit all the marks for me, as a romance, it did leave me wanting to read more by Radley. It tugged on my heart strings for a different reason than a sweet romance novel. I feel like the story was well developed and realistic. Radley did not rush to conclusions so that the reader could get to the hot love affair. It developed organically and with an appropriate amount of time lapse.
I would recommend this book to others that are not looking for a true romance. I will check out other books by this author as it was well written and enjoyable.
I received an ARC by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2021
4 stars. Insurance Executive, Celia Scott is dreading her flight to Tokyo to appear at an awards ceremony for her company. She does not like flying and has other reasons why she is dreading this flight to Tokyo. She winds up sitting next to Lily Andersen, an artist who is excited to meet her Japanese online girlfriend for the first time after talking for a long time. They keep running into each other and start to talk. When the plane has a malfunction and they wind up spending more time together, they start to get to know each other better and see what they are really like. Lily likes Celia when she is not stressed out over her flight, and sees how Celia is a good person. She can't help the attraction she feels towards her.
I enjoyed this novel. I enjoyed their tension throughout the novel and how they each got to know each other better throughout. They had interactions that evolved and made me like their relationship more and more. There was only one thing I did not like about the book, maybe a little bit of a spoiler but it seemed to rush the ending. I wanted more of the characters together and see how they interacted, not just the tension between them. There was very little of that and I wished there was more. I wished there was more about their evolving romantic relationship and not just their friendship leading up. That is the only downside to the book, otherwise I would recommend this one as I could not stop reading it.
I enjoyed this novel. I enjoyed their tension throughout the novel and how they each got to know each other better throughout. They had interactions that evolved and made me like their relationship more and more. There was only one thing I did not like about the book, maybe a little bit of a spoiler but it seemed to rush the ending. I wanted more of the characters together and see how they interacted, not just the tension between them. There was very little of that and I wished there was more. I wished there was more about their evolving romantic relationship and not just their friendship leading up. That is the only downside to the book, otherwise I would recommend this one as I could not stop reading it.
March 8, 2021
What an interesting unique story. I actual thought the age different wasn't that visible in this book but slow burn romance, it hit the point.
I truly enjoyed this one. The issues at airport and easy friendship, or understanding on the begining did me in. The interaction between main characters and thoughtfulness.
I have to admit liked this one a lot.
I truly enjoyed this one. The issues at airport and easy friendship, or understanding on the begining did me in. The interaction between main characters and thoughtfulness.
I have to admit liked this one a lot.
November 28, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Age-gap romance, huge one with gap of 2 decades between the MCs. Really enjoy reading the banters between Celia and Lily 😊
Age-gap romance, huge one with gap of 2 decades between the MCs. Really enjoy reading the banters between Celia and Lily 😊
May 1, 2021
This was surprisingly funny at times, had great banter between the MCs, and the romance built at a steady pace that I appreciated. This is the best Radley book I've read. And I'm so glad the author has partnered with bold strokes books (the editing on this is remarkable, and a marked improvement from previous works). Any issues I had with Radley's previous books is non-existant in this one. I am VERY pleased
February 2, 2021
I’ve always loved books by Amanda Radley and this one also didn’t disappoint.
Detour To Love is a slow burn, age-gap romance. It deals with loss, grief, betrayal, and second chances. The storyline was well written. A lot of conflicts were included in the story but all were tackled thoroughly by the author. The MCs relationship was developed slowly. At the beginning, we can see that Lily was already interested but she thought Celia was rude and also Lily’s mind was already programmed to be with someone else. Circumstances brought the two together again and again. As the story progressed, we can clearly feel their chemistry. I like how their feelings for each other gradually developed and it didn’t feel forced. I love the MCs witty conversations and playful banter. I can’t help but laugh at their antics. I smiled to that part of the book where a middle-aged woman stepped out from one of the doors and interrupted Celia and Lily. Radley always inserts humor in her stories, which I like.
It was a very good read and would definitely recommend it to others.
I received an ARC from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Detour To Love is a slow burn, age-gap romance. It deals with loss, grief, betrayal, and second chances. The storyline was well written. A lot of conflicts were included in the story but all were tackled thoroughly by the author. The MCs relationship was developed slowly. At the beginning, we can see that Lily was already interested but she thought Celia was rude and also Lily’s mind was already programmed to be with someone else. Circumstances brought the two together again and again. As the story progressed, we can clearly feel their chemistry. I like how their feelings for each other gradually developed and it didn’t feel forced. I love the MCs witty conversations and playful banter. I can’t help but laugh at their antics. I smiled to that part of the book where a middle-aged woman stepped out from one of the doors and interrupted Celia and Lily. Radley always inserts humor in her stories, which I like.
It was a very good read and would definitely recommend it to others.
I received an ARC from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2021
Delightful slow-burn romance in exquisite surroundings. Perfect read for windy afternoons.
It has been another sweet romance I had chance to catch. Actually, this book is all I expected and it has only good qualities for me. It may have some minor drawbacks but I don’t remember them now.
Firstly, the age gap is exotically big. However, it is not disturbing at all. It even helps me understand why it might be appealing to some. Secondly, the locations Amanda Radley chose for her MCs to explore are inspiring, too. Who wouldn’t like to have a stroll in Copenhagen’s Tivoli park and learn about catchy spots there or take a boat trip by the shore and cheer the famous siren statue? One thing I missed there. It was an evening walk by the channels of Nyhavn (Old Harbour) but that would be too perfect. Just the same experience was provided in Tokyo and Edinburgh. Thirdly, very touchy topics are covered with adequately gentle language. The MCs seem to be very authentic here in their life experiences, Celia at least. Another good point in this book is the plot with adventurous turns very thrilling at times but carrying a warning message. Lastly, I cannot mention the author’s sense of humour put into MCs dialogues.
To sum up, it is a gentle slow burn age gap romance with adventurous spots in extraordinary venues. Just don’t expect hot bed gymnastics much.
It has been another sweet romance I had chance to catch. Actually, this book is all I expected and it has only good qualities for me. It may have some minor drawbacks but I don’t remember them now.
Firstly, the age gap is exotically big. However, it is not disturbing at all. It even helps me understand why it might be appealing to some. Secondly, the locations Amanda Radley chose for her MCs to explore are inspiring, too. Who wouldn’t like to have a stroll in Copenhagen’s Tivoli park and learn about catchy spots there or take a boat trip by the shore and cheer the famous siren statue? One thing I missed there. It was an evening walk by the channels of Nyhavn (Old Harbour) but that would be too perfect. Just the same experience was provided in Tokyo and Edinburgh. Thirdly, very touchy topics are covered with adequately gentle language. The MCs seem to be very authentic here in their life experiences, Celia at least. Another good point in this book is the plot with adventurous turns very thrilling at times but carrying a warning message. Lastly, I cannot mention the author’s sense of humour put into MCs dialogues.
To sum up, it is a gentle slow burn age gap romance with adventurous spots in extraordinary venues. Just don’t expect hot bed gymnastics much.
March 30, 2021
This was such a cute love story. I have read other Radley romances, but this is her first book with BSB. Detour to Love seemed to be in line with her other romances. Sweet and cute. These two mains meet when they are both flying to Tokyo. Celia Scott is flying to receive an award she does not want and Lily Andersen is flying to meet her online love interest. I love that Radley tackles some serious issues in this one. One being why Celia is having so many issues with this award and Lily who is going to meet a stranger and could be walking into danger. There for sure is a lot of twist and turns that will keep you engaged. This was more of a slow burn but Radley did a great job with the pace of the romance. I for sure enjoyed this one and will give it 4 stars.
This arc was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
This arc was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
January 30, 2021
3.75/5 rounded up to 4.
I really enjoyed this one wow. This was my first time reading Amanda Radley's work but I'm definitely going to check out her other works cause I really had fun with this one.
The book is not very plot driven, if you're looking for a solid, overarching adventure or purpose, this isn't exactly that. We follow these two women who end up in different uncomfortable/unsafe situations, find each other and from there on, they start to bond and fall in love. The book plays like a mini rom com series in my mind which works cause of the characters. This opens up for opportunities to insert really adorable and hilarious scenes with the two and that is my favorite part of the book, the humor.
These two characters just click really well and it's not really an instant love trope, their banter was so fun and make them so likable as characters. The British humor is a bonus, love the sarcasm, dead panned jokes especially from Celia. Their chemistry just felt very natural and lovely, it didn't feel forced despite the short amount of time they spent getting to know each other.
It took me a while to start liking Celia at first because my first impression of her was 'wow, our main character is a Karen, I'm worried', but thankfully as we see more of her, through her other interactions with people and Lily, she really grew on me. Her determined, no bullshit attitude was great, I love how she carries this calm confidence that made her so attractive. And putting her next to Lily really makes her more endearing at times cause she can be so sweet. Lily's character didn't stand out as much to me, she was obviously the softer, more gentle one but she also sets very clear boundaries when needed which I liked about her. Also her attraction to older women, same girl.
The writing was good, nothing really stood out to me but the prose was really easy to get through. The highlight was definitely the dialogue, which can be so witty and adorable at times. The book explored heavier topics as well which I did not see coming, but appreciated, it talks about grief and family members not being accepting of one's sexuality, etc. Definitely recommend.
tw mentions of suicide, homophobia (not physical violence), implied alcoholism
I really enjoyed this one wow. This was my first time reading Amanda Radley's work but I'm definitely going to check out her other works cause I really had fun with this one.
The book is not very plot driven, if you're looking for a solid, overarching adventure or purpose, this isn't exactly that. We follow these two women who end up in different uncomfortable/unsafe situations, find each other and from there on, they start to bond and fall in love. The book plays like a mini rom com series in my mind which works cause of the characters. This opens up for opportunities to insert really adorable and hilarious scenes with the two and that is my favorite part of the book, the humor.
These two characters just click really well and it's not really an instant love trope, their banter was so fun and make them so likable as characters. The British humor is a bonus, love the sarcasm, dead panned jokes especially from Celia. Their chemistry just felt very natural and lovely, it didn't feel forced despite the short amount of time they spent getting to know each other.
It took me a while to start liking Celia at first because my first impression of her was 'wow, our main character is a Karen, I'm worried', but thankfully as we see more of her, through her other interactions with people and Lily, she really grew on me. Her determined, no bullshit attitude was great, I love how she carries this calm confidence that made her so attractive. And putting her next to Lily really makes her more endearing at times cause she can be so sweet. Lily's character didn't stand out as much to me, she was obviously the softer, more gentle one but she also sets very clear boundaries when needed which I liked about her. Also her attraction to older women, same girl.
The writing was good, nothing really stood out to me but the prose was really easy to get through. The highlight was definitely the dialogue, which can be so witty and adorable at times. The book explored heavier topics as well which I did not see coming, but appreciated, it talks about grief and family members not being accepting of one's sexuality, etc. Definitely recommend.
tw mentions of suicide, homophobia (not physical violence), implied alcoholism
January 25, 2021
A fun and quick read that follows two women's travels from the UK to Tokyo and back again, with some delays and detours that throw them into each other's path.
It was a rough start for me, as the one of the MCs seemed to be very unlikable. I was won around though as we followed the two women on their travels. The support they showed each other and their growing friendship was lovely to read about.
It did find it a little uneven in pace, with the romance only kicking in right at the end. I would have found it a more satisfying romance with another 100 pages or so, showing us the romance rather than leap a month and then six months into the future.
However the issues raised were handled well, the various travel disasters and cities they visited were fun, and again watching the friendship develop were enough for me to really enjoy this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher / author for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review.
It was a rough start for me, as the one of the MCs seemed to be very unlikable. I was won around though as we followed the two women on their travels. The support they showed each other and their growing friendship was lovely to read about.
It did find it a little uneven in pace, with the romance only kicking in right at the end. I would have found it a more satisfying romance with another 100 pages or so, showing us the romance rather than leap a month and then six months into the future.
However the issues raised were handled well, the various travel disasters and cities they visited were fun, and again watching the friendship develop were enough for me to really enjoy this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher / author for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review.
January 17, 2021
Celia is on her way to Tokyo to receive a award for the hard work she done but she doesn’t want it but she going because it’s isn’t right not to accept something that’s given to you.
Lily is going to Tokyo to meet the woman Asami she been talking to for awhile now. When Celia and Lily meet it’s not a great start but when there trouble with the plane and they have to land. This is sign for Celia that she can go home and doesn’t have take a the trip to Tokyo something she didn’t want to go in the first place but then circumstance have her asking Lily for help.
Lily and Celia start to become friends and they both enjoy the banter between them. This was a great age gap romance between a young woman who sees the good in everyone despite what’s happen to her and the older woman who has emotional baggage that been consuming her. I love this author and I notice her themes are aged gap romance and she does it well that sometimes you don’t even know it until the character say how they are.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Lily is going to Tokyo to meet the woman Asami she been talking to for awhile now. When Celia and Lily meet it’s not a great start but when there trouble with the plane and they have to land. This is sign for Celia that she can go home and doesn’t have take a the trip to Tokyo something she didn’t want to go in the first place but then circumstance have her asking Lily for help.
Lily and Celia start to become friends and they both enjoy the banter between them. This was a great age gap romance between a young woman who sees the good in everyone despite what’s happen to her and the older woman who has emotional baggage that been consuming her. I love this author and I notice her themes are aged gap romance and she does it well that sometimes you don’t even know it until the character say how they are.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
August 29, 2021
My first Radley book- it was cute. I really enjoyed the characters. It's probably the most mild romance WLW I've ever read- and having read many reviews about Radleys books, that seems like it must be typical. This had a romantic comedy feel to it- I'll enjoy more books from this author in the future.
February 14, 2021
This is pretty much by the numbers slow burn of a romance. Its also not really steamy at all. I would also say that this has a hint of a melting the ice queen trope, but it doesn't really feel like the ice queen in question is really an ice queen. She's just stressed and on the brink of an emotional break. There seems to be no indication, beyond her extreme bluntness that she has always been icy. Our much younger co-protagonist is way to much of an innocent and is way to easily lead astray by someone who she normally wouldn't be attracted to.
So we have Celia Scott, a talented executive who is being forced to fly to Tokyo to accept an award that she does not want. She's just emotionally wrecked for some reason, and is also terrified of flying. So, when she runs into the cheerful artist, Lily Anderson, she is instantly annoyed at this younger hopeful. Lily is on her way to Tokyo to finally meet the woman that she has grown close to for nearly a year, but when Celia rudely points out that she might be catfished, Lily immediately goes on the defensive. They are forced to deal with a massive detour to The Netherlands together, and as they work through that, they grow close, and eventually help each other through some emotionally trying situations.
I enjoyed parts of it, but it took a long time to reveal why Celia is just so mean. She didn't read like an ice queen, someone who keeps people away from her and is exacting or aloof. Instead Celia reads more like someone who is just this close to cracking and is lashing out at every one around her, including Lily who just happened to be her seatmate. I couldn't quite get why Lily would be attracted to Celia, especially since she's just mean at the beginning. Then there's the nearly 20 year age gap. Its a little much for me (Lily in her early thirties and Celia is fifty one) personally.
For the most part, this is well plotted and characterizations are pretty nice. I liked Celia, but man it took me a while, especially given how little information we had with regards to her erratic behavior. That and the age difference kind of took me out of what is a solid story. If you don't mind that, then this is for you.
*I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
So we have Celia Scott, a talented executive who is being forced to fly to Tokyo to accept an award that she does not want. She's just emotionally wrecked for some reason, and is also terrified of flying. So, when she runs into the cheerful artist, Lily Anderson, she is instantly annoyed at this younger hopeful. Lily is on her way to Tokyo to finally meet the woman that she has grown close to for nearly a year, but when Celia rudely points out that she might be catfished, Lily immediately goes on the defensive. They are forced to deal with a massive detour to The Netherlands together, and as they work through that, they grow close, and eventually help each other through some emotionally trying situations.
I enjoyed parts of it, but it took a long time to reveal why Celia is just so mean. She didn't read like an ice queen, someone who keeps people away from her and is exacting or aloof. Instead Celia reads more like someone who is just this close to cracking and is lashing out at every one around her, including Lily who just happened to be her seatmate. I couldn't quite get why Lily would be attracted to Celia, especially since she's just mean at the beginning. Then there's the nearly 20 year age gap. Its a little much for me (Lily in her early thirties and Celia is fifty one) personally.
For the most part, this is well plotted and characterizations are pretty nice. I liked Celia, but man it took me a while, especially given how little information we had with regards to her erratic behavior. That and the age difference kind of took me out of what is a solid story. If you don't mind that, then this is for you.
*I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 26, 2021
3 stars
Detour to Love by Amanda Radley was such a cute, fun read!
I really liked the plot. The idea of two strangers meeting on a flight and growing closer as they deal with everything that goes wrong together seemed like such a sweet idea to me and I was not disappointed in the slightest. The execution was just as great as the concept.
The characters were very well written. Lily is an open person that sees the best in everyone while Celia is a bit more jaded. Throughout the novel however, we see some of the cracks in her armor as she slowly begins to let Lily in. I loved the dynamic between these two women and the way in which they were both there for each other over and over again. It was lovely to watch as both of them developed feelings for each other. While I highly enjoyed their blossoming relationship, I also really adored these two characters as individuals. Lily and Celia are each dealing with their own troubles and you can’t help but empathize with them both.
I enjoyed the writing a lot. The story flowed smoothly and I got through this book in a day. The banter between Lily and Celia was really fun and I adore the atmosphere that Radley created.
This novel is just perfect to cozy up with on a weekend and block out the world. If you’re in the mood for a fun, adorable, sapphic rom-com then you should definitely check this one out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Detour to Love by Amanda Radley was such a cute, fun read!
I really liked the plot. The idea of two strangers meeting on a flight and growing closer as they deal with everything that goes wrong together seemed like such a sweet idea to me and I was not disappointed in the slightest. The execution was just as great as the concept.
The characters were very well written. Lily is an open person that sees the best in everyone while Celia is a bit more jaded. Throughout the novel however, we see some of the cracks in her armor as she slowly begins to let Lily in. I loved the dynamic between these two women and the way in which they were both there for each other over and over again. It was lovely to watch as both of them developed feelings for each other. While I highly enjoyed their blossoming relationship, I also really adored these two characters as individuals. Lily and Celia are each dealing with their own troubles and you can’t help but empathize with them both.
I enjoyed the writing a lot. The story flowed smoothly and I got through this book in a day. The banter between Lily and Celia was really fun and I adore the atmosphere that Radley created.
This novel is just perfect to cozy up with on a weekend and block out the world. If you’re in the mood for a fun, adorable, sapphic rom-com then you should definitely check this one out.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews